LNG

VSL has a state-of-the-art liquefied natural gas calibration and test facility, the first in the world to actually test with LNG.

Flow

LNG

 

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is increasingly important in the energy transition as a cleaner alternative to diesel and bunker oil. Reliable and traceable measurement is essential for safe and efficient LNG use. VSL, the National Metrology Institute of the Netherlands, offers globally recognized solutions for LNG measurement, calibration, and testing.

 

VSL has a state-of-the-art liquefied natural gas calibration and test facility, the first in the world to actually test with LNG. The measurement standard that applies to this facility has greatly improved the precision and accuracy of LNG measurements. VSL’s responsible use of LNG is therefore a contribution to a sustainable society.

Would you like to know more about our services?

Our experts are happy to help.

Marcel van Est
Senior sales engineer

LNG calibrations

VSL operates the world’s first LNG calibration and test facility, where flow meters are calibrated under true cryogenic conditions (-162°C) using LNG as the calibration fluid. This ensures that LNG flow meters perform accurately in real-world applications. Calibrations are performed according to international standards, with low measurement uncertainty (CMC) and full traceability to the national standard. VSL can calibrate various types of flow meters, including Coriolis, ultrasonic, turbine, and delta P, provided they are suitable for cryogenic use.

Proficiency testing

VSL offers protocols and artefacts for the organisation and execution of proficiency testing (according to the EN ISO/IEC 17043:2010). We can arrange a round for groups of participants, such as a team of employees or a group of laboratories. Additionally, VSL provides proficiency testing on demand, allowing you to obtain results whenever you need them.

 

Read more about this on our page on Proficiency Tests

Specifications

The CMCs for LNG flow rate and/or volume and mass are:

Flow rateCalibration methodCMC*
8 to 145 m3Master meter0.33%
1.8 to 65 t/hMaster meter0.23%

* Best achievable uncertainty under normal conditions for the LNG flow meter being calibrated.

We can perform our measurements using pipe flanges ranging from 0.5 to 6 inches (12 to 150 mm).

Consultancy

Our experts provide support in designing, optimizing, and validating LNG measurement systems. With extensive knowledge of metrology and international regulations, VSL advises on traceability, measurement uncertainty, and the development of reliable measurement infrastructure. Custom solutions and guidance for accreditation are also available.

Custom services

VSL provides services tailored to specific customer needs from special and non‑standard calibrations to the development of measurement systems and the analysis of measurement data. Our experts create an optimal match between measurement and knowledge, delivering fully independent support that is always aligned with the latest metrological developments.

Our areas of expertise