Epcon Industrial Systems delivered a Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizer (DFTO) for an LNG import and regasification terminal to safely manage hydrocarbon emissions generated during unloading, storage, and boil-off gas handling. Designed for rapid response and intermittent operation, the system provides reliable emissions control, regulatory compliance, and safe performance during highly dynamic terminal operations.
Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizer (DFTO) for LNG Import & Regasification Terminal
Executive Summary
Project Overview
LNG import and regasification terminals generate hydrocarbon emissions during ship unloading, storage tank operations, and vapor recovery processes. To meet environmental regulations and ensure safe terminal operation, a major LNG terminal operator partnered with Epcon Industrial Systems to supply a Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizer.
The system was required to:
The system was required to:
- Manage intermittent vapor flows.
- Remain immediately available during peak unloading events.
- Comply with port authority, environmental, and LNG safety standards.
The Challenge
The LNG import terminal presented a set of unique challenges compared to continuous-duty oxidizer applications:
- Highly Intermittent Emission Profiles: Vapor flows surge rapidly during unloading and remain low or idle between events.
- Rapid Response Demand: The DFTO needed to respond instantly to sudden load changes without compromising safety or compliance.
- Varying Composition: Hydrocarbon composition could vary depending on cargo source and operating conditions.
- Strict Safety and Space: Space limitations and strict safety zoning complicated system design and installation.
- Compliance Requirements: High destruction efficiency for mixed hydrocarbon streams was mandatory.
The Solution
Epcon engineered a custom DFTO system tailored specifically for LNG import and regasification service.
Optimized for Rapid Response & Intermittent Flow
Optimized for Rapid Response & Intermittent Flow
- Features a direct-fired combustion chamber optimized for rapid response capability.
- Burners are designed for stable operation under both low-flow/idle and high-flow/surge conditions.
- Advanced control logic manages sudden vapor surges effectively.
- Includes integral flame arrestors and safety shutoff systems to ensure compliance with LNG safety codes.
- The DFTO was fully integrated with the terminal’s vapor recovery units and control systems.
- The unit was factory-tested prior to on-site commissioning, ensuring a turnkey deployment.
Technical Specifications
Feature / Component | Specification / Benefit |
Oxidizer Type | Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizer (DFTO) |
Design Capacity | 10,000 – 40,000 SCFM |
Operating Temperature | 1,400°F – 1,600°F |
VOC Destruction | $\geq99.99\%$ Destruction Efficiency |
Startup Capability | Rapid Response for Intermittent Flows |
Fuel Type | Natural Gas |
Control System | PLC with Remote Monitoring, Integrated with Terminal VCU |
Application | LNG Import, Storage, and Regasification Vent Streams |
The Results
“The DFTO’s immediate response capability ensures we meet all regulations and maintain full operational readiness without compromising safety.”
The installed DFTO system delivered continuous and reliable destruction of LNG vapors:
The installed DFTO system delivered continuous and reliable destruction of LNG vapors:
- Reliable destruction of LNG vapors during unloading and regasification operations.
- Full regulatory and safety compliance maintained under fluctuating vapor loads.
- Safe operation with minimal operational disruption to the terminal.
- Success of the project has led to multiple additional LNG DFTO projects for Epcon.
Industry Applications
This custom Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizer solution is ideal for emissions control in large-scale energy infrastructure that requires a quick-response, intermittent solution, including:
- LNG Import and Regasification Terminals
- Coastal/Port Authority-Regulated Vent Streams
- Facilities with Highly Dynamic or Intermittent Hydrocarbon Flows
- Safety-Critical Process Vent Streams
Next Steps
Achieve Rapid-Response Compliance for LNG Import Operations
Your LNG import process demands a high-safety, rapid-response emissions control system to manage dynamic flow conditions. Epcon’s custom DFTO is engineered to provide guaranteed destruction efficiency and stable performance for your terminal’s specific operational profile. If your process requires reliable VOC destruction during sudden vapor surges or needs a system built for intermittent, high-safety service, your next step is simple. Contact our specialized LNG engineering team directly for a custom application study, or initiate a chat now to answer a quick technical question on process integration.
Your LNG import process demands a high-safety, rapid-response emissions control system to manage dynamic flow conditions. Epcon’s custom DFTO is engineered to provide guaranteed destruction efficiency and stable performance for your terminal’s specific operational profile. If your process requires reliable VOC destruction during sudden vapor surges or needs a system built for intermittent, high-safety service, your next step is simple. Contact our specialized LNG engineering team directly for a custom application study, or initiate a chat now to answer a quick technical question on process integration.
Contact Epcon for Custom Solutions
Epcon offers full engineering, fabrication, and installation of afterburner-based thermal oxidizers, quench systems, wet scrubbers, and full emissions-control lines — customized for chemical, petrochemical, and industrial gas-stream applications.If your facility handles acid gases, H₂S, solvent exhaust, or other challenging emissions, contact our engineering team to discuss a tailored solution.
Get Detailed Quote
Question About Pricing? Fill out the the related technical questionnaire with key project information and get detailed pricing for the product.
Explore More
