Don't let moisture ruin your spare parts—here’s how LNG superintendents stay ahead

As a superintendent in the LNG industry, you know that your spare parts are the lifeblood of your operations. When stored improperly, moisture, rust, and environmental damage can render them useless when you need them most. Your challenge isn’t just keeping parts safe—it’s ensuring they’re ready to go, even after years of storage.

In this article we explain explore how we solve your most pressing challenges.

Environmental damage is always a threat

LNG spare parts face unique challenges. Many components, from propulsion engines to electric alternators, are stored outdoors due to their size. Others, such as electronic equipment, are highly sensitive to humidity and ozone.

The result?

• Rust and corrosion destroy metal parts, rendering them unsafe for use.
• Moisture and ozone degrade plastics and electronics, reducing their lifespan.
• Mold and contaminants can take hold, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

These threats don’t just damage your parts—they put your operations at risk.

If a key component fails or is unavailable when you need it, the costs of downtime and replacement can be staggering.

The risks you can’t afford to ignore

Imagine needing a critical spare part during a breakdown, only to find it’s unusable. The delivery obligations tied to your LNG carrier contract can’t wait for replacements.

Every day a vessel is out of service, it costs your company money, damages your reputation, and disrupts your supply chain. And with spare parts needing to remain in perfect condition for the ship's economic life—35-40 years—storage is more than a logistical challenge. It’s a strategic priority.

Without the right preservation system, you risk:

• Deadlines slipping due to delayed repairs.
• Soaring replacement costs for damaged parts.
• Long-term degradation of high-value, irreplaceable components.

Cocoon Holland’s preservation system

At Cocoon Holland, we understand the challenges you face. That’s why we’ve developed an advanced mothballing system tailored to the demands of the LNG industry.

Here’s how our solution works:

1. Advanced humidity control

Humidity is your spare parts’ worst enemy. Our system keeps humidity at a constant 38% or lower, preventing corrosion, rust, and mold growth. By maintaining this optimal level, we protect both metal and electronic components over the long term.

2. Airtight sealing with Cocoon layers

Our multi-layer Cocoon foil creates an airtight barrier around each part, keeping out moisture, ozone, and other contaminants. Whether it’s a large axle stored outdoors or a transport box with sensitive electronics, the system adapts to the size and shape of the part.

3. Air circulation and ozone removal

We integrate air circulation systems to eliminate any moisture “dead spots” within the sealed structure. Additionally, our advanced dryers remove ozone, preventing the plastic and rubber degradation that’s common in outdoor storage.

4. Long-term monitoring

With 24/7 monitoring systems installed on every project, we give you real-time data on humidity levels and air quality. You receive monthly reports to ensure everything stays in perfect condition. If there’s ever an issue, we’re there to address it before it becomes a problem.

Real-world examples of Cocoon’s success

ITER Nuclear Fusion Project

For ITER, the world’s largest nuclear fusion reactor, we preserved critical reactor cylinders for over five years. By maintaining strict humidity control, we ensured the integrity of these high-value components.

Mothballing bull gear for Stena Clear Sky LNG carrier in Korea

Materials protected in this way could be stored for a very long time, but are available for use and accessible for inspection at any time. Relative humidity is kept below 40%, which prevents?formation of mould and corrosion.

How Cocoon protects LNG spare parts

Our mothballing system isn’t just effective—it’s versatile. Here’s how we approach different storage needs in the LNG industry:

Large outdoor components (e.g., axles, tail shafts)

• Create an airtight floor with steel plates.
• Build a wooden frame with spacer hoses to support the Cocoon layers.
• Apply 6-8 layers of Cocoon foil, sealing all seams and corners with glass mesh.
• Install air circulation systems and connect to a dryer for humidity and ozone control.

Transport boxes (e.g., electronics, alternators)

• Seal boxes with airtight Cocoon foil.
• Use wood and mesh reinforcements for added durability.
• Connect air circulation and drying systems for continuous protection.

Storage halls

• Cover walls, ceilings, and joints with Cocoon layers to create a completely sealed environment.
• Install air dryers and circulation systems to maintain humidity levels.
• Use zipper doors for airtight access.

Why superintendents choose Cocoon

• Long-term preservation: Our system protects spare parts for decades, ensuring they’re ready to use whenever needed.
• Adaptable to any part: From small electronics to massive propulsion engines, our solution fits every size and shape.
• Cost-efficient: Low maintenance and operating costs mean you save money in the long run.
• Environmentally friendly: No nitrogen or harmful chemicals—just sustainable, effective drying and sealing.
• Proven reliability: Trusted by industry leaders like Shell, NYK, and Total.

Take the first step toward protecting your spare parts

Your LNG operations depend on spare parts that are ready to perform, no matter how long they’ve been in storage. Don’t leave their condition to chance.

Contact us today to learn how Cocoon Holland can preserve your critical components and keep your operations running smoothly.

Let’s protect what matters most.

T: +31 (0)20 6867 808

E: [email protected]