Integrally geared MR compressors reduce CAPEX and boost efficiency of small-scale LNG

T. Patel, Atlas Copco Gas and Process Division, Houston, Texas While lower natural gas prices have created challenges for large-scale LNG liquefaction plants, they are creating opportunities for the industry’s small- to mid-sized counterparts. From small-scale LNG (SSLNG) projects in the US spurred on by shale-gas development to early adopters in Europe and Asia, many operators are taking advantage of the benefits of going small-scale. SSLNG applications have expanded throughout fuel markets, ranging from transportation hubs for long-haul vehicles, buses, trains and shipping fleets to remote commercial and residential heating networks. Other applications include cost-effective, stand-alone