LNG Facts & Data
What is LNG
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a natural gas that has been cooled to approximately -260 °F to become a liquid state during a process called liquefaction. During this process, components of the gas are removed such as dust, acid gases, helium water, and heavy hydrocarbons.
- Non-toxic and non-corrosive – ensures the safety and reliability of downstream equipment.
- LNG can easily and safely be stored or transported in non-pressurized tanks.
- Once converted to a liquid state it takes up roughly 1/600th of the volume as it would in its gaseous state making LNG a highly efficient way to store and transport natural gas.
- LNG is made primarily of methane with some mixture of ethane.
- Unlike compressed natural gas, LNG is very energy dense and is ideal for use in high horsepower engines.
Physical Data
•Expansion Ratio: ≈ 1:592
•Liquid Density: ≈ 26.12 lb/ft3 or 3.49 lb/gal
•Specific Gravity of Gas: ≈ 0.58
•Melting Point: ≈ -296 °F
•Burns with a lazy flame
Other Data
•1 LNG gal ≡ 82.6 SCF (Standard Cubic Foot) of NG
•1 LNG gal contains 82,600 Btu.
•1 SCF of NG contains 1,000 Btu.
How LNG Compares to Other Fuels
| LNG | Propane | Diesel | |
|---|---|---|---|
| BTU Gallon | 82,644 | 91,000 | 139,000 |
| Gallons per MMBTU | 12.1 | 10.99 | 7.19 |
| Energy Density (BTU/gal) | 1 | 1.1 | 1.68 |
| Ignition Temp. (°F) | 1004 | 842 | 437 |
| Leaks & Spills | Vaporizes to atmosphere | Gathers in low-lying areas | Puddles on ground |
| Boiling Point (°F) | -260 | -44 | 370+ |
Safety & Reliability
- LNG is not flammable or explosive in its liquid state making it ideal for transport and storage. It can become ignited once it vaporizes and is mixed with air and an ignition source is present.
- Outside of a direct ignition source, spills or leaks will evaporate into the air.
- Primary safety concerns:
- Asphyxiation from the inhalation of evaporating gas
- Severe frostbite from skin contact.