In the context of the oil & gas sector, a train consists of components designed to process, purify, and convert natural gas to liquefied natural gas (LNG). They are called trains because of the sequential arrangement of the equipment used to process and liquefy natural gas. A train generally consists of three functions: (1) pretreatment, (2) removal of acid gas and dehydration, and (3) separations of hydrocarbons and liquefaction. Analyzing LNG performance at the train level is critical for several reasons, but particularly because LNG trains often have multiple shareholders who are keen on understanding the efficiency and profitability of their investments.

Why is it important to analyze LNG performance operations by train?

  1. An LNG train-level analysis helps shareholders gauge and enhance their investment efficiency. Shareholders need to know how effectively their capital is being utilized. A train-level performance analysis assesses the return on investment (ROI) and helps to ensure that the financial performance of the LNG train meets or exceeds expectations.
  2. The results provide stakeholders with targeted achievable opportunities to optimize operational efficiency. Analysis of LNG train performance allows stakeholders to identify areas where the LNG train is operating below optimal levels. This includes examining production rates, energy consumption, and maintenance costs. This benefit is important because efficient operations lead to cost savings and increased profitability.
  3. An LNG performance analysis detailed at the train-level delivers insight into cost management. An LNG train-level analysis pinpoints where costs can be reduced without compromising on quality or safety. This can involve optimizing processes, reducing downtime, and improving overall productivity.
  4. It allows for more detailed comparative benchmarking analysis and competitiveness positioning review. Comparing the performance of different LNG trains, including those owned by the same or different shareholders, allows for benchmarking to occur. This comparative analysis identifies best practices and areas for improvement and enhances the overall competitiveness of your LNG facility.
  5. A train-level performance analysis helps improve risk management of your LNG operations. Understanding the performance of an LNG train assists in identifying and mitigating risks (i.e., technical risks, market risks, and operational risks). Having a proactive risk management approach protects the investment and ensures long-term sustainability.
  6. The resulting data-driven insights are essential for strategic planning. An analysis by train helps operators, shareholders, and stakeholders make informed decisions, backed by data, regarding expansions, upgrades, and other significant investments.
  7. An LNG analysis by train provides stakeholders transparency and reporting (data). Regular and consistent performance analysis and reporting foster transparency with shareholders and other stakeholders. It builds trust and ensures that all parties are aware of the current performance and future prospects of the LNG train.


Unlike other LNG industry analyses, Solomon’s LNG Study analyzes and compares performance at the site, compressor/turbine, process unit, and train level. This detail enables a deeper analysis to identify and provide a path forward to eliminate the root causes of poor performance. Using our proprietary Comparative Performance Analysis™ (CPA™), normalization methodology, years of industry experience, and proprietary database representing over 50% of the LNG world capacity, we can help you achieve sustainable operational excellence that stakeholders and shareholders would approve of. Contact us to learn more.

Learn more about the LNG Study

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