Invensys introduces new standard for custody transfer systems for LNG carriers

Posted 30 November 2005

Invensys introduces new standard for custody transfer systems for LNG carriers
Next-generation Foxboro pulsed laser CTS receives NKKK certification

Invensys Process Systems today announced that the company’s next-generation Foxboro custody transfer system (CTS) for LNG carriers has been certified by NKKK (Nippon Kaiji Kentei Kyokai) of Japan, the world-leading survey organization in the area of custody transfer measurements for liquefied natural gas (LNG).

The state-of-the-art Foxboro Custody Transfer System Reference V for LNG carriers is based on an innovative new non-contact pulsed laser technology that combines the well-proven accuracy of traditional capacitive-based systems with the lower total cost of ownership of non-intrusive radar-based level measurement systems. This new system leverages Foxboro’s 40 years of experience in marine CTS applications, plus innovative pulsed semiconductor laser technology, to provide this breakthrough LNG custody transfer solution.

“Foxboro systems are widely recognized as the traditional reference standard when it comes to accurate and reliable measurements for marine LNG custody transfer applications and have been installed in well over a hundred ships to date,” said Mike Caliel, president of Invensys Process Systems. “Our innovative new Foxboro pulsed laser CTS carries on this heritage while eliminating the cost of ownership issues associated with the older technology. As such, it represents the new standard for LNG custody transfer systems.”

The Foxboro non-contact, pulsed laser CTS provides the high accuracy measurements and data logging of levels, temperatures, and pressures required for the calculation of total LNG cargo loaded or discharged. The data is then converted to volumetric measurement. The system offers the following advantages and user benefits over conventional capacitance- or radar-based systems:

Superior measurement accuracy for increased confidence in critical custody transfer applications

Easy external access to all level measurement components for inspection or repair, eliminating the need to ever enter the LNG compartment itself

High-resolution, non-contact, pulsed laser technology eliminates the need for complicated and costly in-tank wave guides

Fully industrial components in high-availability redundant configurations ensure many years of trouble-free operation in demanding marine environments

State-of-the-art Windows XP user interface with comprehensive monitoring, logging, alarming, and reporting functionality provides easy-to-use operator interface and simplified interfacing to other shipboard subsystems

Functionally independent alarm system provides for enhanced safety and security
The new Foxboro CTS will be sold and supported through Invensys Process Systems’ Global LNG Business and Technology Centre.