Why are LNG 'trains' called 'trains'?

In chemical or petrochemical processes a "train" is comprised by a series of steps in a process. A train consists of a progression of processes and their related equipment arranged in a series of steps that generally begin with a feedstock and resulting in a final product. read more

The term train is used to describe the linear relationship of the process steps involved which are usually interconnected by piping or other material transport modes. See LNG train - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia for more information on how a LNG train is configured. read more

The largest LNG trains are actually in operation in Qatar, operated by Qatar Gas, ExxonMobil, Shell and ConocoPhillips with a production capacity of 7.8 million t/y (mtpa)per train. After storage in refrigerated tanks, the LNG is loaded onto ships and delivered to a re-gasification terminal, called LNG import terminal where the LNG is allowed to expand and reconvert into gas. read more

The liquefaction plant may consist of several parallel units arranged in a sequential manner (which is why they are called LNG trains). The natural gas is liquefied for shipping at a temperature of approximately -161°C. read more