Enhancing an Existing LNG Storage Tank by Repair and Upgrades: A Real-Life Case Study

DUE TO HURRICANE MILTON, THE AMERICAN PETROLEUM INSTITUTE HAS POSTPONED THIS YEAR’S EVENT UNTIL 2025.

Rama Challa, Ph.D. PE, will present a real-life case study at the American Petroleum Institute’s 2024 API Storage Tank Conference and Expo October 10, 2024.

Rama’s case study is a real-life case study for LNG Storage tank repair and upgrade performed for an owner.  The fitness for service (FFS) evaluation and subsequent repairs were precipitated by unique cold spots observed at several locations around the tank, certain local temperature excursions in the annular space and the higher-than-normal boil-off rates experienced by this tank.  Matrix provided FFS evaluations after performing initial inspections.  This presentation summarizes the inspection and evaluations, repairs and upgrades performed to extend the service life of the tank, improve process safety and reliability, Improve LNG Plant operability and maintainability and reduce operating cost.

Rama will present Matrix PDM’s case study at 9:20 am local time.

KEYNOTE

You will also see Rama alongside keynote speaker Neville Stokes from Bechtel Energy. As co-chair of the conference, Rama supported Neville in creating his keynote session, “Refrigerated Storage tanks: A look at current and future markets.”

Keynote description:

The 2024 API Refrigerated Tank Conference focuses on the design, construction, and safety of refrigerated storage tanks for liquefied gases. The conference promotes networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development among industry professionals. The keynote highlights that the refrigerated and cryogenic storage tanks are large, complex structures with advanced materials and safety systems to handle hazardous substances like LNG, ethylene, and ammonia. It will expand on the following topics and sets the tone for the rest of the conference: Identifies Standards and Regulations by providing an overview of API 625, API 620 Annex Q, R, and other standards for safe tank design and operation, discusses technological advances such as innovations in materials science, safety systems, and control mechanisms, talks about LNG as a Transition Fuel by highlighting the role of LNG in the global energy market, its environmental benefits, and the expansion of LNG export facilities in North America and touches on future trends in the industry such as hydrogen as an alternative fuel, storage and transportation challenges, and ammonia as a hydrogen carrier.

Rama will serve as a moderator in the following sessions:

  • Bechtel Energy: Assessment of Pressure Relief Vent Fires on Concrete Roofs of LNG Storage Tanks
  • Fauji Fertilizer Bin Qasim Limited (FFBL): Rehabilitation of an Ammonia Storage Tank (AT-911)
  • GTT North America: Flexible, Scalable, Modularized LNG Storage Solutions for the EvolvingEnergy Markets

Register to attend or learn more about the 2024 API Storage Tank Conference and Expo here. While you’re there, visit Matrix PDM Engineering at booth #406.

ABOUT RAMA CHALLA, Ph.D. PE

Rama serves as the Director of Projects & Business Unit Director, Atmospheric and Cryogenic Storage, at Matrix PDM Engineering in Tulsa, OK, where he oversees the project development and delivery of engineering deliverables. His projects portfolio includes API 650, 620, & 653 storage; LNG/LIN/LOX tanks; refinery equipment, and chemical plants.

Rama has over 30 years of experience in the industry and has a Masters of Scinece and Ph.D. from Iowa State University. He is registered as a P.E. in the U.S. and as a P. Eng. in Canada.

Rama’s areas of expertise include:

  • Project engineering & management
  • Operations management
  • Design & detailing
  • Estimating, planning, and scheduling of turnkey
  • Industrial facilities steel plate structures
  • Structural Engineering
  • Stress Analysis
  • Fitness for Service

Rama is a member of the following organizations:

  • Member API, ASCE and ASME
  • Chair, Refrigerated Tank Task Group, API
  • Member API SCAST SGF

Rama’s published works include:

To see if your facility or storage solutions are fit for service, or before you start your next project, contact us.