Alpha Process Controls (APC) is improving operational continuity of the GNL Quintero regasification terminal in Chile after securing a contract to supply the facility with its LNG Hose Transfer System with innovative Emergency Release Collar (ERC) breakaway couplings.
The UK-based division of the GT Group will deliver the complete ERC systems, consisting of liquid and vapour lines, which will be employed for emergency ship-to-shore transfer of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) when pre-installed loading arms cannot be used.
The 8-inch ERC system features APC’s innovative two-stage emergency release cable technology that enables the controlled shutdown of internal valves before instigating a coupling separation.
Through the controlled shutdown, even at high flow rates, pressure surges are maintained to a level without compromising pipework or pumps in the event of a ship-to-shore separation caused by vessel drift-away.
Alongside the ERC couplings, APC will supply fixed and adjustable height saddles, hoses, concentric reducers and deployment equipment. In addition, to meet the requirements of their application at the terminal, the systems include a bespoke support trolley to enable the ERC couplings to be manoeuvred into position on the jetty as required and to meet vessel configurations.
The systems, which will be manufactured, tested and commissioned at APC’s facility in North East England, will be delivered to the terminal on the Pacific coast. The regasification terminal, which has been supplying gas to central Chile since 2009, can manage 15 million cubic meters of natural gas per day and is in the process of increasing that capacity with further investments in its facility.
John Lamb, Managing Director of Alpha Process Controls, said: “The application of our 8-inch ERC systems at GNL Quintero will provide an additional LNG transfer solution to the facility, which will support continuous operations and productivity at the terminal.”
He added: “The innovative approach we have taken to the development of ERC breakaway couplings is gaining traction across the LNG industry and we are very proud to be working with the premier LNG terminal in the southern hemisphere.”
