DNV Consulting is to carry out a performance simulation analysis of the Angola LNG development and the addition of a further two trains of production capacity at Ras Laffan LNG’s site at Ras Laffan, Qatar.

“Our studies typically account for the reliability of individual equipment items comprising the assets as well as capturing the fundamental operations and maintenance issues,” says DNV’s principal consultant Alastair Painter.

Jardine and Associates (Jardine), who are now an integral part of DNV Consulting, have been applying their sophisticated performance simulation software, MAROS, to such performance simulation studies over the past years to assist many major LNG operators such as ChevronTexaco, ConocoPhillips, BP and Marathon. This history of involvement in major LNG projects looks set to continue in 2005 with the major contracts secured in Angola and Qatar.

Jardine’s study methodology and deliverables help to ensure that available capital is used effectively by ensuring that investment is limited only to facilities capacity that can be justified using a quantified, risk based approach.

As an example, Jardine has recently completed a study of various alternative driver / compressor configurations for the ConocoPhillips / Bechtel Product Development Center. The study was commissioned by ConocoPhillips as a result of their belief that a detailed performance analysis is an integral and important part of demonstrating the performance that can be achieved from their proprietary process technology.

“A comprehensive, detailed and accurate performance simulation analysis of both gas and LNG production facilities is an invaluable tool in assessing the performance that can be obtained from LNG production assets. Such studies should, ideally, be initiated early in the project lifecycle – either early in FEED or even during during pre-FEED evaluation of alternative options when the cost of modifications are low,” says Painter.

For more information: Alastair Painter, tel: +1 281-721-6692, E-mail: Alastair.Painter@dnv.com

Date: 2005-09-08