Qualification of Multi-Composite Hoses for STS LNG Transfer

Reliable transfer systems are a key element in developing floating LNG technology. Multi-composite hoses may prove to be a reliable and cost effective solution. TNO, the Dutch contract research organisation, has executed an extensive test program on the multi-composite hose of Gutteling B.V. for Ship-to-Ship (STS) LNG transfers. It has resulted in qualification of the hose in accordance to EN1474-part 2 [2]. This hose is the first product that has been qualified in accordance with this new internationally accepted standard. The test program was performed in close cooperation with Gutteling B.V., EXMAR and DNV. It focused on the mechanical and flow behaviour at ambient and cryogenic operating conditions. In excess of the EN1474-requirements, a multi-level test programme is performed, more samples are tested and more extreme load combinations are applied. The purpose was to provide a data set that enables transfer system qualification in accordance with EN1474-part 3. The hose appears to have a complex mechanical behaviour: elastic non-linear, coupling of deformation modes, hysteric behaviour and large damping. Damage tolerance tests, such as impact and crushing, show that the composite hose performs exceptionally. This paper summarises the test program and describes some of the tests performed in excess of the requirements. In particular, testing for off-spec operation conditions, fatigue and creep is addressed. Absences of engineering models to predict fatigue and creep performance are future obstacles for realising the interesting proposition of multi-composite hoses.