Cryogenic Pumps for Extreme Temperatures: OPTIMEX’s Expertise in the LNG Industry

OPTIMEX is featured in the April 2025 issue of LNG Industry magazine — www.lngindustry.com

Discover how OPTIMEX cryogenic pumps optimize LNG production and transportation through advanced sealless technology that ensures both safety and reliability.

Read our detailed summary below and access the full article on our cryogenic pump solutions for the LNG industry via the link at the end of the page. ⬇️

The Role of Cryogenic Pumps in LNG Operations

The liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry relies on highly specialized equipment to ensure the safe and efficient transport and storage of cryogenic fluids. Cryogenic pumps play a vital role in this process by enabling the controlled handling of LNG, LPG, and other hydrocarbon fractions such as ethylene, propylene, propane, and butane. OPTIMEX Pumps has established itself as a trusted expert in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of sealless pumps for cryogenic applications.

Technical Challenges in Cryogenic Pumping

Pumping cryogenic fluids presents unique challenges due to the extremely low temperatures that can impact materials, system reliability, and safety. Pumps must be engineered to prevent vaporization, minimize mechanical failure risks, and ensure safe continuous operations. OPTIMEX addresses these challenges with cutting-edge solutions that limit leakage and emissions—contributing to safer, more environmentally responsible operations.

Advanced OPTIMEX Cryogenic Pump Technologies

OPTIMEX offers a range of cryogenic pumps tailored to the specific needs of LNG applications:

• Wet stator motor submerged in cryogenic liquid (down to -150°C), eliminating internal ignition risks and improving energy efficiency.
• Sealless construction with no dynamic seals to fully prevent leakage — a critical safety advantage when handling volatile cryogenic fluids.
• Low-viscosity fluid management, ensuring smooth operation of bearings and plain bearings even under the most challenging process conditions.
• Inducer integration to improve Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH), allowing pumps to operate effectively at very low liquid levels.
• Cryogenic material compatibility across all components, from materials to cable systems, for long-term performance in extreme cold.
• Optimized axial balancing to minimize internal wear and extend pump lifespan, verified during factory testing.
• Submersible design for direct installation in LNG storage tanks, reducing external leak risks and simplifying maintenance access.
• High-pressure resistance, with a monoblock, sealless configuration capable of handling static pressures up to 400 bar.

Case Studies: Custom Cryogenic Pump Solutions for LNG Facilities

OPTIMEX provides multiple configurations of cryogenic pumps, customized to the specific process requirements of each LNG plant:

• Horizontal and vertical external pumps: Designed for various power and flow needs, selected to match each process requirement.

• Retrofit solutions : to replace aging or obsolete pumps without altering existing infrastructure — boosting reliability while optimizing cost-efficiency.

• Submersible vertical tank pumps for LNG storage : installed in insulation pits to allow simplified maintenance without draining the entire tank.

Cryogenic Pump Service and Maintenance: Ensuring Long-Term Performance

A structured maintenance approach is essential to ensuring pump performance and longevity. OPTIMEX offers complete maintenance services, including:

• Full diagnostics: Mechanical and electrical inspections of pump components.
• Operational data analysis: Identifying root causes of failure to enhance maintenance efficiency.
• Tailored upgrades: Component replacement or enhancement for improved reliability.
• Rigorous testing: Leak and performance verification before reinstallation.

Cryogenic Pump Conclusion

With recognized expertise in cryogenic pump systems, OPTIMEX is a key player in the LNG sector. Through customized pump solutions, continuous innovation, and advanced maintenance support, we ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of pumps operating in the most demanding cryogenic applications.  As the LNG market evolves, cutting-edge equipment is more essential than ever—and OPTIMEX is ready to meet these challenges.

➡️ Read the article: [Download the magazine extract here!]
➡️ Check out the April 2025 issue of LNG Industry by clicking here: [https://bit.ly/3p3QotC]

Have a cryogenic pump project?
Our team of experts is here to design tailor-made solutions that meet the specific requirements of your LNG, industrial, or nuclear installations.
☎️ Contact us at +33 (0)4 72 52 95 74
✉️ Or by email at contact-net@optimex-pumps.com