LNG in 3D

A free interactive 3D model of the AP-C3MR LNG Liquefaction process

The large majority of the LNG trains built around the world are using APCI C3MR technology to liquefy natural gas. As 3D modelling and visualization is about to become mainstream in our industry, I have decided to share the well-known liquefaction process in a more user-friendly format than the old (and flat!) Process Flow Diagram. It allows the viewer to interact and manipulate directly the model as if holding an LNG train in his hands.

Even though 3D is heavily relied on during the design and engineering phase of any Oil & Gas project, its use is still marginal in day-to-day operations and training. However, with the emergence of new technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and 3D printing, the next trend in our industry will be 3D. As a LNG panel operator with more than 15 years of experience in the field, I know well how operators could take advantage and benefit from an interactive visualization solution.

The vessels & columns are true to scale and proportions for an immersive experience. You can rotate, scale and move the model around. You can also use the numerous viewing options available inside Adobe Acrobat Reader to change the perspective view to orthographic projection, select other render modes or play with the lighting schemes.

The model rendered here is a complete liquefaction train and it includes the units commonly found in a typical LNG plant:

Download the free LNG train 3D model from my Dropbox and save it to your desktop:

LNG Train 3D Link

Instructions on using the 3D PDF file:

The first time you open the document, you will get a yellow bar at the top with the message "3D content has been disabled". To enable permanently the 3D content click on "Options" and select "Trust this document always" (The document is best viewed in full screen mode Ctrl+L).

You can now navigate around by clicking the desired process units, or by manipulating the model yourself using the following:

• Left-Click and Hold > Spin the model
• Hold Right+Left > Pan model
• Scroll > Zoom-in & out
• Right-Click > Drop Menu > Full screen Multimedia

Feel free to share the PDF, critique & comments are welcome.

My next project will be a detailed model of the heart of the APCI LNG process: the Main Cryogenic Heat Exchanger (MCHE). Model almost completed:

Read original by Mehdy Touil