Newest LNG Bunkering Barge With the New Bilobe Tanks. Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding Sturgeon Bay, Wi

History on the "Bilobe" LNG Tanks
Bilobe LNG tanks, also known as bi-lobe tanks, are a type of storage tank used for the containment of liquefied natural gas (LNG). These tanks have a distinct shape that resembles two connected lobes or spheres. The design of bilobe tanks provides several advantages in terms of safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. To understand the history of bilobe LNG tanks, let's explore their development and evolution.
Early Developments:
The concept of using spherical tanks for storing LNG can be traced back to the 1950s when the first commercial LNG plants were being established. The spherical shape was chosen due to its ability to withstand high pressure and low-temperature environments, which are inherent characteristics of LNG storage. However, the spherical tanks had limitations in terms of construction, transportation, and installation.
Emergence of Bi-lobe Design:
In the 1970s, engineers and designers started exploring alternative shapes that would address the limitations of spherical tanks while maintaining their benefits. This led to the development of the bi-lobe design, which consisted of two partially spherical lobes connected by a cylindrical section.
The bi-lobe design offered several advantages over traditional spherical tanks. Firstly, it provided a more efficient use of space, allowing for increased storage capacity within the same footprint. Secondly, it simplified the construction process by eliminating the need for complex curved panels, making fabrication and assembly easier. Thirdly, the bilobe shape facilitated transportation and installation, as it could be divided into smaller sections and transported to the site before being assembled.
Advancements and Refinements:
As the demand for LNG grew in the following decades, further refinements were made to the bilobe design. Engineers focused on optimizing the shape and structure of the tanks to enhance their safety and efficiency.
One significant advancement was the introduction of membrane technology. In this approach, the inner wall of the tank is made of a thin stainless steel or aluminum alloy membrane, which acts as a primary barrier against LNG leakage. This membrane is supported by a secondary containment system, usually consisting of concrete or steel. The bilobe shape provided a favorable geometry for the placement and support of the membrane, ensuring its integrity under varying operational conditions.
Growing Popularity and Applications:
The bilobe design gained popularity due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. It became widely adopted for onshore and offshore LNG storage facilities, including LNG import and export terminals, floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs), and LNG carriers.
The use of bilobe tanks expanded in the 2000s as LNG trade increased globally. The design proved particularly beneficial for applications with space limitations or infrastructure constraints, where maximizing storage capacity was crucial.
Ongoing Developments:
Research and development efforts continue to improve the design, construction, and performance of bilobe LNG tanks. Innovations include the use of advanced materials, improved insulation techniques, and enhanced safety features such as vapor dispersion systems and tank monitoring technologies.
Moreover, as the LNG industry evolves, there is a growing focus on sustainability and environmental considerations. Efforts are being made to reduce the carbon footprint of LNG storage, including the adoption of new materials and insulation methods to minimize heat leakage and the integration of renewable energy sources into the tank systems.
In summary, bilobe LNG tanks have a history rooted in the need for efficient, safe, and cost-effective storage of LNG. The development and widespread adoption of this design have significantly contributed to the growth of the LNG industry by overcoming the limitations of traditional spherical tanks. With ongoing advancements and innovations, bilobe LNG tanks continue to play a vital role in supporting the global LNG supply chain.

[@roderickcampbell2105]

Very good post. Thanks. Roderick from Newfoundland Canada.

[@DoorCountyDronebyMarkEvenson]

Your Welcome Roderick!! Thanks again for Watching!!!!😊

[@kurtboginski507]

Truly enjoy your technical narrations along with all of your videos. Always something to learn and/or enjoy from your aerial perspective. Once again Thanks Mark!

[@DoorCountyDronebyMarkEvenson]

Your Welcome Kurt!! Thanks again for Watching!!😊