Numerical Study of Fog Formation around Ambient Air Vaporizers

Abstract

Ambient air vaporizers (AAVs) used in LNG regasification terminals discharge cold air that causes condensation of atmospheric moisture, generating visible fog in the surrounding area. This fog can represent a safety concern, affect visibility, and interfere with the operation of nearby equipment. Understanding the conditions and extent of fog formation is important for the safe design and siting of AAV installations. This study presents a numerical investigation of fog formation around AAV units using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling.

The CFD model simulates the coupling between natural convection driven by the cold AAV surfaces, condensation of atmospheric water vapour, and formation and transport of fog droplets. The model enables investigation of how AAV operating conditions, ambient meteorological conditions (temperature, humidity, wind speed), and array spacing affect the extent and distribution of fog around AAV installations. Results characterise the spatial patterns of fog formation and identify the key parameters controlling fog extent and density. The numerical framework provides a predictive tool for assessing fog formation risks during the planning and operation of LNG regasification facilities with ambient air vaporization.

@article{wadnerkar2018numerical,
  title         = {Numerical Study of Fog Formation around Ambient Air Vaporizers},
  author        = {Wadnerkar, Divyamaan and Sun, Biao and Utikar, Ranjeet P and Evans, Geoffrey
                  and Tade, Moses O and Kavanagh, Neil and Faka, Solomon and Pareek, Vishnu K},
  year          = 2018,
  journal       = {Chemical Engineering Science},
  publisher     = {Pergamon},
  volume        = 183,
  pages         = {37--46}
}