JET Manual 11

Nitrogen Storage and

Transports
Version 1.0
JET Manual 11 Nitrogen Storage and Transports
InTouch Content ID# 4221680
Version: 1.0
Release Date: November 13, 2006
Owner: Well Services Training & Development IPC

Schlumberger private

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 Table of Contents

1.0  Introduction 1
1.1 Learning objectives 1
1.2 Definition of nitrogen storage 2
1.3 Nitrogen transport definition 2
1.4 Suppliers of storage and transport equipment  2
1.5 Liquid nitrogen-compatible materials 2
1.6 DOT placards  3
2.0  Characteristics of LN 2 5
3.0  LN 2 Inventory Management 7
3.1 Nature of liquid nitrogen 7
3.2 Fluid inventory losses 7
3.3 Fluid conditioning 7
3.4 Determining amount of LN 2 in tank 8
3.5 Use of weight scales 9
3.6 Managing LN 2 inventory 9
4.0  Vacuum Requirements 11
5.0  Storage Insulation 13
5.1 Perlite insulation 13
5.1.1 Advantages 13
5.1.2 Disadvantages 13
5.2 Super insulation 14
5.2.1 Advantages 14
5.2.2 Disadvantages  14
6.0  LN 2 District and Location Storage 15
6.1 Manufacturers 16
6.1.1 Suppliers and types of tanks  16
6.2 Typical piping 16
6.2.1 Glossary of piping components 16
6.2.2 Safety devices 17
6.3 LN 2 C-pump 17
6.4 Inventory control 18
6.4.1 Documentation 18
7.0  LN 2 Transports 19

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  iii

 7.1 Safety Devices 19
7.2 Transport LN 2 C-pumps 20
7.3 Inventory control 21
8.0  LN 2 Transfer  23
8.1 Safety information  24
8.2 Protective equipment 24
8.3 Hoses and unions 24
8.3.1 Approved hoses and unions 24
8.3.2 Preparing hose for use 25
8.3.3 Nitrogen union seals 25
8.4 C-pump  26
8.5 District storage tank transfer 26
8.5.1 Setting the tank pressure 26
8.5.2 Pressure transfer 27
8.5.3 Transfer with a C-pump 27
8.5.4 Pressure transfer procedure 27
8.6 Transfer on location  28
8.6.1 Setting the tank pressure 28
8.6.2 Pressure transfer procedure 29
8.6.3 Cooling down 29
8.7 Liquid conditioning after transfer  29
8.7.1 Transport or storage holding mode 30
8.8 Securing the storage tank or transport  30
8.9 Documentation of transferred fluid 30
8.10 Weight scale 30
9.0  Pretrip and Posttrip Checks on Transports 31
10.0  Nitrogen Safety 33
10.1 Spills 33
11.0  Check Your Understanding 35

iv  |  Table of Contents


Supporting one of the world’s largest nitrogen
pumping fleets requires facility and location
storage as well as the ability to transport
liquid nitrogen to various locations. Because
Schlumberger services jobs all over the world,
liquid nitrogen, storage tanks, and transport
tankers must be obtained from a variety of
sources. This equipment is used to maintain the
district inventory and provides the ability to get
product to pumping locations.
This job extension training (JET) manual
focuses on the activities involved in the use
of the district and location storage as well as
operation of the nitrogen transports. Many
of the principles learned in JET 29, Nitrogen
Pumping, also apply to the material covered in
this JET.
Liquid nitrogen inventory is different from
inventories of materials such as cement or acid
in that, regardless of whether it is being used
or not, inventory is lost from each vessel every
day. It is important for operators to recognize
that they can have a significant impact on the
profitability of the operation by following best
practices for handling and transporting liquid
nitrogen. The operators understanding and use
of best practices can impact the following:
• profitability
• inventory control at the district
• inventory control on location
• service quality to the client.
1.0  Introduction
1.1 Learning objectives
Upon completing this course, you will be able to
• identify standard nitrogen storage and
transports
• understand the part that the various
components in the standard piping play in
controlling the flow of liquid nitrogen
• understand the role that the various safety
devices play in protecting personnel and
property from the effects of expanding
liquid nitrogen
• know the difference between the common
types of insulation used in liquid nitrogen
transports and storage
• understand the capabilities and capacities
of various transports and storage vessels
• recognize and use DOT placards when
required (http://slb-chemicals.sugar-land.
oilfield.slb.com/Msds.cfm)
• understand the appropriate techniques to
transfer liquid nitrogen
• understand the factors affecting the most
efficient and cost-effective transfer of liquid.
• know what safety equipment to use when
handling liquid nitrogen (LN2).
JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports|  
1.2 Definition of nitrogen storage
Nitrogen storage is equipment used primarily
at the district or job site to hold liquid nitrogen
inventory until required for a job.
Treatments on location sometimes are large
enough to require on-location storage. In these
cases, large transportable horizontal storage
is moved to location. Then, it can be filled by
commercial or Schlumberger transporting
equipment.
The district storage is typically a vertical tank,
but sometimes it is beneficial to use a large
horizontal tank. The decision to use one over
the other is usually based on the following
factors:
• availability of storage tanks from the
supplier
• location and distance of the nitrogen
supplier
• the volume of liquid moved through the
district
Table 1-1. Worldwide Nitrogen Storage and Transport Suppliers
• space available at the district for placement
of the storage.
1.3 Nitrogen transport definition
Nitrogen transports are road-legal tanks to
move liquid nitrogen to location. The transport
may be used to fill location storage or as
standby liquid supply for the pumper.
1.4 Suppliers of storage and transport
equipment
Because Schlumberger operates in numerous
locations around the world, a variety of
suppliers located in different countries are used
to supply and support the nitrogen transporting
equipment. Table 1-1 lists some of these.
1.5 Liquid nitrogen-compatible materials
Because of the extreme low temperature
(–320 degF [–196 degC]) of liquid nitrogen,
caution must be exercised to ensure that the
liquid does not contact the carbon steel material

Name Country Address Location URL Phone

HydraRig USA 1020 Everman Fort Worth, www.hydrarig.com 817-985-5000

Parkway Texas 76140
USA Duncan, Oklahoma hrnsales@varco.com 580-255-4433

UK Great Yarmouth hruksales@varco.com 44-1493-651801

Canada Calgary hrcsales@varco.com 403-279-6430

CVA USA 9528 Warren Mont Belvieu, Texas www.cvatanks.com

Road
Cryo Diffusion France 49, rue de Verdun France 27690 www.vrv.it 33-232-59-03-68
S.A.
Wessington UK Building 9, Tyne & Wear, www. 01-91-512-4923
Cryogenics Philadelphia England, DH4 4UG wessingtoncryogenics.co.uk
Complex
Houghton-le-
Spring
Cryenco USA 5995 North Denver, www.cryenco.com 303-296-0105
Washington Colorado 80216

  |  Introduction
normally used in the construction of pumping
equipment. Contact with mild steel like A-36 or
other common steel plate will cause the steel
to distort and crack. Load bearing members of
a truck or trailer will crack and ultimately fail if
exposed to liquid nitrogen.
For information related to exposure to LN2 and
required safety equipment go to the safety
section of this manual (Section 7.1).
1.6 DOT placards
In many countries, nitrogen storage and
transport equipment is required to be built and
labeled to international or regional standards.
It is important that the equipment used at a
location meet any local standards.

In the United States, the US Department of

Transportation (DOT) sets forth regulations
for constructing and operating a variety of
equipment on public roads. All equipment
manufactured in the US is equipped to meet the
minimum regulations of the US DOT.

Figure 1-1. Nitrogen Transport

The only materials that can maintain their

mechanical properties when exposed to liquid
nitrogen and are typically used in cryogenic
components are listed in Table 1-2.

Table 1-2. Materials Useful for LN2 Service

Material Application
Stainless steel High pressure piping and cold ends
Aluminum Centrifugal pumps
Bronze Unions and centrifugal pumps
Stainless steel Hoses
Teflon™ or Union seals
copper

Aluminum and bronze cannot withstand the

stresses caused by high pressure. Therefore,
all the high-pressure piping and cold ends
that are exposed to liquid nitrogen must be
constructed of stainless steel.

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports|  

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  |  Introduction
 2.0  Characteristics of LN2

As described in the Matheson Gas Data Book, at room temperature and atmospheric
pressure nitrogen is a colorless, odorless, nontoxic, nonflammable gas. The table
below lists some important properties of both LN2 and gaseous nitrogen (GN2).

Table 2-1. Characteristics of Nitrogen

Characteristic Description

Chemical symbol N2

Temperature of liquid –320.4 degF (–195.8 degC)

GN2 percent of atmosphere 78% by volume

Weight of a gal of LN2 6.74 lbm/galUS (0.120 g/cm3 )

Standard cubic feet (scf) in GN2/galUS 93.05 scf (2.63 scm) at 1 atm

Percent oxygen causing noticeable effects 10 to 14% by volume1

Exposure of the skin to LN2 Can cause severe burns

Exposure of mild steel to LN2 Will cause distortion, cracking, and ultimate failure of structural
member.
Critical temperature –232.6 degF (–150 degC)
Boiling point 320 degF (–195.8 degC)

scf/lbm LN2 13.8 scf/lb of LN2

Freezing point of LN2 –346 degF [–210 degC]

1
Percent shown is remaining O2 due to displacement by another gas; Normal O2 percent is
20.9%)

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports    |  

 This page left intentionally blank

  |  Characteristics of LN2
 3.0  LN2 Inventory Management
A number of activities or situations will impact
the profitability of the nitrogen pumping
operations. It is very important that personnel
involved in the handling of liquid nitrogen
understand the nature of the liquid nitrogen and
how its characteristics can affect profitability
through inventory loses.
3.1 Nature of liquid nitrogen
Any activity or procedure that allows the liquid
nitrogen to absorb heat will directly affect the
inventory. Because of its low temperature,
liquid nitrogen is constantly picking up heat
from the atmosphere. Because of the insulated
cryogenic tank the amount of heat transferred
is limited, assuming the vacuum has been
maintained properly. This limited heat transfer
results in reduced losses of liquid nitrogen.
3.2 Fluid inventory losses
Any activity during which the liquid nitrogen
is moved outside the insulated storage vessel
affects inventory management. The exposure to
noncryogenic temperatures will convert some
of the liquid to gas, and this process cannot be
reversed. Activities that can introduce heat into
the system are
• transferring liquid from the suppliers
transport to the storage tank
• transferring from a storage tank to a
transport
• building pressure in the vapor space of any
storage tank or transport.
• leaving liquid in a tank for long times
• not maintaining vacuums at the
manufacturer’s recommended levels
• cooling down the transfer centrifugal pump
(C-pump) at the district
• cooling down transfer hoses in preparation
to move fluid
• cooling down cold ends and the C-pump
on the pumping unit
• cooling down C-pump on any transport
• cooling down and filling of a nitrogen tank
that has not been used in a long time.
• conditioning of the fluid in preparation for
cooldown and prime-up of pumping units.
Note:
An industry guideline assumes
that it takes from a 1/2 to 1 galUS
of liquid nitrogen to cool down
1 lbm of metal. This estimate is
highly dependent on the ambient
temperature of the metal being
cooled down, but the important
point is that a lot of liquid nitrogen
can be lost in the cooldown
process alone.
3.3 Fluid conditioning
The condition of the fluid is important when
preparing to pump. Liquid nitrogen often
experiences a temperature rise because of
its initially low temperature. Even when stored
in the vacuum-jacketed holding tanks, LN2
will pick up heat over time. As it does, the
liquid develops entrained gas bubbles, which
eventually cause the liquid to be defined as
JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports    |  
an unconditioned or hot liquid. Hot liquid is a
relative term; it may mean that the liquid is at
–300 to –310 degF [–149 to –154 degC] vs.
–320 degF.
The only way to remedy the condition of the
nitrogen is to reduce the pressure in the tank
space on top of the liquid. To get this reduction
the tank top vent to atmosphere must be
opened and gaseous nitrogen is allowed to
escape to the atmosphere (Fig. 3-1).
Figure 3-1. Transport Blowdown
What takes place is very similar to what
happens when you remove the lid from a
Figure 3-3 illustrates the manometer, which is
pot of boiling water. The lid holds increased
the basis of the liquid level gauge’s operation.
pressure above the water so that actually above
212 degF [100 degC] is required for the water
to boil. When the lid is removed, the heat above
212 degF [100 degC] generates foaming action
on the surface of the water until the excess Green
heat is gone.
colored
When removing the pressure in the vapor water
space from the top of the liquid nitrogen, a
similar activity takes place. If the fluid is not
conditioned before cooldown and prime-up is
started, there is a strong possibility that loss of
prime will be experienced.
It is not uncommon for the client on location
to not understand what is occurring and
therefore be concerned about losses from the
conditioning process.
  |  LN2 Inventory Management
3.4 Determining amount of LN2 in tank
The amount of liquid nitrogen in the tank can be
determined by looking at the liquid level gauge
(Fig. 3-2). The liquid level gauge is a differential
pressure gauge that gives a readout based on
the height of the fluid in the tank. The gauge
is separated into 100 increments generally
referred to as inches. A strapping chart for the
specific unit or tank is used to determine the
amount of fluid from the gauge reading.
Figure 3-2. Liquid Level Gauge
To top of tank
(low pressure)
To bottom of tank
(high pressure)
Green
colored
water
Ruler
Figure 3-3. Liquid Level Gauge Operation
Even though the gauge has 100 increments,
the full reading on most tanks is from 60 to
70 in.

Note:
Using a given tank geometry (such
as a cylinder) in the horizontal
versus the vertical position will
result in a different number of
gallons per increment on the chart.
Example: To determine the quantity of fluid
aboard a LN2 transport (Fig. 3-4) used to
support the pumper, perform these calculations.
Loaded weight = 79,500 lbm
Empty weight = 30,000 lbm
Difference = 49,500 lbm

In the horizontal position, the number of gallons 49,500 lbm × 13.8 scf/lbm = 683,100 scf
per increment will repeat itself when comparing loaded
the bottom half to the top half of the tank. In
other words, increments 50 to 60 will contain The nitrogen pump would also be weighed and
the same amount of fluid as increments 0 to the same calculation performed. This amount
10. Increments 10 to 20 will contain the same would be added to the quantity above for the
amount of fluid as increments 40 through total amount charged to the client.
50, but this amount will be different than is
contained by increments 0 to 10 or 50 to 60,
because the tank is larger nearer the horizontal
middle.

In the vertical position, every inch on the liquid

level gauge will represent the same amount
of fluid. In other words, each increment over
the full length of the tank will contain the same
amount of fluid. There will be a slight variation
in the very bottom of the tank, but inventory
should only get that low if the tank is being
emptied to be removed from service.

3.5 Use of weight scales

Figure 3-4. Two Pumpers Being Filled
The operator can use the liquid level gauge to
estimate how much fluid has been loaded or
pumped, but the final determination of the fluid
level should be made using weight scales.

Not only should scales be used to determine

the amount for billing, but all incoming inventory
should be weighed in. If scales are not available
at your location, commercial scales should be
used.

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports    |  

3.6 Managing LN2 inventory
A number of factors and activities affect the
loss of LN2 inventory. While some loss of
inventory can be passed on to the customer,
other losses are the cost of doing business. It
is important to recognize all these and make
every effort to control each aspect as much as
possible.

• vacuum condition of storage, transport, and

pumper tanks
• number of times storage piping is cooled
down
• filling multiple pumpers at one time
• use of weight scales when receiving or
loading out
• leaving tank empty for long periods of time
(e.g., more than a week)
• keeping high pressure on storage tank.
(above 15 psi)
• not charging client for appropriate amount
used
• keeping equipment cooled down for long
periods of time before pumping.

10  |  LN2 Inventory Management

 4.0  Vacuum Requirements

Because of the extreme low temperature of Table 4-1. Classification of Degrees of Vacuum
LN2, the liquid nitrogen boils and evaporates
Condition Pressure Range Microns
at room temperature (70 to 80 degF [21 to
(mm Hg)
27 degC]). Thus, it is necessary to store the
liquid nitrogen in containers that are insulated. Rough Vacuum 760 to 1 760,000 to
1,000
The design of the insulation will be somewhat
Fine Vacuum 1 to 0.1 1,000 to 100
similar to that of a vacuum thermos bottle used
to keep fluids hot or cold. The main difference Fine Vacuum 0.1 to 0.01 100 to 10
will be the extent to which the vacuum is pulled Fine Vacuum 0.01 to 0.001 10 to 1
and the insulating material used in the space
between the inner and the outer shells. High Vacuum 0.001 to 0.0001 1 to 0.1
High Vacuum 0.0001 to 0.00001 0.1 to 0.01
The amount of vacuum pulled on the annular
High Vacuum 0.00001 to 0.01 to 0.001
space between two vessels is expressed 0.000001
in microns. The micron as used in vacuum
measurements is 1/1000 of a Torr. The Torr is
A vacuum works by removing the molecules
equal to 1 mm of mercury (Hg) in a manometer.
of air that would transfer heat from the outer
surface of the tank to the liquid stored in
The amount of vacuum pulled on a cryogenic
the inner tank. As more molecules of air are
tank is considered a high vacuum. There are
removed from the space between the two
only two rankings of vacuum above this. The
tanks, the ability of heat to migrate to the liquid
vacuum measurement scale shown in Table
is reduced. High-capacity vacuum pumps are
4-1 will be used to demonstrate the difference
used for pulling these vacuums.
between a perlite-insulated and a super-
insulated tank.

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  11

Table 4-2. Conversions for Equivalent Pressures
Microns Millimeters Inches of PSI
of of Mercury Absolute
Mercury Mercury
760,000 760.0 29.92 16.696
100,000 100.0 3.94 1.93
50,000 50.0 1.97 0.965
20,000 20.0 0.789 0.385
10,000 10.0 0.394 0.196
5,000 5.0 0.197 0.0965
3,000 3.0 0.118 0.0579
1,000 1.0 0.0394 0.0193
500 0.5 0.0197 0.00967
100 0.10 0.00395 0.00193
10 0.01 0.000394 0.000193

Note:
Training is required before an
operator can pull a vacuum on a
tank. The vacuum on a tank can
be lost in only a few seconds if the
proper procedures are not followed.

12  |  Vacuum Requirements

 5.0  Storage Insulation

The following information explains the types of Inner container

insulated tanks that are available and provides (pressure vessel)
a working knowledge of how the piping on the Perlite powder
outside of the tank connects to the inner vessel.

5.1 Perlite insulation Long Inner container

piping support
Perlite is a volcanic rock that can be extended routed in
to many times its original volume by crushing annulus
Liquefied gas
and heating under pressure. In its final form product Heat
after heating and expansion, the perlite is an Outer
off-white, flaky material. casing
Evacuation
valve
Perlite, when used as insulation in cryogenic
tanks, is placed in the annular space of 4 to 6 in Molecular sieve
between the inner and out vessels (Fig. 5-1). cryosorbent

After the perlite is in place, the annular space Vent

between the inner and outer tanks is sealed
and a vacuum is pulled with a vacuum pump.
The typical vacuum pulled on a new tank is
approximately 15 to 16 microns. Because the
perlite is used as an insulating material, this
type of tank is designed is more flexible for
vacuum loss. The vacuum can decay over time
to ≤ 100 microns. Even at this level of vacuum,
the LN2 losses are not excessive.
5.1.1 Advantages
The initial vacuum required on the perlite tank
is not as low as that on a super-insulated tank,
and thus is easier to achieve.
Because of the perlite barrier, this type of tank
can function with less vacuum and still maintain
reasonable LN2 losses.
Figure 5-1. Perlite Tank Cutaway
5.1.2 Disadvantages
Over time, the perlite will settle on the sides
of the tank because of vibration as the tank is
transported. After the perlite has settled, the
resulting voids in the insulation result in more
heat transfer from the atmosphere to the LN2,
and thus greater losses.
Note:
The term not excessive does
not mean that this condition is
acceptable. A perlite insulated
tank with this level of vacuum
will experience enough LN2 loss
that it will be difficult to maintain
good inventory management and
therefore a profitable service.

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  13

The perlite tank requires servicing because Super insulation
of the settling. If a storage unit such as a
tractor‑trailer transport unit has perlite settling
that is not addressed, the inner tank can
become damaged by the force of the perlite on
the bottom of the inner tank.

5.2 Super insulation

The term super insulation describes the system Support system

used to insulate the small space between the

inner and outer vessel of a cryogenic tank. This Vacuum space
generally consists of a small annular space of
about 3 to 4 inches with the inner tank wrapped
in an insulating Milar™ material (Figs. 5-2 Figure 5-2. Super-Insulated Tank
and 5-3). The typical vacuum pulled on a
super‑insulated tank is much lower than that on
a perlite tank. As a comparison, the vacuum
level of new tanks are listed in Table 5-1.

Table 5-1. Tank Vacuum Level Comparison

Vacuum level from factory

Type of tank
with the tank cold
New perlite-insulated 15–16 microns
tank
New super-insulated Less than 5 microns
tank

Figure 5-3. Inner Vessel with SI Insulation

5.2.1 Advantages
Note:
Because of the lower vacuum in the annulus,
To determine what type of tank
the super-insulated tank has a lower loss rate of
is installed on a unit, tap a small,
LN2 than the perlite tank.
light metal object lightly against
the outer shell. If the sound has a
5.2.2 Disadvantages hollow ring, the tank is probably
super insulated. If the sound is a
The initial vacuum required on the super deadened ring, the tank is probably
insulated tank is lower than that for perlite-insulated.
perlite‑insulated tanks, and this low vacuum
must be maintained to have lower losses than
the perlite tanks.

14  |  Storage Insulation

 6.0  LN2 District and Location Storage

Storage of LN2 at the district and on location losses will increase because of bottoms left
and transports to move it between are vital in multiple tanks.
parts of the nitrogen pumping operation. The
• Location storage with small suction (1 in or
type and condition of the storage or transport
2 in) will restrict the delivery to the pumps
can affect both service quality and profitability.
during a high-rate treatment.
The type and condition of storage can have the
following effects on profitability:

• District storage with poor vacuums will

have unacceptable losses.
• Tanks with poor vacuums in offshore
applications will have unacceptable losses.

Note:
Whenever practical, have the liquid
nitrogen supplier in your area haul
to the location storage. Transfer
losses will be less because of fewer
Figure 6-1. Vertical Nitrogen Storage
transfers: one less from district
storage to Schlumberger transport
and one less from Schlumberger
transport to location storage.

Figure 6-2. Horizontal Nitrogen Storage

The type and condition of the tanks can have

the following effects on service quality:

• If multiple tanks are necessary rather than Figure 6-3. Loading Nitrogen Transports
one appropriately sized tank (Fig. 6-3),

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  15

6.1 Manufacturers 6.2.1 Glossary of piping components
The listing of manufacturers typically used Figure 6-4 shows the piping for a vertical
by Schlumberger are as listed in Table 6-1. storage tank. The following describe the
Sometimes, equipment may be sourced locally, numbered items on the figure.
rather than through Sugar Land Manufacturing
(ESC). Proper approval must be obtained • BD-101 - rupture disc (ruptures at 57 psi)
before sourcing anywhere else. • V-101 - top fill valve
• CV - check valve
6.1.1 Suppliers and types of tanks
• LL101 - liquid level valve
Table 6-1 contains the common sizes of
• P101 - gas pressure valve
transport and storage provided by the supplier.
If specialty equipment is required by your • PRV-105 - spring-operated relief valve (set
location, it will not be listed in this table. at 43 psi)
• PRV-106 - road relief valve (set at 5 psi)
6.2 Typical piping • V-102 - bottom fill valve
In general, piping on all nitrogen storage tanks • V-104 - rear manifold bleed valve
has the same components. Almost without
exception, an operator can understand the • V-106 - vacuum pump connection
piping of any tank made by any manufacturer, • V-112 - liquid level gauge valve
after gaining a basic comprehension of the
• V-113 - return valve
components and their function.
• V-114 - pressure build valve
• V-116 - road relief valve

Table 6-1. Nitrogen Storage Manufacturers

Manufacturer Model Vertical Storage Diameter Type of Loss per day
Size Capacity (ft/in) insulation advertised
(GalUS/L)
Taylor Wharton 9,000 9,240 (34,977) 10 ft - 2 in Perlite 0.18%
1-800-821-2975 11,000 11,000 (41,640) 10 ft - 2 in Perlite 0.18%
Customer Service 13,000 13,000 (49,210) 10 ft - 2 in Perlite 0.12%
Note: Other sizes are available.
For other specs, go to: http://www.taylorwharton.com/Pages/Bulk/Vertical%20Tanks.htm.
Chart (Formerly Cryenco) 9,000 9,084 (34,387) 9 ft - 6 in Super Insulation 0.10%
1-603-382-6551 11,000 11,145 (42,183) 9 ft - 6 in Super Insulation 0.10%
Scott Nason 13,000 13,119 (49,661) 9 ft - 6 in Super Insulation 0.10%
Note: Other sizes are available.
For other specs, go to: http://www.chart-ind.com/litfiles/10888322.pdf.
CVA 16.7-35 16 700 (63,209) N/A Super Insulated 0.75%
23.3-60 23300 (88,190) N/A Super Insulated 0.75%
Note: Other sizes are available.
For other specs, go to: http://www.cvatanks.com.

16  |  LN2 District and Location Storage

 Side Fill BD-101
57 PSI
V-104 V-126 PI LL PRV-105 43 PSI
101 101
PRV-101 PRV-106
150 PSI V-116 5 PSI
PRV-102
250 PSI V-101 V-111

Liquid V-113 V-120

V-103
Nitrogen V-112
Rear Tank CV-105
V-102 V-114
Fill V-130 Filter
Pressure
V-115 Build Coil
V-105 V-106
Side Fill S-101 Storage Tank
Figure 6-4. Vertical Storage Tank Piping

• V-120 - vent-to-atmosphere valve These components are built into the system
to ensure that the internal pressure does not
• V-126 - tank bleed valve (top vent) High
exceed Pressure
safe levels.
• V-130 - bleed valve
Pump
When a unit is not in use or is traveling to and
• fill manifold. fromCV-101
location, the road relief valve
V-121 (PRV–106)
V-119
V-118
V-117
must be open to maintain the pressure in the
6.2.2 Safety devices tank at acceptable levels. PI
102
Centrifugal
The tank safety devices are itemsPRV-104
PRV-106,
V-122
and BD-101Pump
In some locations, country-specific
3-SLS regulations
shown on Fig. 6-4, and
150 PRV-105
PSI
require that the pressure in the tank be
and V-116 shown in Figs. 6-4 and 6-5.
regulated below a specifiedTransfer
pressure when
CV-104 Connection
not in use. In countries where this is not
PRV-107 PI V-115
regulated Schlumberger 103has standards to which
11,000 PSI
the tank pressure regulation must conform
(refer to www.InTouchsupport.com to see the
PRV-105
appropriate standards for your situation). During
the nitrogen pumper operation, the road relief
valve must be closed to allow the tank pressure
Unit Discharge
to be increased in preparation for priming and
Gas V-116 pumping the unit.
Discharge
CV-103
Vaporizer
6.3 LN2PI C-pump
V-124 104
V-105 TI Most district storage tanks are vertical. These
101 PT
Figure 6-5. Safety Devices can be equipped with or without transfer
C‑pumps (Fig.Vaporizer
6-6). Even though
CV-102 the vertical
storage tankPRV-108
is capable of moving fluid at an
12,000 PSI

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  17

adequate rate because of tank pressure and
the hydrostatic head of the LN2, sometimes a
transfer C-pump is useful.
Figure 6-6. Double C-Pumps
Factors to consider to economically justify a
transfer C-pump are as follows:
• volume of work high enough that pumpers
are being loaded daily
• multiple pumpers being loaded
• cost of cool down of the C-pump small
compared to personnel cost for hours
loading
• cost of the C-pump and initial installation
justifiable.
6.4 Inventory control
In a high-activity district, inventory losses can
negatively affect the profitability of the nitrogen
pumping service. It is very important that
Section 4 of this manual be understood. Good
practices and common sense must be part
of the district storage operations to hold the
inventory loses as low as possible.
All facility and location storage should be
monitored to determine the boiloff rate for
each individual tank. Not doing so can result in
unacceptable losses.
18  |  LN2 District and Location Storage
During a time when each tank can remain
undisturbed for 24 hr, perform the following test.
step 01 At a given time on day 1, take a
liquid level reading and record it. Record the
time the reading was taken.
step 02 On the following day at
approximately the same time, take a second
liquid level reading.
step 03 Convert both of these readings to
standard cubic feet or gallons of nitrogen.
step 04 Divide the amount obtained in
Step 03 by the total tank capacity of whatever
unit is being tested.
Example:
Day 1 reading: 7,021 galUS
Day 2 reading: 6,952 galUS
7021 – 6952 = 69 galUS lost
69 galUS/9,240 galUS = 0.007 or 0.7%
The loss is 3.8 times the loss rate of a new
tank (see Table 6-1). This loss would translate
to roughly 2,000 galUS of LN2 per month.
There are several contributors to the total
amount of liquid loss on a monthly basis. This
is just one of them. Nitrogen losses cannot be
stopped, but every effort should be made to
limit the total loss of liquid to between 5 and
10%.
6.4.1 Documentation
All required paper work for loading and
receiving liquid nitrogen must be properly
handled at the district to control inventory as
accurately as possible. The financial impact
this step can have on the district is potentially
significant.
 7.0  LN2 Transports

The transport (Fig. 7-1) of liquid nitrogen to

job sites and location storage is a vital part of
the nitrogen pumping operation. Improperly
maintained transports may be responsible for
the treatment not being performed as specified.

Figure 7-1 Diesel-Driven Transport

The type and condition of transports can

have the following effects on profitability:

• Transports with poor vacuums will have

unacceptable losses.
• Bad filling practices at the district can
contribute to additional losses of liquid
nitrogen.

7.1 Safety Devices

Sections 6.2.1 and 6.2.2 present the piping
diagram for LN2 tanks and the safety devices
built into the system to ensure that the internal
pressure does not exceed safe levels. All the
information in Sections 6.2.1 and 6.2.2 applies
to transports just as it does to storage tanks.

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  19

Table 7-1 lists manufacturers of LN2 transports.

Table 7-1. LN2 Transport Manufacturers

Manufacturer Model Size Nitrogen Volume to Max Insulation Loss per Day,
95% Working Type Advertised
Pressure
(psi)
(GalUS /L)
CVA CVA-76-81-P 7,220 81 Super 0.18%
insulation
CVA-9.4K-90-TR-Pc 9,025 90 Super 0.18%
insulated
Note: Other sizes are available.
For other specs, go to: http://www.cvatanks.com
Chart (Formerly TRS78-P81 9,084(34,387) 9 ft, 6 in Super 0.10%
Cryenco) insulation
1-603-382-6551
Scott Nason
Note: Other sizes are available.
For other specs, go to: http://www.cryenco.com/

7.2 Transport LN2 C-pumps Table 7-2. LN2 C-Pump Data

Not all the transports in the Schlumberger Supplier C-pump C-pump Max.
fleet are equipped with transfer C‑pumps. Size Capacity Discharge
For example, the newer 80-psi transports (GalUS/ min) Pressure
are not. These transports are designed (psi)
for pressure transfer and can achieve ACD 1.5 in × 2.53 in × 166-300 300
10 in
approximately 150 galUS/min at 60 to
66 psi tank pressure, assuming 20‑psi ACD-AC-18 2 in × 4 in × 6 in 140-160 130
gas pressure on the receiving tank.

The older transports are lower-pressure

tanks and therefore have C-pumps
installed to achieve the necessary
transfer rates. Table 7-2 and Figure 7-2
provides information about C-pumps.

Figure 7-2. Double C-Pumps

20  |  LN2 Transports

In treatments such as foam fractures, where
the nitrogen pumping rate is high, the C‑pump
is required to keep the pumper tanks full.
The C-pump used on the transport is of a
similar construction as the smaller versions
used on the nitrogen pumpers. The seals
used in the larger C-pump are the same.
7.3 Inventory control
In a high-activity district it is very possible
for inventory losses to be such that the
profitability of the nitrogen pumping service
to be affected negatively. It is very important
that Section 4 of this manual be understood.

It is not always necessary to use the C-pump. Section 6.4 discusses inventory control
On some jobs, such as coiled tubing cleanouts, in detail. It is equally valid for storage or
the pumper rate is low enough that the transfer transports.
rate can be accomplished by a pressure
transfer instead of the C-pump. The advantage
in doing so is that the liquid nitrogen is not
wasted in cooling down the C-pump each time.

To accomplish a pressure transfer, the valves

on the transport are set to bypass the
C-pump, and the pressure buildup coils are
used to achieve necessary pressure to move
fluid from the transport to the pumper tank.

The C-pumps are typically driven by two

different methods. Older models have
mechanical drive shaft runs from the
C-pump down the exterior of the transport to
a small diesel engine hanging underneath.
The newer models use hydraulics from the
tractor to drive the hydraulic motor on the
C‑pump (Fig. 7-4). Either method is acceptable
and, depending on the location and age of
the equipment, both may be encountered.

Figure 7-4. Hydraulic Drive

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  21

 This page left intentionally blank

22  |  LN2 Transports


Transferring liquid nitrogen (Fig. 8-1) is relatively
straightforward. It is important to understand
that a simple operation can be highly costly if
the best practices available are not followed.
The safety of the transfer process can also be
seriously impacted if the best practices are not
followed.
Figure 8-1. LN2 Transfer
Important:
Good practices used in the
management and handling of the
liquid nitrogen can improve the
service quality and profitability of
the operation at your location.
The following lists various actions involved in
transferring that impact nitrogen losses:
• LN2 used to build pressure on the storage
tank
• LN2 used to cool down storage tank piping
• LN2 used to cool down the C-pump
• LN2 used to cool down the transfer hose
8.0  LN2 Transfer
• LN2 used to cool down the receiving tank
piping.
All or some of these occur each time the liquid
nitrogen is moved. These operations must be
as efficient as possible, or else the nitrogen
losses will be unacceptable.
Aspects of transferring that are not under the
operator’s control follow:
• ambient temperature
• LN2 required to cool down piping C-pump
and the transfer hose.
The practices for transferring that are with in
the operator’s control follow. Each of these
practices, if implemented where possible, can
improve the amount of liquid nitrogen lost and
therefore promote better inventory control.
• proper work organization to use a single
transfer instead of multiple transfers
• using pressure transfer when practical, to
avoid cooling down the C-pump
• advising maintenance personnel of
apparent excessive losses on a given
transport
• providing weight information with loadout
paper work
• maintaining a low pressure on the tank
(5‑10 psi) when the tank is not in use
• using as short transfer hoses as possible
• organizing equipment on location to
simplify transfers as much as possible.
JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  23
8.1 Safety information
Whenever liquid nitrogen is being transferred
or handled, the safety equipment called for in
the Schlumberger Well Services Field Safety
Handbook (InTouch Content ID# 4055049) is to
be used. Figure 8-3. Cryogenic Hose

The outer layer on the hose (Fig. 8-4) is a

8.2 Protective equipment stainless steel braid that protects the inner hose
from damage and does not allow the inner hose
to overexpand under pressure.

Figure 8-2. Protective Equipment

Liquid nitrogen can cause severe burns to

the skin. Precautions found in the WS Safety
Standards must be followed. See Section 8.3
of Well Services Safety Standard 11 for the
appropriate protective equipment.
8.3 Hoses and unions
Hoses used to transfer cryogenic fluids such
as liquid nitrogen are specifically designed
for cryogenic service. The hoses are made of
stainless steel and use end fittings made of
brass. The hose is a stainless steel inner hose
that has a geometry similar to that Fig. 8-3.
The shape of the inner hose allows the hose to
expand and contract after contact with the liquid
nitrogen.
Figure 8-4. Hose Assembly
8.3.1 Approved hoses and unions
Hoses and unions for use in nitrogen services
can be purchased from the suppliers listed in
Table 8-1.
Unions for cryogenic services are not
interchangeable between services. In other
words, a liquid nitrogen union will not fit on a
liquid oxygen union; it will only fit on another
liquid nitrogen union. When purchasing
cryogenic unions, always specify the type of
service the union will be used in.

24  |  LN 2 Transfer
Table 8-1. Hose and Union Suppliers

Name Country Address City URL / Email Phone

Hydra Rig USA 1020 Everman Fort Worth, TX www.hydrarig.com 817-985-5000
Parkway
USA Duncan, Oklahoma hrnsales@varco.com 580-255-4433

UK Great Yarmouth hruksales@varco.com 44-1493-651801

Canada Calgary hrcsales@varco.com 403-279-6430

CVA USA 9528 Warren Road Mont Belvieu, Texas www.cvatanks.com 281-385-1204
Mechanical USA 122 South Wolcott Chicago, Illinios jonknudsen1011@comcast. 312-421-3375
Engineering Ave. net
Products Co.

• The hose should have end caps installed

Note:
Do not buy any hose or union
that is not manufactured to
specifications approved by the
Compressed Gas Association
(CGA).
8.3.2 Preparing hose for use
Nitrogen hoses cannot be handled in a similar
way as conventional hoses are.
It is very important to understand that anything
in the hose, if not removed, will be exposed
to liquid nitrogen. After any particle of dust
or moisture is exposed to liquid nitrogen,
it becomes an extremely hard, potentially
damaging piece of material. That tiny speck
of moisture can become so hard that it will
damage the highly polished surface of the seal
in the C-pump or the suction valve in the cold
end.
Every step should be taken to remove any
foreign material in the hose before connecting it
to the cryogenic tank.
When using approved hose in cryogenic
services, the following best practices should be
used:
any time it is not in service.
• Every effort should be made to keep
moisture out of the hose when being
connected.
• When connecting the hose, make the
connection to the source tank first.
• Once the hose is connected to the source
tank, use nitrogen gas from the top of the
tank to blow the hose out. Nitrogen is a
drying agent and will remove any moisture.
• After filling, always open the bleed valve on
the filling manifold of the receiving unit to
make sure that all pressure is released.
• Always use the required safety equipment
called for by WS Safety Standard 11,
InTouch Content ID# 3313684.
• Replace all dust caps before storing the
hose.
8.3.3 Nitrogen union seals
The seals that fit in the end of the cryogenic
unions are different than any other seals used.
Typically, they are a flat ring similar in geometry
to that shown in Figure 8-5. The material
of construction must withstand –320 degF
[–195 degC] and the maximum discharge
pressure of the C-pump.

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  25

The same suppliers identified to supply hoses
or unions can also supply the seals.
Union Seal
Figure 8-5. Nitrogen Union Seal
8.3.4 Storing hose
Proper storage must be provided for the
transfer hose when not in use. All transports
have storage tubes (Fig. 8-6), as do most
location storages. As mentioned in Section
8.3.2, the interior of the hoses must be kept
clean and free of moisture to prevent damage
to the pumps.
Tubes
Figure 8-6. Horizontal Nitrogen Storage
26  |  LN 2 Transfer
8.4 C-pump
The C-pump used with a storage tank is very
similar to that used on the pumper. It might
even be the same type of C-pump, except
that the C-pump used with a storage tank is
electrically driven.
The seal assembly in the C-pump is the same
as that in the pumper and therefore must be
cooled down just like the pumping unit.
Note:
Not all district storage tanks use
a C-pump. Whether a C-pump
is warranted or not depends on
economics and the volume of liquid
nitrogen that goes through the tank.
8.5 District storage tank transfer
The proper safety equipment is available and
the hose from the storage to the receiving tank
is cleaned and connected. The liquid nitrogen
can now be transferred.
8.5.1 Setting the tank pressure
The pressure in the source tank must be
sufficiently greater than the pressure in the
receiving tank or else the liquid nitrogen will not
flow at an acceptable rate.
The hydrostatic head of the liquid in the source
tank will vary from day to day, depending on the
amount of fluid in the tank. This factor cannot
be controlled, so the variable that will be used
is the pressure in the gas cap.
The pressure in the source tank that causes
the nitrogen to flow from the source tank to the
receiving tank will equal
 • Total pressure source tank = gas pressure
(psi) + hydrostatic of LN2 (psi).
The pressure in the receiving tank will be the
pressure in the gas cap on top of the liquid:
• Total pressure receiving tank = gas
pressure (psi).
8.5.2 Pressure transfer
Whenever possible, the pressure transfer
method to move fluid from one tank to the other
should be used. Even though it is slower than
using the C-pump, there is less metal being
cooled down and therefore the losses are less.
After the hose is cooled down and frosted over,
the ice acts as an insulating cover.
The typical pressure to be applied to the gas
cap is 35 to 40 psi. This differential will move
fluid to the receiving tank at approximately 50 to
55 galUS/min.
The pressure transfer concept applies to
location transfers as well, if the type of
treatment being performed will allow it.
8.5.3 Transfer with a C-pump
Sometimes the job and the number of units
being filled will be large. The pressure transfer
technique may not be appropriate in this case.
When the amount of liquid nitrogen being
loaded is large (6,000 to 7,000 galUS), the
amount of liquid required to cool down the
C‑pump, as a percentage of the total, is low.
Thus, the decision whether to use pressure
transfer or the C-pump depends on the time
required for the operator to complete the
transfer vs. the cost of the liquid required for
cooling down the C-pump.
8.5.4 Pressure transfer procedure
When the quantity of liquid required is known
and how the transfer will take place has
been determined, the operator can start the
operation.
The operator would proceed as follows for a
pressure transfer:
STEP 01 Clean and connect the hose as
directed in Section 8.3.2.
STEP 02 Close the pressure regulator valve
that maintains the pressure on the gas cap to
5–10 psi.
STEP 03 Open the valve on the pressure
buildup coils and build pressure in the gas cap
to 35–40 psi.
STEP 04 Open the Vent to Atmosphere
valve on the receiving tank.
STEP 05 Open the 95% full valve on the
receiving tank.
STEP 06 Open the bottom fill valve on the
source tank.
STEP 07 Open the top fill valve on the
receiving tank.
The piping on both tanks and the transfer hose
will develop a frost layer as these components
cool down.
As the transfer occurs, the gas discharge from
the receiving tank vent valve will increase.
STEP 08 Continue filling the receiving tank
until liquid can be seen coming from the 95%
full valve. The transfer is to be stopped when
that occurs.
JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  27

Caution:
If the transfer is not stopped when
liquid is seen coming from the
95% full valve, liquid nitrogen will
come out of the vent to atmosphere
valve. This could be dangerous for
personnel as well as damaging to
mild steel components the liquid
comes in contact with.
STEP 09 Close the bottom fill valve on the
source tank.
STEP 10 Close the top fill valve on the
receiving tank.
STEP 11 Close the 95% full valve on the
receiving tank.
STEP 12 Open the bleed valve nearest the
lowest end of the transfer hose.
STEP 13 Observe the discharge of the
bleed valve until only gas is coming out.
STEP 14 It is now safe to disconnect and
store the hose. Always replace dust caps in the
hose and unit fill manifold.
STEP 15 Close the pressure buildup valve
on the source tank and open the pressure
regulator valve.
STEP 16 Reduce pressure in the gas cap of
the storage tank 5 to 10 psi.
STEP 17 Replace the dust caps on the
source tank.
28  |  LN 2 Transfer
STEP 18 Leave the vent to atmosphere
valve open until the liquid has had a chance to
outgas the entrained bubbles.
When the vent valve can be closed and the
pressure will not continue to rise with only
the road relief valve, the fluid in the tank has
stabilized.
Note:
Always fill the receiving tank from
the top regardless of whether it
is a district transfer or a location
transfer.
8.6 Transfer on location
The transfer of liquid on location will be very
similar, if not identical, to transfer at the district.
However, most of the time the C-pump on the
transport will be used.
Sometimes, as for example on slow pumping
coiled tubing jobs, a pressure transfer is an
option. Pressure transfers are preferable when
the pumping operation will occur over a long
period of time and multiple transfers will be
required. This process will reduce the loss of
liquid when cooling down the C-pump.
8.6.1 Setting the tank pressure
If the transfer is to be done with the C-pump,
then the tank pressure should be 10 to 15 psi to
the suction.
If the transfer is to be made using pressure,
the differential pressure needs to be adequate
to produce flow from the source tank to the
receiving tank. As in the case of transferring at
the district, 30 to 40 psi on the source tank is
the minimum.
 Note:
When filling a pumper during the
pumping operation, the vent to
atmosphere valve on the pumper
must be regulated to maintain
required suction pressure to the
pumper’s C-pump. The pressure
above the liquid must not be
excessive, which would cause it to
become unconditioned.
8.6.2 Pressure transfer procedure
The process for a location transfer is the
same as a district transfer. The main concern
on location is ensuring that the transfer rate
matches or exceeds the downhole pump
rate so that the supply to the pumper is not
disrupted.
Obviously, if the transfer is to large on-location
storage, the transfer rate is not critical if the
pressure in the storage tank is sufficient to
finish the transfer.
Use the step-by-step procedure listed in
Section 8.4.4 for the pressure transfer.
8.6.3 Cooling down
The cooldown process is the same regardless
of whether it is associated with the pumper or
transport transfer.
The C-pump used in a transport is very similar
to that used on the pumper. In fact, it might be
the same C-pump, except that it is mechanically When transferring to the pumper tank, care
or hydraulically driven.
The seal assembly in the C-pump is the same
as that in the pumper and therefore must be
cooled down just as the pumping unit must be.
Note:
Do not take shortcuts in the
cooldown process. Until a steady
flow of liquid nitrogen is coming out
of the ground vent of the C-pump,
do not assume the pump is cooled
down.
8.7 Liquid conditioning after transfer
During any transfer, exposure of the fluid to
ambient conditions causes some of the liquid
to convert to gas. Also, the liquid remaining will
have gas entrained in it. This gas will be seen
discharging from the vent to atmosphere” valve
during and after the transfer.
Figure 8-7. Outer Tank Support Rings
When transferring to onsite storage before the
job, this is not a serious concern because the
fluid will become conditioned with venting.
must be taken to ensure that the C-pump and
pumping system do not receive unconditioned
fluid. Therefore, it is suggested that filling of the
pumper tank start when the liquid level gets to
50%. Never let the liquid level get to 30% or
lower before starting the transfer.
JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  29
8.7.1 Transport or storage holding mode
Once the transfer and venting is complete, the
tank needs to be secured. It is imperative that
all safety devises are set properly and that the
road relief valve be open. The road relief valve
is one of three safety devices installed in the
safety manifold on all nitrogen tanks (Fig. 8-8):
• road relief valve: set pressure 5 to 10 psi
• spring-operated relief: set pressure 45 psi
• rupture disc: set pressure 71 psi
After the transfer is complete, allow the tank
pressure to stabilize to 10 to 15 psi.
Figure 8-8. Pressure Gauge
8.8 Securing the storage tank or
transport
After the transfer is complete and the hoses
are secured and stored, the tank needs to
be secured until the next time it is used. The
valves should be set to allow all safety devices
to function.
8.9 Documentation of transferred fluid
The fluid transferred and the fluid loss during
each loading and unloading should be
documented. The loading ticket’s quantity of
fluid in the transport will not be equal to the
30  |  LN 2 Transfer
amount of fluid taken out of the district storage.
Likewise, the amount of fluid placed in the
location storage will not equal to the amount
of fluid loaded on the transport. During each
operation, fluid is lost from transfers.
If district inventory is to be documented and
controlled with in acceptable levels, each
phase of getting the fluid to location must be
documented so that the appropriate charges
can be made to the client.
8.10 Weight scale
As mentioned in Inventory management, weight
scales should be used whenever possible.
This recommendation applies to the supplier’s
transports as well as any loading done by
Schlumberger.
It is important to understand that items like fuel
on board can affect the weight and therefore
the assumed fluid transfer. Care should be
taken to weigh the unit before and after the
transfer, with as close to the same amount of
fuel in the unit as possible.
For example,
• Diesel weight = 6.80 lbm/galUS
• Nitrogen weight = 6.74 lbm/galUS
• 100 galUS of diesel is approximately
the same weight as 100 galUS of liquid
nitrogen. Therefore, 100 gals difference
can equate to approximately 9,300 scf lost
or gained product.
 9.0  Pretrip and Posttrip
Checks on Transports

In compliance with Schlumberger

requirements, pretrip and posttrip standard
equipment maintenance (STEM) 1 checks
must be completed on transports and
turned in with other required paperwork.

In the required paperwork, there must be

weight tickets that provide the necessary
information for inventory control.

All maintenance and repairs will be

scheduled and managed through Fleet
Assistant. Fleet Assistant is currently
being used by the maintenance force at
all locations. For more information on
Fleet Assistant go to the following URL:

http://www.rd.oilfield.slb.com/ emwd/
fleet_assistant.htm

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  31

 This page left intentionally blank

32  |  Pre-trip and Post Trip on Transports

 10.0  Nitrogen Safety

All of the applicable parts of Well Services

Safety Standard (WSSS) 5 and 11 must be
applied when rigging up, transferring and
pumping nitrogen.

The standards can be found in the

Schlumberger WSSS and the Well Services
Field Safety Handbook. Standards 5 and 11
can be viewed through InTouch on the WSSS
reference page, InTouch Content ID# 4055049.

10.1 Spills
If a release of LN2 occurs, always reference
the STC emergency response phone number
(281) 595-3518.

You should also visit:

https://slb-chemicals.sugar-land.oilfield.slb.com/
SHIP/Login.cfm

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  33

 This page left intentionally blank

34  |  Nitrogen Safety

 11.0  Check Your Understanding

1. Mild steel can be used to hold liquid 6. The transfer centrifugal pump should be
nitrogen when _________. used _________.
A. pressure is less than 100 psi A. on all jobs
B. never B. only when required because of high
C. when ambient temperature is 100 degF pumping rates
C. on foam fractures only
2. Which of the flowing materials can be
used with liquid nitrogen? 7. When transferring liquid nitrogen, the
A. aluminum operator must _________.
B. bronze A. wear required PPE
C. all of the above B. ensure all valves are in the proper
position
C. all of the above
3. The divisions on the liquid level gauge are
in _________.
A. psi 8. Gaseous nitrogen is _________ of the air
we breathe.
B. in
A. 15%
C. kPa
B. 78%
C. 75%
4. One pound of liquid nitrogen is ______ in
volume.
A. 93.05 scf 9. Liquid nitrogen cannot come in contact
with the steel components of the unit
B. 93.11 scf because _________.
C. 93.05 scf A. It will fade the paint.
B. It will give off a bad odor.
5. At 1 atm, 1 galUS of liquid nitrogen is ___
C. It will warp the steel and eventually
in volume.
crack it.
A. 100 scf
B. 93.11 scf
C. 93.05 scf

JET 11 - Nitrogen Storage and Transports  |  35

10. The road relief valve on the storage tank 15. Location procedures should maintain loss
is set at _________. of liquid nitrogen between _________.
A. 12 psi A. 10 to 15%
B. 10 psi B. 5 to 10%
C. 5 psi C. 1 to 2%

11. When filling a tank during a pumping 16. The term hot it liquid means _________.
operation, enter the tank through ______. A. LN2 warmer than –180 degF
A. the top B. LN2 with enough heat absorbed to
B. the bottom cause it to be saturated with nitrogen
C. anywhere gas
C. LN2 warmer than –320 degF
12. When preparing to fill a LN2 tank, the
transfer hose must be _________. 17. The liquid nitrogen can be conditioned by:
A. cleaned with water _________.
B. blown out with air A. applying more pressure to the top of
the tank
C. blown out with gaseous nitrogen
B. bleeding pressure off the tank and
removing the heat
13. Factors that affect LN2 inventory are
C. filling the tank with fresh fluid
_________.
A. vacuum condition of the storage tank.
18. The temperature of liquid nitrogen is
B. leaving tanks empty for long periods of _________.
time
A. –183 degF
C. all of the above
B. –232.6 degF
C. –320 degF
14. The vacuum on a new super insulated
tank will be ____.
A. 10 to 15 microns
B. 5 to 10 microns
C. below 5 microns

36  |  Check Your Understanding