Marsa LNG Oman: Electrified Liquefaction and Piping-System Reference

Procurement Checks for LNG Projects

When sourcing pipe fittings and flanges for LNG or other cryogenic projects, buyers should verify:

• Material specifications: Confirm that materials meet the required low-temperature impact properties. For example, ASTM A420 for carbon steel fittings, or ASTM A403 for stainless steel. Always check the design temperature and specify accordingly.
• Standards compliance: Ensure fittings comply with ASME B16.9 for dimensions, ASME B16.25 for bevels, and MSS SP-25 for marking. For large-diameter or high-pressure lines, MSS SP-75 may apply.
• Certification: Require EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2 mill test certificates. For critical cryogenic service, 3.2 certification with third-party inspection is often mandatory.
• NDT requirements: Specify non-destructive testing such as radiography (RT), ultrasonic (UT), or dye penetrant (PT) as per project specifications. For cryogenic service, 100% RT is common for butt welds.

RFQ Inputs for Piping Components

When preparing an RFQ for pipe fittings for an LNG plant, include:

• Design code: ASME B31.3 or other applicable code.
• Service conditions: Temperature, pressure, and fluid composition.
• Material grade: e.g., ASTM A420 WPL6 for low-temperature carbon steel, or ASTM A403 WP304/316 for stainless.
• Size range and schedule: Nominal pipe size and wall thickness.
• Quantity and dimensions: Provide a bill of materials with exact dimensions.
• Testing and inspection: Specify required NDT, hydrostatic tests, and PMI.
• Documentation: Request MTCs, heat treatment charts, and traceability.

Inspection and Documentation Points

For critical cryogenic fittings, inspectors should focus on:

• Dimensional verification: Check critical dimensions such as wall thickness, end-to-end dimensions, and bevel angles against ASME B16.9.
• Material identification: Perform PMI on each heat to confirm alloy composition.
• Surface condition: Look for cracks, pits, or other defects that could compromise integrity.
• Heat treatment verification: Confirm that fittings have been properly heat-treated (e.g., normalized) to achieve required mechanical properties.
• Marking and traceability: Ensure each fitting is marked with heat number, grade, and standard, and that this matches the MTC.

Common Risks and How to Mitigate

• Material substitution: Some suppliers may offer equivalent grades that are not truly equivalent. Always verify against project specifications and require MTCs.
• Inadequate low-temperature properties: Carbon steel fittings must meet Charpy impact tests at the design temperature. Verify test results.
• Delayed delivery: LNG projects have tight schedules. Order long-lead items early and consider expediting.
• Documentation gaps: Incomplete MTCs can cause delays. Specify required documents in the RFQ and review them before shipment.

Conclusion

The Marsa LNG project is a significant step toward low-carbon LNG production. For piping professionals, it underscores the importance of understanding cryogenic service requirements and ensuring that all components meet stringent quality standards. While Hebei Haihao Group is not involved in this project, our seamless butt-welding pipe fittings and prefabricated piping solutions are designed to meet the rigorous demands of such applications. Buyers should always verify project-specific requirements and supplier capabilities.

Sources

• https://totalenergies.com/news/news/marsa-lng-lng-production-plant-low-carbon-design
• https://totalenergies.com/oman/marsa-lng-project-environmental-and-social-impact-assessment-esia