Constructing LNG or LPG terminal by constructing external structure and reservoir(s) independently in parallel, then floating both and floating reservoirs into structure

摘要

An external structure and reservoir(s) are constructed in parallel and independently. When these are completed or about to be completed, both the external structure and the reservoir(s) are floated. The reservoir is floated into the external structure and fixed inside it. The relative flotation conditions of the external structure and the reservoir are modified to allow the reservoir to be fixed inside the external structure. In particular, the external structure continues to float and the reservoir is rested on the seabed. The reservoir is sheltered and enclosed inside the external structure. The seawater in the external structure is emptied to isolate the reservoir from the sea. After construction, equipment is installed on the reservoir. An independent claim is included for the external structure of a terminal to allow this method to be used, where it is shaped to receive the reservoir once it is built, for example it is U-shaped. The external structure is of the type that rests on the seabed, made of concrete, steel or concrete and steel. The external structure has means of closure, such as a sealed caisson and a door made of a metal alloy or concrete. The means of closure include seals between the walls of the external structure and those of the reservoir. An independent claim is included for a reservoir to fit into an external structure using the method above, designed so it will float and will fit into the external structure once it has been built. The reservoir is in the shape of a parallelepiped, cylinder, prism or sphere and is double hulled or single hulled with thermal insulation and internal membrane. The reservoir has equipment for the process, utilities and/or living quarters. An independent claim is included for an LNG or LPG terminal with an external structure and reservoir as described above.