Liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, as specialized vessels for transporting liquefied natural gas at sea, require safety and efficiency. Among the many factors ensuring these attributes, the choice of insulation material stands out as particularly crucial. Polyurethane, known for its exceptional performance as an insulation material, holds profound significance in its application on LNG carriers.

Characteristics and Challenges of LNG Carriers

LNG carriers are vessels designed for the transportation of liquefied natural gas. The extremely low temperature of liquefied natural gas (-162°C) necessitates excellent insulation properties in the vessel’s tanks and related pipelines to prevent gas volatility and safety hazards. Therefore, selecting suitable insulation materials is crucial for the safe operation of LNG carriers.

Advantages of Polyurethane Insulation Material

Polyurethane insulation materials have been widely used on LNG carriers for their outstanding insulation performance and stability. With advantages such as high strength and low thermal conductivity, polyurethane is a high-performance synthetic material primarily used for thermal insulation, followed by structural applications. Polyurethane foam maintains excellent insulation even at low temperatures, a crucial aspect for LNG carriers operating at extremely cold conditions.

Moreover, polyurethane materials exhibit good resistance to hydrolysis and aging, meeting the long-term operational requirements of LNG carriers in complex marine environments. Its low flammability meets the high safety standards of the maritime industry.

Application of Polyurethane Insulation Materials on LNG Carriers

On LNG carriers, polyurethane insulation materials are extensively applied in the insulation layers of tanks, pipelines, and vessel structures. By spraying or installing prefabricated polyurethane insulation panels, temperature losses during LNG transportation can be effectively reduced, thus enhancing transport efficiency.

Moreover, the flexibility of polyurethane materials allows them to accommodate structural deformations caused by temperature variations during the vessel’s navigation, ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of the insulation layer.

Major Polyurethane Insulation Material Manufacture in China’s LNG Sector

In 2018, Yoke Technology obtained certification for reinforced PU insulated panels used in LNG containment systems from France’s GTT, making it the sole Chinese manufacturer of LNG insulated panels certified by both GTT and classification societies. The company has established strategic cooperative relationships with major shipbuilders such as Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard, and Dalian Huarui Heavy Industry. In H1 2023, Yoke Technology’s LNG insulated composite panel business saw a year-on-year growth of 169.4%.