[KOGAS Press release/ April 4, 2024] The Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS) unveiled its collaboration with Hyundai Heavy Industries Turbomachinery Co., Ltd. (HHIT) to sign an empirical support agreement aimed at localizing the "ultra-low temperature LNG pump," a critical component in natural gas production facilities.

The development of the 'ultra-low temperature LNG pump' marks a significant milestone after a rigorous three-year research period initiated in 2020 under a national government project for localization. Despite successful development, the absence of on-site operational records posed challenges in commercialization. This advanced equipment is pivotal for transferring LNG at minus 163℃, enhancing operational efficiency in storage tanks and ships.

KOGAS took proactive steps in October of the previous year by initiating the demonstration support project as part of the K-testbed project. Subsequently, in November, KOGAS committed to supporting the demonstration of the "ultra-low temperature LNG pump." The K-testbed project, a government-led initiative, serves as an integrated platform facilitating access to public infrastructure for startups and small to medium-sized venture companies, fostering research and development, field demonstrations, and market expansion. KOGAS's consistent support for the project since 2021 underscores its commitment to fostering innovation in the natural gas industry.

Under the current agreement, KOGAS intends to facilitate the commercialization process by granting HHIT access to facilities at the Pyeongtaek LNG Terminal for a year and a half, starting from April of this year until September of the following year. This arrangement aims to provide an optimal testing environment for the ultra-low temperature LNG pump while covering empirical support costs.

Furthermore, the demonstration phase will entail the transfer of operational expertise and technology from the Pyeongtaek LNG Terminal, along with the implementation of various safety measures to ensure a successful demonstration.

A KOGAS official emphasized the corporation's ongoing commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grappling with the challenges of demonstrating innovative technological solutions. The successful localization of LNG pump facilities is poised to unlock new opportunities, potentially expanding into ultra-low temperature-related projects such as LNG carriers, domestic LNG production bases, and overseas LNG liquefaction bases. This, in turn, is expected to serve as a catalyst for SMEs to augment sales and expand their global footprint in the natural gas industry.