Valves for LNG / Cryogenic Natural Gas Service
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is natural gas cooled to -162°C. Cryogenic service demands impact-tested materials (ASTM A352 LCB, A182 F316L, A350 LF2) and valves with extended bonnets to protect stem packing from freezing. BS 6364 governs cryogenic valve testing.
Pressure Range
0.1–100 bar (atmospheric storage to HP pumped systems)
Temperature
-162°C to ambient
Industries
LNG import/export terminals, Floating LNG (FLNG), LNG bunkering
Key Properties — LNG / Cryogenic Natural Gas
- Boiling point: -162°C at atmospheric pressure
- Density ~450 kg/m³ — liquid is 600× denser than gas
- Brittle fracture risk for non-impact-tested carbon steel
- Cryogenic shrinkage affects seat sealing
- Rollover phenomenon in large storage tanks
Material Compatibility — LNG / Cryogenic Natural Gas
Ratings are indicative. Actual compatibility depends on concentration, temperature, velocity, and presence of contaminants. Always consult corrosion tables or a materials engineer.
| Material | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SS 304L / 316L (austenitic) | Excellent | Toughness improves at cryogenic temperature — standard LNG valve material. |
| ASTM A352 LCB (low-temp carbon steel) | Good | Impact-tested to -46°C. Not suitable for liquid LNG at -162°C. |
| ASTM A350 LF2 Class 1 | Good | Forged, impact-tested. Used for cryogenic fittings to -45°C. |
| 9% Nickel steel | Excellent | Standard for LNG storage tanks and large valves at -162°C. |
| Carbon Steel (WCB) | Not Recommended | Brittle fracture risk below -29°C. Never use for cryogenic service. |
| PTFE | Excellent | Seals and seats maintain flexibility at cryogenic temperatures. |
| Aluminium alloy | Excellent | Used in some LNG service — excellent toughness at -196°C. |
Recommended Valves
SS 316L cryogenic ball valve (extended bonnet)
ISO 21011 cryogenic ball valve standard — body shrinks around ball for better sealing
Cryogenic butterfly valve (triple-offset)
LNG loading arms and large bore cryogenic pipelines
Cryogenic gate/globe valve (extended bonnet)
Isolation and control in LNG process trains
Safety relief valve (ASME Section VIII)
Critical — all LNG vessels require SRV to prevent overpressure
Valves to Avoid
Any non-impact-tested carbon steel valve
Valves without extended bonnet in submerged or contact cryogenic service
Elastomer-seated valves (most elastomers embrittle at -162°C)
Standard ball valves not designed for thermal cycling
Special Considerations
Applicable Standards
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