This course is designed for technical and commercial staff of LPG distribution companies who require knowledge of the design, installation, and maintenance of piped LPG distribution networks. It reviews regulations, tank selection criteria, safety distances, distribution network elements, and key technical aspects for the proper installation and maintenance of piped LPG distribution networks.

The course is complemented by a practical exercise on sizing a distribution network.

The course consists of 16 teaching hours, four sessions of four hours each. We recommend one session per day. The course program is as follows:

SESSION 1: INTRODUCTION AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK (4 HOURS)

Hour 1-2: Introduction

• LPG Basics: Properties, applications, benefits and risks of LPG.
• Regulatory Framework: National and international regulations.

Hour 3-4: Distribution networks

• Classification
• Operating pressure
• Network elements:
  • Storage area
  • Operating pressure
  • Referrals to subscribers

SESSION 2: NETWORK ELEMENTS (4 HOURS)

Hour 1-4: Network elements – 1

• LPG storage area
  • Storage tanks
  • Pressure regulation devices
  • Pipes
  • Civil works
  • Enclosure
  • Forced vaporization
  • Electrical installation
  • Classified areas
  • Fire Protection

SESSION 3: NETWORK ELEMENTS AND COMMISSIONING (4 HOURS)

Hour 1-2: Network elements – 2

• Distribution network:
  • Documentation
  • Materials
  • Elements present in the networks
  • Elements of individual derivations

Hour 3-4: Commissioning

• Tests, trials and verifications.
• Inertising and commissioning procedures.
• Degassing of facilities
• Maintenance
• Action in case of emergency

SESSION 4: GROUP EXERCISE – INSTALLATION DESIGN (4 HOURS)

Hour 1-3: Group exercise

• Total and simultaneous power.
• Energy consumed and gas flow rate.
• Storage requirements- tank selection.
• Vaporizer sizing.
• Definition of nodes
• Sizing of pipe and fittings
• Tank implementation – Safety distances.

• Real-life case analysis and design optimization.

Hour 3-4: Conclusions and evaluation

• Analysis of the exercise performed and review of common errors in the installation of distribution networks.
• Review of key regulations.
• Final evaluation and discussion of doubts.
• Reminder of the benefits and risks of LPG