Terminal Operations: Port Manatee

Port Manatee Loads Massive LNG heat exchanger for Export

Demonstrating its capabilities for moving oversized and heavy project cargo, Port Manatee recently loaded for export a nearly 500-ton liquefied natural gas heat exchanger manufactured at the Air Products production facility just across U.S. 41 from the port.

Measuring about 15 feet in diameter and 180 feet in length, the unit was transported in late October from the Air Products Port Manatee facility across the highway and directly to the port’s Berth 12 for loading onto a ship.

"Expert shipment of special project cargos of such dimensions proves the outstanding ability of Port Manatee and its partners to handle such large and heavy pieces," said Betsy Benac, chairwoman of the Manatee County Port Authority. "Air Products has a dynamic, positive impact on Manatee County, and we are proud of our strong collaboration."

The 32-acre Air Products Port Manatee facility started production in January 2014 and rolled out the first completed LNG heat exchanger in September 2016.

An Air Products liquefied natural gas heat exchanger weighing nearly 500 tons is loaded onto a vessel at Port Manatee’s Berth 12.
Photo/Port Manatee