Category: Industry Trends

Density measurements

Density is a measurement of mass per unit of volume. Because

LNG is not a pure substance, the density varies between the

different gas fields due to different composition.

The traditional way of obtaining the density of LNG as input to

the CTS report, is by taking liquid samples that are vapourized

and sent to a gas chromatograph to analyze the composition.

The density is then calculated by using the revised Klosek

McKinley equation, where the composition of the LNG found by

the gas chromatograph forms the input.

The chemical composition of LNG is a function of the source

and type of processing/aging. it is a mixture of mainly methane,

ethane, propane and butane with small amounts of heavier

hydrocarbons. Besides the hydrocarbons, mainly Nitrogen exist,

which is an important component to watch due to its altered

properties compared to the hydrocarbons. Methane is by far the

major component, usually over 85 % by volume.

With KONGSBERG radar based densimeter, the density of the

LNG is monitored continuously as long as the sensing part of

the pipe is immersed in LNG. This is done at each immersed

segment in the tank, and can be presented for each tank or

averaged over several tanks. By knowing only the N2

content to

certain accuracy, the uncertainty of the density measurement is

reduced to a level well below the uncertainty of today’s accept

ed standards.

Accurate density measurement is possible regardless of the

tank atmospheric conditions. High instrument accuracy and

flexible software ensure continuously monitoring of the density

and its change both in cases with natural and forced boil-off and

re-liquefaction.

The MGC R3 COMPASS system is IMO type approved as a

gyro compass for navigation purposes for use together

with a heading and bearing repeater. Very high reliability

is achieved by using Ring Laser Gyros with no rotational

or mechanical wear-out parts.

Typical applications

The system can be operated as an inertial navigation

system as well as a gyro compass with output of position

and heading. Linear position and velocity measurements

can then be output in up to four different points on the

vessel.

Digital I/O protocols

MGC data is available through both Ethernet interface and

serial lines enabling easy distribution of data to multiple

users on board the vessel. Output protocols for commonly

used equipment are available on five individually

configurable serial lines and five Ethernet/UDP ports.

FEATURES

• 0.01° roll and pitch accuracy

• 0.04° heading accuracy GNSS aided

• No rotational or mechanical wear-out parts

• Outputs on RS-422 and Ethernet

• High output data rate (200 Hz).

• Small size, light weight and low power consumption

• IMO type approved

• Each MGC delivered with Calibration Certificate

• Selectable communication protocols in the configuration

software

LNG DENSiTy PROFiLE MEASUREMENT SySTEM

The KONGSBERG Density Profile Measurement System is an

extension module to the K-Gauge CTS, allowing the Radar 

Tank Gauge to be used as a combined level gauge and

densimeter. The system offers a world’s first in-situ and online

LNG density measurement system, and comes with built-in LNG

aging tool.

The function both estimates the current LNG composition and

predicts future composition. Gross Calorific Value (GCV) and

the theoretical LNG density value by revised Klosek McKinley

equation..

Functional description

K-Gauge DPMS offers a cost effective way to gain improved

knowledge and information of the LNG stored. Online and

continuous LNG density monitoring and trend functions provide

an added value for the users of the K-Gauge Custody Transfer

Measurement System for LNG carriers and LNG FSRUs.

By use of the KONGSBERG Radar Tank Gauges and stand

pipes installed in the tanks for level gauging, the DPMS soft

ware module provides density monitoring and reporting, LNG

aging calculation and GCV estimation.

For LNG carriers, the LNG density, aging and GCV information

are helpful tools to prepare for the Custody Transfer operation,

and an easy verification when getting the official composition

report from the terminal. For LNG FSRUs the density profile

monitoring and trend function are helpful tools to continuously

monitor the boil-off process and the density and temperature

profile in the tanks to prevent roll-over incidents to happen.

The possibility to accurate measure the density offers a back

up, and verification, to the currently dominating method to de

termine the density in cargoes transferred to/from LNG carriers

and FSRUs.

Aging and the possibility to monitor the profile of density in the

cargo down the tank can help to predict a possible roll-over

accident by improving the decision basis for the operator. The

operator performing cargo operation will, by means of the den

sity information together with level and temperature measure

ment, become better equipped to make the correct decisions to

prevent roll-over accidents.

KONGSBERG PROPELLER SOLUTIONS

C-Line

• CONFIGURED solutions for best performance to cost.

P-Line

• Engineered solutions for maximised PERFORMANCE.

X-Line

• Fully tailored solutions for EXTREME requirements.

HIGH QUALITY PROPELLER SOLUTIONS

KONGSBERG CPX propeller lines

By dividing the world’s leading propeller systems into three different

offerings, C-Line, P-Line, and X-Line, KONGSBERG can provide high

quality propeller solutions fully adapted to all customer specific needs and

requirements. KONGSBERG propeller design is based on almost a century

of engineering experience and hydrodynamic expertise and contributes to

improved safety, reliability, and performance in all conditions.

C-Line

Configured solutions to fit the specific customer vessel. Suitable when

short lead times and best performance to cost are prioritised. The C-Line

propeller solution is configured within the pre-defined technical limitations

based on KONGSBERG’s proven performance and world class expertise.

The C-Line propeller solution provides a number of possible options, which

offers a clear, simple and short decision process.

P-Line

Engineered propeller solutions for maximised world class Performance.

Suitable when requirements such as high efficiency, noise, and vibration are

prioritised. The P-Line propeller solution is engineered with high adaptation

to the customer specific integration requirements. The P-Line propeller

solution is configured with close contact between the customer and the

appointed KONGSBERG project team including unique hydrodynamic expertise.

The P-Line propeller solution offers a large number of possible options.

X-Line

Fully tailored propeller solutions for Extreme requirements. Suitable

when there is a very high demand on special features and integration

requirements. The X-Line propeller solution is configured with close

contact between the customer and the appointed KONGSBERG project

team including unique hydrodynamic expertise, where development of

new technical and hydrodynamic solutions are created as required. With

the X-Line propeller solution, there are nearly no limits in option possibilities,

almost anything is possible.

Function

The MGC is a strap-down based gyro compass

including three Ring Laser Gyros (RLG) and three linear

accelerometers. The system can operate in Attitude and

Heading Reference System (AHRS) mode and Inertial

Navigation mode. In the AHRS mode input of speed

and latitude data (VBW/VTG and GGA/GLL) is required.

External time input is also required (ZDA). In this mode

the system will output heading, roll, pitch and heave. In

the Inertial Navigation mode input of latitude, longitude,

height and time (GGA and ZDA) and PPS from a GNSS

receiver is required. In this mode the product will output

heading, roll, pitch, heave and position. In free inertial

mode (GNSS denied environment) the position drift is less

than 20 meters DRMS for a period of 15 minutes (proven

performance).

The system is delivered with configuration software.

In this software the user selects output formats on the

different communication lines in addition to other

configuration purposes.

The MGC R5 COMPASS system is IMO type approved as a

gyro compass for navigation purposes for use together

with a heading and bearing repeater. Very high reliability is

achieved by using Ring Laser Gyros with no rotational or

mechanical wear-out parts.

Typical applications

The system can be operated as an inertial navigation

system as well as a gyro compass with output of position

and heading. Linear position and velocity measurements

can then be output in up to four different points on the

vessel.

Digital I/O protocols

MGC data is available through both Ethernet interface and

serial lines enabling easy distribution of data to multiple

users on board the vessel. Output protocols for commonly

used equipment are available on five individually

configurable serial lines and five Ethernet/UDP ports.

Function

The MGC is a strap-down based gyro compass

including three Ring Laser Gyros (RLG) and three linear

accelerometers. The system can operate in Attitude and

Heading Reference System (AHRS) mode and Inertial

Navigation mode. In the AHRS mode input of speed

and latitude data (VBW/VTG and GGA/GLL) is required.

External time input is also required (ZDA). In this mode

the system will output heading, roll, pitch and heave. In

the Inertial Navigation mode input of latitude, longitude,

height and time (GGA and ZDA) and PPS from a GNSS

receiver is required. In this mode the product will output

heading, roll, pitch, heave and position.

The system is delivered with configuration software.

In this software the user selects output formats on the

different communication lines in addition to other

configuration purposes.

Digital I/O protocols

MGC data is available through both Ethernet interface and

serial lines enabling easy distribution of data to multiple

users on board the vessel. Output protocols for commonly

used equipment are available on five individually

configurable serial lines and five Ethernet/UDP ports.

FEATURES

• 0.02° roll and pitch accuracy

• 0.1° heading accuracy GNSS aided

• No rotational or mechanical wear-out parts

• Outputs on RS-422 and Ethernet

• High output data rate (200 Hz).

• Small size, light weight and low power consumption

• IMO type approved

• Each MGC delivered with Calibration Certificate

• Selectable communication protocols in the configuration

software

AutroCAL®

AutroCAL® is a unique calibration and verification function in

the KONGSBERG system. Gas vapour density and mixture of

gases influence the propagation speed of the radar signal, thus

the accuracy of the measurement. By using pipe joint reference

markers, AutroCAL® continuously compensates for the changes

caused by the differences in the propagation speed. AutroCAL®

ensures high accuracy over the whole measurement range,

independent of the gas mixture, pressure and temperature.

With AutroCAL®, the influence of the gas vapour density and

composition is measured and compensated for automatically.

FEATURES

• Closed level gauge suitable for all liquefied gas tank designs.

• Measuring range 0 to 50 metres.

• Outstanding accuracy in the whole range.

• Superior sensitivity – suitable for precise measurement of

products with low dielectric constant.

• Dual transmitter with independent units, providing primary &

secondary level gauging.

• Combined level and TOP functionality s subject to case-by

case approval by class

• Each transmitter connects to its dedicated signal processing

unit with power and IS barrier.

• Approved for Custody Transfer (CTS) on board ships.

• Continuous level verification – AutroCAL®

• Utilize 50 mm standpipe.

• Modular design.

• Intrinsically safe for use in all zones.

How it works

Sensor information is continuously logged and stored in a database. Dynamic

data like maximum exposed pressures and temperatures, sensor aging and drift,

radar reflection curves and signal condition states are collected. The application

extract the data, analyse health condition and monitor the status of each sensor.

Static data like serialnumber, SW version and type designation is also stored for

easy identification and service history.

Knowing the health and condition of sensors disclose new levels in

safe and efficient tank operations:

• Condition based maintenance. Contamination influence the stability of

measurements. By monitoring contamination, simple cleaning can be planned

and performed when required.

• Increased lifetime. Logging of maximum exposed values and pressure shocks

supports the understanding of the process dependencies and offers insight

and more parameters for operational procedures.

• Confidence and trust. Knowing the status and condition gives confidence and

reduce need for manual checking and uncertainty in automatic operations.

K-Gauge Intelligent applications

When combining K-Gauge Tank Monitoring System and K-Load Loading

Computer the KONGSBERG Tank application becomes available for further opera

tional support. Some examples:

• Cargo tank monitoring

The Cargo tank application can give inventory overview, transfer reports

and history, loading/discharge data and cargo information. This can evolve

further to cargo planning, automatic cargo operations (by K-Chief) and

history of vessel stress and stability conditions.

• Fuel, Ballast & Service tank monitoring

The tank monitoring application can provide information on fuel inventory

and history, ballast exchange history and draft, trim / list views. This can

further evolve into ballast planning and automatic ballast exchange (by

K-Chief).