LPG, LNG inspection
LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) and LNG (liquefied natural gas) inspection ensures quality control throughout the logistics chain, reducing trade risks related to non-compliance with agreed specifications, incorrect quantities, or incomplete documentation in LPG and LNG export and import operations.
CISS GROUP provides professional LPG and LNG inspection services for major oil corporations and international trading companies. Inspections are conducted at intermediate storage facilities, manufacturing plants, and ports worldwide, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and international standards.
The inspection process for LPG and LNG is complex due to the requirement for these gases to be stored in liquid form, which is only possible under high-pressure conditions. At normal atmospheric temperature and pressure, LPG and LNG revert to a gaseous state, requiring significantly larger storage volumes. For safe storage and transportation, they are kept in sealed steel containers (tanks, RTCs, etc.) designed to withstand high pressure.
LPG and LNG vapors are heavier than air, allowing them to spread along the ground and accumulate in low-lying areas, creating ignition risks even at considerable distances from the source of a leak. In still air, evaporation disperses slowly, increasing the potential for hazardous gas accumulation. Mixing with air forms a highly flammable compound, making LPG and LNG classified as dangerous goods. Transportation is only permitted in high-pressure or cryogenic conditions, using specially certified rail tank cars (RTCs), trucks, containers, and ships operated within secure, closed systems.
Accredited inspectors and laboratory technicians from CISS GROUP conduct LPG and LNG inspections at all stages of the supply chain.
The main stages of LPG, LNG inspection:
Incoming and outgoing LPG and LNG inspection
Inspection occurs during the transfer of LPG and LNG into storage tanks, ship/barge tanks, road tankers, rail RTCs, or port facilities, as well as during export from storage. Inspectors evaluate premises and tanks for suitability and conduct pipeline system inspections before gas offloading. Each LPG or LNG batch is accompanied by a quality certificate.
Container and vessel hold cleanliness inspection before loading
Inspectors visually assess the cleanliness and condition of storage tanks, ship/barge tanks, road tankers, rail RTCs, and port facilities before loading. Similar assessments apply to pipeline systems and related equipment for gas offloading. Only designated cargo may be stored in these tanks, and cleanliness verification is crucial.
Loading process monitoring and sampling
During loading, inspectors oversee pump operation sequences, monitor pressure and temperature conditions, verify gross and net weights, and apply specialized gas calculation methods. Samples are taken according to strict sampling protocols to form composite specimens.
To prevent fractionation, specialized evaporators ensure a representative sample. Alternatively, samples may be taken directly from the regasification unit. The collected samples undergo analysis using advanced gas chromatography techniques. Once loading is complete, inspectors seal containers and holds and record all findings in detailed reports accessible to clients. CISS GROUP provides 24/7 inspection and sampling services.
Laboratory analysis of LPG and LNG quality
LPG and LNG quality is tested exclusively in accredited laboratories according to contractual and international standards. Key parameters include:
- Component composition
- Wobbe number range
- Net calorific value under standard conditions
- Molar fractions of methane, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen
- Mass concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and mercaptan sulfur
- Calculated octane number (motor method)
Photo and video documentation
Each stage of the inspection process is recorded through photos and videos with timestamps. Upon completion, CISS GROUP provides a comprehensive photo report covering all inspection and quality control stages.
Certification and digital security
A final inspection certificate or report is issued, featuring a unique QR code linking to the CISS GROUP website, where PDF versions of certificates are securely stored. Certificates are protected by digital cryptographic signatures, ensuring authenticity and security.
Digitally signed certificates are essential for trade financing, as banks require them to verify transaction integrity when processing letters of credit.
CISS GROUP ensures compliance with global quality standards, mitigates trade risks, and provides 24/7 inspection availability worldwide. With accredited laboratories, experienced inspectors, and robust digital security measures, LPG and LNG inspections offer complete reliability and transparency in every transaction.
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