INTRODUCTION

Petroleum is a valuable resource that has been known by humans. However,

until the beginning of the 20th century, when technical science is developed. The oil
and gas were newly rated and used correctly in its importance. In recent years, the
oil and gas industry has continuously grown, after many years of exploration and
search many oil and gas fields have been found, among which are typical ones such
as Bach Ho field Su Tu Den fields, Dai Hung field, Rang Dong field, Lan Tay and
Lan Do fields. The exploitation and use of products have brought a great source of
economic benefits.
Currently, the gas processing industry has grown strongly due to human
demand to use clean raw materials and economically exploited from natural gas and
associated gas fields. Therefore, it is necessary to have a complete storage and
distribution system of gas products in general and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
and ensure fire and explosion safety. This is also a matter of great concern when
designing and constructing petrochemical refineries
After finding research, collecting documents and obtaining the consent of the
Oil and Gas Faculty of Hanoi University of Mining and Geology chose the topic for
my thesis as "Studying the technology of storage transportation for LPG at PV
Gas Vung Tau Terminal and calculating LPG tank with a capacity of 820m3".
The contents of the thesis include the main issues:
- Overview of the Vietnam Gas Industry.
- Introduction of LPG, storage, and transportation of LPG.
- Study the technology of storage transportation for LPG at PV Gas Vung
Tau Terninal.
- Calculating tank with capacity of 820m3.

i
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT
In the process of doing the project, the large workload with limited time, so I
can not avoid mistakes during the process of completing this thesis. I hope all of our
beloved teachers would review and help me perfect my project.
I am pleased to express my profound gratitude to Dr. Cong Ngoc Thang and
all the teachers of Oil and Gas Faculty - major in Oil refining and Petrochemistry
have been dedicated to helping me carry out and gather the necessary figures for
you to complete this thesis.
Thank you sincerely!

Ha Noi

Ly Truong Tung

ii
 TABLE OF CONTENT
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................... i
ACKNOWLEDGMENT ........................................................................................... ii
TABLE OF CONTENT ........................................................................................... iii
LIST OF TERMINOLOGY ..................................................................................... vi
LIST OF TABLE ..................................................................................................... vi
LIST OF DRAWINGS, GRAPHS ......................................................................... viii
LISH OF DIAGRAM ............................................................................................. viii
CHAPTER 1 : OVERVIEW OF VIETNAM OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY ..............1
1.1. Introduce of natural gas .......................................................................................1
1.2. The origin of oil and gas ..................................................................................... 1
1.3. Composition and classification of natural gas .................................................... 1
1.3.1. Composition ..................................................................................................1
1.3.2. Classification ................................................................................................2
1.4. Gas processing ....................................................................................................3
1.4.1. Removing mechanical impurities. .................................................................3
1.4.2. Gas sweetening processes. ............................................................................3
1.4.3. Water separation. .......................................................................................... 4
1.5. Application of gas product ..................................................................................4
1.5.1. Used as fuel ................................................................................................... 4
1.5.2. Used as a raw material ..................................................................................5
1.6. Overview of VietNam’s Gas Industry .................................................................5
1.6.1. Potential development of gas market in VietNam ........................................5
1.6.2. Gas exploitation in Vietnam .........................................................................7
CHAPTER 2: INTRODUCTION OF LPG, STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION
LPG ............................................................................................................................9
2.1. Introduction of LPG ............................................................................................ 9
2.1.1. Properties of LPG ......................................................................................... 9
2.1.2. LPG Gas Manufacturing. ............................................................................11

iii
 2.1.3. LPG Uses .................................................................................................... 12
2.1.4. Benefits of LPG ..........................................................................................13
2.2. Vietnam’s market gas .........................................................................................13
2.3. Transportation and Storage LPG ....................................................................... 14
2.3.1. Transporting LPG ....................................................................................... 14
2.3.2. Storage of LPG ...........................................................................................14
2.4. Type of tanks .....................................................................................................15
2.4.1. Definition ................................................................................................ 15
2.4.2. Situation of building LPG storage tanks in Viet Nam ................................ 18
CHAPTER 3: THE TECHNOLOGY OF STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION FOR
LPG AT PV GAS VUNG TAU TERMINAL .........................................................20
3.1. Overview of PV Gas Vung Tau refrigerated LPG storage ..............................20
3.1.1. Systems and operating equipments for refrigerated LPG in refrigerated
LPG storage ..........................................................................................................20
3.1.2. Systems and operating equitments for pressurized LPG in refrigerated LPG
storage ...................................................................................................................23
3.1.3. Equipments List of of PV Gas Vung Tau refrigerated LPG storage ........ 25
3.2. Overview of PV Gas Vung Tau pressurized LPG storage ............................ 33
3.2.1 OVERVIEW OF MAIN EQUIPMENTS. ......................................................33
3.2.3. DESCRIPTION THE TECHNOLOGY OF IMPORT, STORAGE AND
EXPORTING PRODUCT OF LPG STORAGE TANK ........................................33
CHAPTER 4 : CALCULATING LPG TANK WITH CAPACITY OF 820 M3 .....36
4.1. Theoretical calculations ....................................................................................36
4.1.1. Temperature ................................................................................................36
4.1.2. Working pressure, calculated pressure. ......................................................36
4.1.3. Joint Efficiency ...........................................................................................36
4.1.4. Additional coefficient calculated thickness. ............................................... 36
4.2. Tank selection and calculation parameters. ...................................................... 37
4.2.1. Purpose of design LPG tank ......................................................................37

iv
 4.2.2. Design options of LPG tank .......................................................................38
4.2.3. Parameter of LPG storage ...........................................................................39
4.2.4. Material for construction ............................................................................39
4.2.5. Select the welding method for the tank ......................................................40
4.3. Calculate the thickness of the body tank ...........................................................40
4.3.1. The state of the calculation .........................................................................40
4.3.2. Calculate the pressure when the tank contains LPG ...................................40
4.3.3. Calculate the thickness of shell tank under internal pressure .....................41
4.4. Calculate the thickness the head tank. .............................................................. 42
4.5. Calculate the total weight of tank .....................................................................43
4.6. Fire explosion risk and mitigation for LPG tanks ............................................. 43
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................45
REFERENCE ........................................................................................................... 46

v
 LIST OF TERMINOLOGY
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineer
APP Appendix
BOG Boil-Off Gas
BSR Binh Son Refinery
CS Carbon Steel
FIC Flow Indicating Controller
GPP Gas Processing Plan
LDA Loading Arm
LCP Local Control Panel
LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas
LSL Low Level Swtich
MCR Main Control Room
PCV Pressure Control Valve
PSV Pressure Safety Valve
PSLL Pressure switch low low
SDV Shutdown Valve
UCP Unit Control Panel

LIST OF TABLE

vi
No Name of Table Content of table Page
1 Table 2.1 Specifications of LPG 9
2 Table 3.1 Parameters of piping 20
3 Table 3.2 Parameters of refrigerated propane tank 22
4 Table 3.3 Parameters of refrigerated butane tank 22
5 Table 3.4 Parameter of pressurized LPG tank 24
6 Table 3.5 High pressure controls the flare 24
7 Table 3.6 Requirements of equitment 25
8 Table 3.7 Equipment List 25
9 Table 4.1 Parameter of LPG storage 39

vii
 LIST OF FIGURE
No. Name of figure Content of figure Page
1 Figure 1.1 Natural gas production in Vietnam 2009-2019 7
2 Figure 1.2 Tam Dao 03 Jack-up Rig 8
3 Figure 2.1 Fixed Roof Tanks 16
4 Figure 2.2 External floating roof and Internal floating 16
roof
5 Figure 2.3 Horizontal Tank 17

6 Figure 2.4 Spherical Pressure Tank 18

7 Figure 2.5 Cylindrical Storage Tank 18
8 Figure 2.6 Storage Tanks in Dung Quat Refinery 19
9 Figure 3.1 Single Containment Tank 21
10 Figure 4.1 Structure of horizontal cylinder storage tank 38
11 Figure 4.2 Principal Dimensions of typical heads 42

LISH OF DIAGRAM
No. Name of Content of diagram Page
diagram

viii
1 Diagram 3.1 Overview of refrigerated Propane transport, 26
storage technology of refrigerated LPG storage
tank
2 Diagram 3.2 Overview of refrigerated Propane transport, 29
storage technology of refrigerated LPG storage
tank
3 Diagram 3.1 The process of mixing Bupro products 32

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CHAPTER 1
OVERVIEW OF VIETNAM OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY
1.1. Introduce of natural gas
Natural gas is a naturally occurring hydrocarbon gas mixture consisting
primarily of methane, but it commonly includes varying amounts of other higher
alkanes, and sometimes a small percentage of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen
sulfide, or helium. It is formed when layers of decomposing plant and animal matter
are exposed to intense heat and pressure under the surface of the Earth over millions
of years [1].
Natural gas is a valuable fuel source, almost non-renewable. It represents a
significant economic activity, production, and human life in the present civilized
age.
1.2. The origin of oil and gas
Currently, the exact origin of oil and natural gas is unknown but can only be
explained by various theories. Of those theories, organic origin theory is the most
accepted by many scientists.
According to this theory, reasonably the remains of plants and animals which
are mainly algae in the sea. It has been depositing and accumulating with layers of
inorganic sedimentary rocks to the bottom of the sea millions of years ago. The long
process may take place in three stages: biotransformation by a bacterium, chemical
transformation under the effect of appropriate geochemical conditions, and the
movement of products in Earth's crust [2].
1.3. Composition and classification of natural gas
1.3.1. Composition
The composition of natural gas and associated gas is divided into
hydrocarbon compounds and non-hydrocarbon compounds.
1.3.1.1. Hydrocarbon content
Natural gas is a hydrocarbon mixture consisting primarily of saturated light
kinds of paraffin such as methane and ethane, both of which are gaseous under

1
atmospheric conditions. The combination also may contain other hydrocarbons,
such as propane, butane, pentane, and hexane.[3]
Even the heavier hydrocarbons occur in natural gas reservoirs for the most
part in gaseous form because of the higher pressures. They usually liquefy at the
surface (at atmospheric pressure) and are produced separately as natural gas liquids
(NGLs), either in field separators or in gas processing plants. Once separated from
the gas stream, the NGLs can be further separated into fractions, ranging from the
heaviest condensates (hexanes, pentanes, and butanes) through liquefied petroleum
gas (LPG; essentially butane and propane) to ethane. This source of light
hydrocarbons is especially prominent in the United States, where natural gas
processing provides a major portion of the ethane feedstock for olefin manufacture
and the LPG for heating and commercial purposes.
1.3.1.2. Non-hydrocarbon content
Other gases that commonly occur in association with the hydrocarbon gases
are nitrogen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and such noble gases like helium and argon.
Nitrogen and carbon dioxide are noncombustible and may be found in substantial
proportions. Nitrogen is inert, but, if present in significant amounts, it reduces the
heating value of the mixture; it must, therefore, be removed before the gas is
suitable for the commercial market. Carbon dioxide is removed in order to raise the
heating value, reduce volume, and sustain even combustion properties.[3]
Often natural gases contain substantial quantities of hydrogen sulfide or
other organic sulfur compounds. Sulfur compounds are removed in processing, as
they are toxic when breathed, are corrosive to plant and pipeline facilities, and are
serious pollutants if burned in products made from sour gas. However, after sulfur
removal, a minute quantity of a noxious mercaptan odorant is always added to
commercial natural gas in order to ensure the rapid detection of any leakage that
may occur in transport or use.

1.3.2. Classification

2
 Natural gas is extracted from gas fields, associated gas is extracted from oil
fields and aslo the oil exploitation process. The main components of natural gas and
associated gas are methane and propane; butane. Besides, it contains many acidic
compounds such as : H2S, CO2. Based on this property can be classified into sour
gas or sweet gas.
In addition, we can be classified by hydrocarbon content (C3+). Gas rich in
propane, butane (over 150g/m3) is called fat gas, which is used to make LNG, LPG,
etc. The gas containing less hydrocarbon (less than 50g/m3) is called dry gas -
which is used as a fuel for industrial and life, materials for organic synthesis
technology, raw materials for the production of fertilizer, ethylene, acetylene,
ethanol...[4].
1.4. Gas processing
1.4.1. Removing mechanical impurities.
The appearance of mechanical compounds in the gas adversely affects the
equipment's operation, unsafe in use, and affects the quality of the product.
Consequently, the incoming material must separate the mechanical compounds
from the gas. Removing natural gas from mechanical impurities is carried out
mainly by mechanical devices and is usually classified into two methods: dry
cleaning method and wet cleaning method [4].
1.4.2. Gas sweetening processes.
In the composition of natural gas and associated gas, in addition to
hydrocarbons, there are acid gases such as CO2, H2S, and organic sulfur compounds
COS, CS, mercaptan (RSH), thiophene and other compounds. The presence of CO2,
H2S, RSH facilitates metal corrosion, environmental pollution, catalytic poisoning;
they have an unpleasant odor that affects human health.[4]
Sweetening processes is reducing the content of sour gas (acid gas) to the
lowest acceptable level. When selecting gas cleaning methods, attention should be
paid to the component evaluation of materials, including impurities, which are
required in the finished gas. To remove acid gas from natural gas and associated

3
gas, methods can be used:[4]
- Absorption method.
- Adsorption method.
- Menbrane method.
1.4.3. Water separation.
When exploited from the platform, associated gas and natural gas are often
mixed with a quantity of water. This amount of water is in the process of
transporting and processing gas at low temperatures; it can form hydrate. The
method of forming hydrate has a significant impact: Hydrate can stick to equipment
that damages the device, making the diameter smaller and more likely to be sealed
while the gas pipe is working at high pressure so very danger of broken pipe and
valve phenomenon. On the other hand, in the presence of water and H2S, favorable
conditions will accelerate the corrosion process.
Hydration formation occurs when the partial pressure of water vapor in the
gas mixture is higher than the hydrate's saturated vapor pressure. Thus, to reduce
the ability to form a hydrate, it must be added to inhibitors or lowering the water
content in the gas, then the partial pressure of water vapor in the gas will be lower
than the pressure of the hydrate so that it will stop hydration formation. The
dehydration process consists of the following methods [4]
- Gas drying process by adsorption method.
- Gas drying process by absorption method.
- Using hydrate inhibitor
1.5. Application of gas product
1.5.1. Used as fuel
In many countries, gas has been used to generate electricity. In other
industries, we can be used for burners in factory for producing construction
materials, steel refining, steel ceramics, high-class glass, and other technical
requirements of food processing, fiber factories ...
In transporting, LPG can be used to replace fuels such as petrol or diesel for

4
cars. It is a clean fuel, less polluting the environment.
Besides, the gas is also used for domestic cooking, and services (hotels,
restaurants) are also used for heating or air conditioning systems in large centers.
1.5.2. Used as a raw material
They are producing urea fertilizer for agriculture.
Manufacture of methanol, then it can be prepared to MTBE, synthetic fibers;
Methanol is also the primary raw material to produce many valuable industrial
products such as : formalin, acetone, methyl methacrylate (MMA), dimethyl
terephthalate (DMT), olefin, etc.
Especially, it can be widely used in the petrochemical industry. It can be
used to make of PVC, PE, PA, PES synthetic fibers, synthetic paints, synthetic
detergents etc.
1.6. Overview of VietNam’s Gas Industry
1.6.1. Potential development of gas market in VietNam
Vietnam oil and gas industry has a great potential as it plays a vital role in
Vietnam’s industrial development.Vietnam has proven gas reserves of 6.8 trillion
cubic feet. Besides crude oil, Vietnam also produces associated and natural gas
from several fields. Vietnam’s natural gas production and consumption have been
rising rapidly since the late 1990s, with further increases expected as additional
fields come on stream. Vietnam's natural gas industry has developed a long way
from its first small onshore field located in Thai Binh province and south of Hai
Phong province. Today there are three major reserve basins located in southern
Vietnam are Cuu Long, Nam Con Son, and Malay -ThoChu - which supply the
power generation and fertilizer projects currently under operation [4].
The modern natural gas industry was born in 1995, with the production of
associated gas from the Bach Ho oil field to the Ba Ria Power Plant, which had an
output of under 3 million cubic meters per day. Three years later, with the Dinh Co
Gas Processing Plant and PV Gas Vung Tau Terminal facilities' introduction, gas
output from this pipeline system was raised to over 1 billion cubic meters per

5
year[4]. According to the development plan of Vietnam's gas industry to 2025, with
the orientation to 2035, the target of developing Vietnam's gas market is associated
with the National Power development Strategy and Planning.
- Song Hong Basin: potential recovery of about 550 - 700 million tons of
oil in which is mainly gas, accounting for 14% of Vietnam's total
potential.
- Phu Khanh Basin: potential of 300 - 700 million tons of oil equivalent,
accounting for 10% of Vietnam's potential reserves.
- Cuu Long Basin: is a rift basin off southern Vietnam, and the most
important petroleum producing basin in the country. The Cuu Long
Basin is assessed to have the largest potential reserve of 700 - 800
million m3 of oil equivalent, accounting for 20%. This includes 270
million tons of oil and 56 billion m3 of associated gas. Currently
exploiting Bach Ho mine (1986), Rong mine (1994), Rang Dong (1998).
- Nam Con Son Basin: holds 650 - 750 million tons of oil equivalent,
accounting for 17% of the total potential, of which gas accounts for 35 -
38% of the reserve. According to the assessment of the tank's reserves
include 74 million tons of oil, 15 billion m3 of associated gas, 159 billion
m3 of unregulated gas, and 23 million tons of condensate. The
preeminent feature is that the amount of CO2 accounts for negligible.
Currently exploiting Lan Tay and Lan Do.
- Tu Chinh - Vung May Basin: potential of about 1 - 1.5 billion m3 of oil-
bearing gas.
- Malay - Tho Chu Basin: potential is about 5% (150 - 230 million tons of
oil), which are 12 million tons of oil, 3 billion m3 of associated gas, 13
billion m3 of non-associated gas and 2 million tons of condensate.

6
 Figure 1.1 Natural gas production in Vietnam ( 2009-2019) [5]
1.6.2. Gas exploitation in Vietnam
Vietnam has vast seas and continental shelves and also a place with great oil
and gas prospects. Oil and gas exploration and exploration activities in Vietnam
have been deployed in the hammock of Hanoi and the An Chau lowlands since the
1960s with the help of the Soviet Union. On the southern continental shelf, this
work has been carried out by foreign companies such as Mobil, Pecten, etc.[6]
Nowadays, based on geological-geophysical research results, seven
prospective sedimentary basins have been stored in oil and gas basin on the
continental shelf of the country. These are the Song Hong Basin, the Phu Khanh

7
Basin, the Cuu Long Basin, the Nam Con Son basin, the Malaya - Tho Chu basin,
the Tu Chinh - Vung May basin, and the Truong Sa - Hoang Sa basin. In our
country, oil and gas fields were discovered and exploited from the seabed in the
southern continental shelf, where the depth of 50-200m of water and in the
geological structure depth from 1,000m to over 5,000m. . Some mines in the Cuu
Long basin (considered to be of the best quality basin) such as Bach Ho and Dai
Hung in Nam Con Son basin are oil-containing both in basement rocks.
In 2021, gas exploitation to begin at White Lion field. With the development
of White Lion field, the total oil and gas production is expected to be 52.4 million
barrels of oil and condensate and 420 billion cubic feet of gas, contributing
significantly to long-term gas exploitation plans of the Vietnam Oil and Gas Group.
White Lion will be the main gas source for the Dinh Co 2 gas processing plant,
which will become operational in the fourth quarter of 2020[7].

Figure 1.2. Tam Dao 03 Jack-up Rig

8
CHAPTER 2
INTRODUCTION OF LPG , STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION LPG
2.1. Introduction of LPG
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a hydrocarbon gas fuel extracted from
crude oil or natural gas. LPG exists as gases in the ambient temperature, but with
applied moderate pressure, it is liquefied. LPG is a mixture of petroleum gases,
mainly butane and propane. In Vietnam, the commercial LPG might contain
hydrocarbons mixture of propane, propylene, butane (normal-butane or iso-
butane) and butylenes (including isomers) [8].
2.1.1. Properties of LPG
At normal temperatures and pressures, LPG will evaporate. Because of this,
LPG is supplied in pressurized steel bottles. In order to allow for thermal expansion
of the contained liquid, these bottles are not filled completely; typically, they are
filled to between 80% and 85% of their capacity.
Table 2.1 Specifications of LPG [8]
Properties Units Propane Butane
0
Boiling Point C -42 to -45 -0.5 to -0.2
0
Flame Temperature C 520 500
Density Kg/m3 1.83 2.46

Molecular Weight Kg/kmole 44.097 58.12

Heat Capacity kJ/kg0C 2,512 2,386
Vapor Pressure
150C 6,5 0,8
200C Bar 9 2,75
250C 19,6 7
Total Heat Kcal/kg 12000 11800

9
2.1.1.1. Density
LPG at atmospheric pressure and temperature is a gas that is 1.5 to 2.0 times
heavier than air. It is readily liquefied under moderate pressures. The liquid's
density is approximately half that of water and ranges from 0.525 to 0.580 at 150C.
Since LPG vapor is heavier than air, it would generally settle down at ground level/
low lying places, and accumulate in depressions.
2.1.1.2. Vapour pressure
The pressure inside a LPG storage tank/ cylinder will be equal to the vapour
pressure corresponding to the temperature of LPG in the storage tank. The vapour
pressure is dependent on temperature as well as on the ratio of mixture of
hydrocarbons. At liquid full condition any further expansion of the liquid, the
cylinder pressure will rise by approxiate 14 to 15 kg./sq.cm. for each degree
centigrade. This clearly explains the hazardous situation that could arise due to the
overfilling of cylinders.
2.1.1.3. Flammability
LPG has an explosive range of 1.8% to 9.5% volume of gas in the air. This is
considerably narrower than other standard gaseous fuels. This indicates the hazard
of LPG vapor accumulated in a low lying area in the leakage or spillage eventuality.
The auto-ignition temperature of LPG is around 410-580 deg. C and hence it will
not ignite on its own at normal temperature. Entrapped air in the vapor is hazardous
in an unpurged tank/ cylinder during pumping/ filling-in operation. Given this, it is
not advisable to use air pressure to unload LPG cargoes or tankers.
2.1.1.4. Commistion
The combustion reaction of LPG increases the volume of products in
addition to the generation of heat. LPG requires up to 50 times its own volume of
air for complete combustion. Thus it is essential that adequate ventilation is
provided when LPG is burnt in enclosed spaces; otherwise, asphyxiation due to
depletion of oxygen apart from the formation of carbon-dioxide can occur.
2.1.1.5. Odor

10
 LPG has only a very faint smell, and consequently, it is necessary to add
some odourant, so that any escaping gas can easily be detected. Ethyl Mercaptan is
normally used as a stenching agent for this purpose.
2.1.1.6. Colour
LPG is colorless both in the liquid and vapor phases. The distinctive smell
that people associate with LPG is actually added to it as a safety measure.
Without the addition of an odourant, leaking gas could collect without being
detected. The specification is based on a person with a normal sense of smell being
able to identify the odourant's distinct smell at a specific percentage of LPG in air,
simulating a leak.
2.1.1.7. Toxicity
Even though slightly toxic, LPG is not poisonous in the vapor phase, but can,
however, suffocate when in significant concentrations because it displaces oxygen.
Because of this, the vapor posses mild anesthetic properties.
2.1.2. LPG Gas Manufacturing.
2.1.2.1. Raw materials for LPG production.
LPG comes from two sources, with roughly 60% stripped from raw natural
gas during natural gas processing and approximately 40% of the LPG coming from
crude oil refinery process.
2.1.2.2. LPG Process Description
After the crude oil is stabilized - in the process of transporting to the refinery,
important quantities of LPG and lighter components (methane, ethane) are still in
the oil taken to the refinery. Here the crude oil is taken to the fractional distillation
tower. Gases of light composition include LPG, ethane, and methane. Other
components include heavy parts.
Depending on each case, we need to apply a method production of LPG in
gas processing plants such as compression method, cooling method, absorption
method, adsorption method.
An LPG production process consists of 3 main stages:

11
 - Prepare materials.
- Processing gas
- Mixing LPG ingredients
The choice of gas processing method is determined by the physical and
chemical properties of the gas mixture and the development of gas processing
technology.
The mixing stage is the simplest of all LPG production stages. Depending on
the market demand for LPG products, manufacturers after having gas components,
including C3 and C4, will mix them in an appropriate proportion. In the process of
mixing LPG components, the technology depends on the primary ratio of butane,
propane and equipment productivity.
2.1.3. LPG Uses
When LPG is used to fuel internal combustion engines, it is often referred to
as autogas. In some countries, it has been used since the 1940s as an alternative fuel
for spark - ignition engines. LPG is a versatile fuel and used around the world as an
alternate fuel for various LPG applications including residential, commercial,
industrial, agriculture and autogas. In areas lacking natural gas, LPG is the best
alternative fuel. Heating, cooking, hot water and drying are common LPG
applications.
Uses of LPG in the home: LPG used in your home is typically suppliedin
LPG gas bottles. Main uses of LPG in your home, including cooking, heating, hot
water, autogas, aerosol propellant, air conditioning refrigerant and back-up
generator applications.
Uses of LPG in agriculture: Crop drying is one of the most common use for
LPG in agriculture. Grains, nuts, tobacco and dried fruit are just some examples of
agricultural products dried using LPG. Moisture must be removed from agricultural
products to prevent spoilage.

12
 Uses of LPG in the industry: Using of LPG in the industry: Used to metal
furnaces, welding, cutting steel, cooking and processing glass, canning sterilization,
etc.
Uses of LPG in transportation: It is the fuel to replace petrol because of
high octane value. LPG provides a nearly 50% reduction in greenhouse gas
emissions and an 80% reduction in CO2 as compared to conventional gasoline.
2.1.4. Benefits of LPG
LPG is a clean burning smoke-free fuel that supports cleaner air quality.
Unlike many other fuels, it contains low levels of NOx, particulate matter (PM)
which means it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- LPG emits 33% less CO2 than coal and 12% less than oil
- Heating oil is 17% more carbon intensive than LPG
- Coal is 50% more carbon intensive than LPG
- LPG combustion emits almost no PM
- Cleaner-burning and no sulfur
2.2. Vietnam’s market gas
LPG was introduced to Vietnam since early 1990s. The initial Vietnam LPG
market size is just about 50,000 tons, mainly imported and using in the household
area.
The PV GAS' launch of the Gas Processing Plan Dinh Co t, which produce
about 300,000 tons per year at that time, accelerated the consumption. LPG now
becomes popular and be used vary from cooking to industrial production. Since
2009, Vietnam LPG market has added a new LPG supply from the Dung Quat oil
refinery.
Since July 2009, Dung Quat oil refinery has officially provided LPG to the
market with an output of about 130,000 tons (2009). In 2019, with the LPG
production volume of Dung Quat oil refinery about 500,000 tons/year, GPP Dinh
Co, and GPP Ca Mau, about 400,000 tons/year will meet over 50% of total LPG
demand of the country [9].

13
 With a target of 500,000 tons/year, LPG of Dung Quat Oil Refinery accounts
for about 30% of the domestic demand in recent years. Currently, Binh Son
Refinery and Petrochemical Company (BSR) - the management and operation unit
of Dung Quat Oil Refinery currently has 12 customers consuming LPG, of which
PV Gas North, PV Gas South, and PV Gas Trading have a structure. Biggest
consumption, accounting for 16-18% / per unit. [9]
Apart from local production, at present, half of the market demand must be
fulfilled with imported LPG. According to statistics from the General Department
of Customs, in May 2019, the country imported 124.1 thousand tons of liquefied
gas, worth about 71.7 million USD.
The South is still considered the largest market and has the highest demand,
accounting for about 66% of LPG demand of the whole country, the North and the
Central with about 30% and 4%.
2.3. Transportation and Storage LPG
LPG is widely used in many industries and is indispensable in some
countries, especially those with developed industries. Therefore, LPG storage,
transport and storage are of particular interest.
2.3.1. Transporting LPG
To facilitate LPG storage and transport for use, people often liquefy the gas
because butane and propane are easy to liquefy at low pressure.
Depending on the manufacturing plant's location, the consuming markets,
generally LPG is transported by pipelines. Transporting LPG from one region to
another, or from a production site to a destination, can be carried by sea, rail, or
road. On the vehicles, we must use a tank under high pressure and have a transfer
pump system. For household consumers in the household, they can use suitable
piping systems or containers made of steel.
2.3.2. Storage of LPG
People can store LPG on the ground or in the ground depending on the level
of storage, consumption and conditions in different regions.

14
 - Storage on the ground
LPG storage equipment is pressure equipment and made in the shape of a
horizontal cylinder; the two heads are hemispherical or ellipsoidal, maybe it can
store LPG in spherical tanks because it can withstand high pressure. There are
safety devices installed in all tanks in the storage process.
Depending on the market's needs or the purpose of requiring LPG, people
use small to large tanks depending on the different volume levels.
- Storage in the ground
We can store LPG in the ground. This storage method is safe and
effective, but only implemented in several countries with developed industries
such as the US, UK, and Canada.
2.4. Type of tanks
2.4.1. Definition
A tank is a type of construction work serving the preservation of various fuel
types, mainly liquid or gaseous fuel. Currently, people have created tanks with large
capacity and high-pressure resistance.
2.4.1.1. Low-pressure storage tanks
a. Fixed Roof Tanks
A fixed roof tank is a type of storage tank, used to store liquids. There will
always be a vapor space between the liquid surface and the roof. The roof may be
flat, cone - shaped, domed. A pressure-vacuum valve, commonly installed on many
fixed roof tanks, allows the tank to operate at a slight internal pressure or vacuum.
This valve prevents the release of vapors during very small changes in temperature,
barometric pressure, or liquid level [10].

15
 Figure 2.1 Fixed Roof Tanks
b. Floating Roof Tank
The use of these roofs gives high economic efficiency, significantly reducing
the loss of light hydrocarbons, reducing ambient pollution. The elimination of the
vapor space on the surface of a liquid in tanks allows increasing the safety level. In
fact, people often use two types of tanks: External Fixed Roof Tanks and Internal
Fixed Roof Tanks [10].

Figure 2.2 External floating roof tank and Internal floating roof

16
c. Horizontal Tanks
Horizontal tanks are constructed for both above-ground and underground
service. Horizontal tanks are usually constructed of steel, steel with a fiberglass
overlay, or fiberglass-reinforced polyester. Horizontal tanks are generally small
storage tanks.[11]
Horizontal tanks are constructed such that the length of the tank is not greater
than six times the diameter to ensure structural integrity.
Horizontal tanks are usually equipped with pressure-vacuum vents, gauge
hatches and sample wells, and manholes to provide accessibility to these tanks.

Figure 2.3 Horizontal Tanks

2.4.1.2. High-pressure Tanks
a. Spherical Storage Tanks
A spherical storage tank is a type of tank often containing liquid products
under high pressure such as liquefied gas or light components of gasoline with
residual pressure pd = 0.25 ÷ 1.8 Mpa.
A sphere is a very strong structure. The even distribution of stresses on the
sphere's surfaces, both internally and externally, generally means that there are no
weak points. The tank is placed on a pillow use a strut to ensure free thermal
deformation of the tank. The struts should communicate the surface of tanks to

17
reduce local force and do not lean on the welding seam that connects the panels of
the tank shell.[11]

Figure 2.4 Spherical Pressure Tank

b. Cylindrical Storage Tanks
Cylinders are widely used for storage due to their being less expensive to
produce than spheres. However, cylinders are not as strong as spheres due to the
weak point at each end. This weakness is reduced by hemispherical or rounded ends
being fitted. [11]

Figure 2.5 Cylindrical Storage Tanks

2.4.2. Situation of building LPG storage tanks in Viet Nam

18
 At the beginning of the 20th century, the tank has appeared in Vietnam. After
the country's independence, along with the country's development, the demand for
tanks has also increased. The tank is mainly concentrated and popular in Hai Phong,
Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau, Quang Ngai, and most recently Nghi Son - Thanh
Hoa petrochemical refinery. Therefore, a series of tanks have been constructed for
oil and gas exploitation, supply, and transportation of petroleum and petroleum
reserves for national energy safety purposes. These projects have met the needs of
civil, industrial such as petrol, and gas.
The project of refrigerated LPG storage at PV GAS Vung Tau Terminal was
introduced (2013) and put into operation to perform important tasks assigned by the
Government and the Vietnam Oil and Gas Group to enhance the receiving capacity,
storing and distributing gas, to stabilize LPG supply and price throughout the
country, supporting the increasing domestic gas demand, ensuring national energy
security, contributing to stabilizing and socio-economic development of the country.

Figure 2.3 Storage Tanks in Dung Quat Refinery

19
CHAPTER 3
THE TECHNOLOGY OF STORAGE,
TRANSPORTATION FOR LPG
AT PV GAS VUNG TAU TERMINAL
3.1. Overview of PV Gas Vung Tau refrigerated LPG storage
PV Gas Vung Tau refrigerated LPG storage project has a total investment of
more than 2,517.13 billion VND invested by PetroVietNam Gas Joint Stock
Corporation (PV Gas). The refrigerated storage is an extension of the pressurized
LPG storage in Tan Thanh district, Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, the capacity of
refrigerated LPG storage is 60,000 tons of LPG, this is also the biggest refrigerated
storage in Vietnam. Area of 5.3 ha, refrigerated LPG storage is located in 16 ha of
Thi Vai port complex - Cai Mep Industrial Park, Phuoc Hoa Commune, Tan Thanh
District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province [12].
The refrigerated LPG tank system was put into operation in February 2013.
Refrigerated LPG storage includes tank equipment as follows:
- 2 refrigerated LPG tanks
- 2 pressurized LPG tanks
- Technology equipment, electricity,control electricity, pump system,
compressor system, heating system, fire protection system, etc
3.1.1. Systems and operating equipments for refrigerated LPG in refrigerated
LPG storage
3.1.1.1. A requirement of refrigerated LPG import system
- Two loading systems are LDA-0201 and LDA-0301 with the capacity
2400m3 /h
- Two technological pipelines for importing refrigerated LPG
Table 3.1 : Parameter of piping [12]
Size ( inch ) 12
Material API 5L Gr.X-42

20
 Permissible corrosion limit ( mm) 1.5 mm

Pressure ( mmH2O ) -50/2500

Temperature ( oC ) -45/65

3.1.1.2. Refrigerated storage tank LPG system

a. Type of refrigerated LPG tanks
Single Containment Tank.
A single containment tank is composed of an inner cylindrical container.This
inner tank is surrounded by an outer tank made of carbon steel which holds an
insulation material in the annular space. The carbon steel external tank is not
capable of containing cryogenic materials.
Thus the inner tank provides the only containment for the Cryogenic liquid.
However, single containment tanks are always surrounded by a dyke or containment
basin external to the tank, either of which provides at least 100% secondary
containment in the event of a complete failure of the inner tank.
This type has an excellent history of reliability and representing the majority
of tanks in the world. Single containment tanks require a relatively large area of
land.

Figure 3.1. Single Containment Tank

b. Parameters of refrigerated LPG tanks in PV Gas Terminal.
The main parameters of the refrigerated propane storage tank are as follow

21
 Table 3.2 Parameters of refrigerated propane tank [12]
Type Single Containment Tank
Material of construction LTSC/CS
Capacity 30000 ton
Temperature -45/65oC
Pressure -50/2500 mmH2O
Height 30m
Diameter 49m
The main parameters of the refrigerated butane storage tank are as follows
Table 3.3 Parameters of refrigerated butane tank [12]
Type Single Containment Tank
Material of construction LTSC/CS
Capacity 30000 ton
Temperature -45/65oC
Pressure -50/2500 mmH2O
Height 30m
Diameter 49m
Propane / Butane is stored in tanks with a volume of 50,000 m3. LPG tanks
operate at pressures below atmospheric pressure and store products at temperatures
just below their boiling point. These tanks are designed to a boiling limit lower than
0.05% of the total volume per day, based on pure propane and butane. Refrigerated
propane pumps (P-0901A / B) and refrigerated butane (P-1001A / B) are used to
transfer propane and butane to high-pressure tanks (PST) via propane heater (E-
1501) and butane heater ( E-1601).
A vacuum breaker is mounted on the tank to prevent the tank from being in a
vacuum caused. Vacuum breakers are supplied from the associated BOG
compressors. The vacuum circuit breaker is controlled by a pressure-controlled
closed circuit, feedback to the tank pressure level by measuring the variation and a
control valve as the final control unit. Detailed information related to tank pressure

22
control is presented in the following table [12].
3.1.1.3. BOG gas treatment system
Tanks are equipped with two identical BOG compressors
- Compressor type: piston type
- Number of compression levels: two levels
BOG system has a cooling water system, hypochlorite (NaClO), which
works to clean pipes. The compressors are designed to ensure sufficient capacity
both during the process of importing products into the tank and the process of “send
out”. The compressor is controlled by a UCP including LCP in the central control
room [12].
3.1.1.4. Refrigerated Pumps
Quantity: 2 for C3 and 2 for C4
- Type of pump: vertical centrifugal three levels
- Capacity of each pump: 185m3 / h
The refrigeration pumps are designed to pump products from the cold tank
TK-0701/0801 through heating equipment E-1501/1601 then into the TK-
1501/1601 tank [12].
3.1.1.5. Refrigerated Heater
After leaving the compressor, LPG gas passes through the heat exchanger E-
1301 for C3 and E-1401 for C4. Here, the LPG gas is on the outside of the heat
exchanger's shell, and the cooling gas travels through the tubes of the heat
exchanger (tube). The inlet and outlet water temperatures at the heat exchanger need
to be maintained at 33oC - 43oC for LPG to reach the outlet of 43.6oC [12].
- Type: Open type.
- Capacity: E-1501: 106000 kg/hr and E-1601: 109800 kg/hr
3.1.2. Systems and operating equitments for pressurized LPG in refrigerated
LPG storage
3.1.2.1. Pressurized LPG tank system
a. Pressurized LPG tank parameter

23
 Table 3.4 Parameters of pressurized LPG tank [12]
Type Spherical Pressure Tank
Capacity 2000 tons
Pressure 17.6 kg/cm2
Tempareture -45/100oC
b. Controlling and Operating pressurized storage tank LPG
A circuit controls the pressure in the PST by adjusting the temperature level
to the PST. A three-way valve is the final control unit; it can control for refrigerated
products via heater (E-1501 for Propane, E-1601 for Butane / Propane) when the
pressure in the PST tank is low. The measuring instruments are mounted on each
tank to measure level deformation, temperature, and liquid storage pressure. The
operator will monitor and record this data to assist in making operational decisions
for the import operation. Detailed information related to tank pressure control is
presented in the table.
Table 3.5 High pressure controls the flare [12]
Description Unit Set Pressure
Relief Valve Set Point barg 17.6
High Pressure Alarm barg 14.4
Maximum Operating Pressure barg 12.7
3.1.2.2. Loading Pumps
Including 6 pumps with each pump having a capacity of 250m3/hr, which 3
pumps P-1901/A/B/C are used to export C3 from TK-1501, 3 pumps P-2001A / B
/C are used to ship C4 from TK - 1601, however between pumps, there is a
standard connection at the suction and the output, so it is possible to use P-
1901A/B/C to export C4 from TK-1601.
3.1.2.3. Custody metering
The metering equipment on to achieve the following technical requirements :
Table 3.6. Requirements of metering equitment [12]
Minimum accuracy 0.05% 0.05%

24
 Type Coriolis Coriolis
Maximum droping pressure 0.5 barg 0.5 barg
3.1.3. Equipments List of of PV Gas Vung Tau refrigerated LPG storage
Table 3.7 : Equiment List

B-3001A/B Refrigerated Propane Blower

B-3101A/B Refrigerated Butane Blower
CMP-1101A/B BOG Propane Compressor
CMP-1201A/B BOG Butane Compressor
E-1301 BOG Propane Condenser
E-1401 BOG Butane Condenser
E-1501 Refrigerated Propane Heater
E-1601 Refrigerated Butane Heater
E-5601 LP Flare Heater
FE-2201 Custody Metering For Liquid Loading (Propane)
FE-2202 Custody Metering For Vapor Return (Propane)
FE-2202 Custody Metering For Liquid Loading (Butane)
FE-2203 Custody Metering For Liquid Loading (Butane)
LDA 0201 Refrigerated Propane Unloading Arm
LDA 0301 Refrigerated Butane Unloading Arm
P-0901A/B Refrigerated Propane Pumps
P-1001A/B Refrigerated Butane Pumps
P-1301A/B Propane Condensate Transfer Pumps
P-1401A/B Butane Condensate Transfer Pumps
P-1901A/B/C Propane Loading Pumps
P-2001A/B/C Butane Loading Pumps
TK-0701 Refrigerated Propane Tank
TK-0801 Refrigerated Butane Tank
TK-1501 Pressurized Propane Tank
TK-1601 Pressurized Butane Tank

25
a. Description the technology of import, containing and exporting Propane of
refriferated LPG storage tank

Diagram 3.1 Overview of refrigerated Propane transport, storage technology

of refrigerated LPG storage tank

Description :
Propane mixture (temperature -40OC, pressure of 0.05-0.1 bar) will be

26
imported through the LDA-0201, the volume of the need to enter liquid is 2400
m3/h. Propane mixture will be needed to cold tank TK-0701. Due to the penetration
of heat from the environment into the tank creates BOG. Propane vapor will escape
from the top of the tank to the B-3001 A/B booster pump through the VRA-0201
steam recovery lever to take to the ship to avoid increased pressure in the tank and
adjust the lowest BOG level during the import process. A piece of high-pressure
Propane steam is brought to the flare to ignite when the pressure in the TK-0701 is
too high. The refrigerated propane blower B-3001A / B is used to control forced
steam... The pump will be activated and stopped by the control room.
Propane warm air after being generated (due to the penetration of heat from the
environment) spent at the top of the tank TK-0701 was taken to the liquid separator
V-1101. A part of Propane liquid from separator V-1101 containing a lot of dust
from the bottom of the flask will be taken to LP Flare for burning. Propane vapor
comes out from the top of the separator into the CMP-1101A / B compressor to
compress to 7.3-15.5 barg, temperature 43.60C.
After that, the Propane mixture will be divided into 2 parts, part 1 will return
to the V-1101 separator to continue the liquid separation, the other part will go to
the E-1301 device to condense into the liquid. At the E-1301 condenser, the
Propane warmth goes into the tube and the cooling water goes out of the tube.
During communication between Propane vapor and water, Propane vapor will
reduce the temperature.
Cooling water inlet and outlet temperature should be maintained at 330C-
430C. Next, the Propane mixture going to V-1301 horizontal separator to continue
the liquid separation again. Non-condensing gas released from the top of the V-
1301 drum will be released to the ignition for incineration. A part of Propane liquid
will go P-1301A / B pump back to the cold tank TK-0701. The remaining Propane
liquid is pumped to the TK-1501 pressurized tank.
The cold propane from TK-0701 tank is pumped with P-0901A / B to E-1501
heater and a part of refrigerated Propane from LDA-0201 needs to be taken to E-

27
1501 heater for heating. A part of Propane is pumped back to TK-0701 to adjust
BOG steam. After Propane is heated, it will be transferred to TK-1501 pressurized
tank. Propane from the bottom of the V-1301 separator will be pumped P-1301A / B
to meet the heated Propane stream, then it is transferred to the TK-1501 pressure
tank. A part of Propane is pumped back to TK-0701 to adjust BOG steam. The
remaining Propane is refluxed back to the V-1301 separator to continue liquid
separation.
High-pressure propane (6.2 -17.6 barg, temperature 33.60C) from the bottom of
tank TK-1501 is pumped P-1901A /B/C via FE-2201 metering system to measure
and then SDV (Shutdown Valve) before delivery to the ship's cargo tank by needing
to enter LDA-103.
A part of Propane was pumped P-1901A/B/C to circulate pump back to tank
TK-1501. To avoid an increase in pressure in the cargo tank on the ship, Propane
steam from the cargo tank to the VRA-103 steam recovery vessel and then through
SDV (Shutdown Valve) is measured at FE-2202 and then returned to the TK-1501
tank.
b. Description the technology of import, containing and exporting butane of
refriferated LPG storage tank

28
Diagram 3.2 Overview of refrigerated butane transport, storage technology of
refrigerated LPG storage tank.

29
Description :
Butane mixture ( 0OC, 0.05-0.1 bar) will be imported through the LDA-0301.
Due to the penetration of heat from the environment into the tank creates BOG.
Butane vapor will escape from the top of the tank to the B-3101A/ B booster pump
through the VRA-0301 steam recovery lever to take to the ship to avoid increased
pressure in the tank and adjust the lowest BOG level during the import process. A
piece of high-pressure butane steam is going to the flare to ignite when the pressure
in the TK-0801 is too high. The refrigerated blower B-3101A/B is used to control
forced steam. The pump will be activated and stopped by the control room.
Butane warm air after being generated (due to the penetration of heat from
the environment) spent at the top of the tank TK-0801 was taken to the liquid
separator V-1201. A part of butane liquid from separator V-1201 containing a lot of
dust from the bottom of the flask will be taken to LP Flare for burning.Butane vapor
comes out from the top of the separator into the CMP-1201A / B compressor to
compress to 3.5-4.5 barg, temperature 43.6oC. After that, Butane mixture will be
divided into 2 parts, part 1 will return to the V-1201 separator to continue the liquid
separation, the other part will go to the E-1401 device to condense into the liquid.
At the E-1401 condenser, Butane warmth goes into the tube and the cooling water
goes out of the tube.
During communication between Butane vapor and water, Butane vapor will
reduce the temperature (33.6oC). Cooling water inlet and outlet temperature should
be maintained at 33oC-43oC. Next, the Propane mixture going to V-1401 separator
to continue the liquid separation again. Non-condensing gas released from the top of
the V-1401 drum will be released to the ignition for incineration. A part of liquid
will go P-1401A/B pump back to the cold tank TK-0801. The remaining butane
liquid is pumped to the TK-1601 pressurized tank. The refrigerated butane from
TK-0801 tank is pumped with P-1001A/B to E-1601 heater and a part of
refrigerated butane from LDA-0301 needs to be taken to E-1601 heater for heating.
A part of butane is pumped back to TK-0701 to adjust BOG steam. After butane is

30
heated, it will be transferred to TK-1501 pressurized tank.
Butane from the bottom of the V-1301 separator will be pumped P-1301A/B
to meet the heated butane stream, then it is transferred to the TK-1601 pressure
tank. A part of butane is pumped back to TK-0801 to adjust BOG steam. The
remaining butane is refluxed back to the V-1401 separator to continue liquid
separation. High-pressure propane (3.5 - 4.5 barg, 33.60C) from the bottom of tank
TK-1601 is pumped P-2001A/B/C via FE-2301 metering system to measure before
delivery to the ship's cargo tank by needing to enter LDA-104. A part of Butane was
pumped P-2001 A/B/C to circulate pump back to tank TK-1601. To avoid an
increase in pressure in the cargo tank on the ship, Butane steam from the cargo tank
to the VRA-104 steam recovery vessel and then through SDV (Shutdown Valve) is
measured at FE-2302 and then returned to the TK-1601 tank.
c.. The process of mixing Bupro products
Butane is heated at E-1601, one part is taken to the TK-1501 pressurized
tank, the other part going to the TK-1601 pressurized tank, then Propane after being
heated at E-1501 partly was also taken to the TK-1501 pressurized tank, the rest
was taken to the TK-1601 pressurized tank.
At the pressurize tank, TK-1501 and TK-1601 will take place to mix Bupro
to form LPG. To increase the mixing, the Bupro mixture is released from the tank's
bottom and will be pumped P-1901A/B/C pump back to the tank. A part of the
Burpo mixture is pumped P-2001A/B/C pump through the TK- 1601 tank. LPG
released from the tank TK-1501, TK-1601 will be measured at FE-2201 and FE-
2301 to ship with LDA-103 and LDA-104 arms at Jetty 2. A piece of LPG taken to
send LDA-101 at Jetty 1. To avoid increased pressure on the vessel's cargo tanks,
the steam recovery VRA-101, VRA-103, VRA-104 will return LPG steam to the
TK-1501 and TK-1601 tanks. A part of LPG vapor will be taken to LPG
compressors.

31
Diagram 3.3. The process of mixing Bupro products
32
3.2. Overview of PV Gas Vung Tau pressurized LPG storage
3.2.1 Overview of main equipments
A outline of the main equipment is given below [13]
a. Propane storage - 18 tanks : SV 101 A-F; SV-102 A-F; SV-103 A-F
b. Butane storage – 13 tanks : SV 104 A-D; SV-105 A-F; SV-106 AC
c. Off spec bupro storage – 2 tanks : SV-107 A-B
d. Condensate storage – 2 tanks : TK – 101A/B
e. Loading arms
- Jetty 1 : LDA – 101 for Propane
LDA – 102 for Butane
LDA – 105 for Condensate
- Jetty 2 : LDA – 103 for Propane
LDA – 104 for Butane
f. Vapor return arms
- Jetty 1 : VRA – 101 for Propane
VRA – 102 for Butane
- Jetty 2 : VRA – 103 for Propane
VRA – 104 for Butane
g. Product Loading pump
- Propane loading pump P-101A/B/C
- Butane loading pump P-102A/B/C
- Condensate loading pump P-103A/B/C
- Condensate loading pump P-103A/B/C
h. Bupro Compressor
Bupro compressor CMP-102A/B ( 1 operating and 1 stand by )
3.2.3. Description the technology of import, storage and exporting product of
LPG storage tank
A parameter of the LPG storage tank :
- Tank working capacity : 422 m3

33
 - Demensions : 4.2m I.D x 34m T/T
- Type of tank : Horizontal tank
- Design Pressure : 17.25 kg/cm2 g
- Design Temperature : -45 oC to 100 oC
- Design Code : ASME SEC VIII Div. I
- Material : SA-516 Gr 70
- Radiography : 100%
PV Gas Vung Tau Terminal is provided with 33 tanks for the storage
propane, butane and bupro. Group 1 ( SV-101 A/B/C/D/E/F ), group 2 ( SV-102
A/B/C/D/E/F ) and group 3 ( SV-103 A/B/C/D/E/F ) are used to storage propane.
Group 4 ( SV-104 A/B/C/D ) and group 5 ( SV-105 A/B/C/D/E/F ) are used for
butane storage. Group 6 of tanks consists of three tanks for butane storage (SV-106
A/B/C) and two tanks for off-spec bupro storage (SV-107 A/B).
The incoming LPG from the GPP Dinh Co pipeline runs through individual
FE-1011 (for propane) and FE-1012 (for butane) for inventory management and
pipe leak detection, and is directed to storage tanks by a dedicated piping system.
Tanks are filled through a 3 inches nozzle located at the top of the tank and emptied
through an 8 inches nozzle located at the tanks bottom .
The transmitters generate a high-level alarm as the level reaches to 80.7% of
the tank diameter (3390 mm). At 81.4 % level of the tank (3420-mm) a high-level
switch, provided on each tank, closes the shutdown valve on respective tank inlet
line to prevent the further filling. When any of the tank reaches the high level, i.e
82.6% (3470mm), a high level switch actuates the shutdown valve at the group inlet
header to stop further filling of liquid in that bank [13].
At each tank, there is a low level switch (LSL) to trip the respective
propane/butane/bupro-loading pump. Two pressure safety valves are provided on
each tank to release excess liquid to flare in case of overfilling of the tank. A
emergency button is provided on the local panel located at each tank, which close
all the inlet and outlet valves of the tank in case of emergency.

34
 Three loading pumps are provided for each liquid product propaņe (P-101
A/B/C), butane (P-102A/B/C) each pump is having a capacity of 250 m3/hr.
Besides, two off-spec bupro pump (P-108 A/B) are also provided. The propane,
butane, and off-spec bupro loading pumps are vertical multistage centrifugal pumps,
and condensate pumps are horizontal centrifugal types. Low-level switch (LSL)
provided on all LPG tanks.
Pressure switch low low (PSLL) is provided at each pumping station
discharge line. This also stops the pumps in case there is some leakage in the line to
jetty, and the pump discharge flow rate increases considerably. The same switch
also closes the shipping valve on tank outlet and discharge valves of the pumps. FIC
has been provided for pump recirculation of liquid product at each pumping station
(FIC-1804 for bupro, FIC-1904 for propane, FIC-2004 for butane). Two jetties are
provided for product loading to ships: Jetty - 1 is equipped with loading and vapor
return arms for propane (LDA-101; VRA-101) and butane (LDA-102; VRA-102)
and Jetty 2 is equipped with loading and vapor return arms for propane (LDA-103;
VRA-103) and butane (LDA-104; VRA-104) [13].
In case of propane and butane loading, the vapor return line has to be
connected. While in case of bupro loading, the vapor is compressed by compressor
(CMP-102) and condensed in air cooler (E-102). After that condensed bupro is
received at the receiver SV-108 and dent to off-spec bupro tank SV-107 A/B.
Pressure control stations are provide at individual PCV-112/PVC-1114 for butane
vapor return, PVC-1113/PVC-1115 for propane vapor return [13].

35
 CHAPTER 4
CALCULATING LPG TANK WITH CAPACITY
OF 820 M3
4.1. Theoretical calculations
4.1.1. Temperature
An operating temperature is the temperature of environment at which an
device operates.The calculated temperature of the walls and other details inside the
equipment when the temperature of the environment is less than 25°C is equal to the
highest temperature of the process's context.
4.1.2. Working pressure, calculated pressure.
The working pressure is the pressure of the environment in the equipment
produced during the process regardless of the instantaneous pressure increase (about
10% of the device's working pressure).
The calculated pressure is the pressure of the device's environment, used as
data to calculate the device according to durability and stability. If the hydrostatic
pressure of the equipment (containing liquid) is equal to 5% of the calculated
pressure, it is ignored; if it is greater than 5%, the calculated pressure at the bottom
of the device is determined as follows:
P = Pm + g.ρ.Hl N / m2 ( Eq 4.1 )
Where: Pm is the working pressure of the environment, N / m2;
g is the gravitational acceleration, m / s2.
ρ is the density of the liquid, kg / m3.
Hl is the height of the liquid column, m.
4.1.3. Joint Efficiency
When designing tanks separate parts are connected by welding. Therefore,
when calculating the durability of welded components, the weld resistance
coefficient E is added to the calculation formula, representing the strength of the
joints compared to the strength of the base material.
4.1.4. Additional coefficient calculated thickness.

36
 When calculating the durability of components or parts of equipment, we
need to care about the environment's chemical and mechanical effects on the
device's construction materials.
Therefore, it is necessary to supplement the calculated thickness of those
parts and parts with a quantity C.
The following formula determines quantity C :
C = C a + Cb + Cc + C0 ( Eq 4.2 )
Where Ca is the additional factor due to environmental chemical corrosion.
Cb is the additional coefficient due to environmental mechanical.
Cc is the additional coefficient due to manufacturing equitment.
C0 is the additional coefficient to size.
The quantity of addition factor Ca depends on the chemical corrosion of the
environment and the equipment's shelf life. In general, the shelf life of chemical
equipment is about 10 ÷ 15 years.
For chemical equipment, Cb coefficients can be excepted. The coefficient Cb
is calculated only when the environment inside the equipment is moving at a
velocity more than 20 m/s (for liquids) and more than 100m/s (for gases).
The quantity Cc depends on the type of tanks and the manufacturing
technology of equipment.
4.2. Tank selection and calculation parameters.
4.2.1. Purpose of design LPG tank
Demand for LPG is growing, while the local supply has not kept up, only
meeting about 45%, so LPG imports continue to be a solution to offset the shortage
in the coming years. In order to, maximize the efficiency of LPG import, it is
necessary to have a modern LPG tank system suitable to the market demand.
Therefore, within the structure of the thesis, I decided to choose an LPG tank
capacity of 840 m3.
The goal is designing an LPG tank with a satisfactory capacity such as
- Location, area suitable for PV Gas Vung Tau Terminal.

37
 - Suitable for market
- Reasonable investment costs.
- Saving construction costs.
Fuel is LPG with the main components of C3 and C4
- Propane : 40 % mol
- Butane : 60 % mol
Density of LPG equal 0.5533 tons/m3
4.2.2. Design options of LPG tank
Liquefied petroleum gas tanks currently include 2 common types:
- Spherical Tank
- Horizontal Tank
The horizontal cylinder tank, there are many options for diameter, length.
The dimension is most benefical for tank based on the following factors :
- Volume of tank
- Design pressure
- Corrosion Allowance
- Maxumum Allowable Stress Values
The determination can be based on a graph according to the PRESSURE VESSEL
4*V
HANDBOOK. Using a equation to determine the length of tank: L= (Eq4.3)
π*D
Where L = Length of tank D= Diameter
V= Volume of tank

Figure 4.1 Structure of horizontal cylinder storage tank.

38
4.2.3. Parameter of LPG storage
a. Parameter to design LPG tank
Table 4.1 : Parameter of LPG storage [13]
Total Capacity 820 m3
Design Pressure 18 kG/cm2
Hydraulic Pressure 27 kG/cm2
Operate Pressure 7.5 kG/cm2
0
Desing Temperature -10/50 C
0
Operate Temperature 25/50 C
Radiography 100 %
Normal Capacity Coefficient 0.85 %

Wind Speed 36 m/s

Corrosion 0.16 cm
b. Applicable standards and references
- ASME Section VIII Divison 1
- ASME Section VIII Divison 2
- Pressure Vessel Handbook
c. Determine the dimension of the tank
Using Pressure Vessel Handbook[17] we can choose Di (diameter) is 4.2m
The length of tank is determined by equation
4*V 4 *820
L= = = 59.18
π * Di π * (4.2) 2
Choose L = 60 m
So that, dimension of tank is 4.2m I.D x 60m T/T
4.2.4. Material for construction
Select the material of carbon steel to make the equitment, the symbol of steel
is SA-516 Gr70. CT3 steel is a steel with carbon content (accounting for 0.27 -
0.31). Therefore SA-516 Gr70 steel with good strength and flexibility, excellent
impact strength, high strength low alloy steel structure provides excellent

39
mechanical properties, high abrasion resistance. Widely used in the petroleum
industry, such as tank design, drilling structure ...
4.2.5. Select the welding method for the tank
Welding steel plates make tanks made available to shape the design
together.Basically, the steel plate must be welded vertically along with the tank,
perimeter. Choose machining technology: Manual electric arc welding, durable two-
butt welded welding, welding type is the welding connection coefficients as
follows: E = 1
4.3. Calculate the thickness of the body tank
4.3.1. The state of the calculation
The calculation of the thickness of the tank shell should be based on two
conditions of the tank:
- State 1: Tank under internal pressure. In this state, the tank contains
fuel
- State 2: Tank under external pressure In this state, the tank does not
contain fuel (when stopped operating or finished manufacturing)
In each state, the pressure acting on the tank shell is different. The design
must consider the dangerous working ability of the work, so perform calculations
with the following two specific states:
- State 1: Operation tank with design pressure and pressure test. Both
cases include the pressure due to the weight of the fuel acting on the
tank.
- State 2: Empty tank, subject to atmospheric pressure only.
We should be determine the thickness of tank for 2 case: with design
pressure (Pd =18 kg/cm2) and test pressure (Pt = 27kg/cm2). In both case, the
calculatation is the same way, usually the thickness with Pd is aways bigger, so for
the scope of this thesis, only calculations are shown with this case.
4.3.2. Calculate the pressure when the tank contains LPG
This is an important parameter to calculate the thickness of tank. The

40
calculated pressure includes the design pressure plus the hydrostatic pressure of the
liquid. Using equation (4.1) we have :
P = Pd + g.ρ.hl N / m2
Where: Pd is the design pressure, N / m2
g is the gravitational acceleration, m/s2.
ρ is the density of the liquid, kg/m3.
hl is the height of the liquid column, m.
We have : g.ρ.hl = 9.81*0.5533*103*4.2*0.85 = 19377.50 (N/m2) = 0.1975 (kg/cm2)
P = 18 + 0.1975 = 18.1975 ( kg/cm2)
4.3.3. Calculate the thickness of shell tank under internal pressure
Every point on the shell of steel pressure tank has two stress components :
- Circumferential Stress
- Longitudinal Stress
Based on these two stress components, according to ASME SEC VIII
Division 1 PART UG. UG27 (c)[18] required minimum thickness t will take the
maximum of the two values calculated
the following formulas:
- t1 = PR / (SE – 0.6P) ( Eq 4.4 )
- t2 = PR / (2SE + 0.4P) ( Eq 4.5 )
where E = Joint efficiency
P = Internal design pressure (18.19 kg/cm2)
R = inside radius of tank (210cm)
S = maximum allowable stress (1225 kg/cm2)
PR 18.1975* 210
We have : t1 = = = 3.147 (cm)
( 2SE + 0.4P ) 1225 − 0.6 *18.1975
PR 18.1975* 210
t2 = = = 1.555 (cm)
( 2SE + 0.4P ) 2 *1225 + 0.4 *18.1975
Comparing t1 > t2 so we can choose t1
Howerver, we need to care about the environment's chemical and mechanical

41
effects on the device's construction materials. So the thickness of shell tank under
internal pressure is : t = t1 + Ca = 3.147 + 0.1 + 0.05 ≈ 3.3 (cm)
4.4. Calculate the thickness the head tank.
Tank head with tank body joins in a complete tank. Tank top possible
preformed or preformed composite from steel plates.
According to ASME SEC VIII Division 1 APP 1, 1-3[18] have five common
types of tank heads for tanks as follows:

Figure 4.2. Principal Dimensions of typical heads[18]

Calculate the thickness of formed head tank under internal pressure
In this case, we can choose Ellipsoidal 2:1. According to ASME SEC VIII
Division 1 APP1, 1-4 (c)[18] standard. We have equation for Ellipsoidal Head is :
PDK PDK
t= = ( Eq4.5 )
2SE - 0.2P 2SE + 2P(K-0.1)
where E = Joint efficiency

42
 P = Internal design pressure (18.1975 kg/cm2)
D = inside diameter of head tank (420cm)
S = maximum allowable stress (1225 kg/cm2)
K = a factor denpending on the head proportion D/2h
h = one‐half of the length of the minor axis of the ellipsoidal head
We can calculate value of K by equation :
1   D 2  1   420  
2

K= 2 +    = 2 +    = 0.941
6   2h   6   2*110  

PDK 18.1975* 420*0.94

=> t= = = 2.9 ( cm)
2SE + 2P(K-0.1) 2*1225*1 + 2*18.1975*(0.94 - 0.1)
Howerver, we need to care about the environment's chemical and mechanical
effects on the device's construction materials. So the thickness of head tank under
internal pressure is : th = t + Ca = 2.896 + 0.1 + 0.05 ≈ 3.2 (cm)
4.5. Calculate the total weight of tank
Looking for table XIII.11 ([19]) with the thickness of head tank th = 3.2 cm we have
Mhead = 3444 kg. The weight of body tank equal
π ( Dt 2 -D2 ) 3.14*( 4.2332 -4.22 )
Mbody = ρ.V = ρ L = 7830* *60 = 1.03*106 (kg)
4 4
The weight of LPG contaning in tank
MLPG = ρLPG *V=0.5533*820 *103 *0.85 = 3.85 *105 (kg)
The weight of tank to determine by equation :
Mt = 2Mhead + Mbody + MLPG = 2*3444 + 1.03*106 +4.54*105 = 1.5*106 (kg)
4.6. Fire explosion risk and mitigation for LPG tanks
a. Problems with the tank
The first danger is cracked, and the product is leaking outside. If the
concentration reaches the explosion limit (2 - 10%), an incident will occur. This
problem is dangerous if it is not detected and controlled promptly.
Cracking problems: when the ambient temperature is low or when the tank's
temperature is low due to evaporation, it can make the material brittle very easily.

43
 Excessive loading of the product due to negligence in operation is also
dangerous because the tank does not have space for the liquid to evaporate as the
temperature rises.
b. Safety requirements in storage and transport
Any activity related to LPG is directly or indirectly related to safety.
Therefore, everyone in the tank area must understand and follow the general safety
requirements:
Understand the characteristics of the product.
Smoking is prohibited in the area.
When storing products must be taken to leave sufficient volume for the LPG
to expand in case of changes in the ambient temperature.The tanks must be blown
with nitrogen before filling LPG. This must also be done after fixing the equipment.
Storage tanks and piping must be checked carefully before loading. The
leakage of LPG vapor to the outside is very dangerous. Any time that happening
occurs under unavoidable conditions, it must be monitored continuously and
restored to normal conditions or repairing leaks.
c. Fire extinguishing LPG gas
Recommended using substances such as CO2, dry powder, or BCF (B2C /
F2C) Bromocholozodi Fluazometan to extinguish LPG fires, they quickly free LPG
concentrations and prevent air from coming into contact with flames.
Due to the danger of the LPG vapor, it may unexpectedly explode again, do
not put out immediately unless it is possible to stop the ignition source immediately.
If the flame comes into direct contact with the LPG tank, the tank's wall can
overheat or destroy by high pressure in the tank. The power of the fire must be
controlled to protect the LPG tank. Equipment, property, machinery near the fire, or
supplying LPG to the fire must be cooled by sprinklers, spray nozzles, fire pumps,
and fire guns. LPG tanks are often fitted with safety valves to reduce the tank's
pressure when the pressure of the tank exceeds the designed pressure.

44
 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Nowadays, In our country the gas processing industry is growing strongly.
The construction of a large-scale and modern storage system is necessary for
Vietnam. After nearly two months of implementing "Studying the technology of
storage transportation for LPG at PV Gas Vung Terminalninal and calculating LPG
tank with capacity of 820m3" with teachers' help, so far i have completed this
project
The graduation thesis presents the following main contents :
- Overview of Vietnam Gas Industry.
- Introduction of LPG, storage and transportation of LPG at PV Gas Vung Tau
Terminal
- Study the technology of storage transportation for LPG at PV Gas Vung Tau
Terninal.
- Calculating tank with capacity of 820m3.
Because the gas processing technology industry is developing strongly,
scientific and technical staff training must be focused on mastering advanced and
modern technology equipment. Build a team of experts operating, maintaining,
designing, and managing projects according to international standards. Managing,
exploiting and effectively using human resources, equipment to reduce maintenance
and repair costs, improve production efficiency. Beside, we are necessary to consult
and learn from experiences of countries with strong gas industry development such
as the US, Russia, Canada, Singapore, Thailand, etc about processing product,
operation and storage of liquefied petroleum gas.

45
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