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Novel LNG based integrated process configuration alternatives for co-production of LNG and NGL Mehdi mehrpooya, Mohammad Hossieni, and Ali Vatani Ind. Eng. Chem. Res., Just Accepted Manuscript • DOI: 10.1021/ie502370p • Publication Date (Web): 20 Oct 2014 Downloaded from http://pubs.acs.org on October 25, 2014
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Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
Novel LNG based integrated process configuration alternatives for co-production of LNG and NGL
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Mehdi Mehrpooya ∗1, Mohammad Hossieni2 and Ali Vatani2 0F
1
Renewable Energies and Environment department, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
2
School of Chemical Engineering, University College of Engineering, University of Tehran, P.O.Box: 113654563, Tehran, Iran.
12
Abstract:
13
In this study three novel process configurations for co-production of LNG and NGL is
14
introduced and analyzed. C3-MR, DMR and MFC refrigeration systems are used for supplying
15
the required refrigeration. High ethane recovery (90 %+) and low specific power (0.4
16
kWhr/kgLNG) for typical natural gas feed compositions are two of the basic characteristics of
17
the proposed configurations. The proposed processes compared to the conventional natural gas
18
liquefaction processes are simple and operable. Four or five multi stream heat exchangers and
19
one demethanizer column are utilized for co-production of LNG and NGL. Also the analysis
20
show that performance of the processes is efficient and comparable with similar cases.
21
Key words: LNG, NGL, Integration, Ethane Recovery, process design, refrigeration
22 23 24
∗
Corresponding Author: Tel: +98 21 61118564, Fax: +98 21 88617087 Email address:
[email protected],
[email protected] 1 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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e
Specific flow exergy
Ex
Exergy
ΔT
thermal component
h
enthalpy
ΔP
pressure component
I
irreversibility rate
𝐦̇
Mass flow rate
N
Exergy loss number
P
Pressure
Q
Heat transfer rate
S
Entropy
T
Temperature
W
Work
Superscript
Names used for blocks in plants
Greek letters Efficiency
Δ
Gradient
Σ
Sum
αij
Relative volatility i/j
Subscripts cold
h
hot
i
inlet
o
outlet
id
ideal
ph
physical
ch
chemical
t
total
Q
heat rate
0
dead state
a
air
Compressor
TE-i
Turbo Expander
T-i
Tower
E-i
Multi stream heat exchanger
D-i
Flash Drum
V-i
Valve
AC-I
Air cooler
Abbreviation
µ
c
C-i
LNG
Liquefied natural gas
NGL
Natural gas liquids
NG
Natural Gas
MR
Mixed refrigerant
MFC
Mixed fluid cascade
DMR
Dual mixed refrigerant
SWHE
Spiral Wood Heat Exchanger
PFHE
Plate and Fin Heat Exchanger
C3-MR Propane precooling
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1. Introduction
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One of the methods which is used for transportation of natural gas over long distances where
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pipelines do not exist is liquefying. Natural gas can be liquefied at cryogenic temperatures as
76
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) [1]. In the other hand natural gas contains many desirable and
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undesirable components that should be separated [2]. Natural gas liquids (NGL) have added
78
value and it is used in petrochemical processes as a main feed. [3]. Various kinds of process
79
configurations have been introduced for NGL recovery. There are several records in this area
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which decreasing the capital and operating costs is the main subject of them [4-5]. Turbo
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expander is the simplest process for NGL recovery. Feed gas after pre cooling is sent to the
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expander and tower respectively. Residue Recycle (RR) was developed to achieve the NGL
83
recovery higher than 80 percent. Gas Sub cooled Process (GSP) was developed to overcome the
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problems encountered with the conventional expander process. The Cold Residue Recycle
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(CRR) process is a modification of the GSP process to achieve higher ethane recovery levels
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(98%). Another improvement of the turboexpander-based NGL process is the IPSI [5] Enhanced
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NGL Recovery Process. This process utilizes a slip stream from or near the bottom of the
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demethanizer as a mixed refrigerant. Mixed refrigerant stream is evaporated totally or partially
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and back to the column [4, 5]. There are several papers that have investigated the operating
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condition of NGL recovery plants for improving the process efficiency [6-11]. Various kinds of
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process configurations for natural gas liquefaction and NGL recovery process have been
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introduced. An open-closed self-refrigerant system for NGL recovery was introduced in [4, 12].
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The most important part in both of them is refrigeration system [13]. LNG processes can be
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classified by refrigerant composition and refrigeration system. Some of them were introduced by 3 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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Shukri [14]. Turbo expander, Dual Mixed Refrigerant (DMR), Single Mixed Refrigerant (SMR),
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cascade and Mixed Fluid Cascade (MFC) and propane precooling (C3-MR) are major applicable
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processes for natural gas liquefaction. Mixed refrigerant cycles have better thermodynamic
98
efficiency [5, 13]. Five of the most conventional LNG processes was investigated in [15]. NGL
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recovery and LNG production are done in cryogenic processes. In both of them refrigeration
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system is a main part. Increasing level of the integration is a fundamental way for improving the
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efficiency and decreasing the operating and capital costs [3]. Gas product of the NGL recovery
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plants follows to the pipeline as sweet treated natural gas at about 55°C. However this gas leaves
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the demethanizer column at about -100°C, but it is used for supplying a portion of the required
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refrigeration for cooling the inlet feed before following to the pipeline. Using low temperature
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gas which leaves the demethanizer column directly to the liquefaction unit as a feed, is the main
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idea for design of integrated NGL/LNG process configurations. With integration efficiency
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increases and total cost decreases [16]. Operating temperature in NGL recovery processes may
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reach to -100ºC in top of the demethanizer column [5]. Also in LNG processes operating
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temperature reaches to near -162ºC. In non-integrated processes required refrigeration is supplied
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from different cycles and separated heat exchangers while in integrated processes refrigeration is
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provided by joint refrigeration cycles and in shared devices. On the other hand, it is clear that
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LNG and NGL processes are series plants. Advantages of integration have been caused that
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companies tend to design integrated processes. ConocoPhillips, APCI invented integrated
114
processes with especial design. For example, ConocoPhillips integrated process can produce
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LNG approximately 7% more, while the required power is the same [3]. Fluor Technologies
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claims that 10% energy saving is achievable by integration of LNG and NGL processes [17].
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Weldon L. Ransbarger [18] introduced an integrated process with cascade arrangement and more
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flexibility in feed composition and operating condition. In this process propane is used for the
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hottest cycle refrigeration, ethane for the middle cycle and an open methane cycle for
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liquefaction and sub cooling the lean gas. A tower is used for NGL capturing after precooling
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the feed and a recycle stream which is supplied from the liquefaction section. However this
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patent introduces some good ideas about the integrated NGL/LNG processes, but there is no
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discussion about the numerical values of the required power in the process.
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In [19] an integrated NGL/LNG process configuration was suggested. In this configuration NGL
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is separated by two columns which one of them, demethanizer column, operates in high pressure
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and this point decreases the required power for recompression of the residue gas.
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Reflux stream of the NGL recovery process column can be obtained from the NGL fractionator
128
or a liquid stream from the liquefaction unit [20-22]. Cueller at al. [16] designed an integrated
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ethane recovery and LNG liquefaction process with adjustable C2+ concentration and HHV. The
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results showed that the specific power and ethane recovery are 0.335 kWh/kg LNG and 87.5 %
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respectively. Nonetheless they did not disclose the process configuration. An integrated
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NGL/LNG process was proposed by [23, 24]. A middle heavy natural gas with 85 percent ethane
133
content was used as feed of the process. Reported specific power is 0.37 kWh/kg LNG for 90+ %
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ethane recovery and 0.29 kWh/kg LNG for 42 % ethane recovery. However the process needs
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hot utility but it can be removed with increasing the integration level of the configuration. One of
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the newest ideas about the integrated processes was introduced by [25]. Results show
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liquefaction efficiency of the process from a rich typical feed gas (methane 75%, and
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heavier hydrocarbons 23%) is 0.414 kWh/kg LNG and it can recover ethane higher than
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93.3%.
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In this study three novel integrated process alternatives for cogeneration of LNG and NGL with
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reasonable energy consumption and high ethane recovery are introduced. New process
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configurations that is introduced in this paper are LNG based. It means it was tried to invent new
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configurations based on the conventional LNG processes. And this point will noticeable in
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process modifications from a LNG process to a combined NGL-LNG process. NGL based
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process configurations can be defined versus LNG based ones. In fact they are a suitable
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alternative for modification of an existed NGL recovery process. Introduced configuration in [4,
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26] can be classified as a NGL base process. As explained various refrigeration systems have
148
some advantages and disadvantages. In this study recognized and conventional liquefaction
149
processes are considered. In fact conventional and efficient refrigeration systems such as DMR,
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C3-MR and MFC are used for supplying the required refrigeration in the process. Also it was
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tried to consider all LNG and NGL process design limitations, such as temperature approach in
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multi stream exchangers, standard and allowable operating condition in the devices
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(compressors, air coolers, flash drums …) and processes [27].
154 155
2. Process description
156 157
2.1. Selection of the liquefaction refrigeration system
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There are several types of refrigeration systems that can be used for LNG process. Refrigeration
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systems can be classified by refrigerant, number of stages and process configurations. Fig.1
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illustrates commercial LNG refrigeration systems classification based on the configuration and
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working fluid. Each of them has some advantages and disadvantages. Single stage cooling cycles
162
have simple configurations and accordingly they need fewer number of components, but their
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capacity is limited. Cascade and multistage systems have higher energy efficiency. In such
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systems the required refrigeration the in the low temperature stages decreases and this point
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reduces the overall required power [28]. Single stage refrigeration system is suitable for pick
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shaving and floating LNG processes [29]. Pure refrigerant system is reliable and simple in
167
design, but the required power in the multi stage compressors is high [28]. Pure refrigerant
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evaporates at a constant temperature, leading to a stair way style in the composite curves of the
169
heat exchangers. Mixed refrigerant evaporates over a range of temperatures and creates more
170
efficient cooling composite curve. Small temperature difference throughout the heat exchangers
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in the low-temperature systems decreases the required power [28].
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Fig.1. LNG process refrigeration systems classification [30-34]
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In some processes like PMR, C3-MR and AP-X (C3-MR-N2), both pure and mixed refrigerant
174
cycles are used [31, 35]. Aim of this study is design and analysis of the integrated NGL recovery
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and base load LNG processes. Also decreasing the required power and increasing the ethane
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recovery (90 %+) are two of the most important factors which are considered in these processes.
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So, pure refrigerant and single systems are disregarded. The current market of the LNG
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technology has been dominated by C3-MR refrigeration system with nearly 80% of installed
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trains. C3-MR is chosen because it is reliable and efficient [30]. But capacity of the propane
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precooling/mixed refrigerant is limited to less than 6 MTPA [31]. Dual mixed refrigerant was
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developed for higher capacities, higher efficiency and more flexibility in the feed composition
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and ambient conditions. MFC use three mixed refrigerant cascade cycles which is more flexible
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and efficient than the DMR process [30]. So C3-MR, DMR and MFC processes are considered
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because they are efficient, flexible and applicable.
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2.2. NGL recovery section
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In a NGL recovery plant, demethanizer column is core of the process based on the union model
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[28]. Relative volatility of the methane/ethane must be sufficiently high in order to reaching to a
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high ethane recovery. Relative volatility depends on the pressure and temperature of the column.
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Suitable α methane/ethane is achievable in the pressures lower than 30 bar and temperatures lower
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than -80 ºC [5, 10]. So decreasing the pressure and temperature of the natural gas is necessary. In
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the other hand CP of the natural gas which is a function of the pressure plays important role in
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thermal design of the process. Outlet lean gas from top of the tower follows to the liquefaction
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and subcooling section. Pressure of the inlet gas to liquefaction section should be increased
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because with changing the Cp, style of the composite curve can be optimized.
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Pure propane multi stage systems provide the required refrigeration in the NGL recovery
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processes. In the integrated NGL-LNG process configurations propane cycle can be eliminated.
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Feed precooling and cold recycle stream in the demethanizer column is provided by main LNG
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refrigeration systems. Heat integration is a procedure which is used in order to eliminations of
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the external hot utility. Conditions of the hot streams of the process, heat capacity (ṁCP) and
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temperature, is suitable for supplying the required hot utility in the column. Thus column side
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streams are used for removing the heat from the process in the precooling and liquefaction heat
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exchangers. In fact required the cold utility can be saved by process integration. Table 1 shows
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the specifications of the tower in the integrated processes. In this study the feed specifications are
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constant for all proposed cases.
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2.3. Mixed Fluid Cascade (MFC) process configuration
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Fig.1 illustrates process flow diagram (PFD) of MFC integrated process. As can be seen NGL
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recovery and liquefaction are done in one integrated PFD. Fig.3 shows overall composite curve
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of the process.
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2.3.1.
NGL recovery section
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However PFD of the NGL recovery section in the proposed processes are the same but operating
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condition is different in each of them. So NGL recovery section is described in this section only.
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Cleaned and pretreated natural gas feed enters the plant at 37°C and 63 bar. Composition of the
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feed is shown in Table 2. Pretreated natural gas is cooled in two steps. At first, it follows to E-1A
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heat exchanger and is cooled to 3°C and further cooling up to -30ºC is done in the second heat
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exchanger, E-1B. A portion of D-2 gas product, 40%, flows to E-2 and subcooled to about -88°C
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(Stream 114). Next stream 114 follows to top of the demethanizer tower via a J-T valve as cold
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reflux. Another portion of outlet vapor from D-2 is expanded thought a turbo expander prior to
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entering the demethanizer right below top section of the tower. Also, liquid bottom is spilted into
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two parts. Stream 108 is introduced to the column for fractionation through passing a J-T valve.
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Another portion, stream 107, is subcooled via E-2 to –50°C and enters the tower through a J-T
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valve. Demethanizer tower operates at about 25 bar and contains conventional trays used in
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demethanizer columns. This tower has three liquid draw trays to provide the required heat for
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striping volatile component from the produced NGL. Required heat is supplied by two multi
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stream heat exchangers, E-1A and E-1B. Side streams, 1, 2 and 3 enter the heat exchangers at 11,
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-9, -44 °C and return to the tower at 35, 0, 0 °C, respectively. In this configuration there is no
228
need to have a reboiler and ethane recovery is 92%.
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Fig.2. Process flow diagram of the MFC configuration
230 231
Table1 presents typical operating condition of the column. Tray numbering is from top to bottom
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and all stages are ideal stage.
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Table 1. Demethanizer column data sheet
2.3.1.1.Liquefaction section
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Lean gas stream that leaves the demethanizer tower at about -97°C and 25 bar enters the LNG
236
section. Stream 112 is pressurized via compressor C-100 up to about 63 bar and then is cooled in
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E-2 to about -85°C. It is clear that gas warms up through the pressurizing, but it should be done
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because in low pressures the required heat transfer area in heat exchangers increases due to low
239
thermal heat capacity of low pressure gas. Final cooling in LNG production in this process is
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performed in E-3 heat exchanger. The outlet cold stream from E-2, stream 119, is cooled to
241
about -160 °C in E-3 heat exchanger. Next, outlet stream from E-3 follows to D-1 flash drum via
242
passing a J-T valve. The liquid product of D-1 is LNG at atmospheric pressure.
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2.3.1.2. Refrigeration system
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Due to advantages of mixed refrigerant systems such as high thermal efficiency and high
245
flexibility, MR refrigerant was used in this integrated process. Also cascade system has good
246
thermodynamic efficiency and can provide closer and uniform cold/hot composite curves in heat
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exchangers. Overall composite curves (Fig.3) show that design of the system is optimum and
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close hot and cold composite curves results high thermodynamic efficiency.
249
The hottest cycle (CYCLE 400)
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Process flow diagram of this cycle is shown by red lines (Fig.1). First MR cycle provides the
251
required refrigeration for pre-cooling of the feed. Also it is a heat sink for cooler cycles, cycle 10 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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200 and 300. The cycle 400 refrigerant is a mixture of propane and ethane. Temperature and
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pressure of stream 400, outlet stream from air cooler AC-400, is about 36°C and 17 bar
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respectively. This stream enters E-1A and cooled to about 9°C. Next it is divided into two
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portions. First portion (about 56%), stream 406, returns to E-1A via an expansion valve at -1°C
256
and 670 kPa. Refrigerant stream warms up to about 31 °C in E-1A. Reminded stream, 402,
257
enters E-1B and leaves it at -22°C. Cooled stream, 403, passes a J-T valve and expands to about
258
300 kPa. In this condition refrigerant mixture is at -28 °C. Expanded stream supplies the required
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cooling in E-1B. After passing through the heat exchanger, stream 406 temperature reaches to
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2°C and then it is pressurized via C-400A compressor to 670 kPa. This stream and another
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portion of the main stream follow to a mixer and next enter C-400B for pressurizing to about 17
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bar. Then pressurized stream is cooled by AC-400 and returns to the initial state. Refrigerant
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composition is the most important variable which can affect the thermal design of the multi
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stream heat exchangers. Refrigerants composition are presented in Table 2.
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Middle cycle (CYCLE 200)
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This cycle provides a portion of the required refrigeration for liquefaction section and main
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portion of the required refrigeration for NGL recovery unit. Also middle cycle is a heat sink for
268
the coldest cycle, cycle 300. Refrigerant of this cycle is composed of methane, ethane, propane
269
and ethylene. Refrigerant stream warms up to -30° C in E-2 heat exchanger. Next this low
270
pressure stream enters C-200A and pressurized up to 15 bar. For decreasing the required power,
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pressurizing is performed in two stages. Stream 206 follows to AC-200A and then enters C-200B
272
and its pressure is increased to 28 bar. Stream 209 returns to E-2 after passing through E-1A and
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E-1B at about -27°C. In this heat exchanger it is cooled to -81°C and returns via an expansion
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valve at -93 °C and 310 kPa. Refrigerant stream reaches to initial state after passing through E-2.
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This cycle is illustrated by green lines in Fig.2.
276 277
Liquefaction cycle (CYCLE 300)
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The main duty of this cycle is supplying the required refrigeration for liquefaction and
279
subcooling. Refrigerant in this cycle is composed of methane, ethylene and nitrogen. Refrigerant
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stream, 303, enters E-3 at -85°C and 29 bar and is cooled to about -159°C. Stream 305 returns to
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E-3 at -167°C and 350 kPa. After passing through E-3, refrigerant stream warms up to about -
282
87°C. Refrigerant stream pressure is increased in two stages. Pressurized and warmed stream,
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300, enters E1-A at 35°C. The reminded cooling is done in E1-A, E1-B and E-2 heat exchangers.
284
Finally the output stream from E-2, 303, follows to E-3 for sub cooling the lean gas, stream 118.
285
Blue lines present this cycle in Fig.2.
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Table 2. MFC configuration main streams data
287
Fig.3. Composite curves of the MFC configuration
288 289
2.4. Dual mixed refrigerant (DMR)
290
This process configuration is based on the dual mixed refrigeration system. Fig.4 illustrates
291
process flow diagram of DMR process. Red lines show precooling refrigeration cycle and blue
292
lines illustrate liquefaction one. Table 3 presents the main streams operating condition.
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2.4.1. NGL recovery section
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Operating condition and components of the NGL recovery section of DMR process are same as
295
the MFC.
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2.4.2. Liquefaction unit
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Column gas product is pressurized via a compressor to 63 bar. Next, stream 113 follows to E-2A
298
and E-2B heat exchangers respectively. In fact this stream is cooled in two steps, -128 ºC and -
299
161 ºC respectively. Like the previous process, outlet stream from the cooling section, stream
300
119, throttles via a J-T valve and then enters the D-1 flash drum. LNG product leaves the plant as
301
bottom product of the D-1.
302
2.4.2.1.Refrigerant system
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DMR is an efficient and reliable natural gas liquefaction process. In mixed refrigerant cycles
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closer composite curves can be achieved but increasing number of the cycles increases capital
305
costs and decreases the required power. Dual mixed refrigerant systems use mixed refrigerants in
306
two different cycles. They use mixed refrigerants in optimized number of the cycles. In DMR,
307
energy loss is more than the MFC arrangement, but high total mechanical efficiency
308
compensates low thermodynamic efficiency. The hottest MR cycle provides the required cold
309
utility for E-1A and E1-B heat exchangers. Also, a portion of the required refrigeration for
310
liquefaction is provided by this cycle. Second cycle is used for liquefaction and subcooling
311
which provides the required cold utility in E-1A and E1-B heat exchangers (Fig.4.). Overall
312
composite curves of the DMR process is shown in Fig.5.
313 314
Fig.4. Process flow diagram of the DMR configuration
315
Fig.5. Overall composite curves of the DMR configuration
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Cycle 200 (precooling cycle)
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Stream 200 is composed of ethane, propane or ethylene. Table 3 presents composition of the
319
MR. As illustrated in Fig.4, stream 200 is precooled via E-1A heat exchanger to -5ºC. Precooled
320
stream is divided to two portions. Stream 202 (About 63 percent) returns to E-1A via a J-T valve.
321
Another portion, stream 205, follows to E-1B heat exchanger and is cooled to -33ºC, and then its
322
pressure is decreased to 300kPa via a J-T valve. Expanded stream supplies the required cold
323
utility for E-1B. Outlet refrigerant from E-1B, stream 208, is pressurized to 760 kPa via C-200A
324
compressor. Next hot refrigerants, streams 204 and 208, follow to a mixer and pressurized to
325
1920 kPa via C-200B compressor. Then outlet stream, 211, is cooled by AC-200 air cooler.
326
Cycle 300 (Liquefaction cycle)
327
Table 3illustrate composition of the mixed refrigerant. Outlet stream from AC-300A is at 4860
328
kPa and 35ºC. This steam is cooled in two steps by E-1A and E-1B heat exchangers respectively.
329
Refrigerant temperature reaches to -33.15 ºC after passing through precooling section. Next
330
stream 302 follows to the D-300 drum. Bottom and top product of D-300 enter E-2 in two
331
different sides and cooled to about -128ºC. Gas outlet, stream 307, enters the E-3 heat exchanger
332
and is cooled to -160ºC, then it is expanded to 300 kPa via V-300 expansion valve and returns to
333
E-3. Expanded stream supplies the required refrigeration in E-3. Outlet refrigerant from this
334
exchanger, stream 310, is cold yet. This stream combines with bottom outlet of D-300 that
335
cooled and expanded via E-2 and V-301 respectively. Then stream 311enters E-2 and supplies a
336
part of the required cold utility. After E-2, refrigerant temperature is increased to -43ºC. Next
337
stream 312 is pressurized in two steps by compressors C-300A and C-300B to 4860 kPa.
338
2.5. Propane precooled refrigerant system 14 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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339
C3-MR refrigeration system is a conventional and reliable liquefaction process in LNG
340
industries [1, 36]. Pure propane refrigeration system pre chills natural gas for feeding to NGL
341
recovery section. Fig.6 presents C3-MR process configuration and Fig.7 shows overall
342
composite curves of the system.
343
Fig.6. Process flow diagram of the C3-MR process
344 345
2.5.1. NGL recovery section
346
NGL recovery section is same as the previous ones. Pretreated gas is fed to the plant in the same
347
condition and quantity.
348
2.5.2.
Precooling cycle
349
Inlet stream is pre cooled by three stage pure propane refrigerant cycle. Pure propane at 35 ºC
350
and 1430 kPa is expanded and cooled via V-1 valve to 500 kPa. Next, stream 201 follows to D-1
351
drum. Liquid product of D-1 is divided to two portions. Stream 204, 48 percent of the bottom
352
outlet of D-1, supplies the required cold utility of E-1A heat exchanger. Another portion, stream
353
205, is expanded to 200 kPa and then is divided to two portions. Stream 209, about 60 percent of
354
liquid product of D-3, enters E-1B heat exchanger. Another portion supplies the required cold
355
utility of of pre cooling section at 100 kPa. Three single stage compressors supply the required
356
compression in the cycle.
357
2.5.3. MR Cycle
358
Mixed refrigerant is used for liquefaction and sub cooling the natural gas. Composition of the
359
refrigerants is illustrated in Table 4. Stream 300 enters precooling section at 35 ºC and 4900 kPa. 15 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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360
Refrigerant is cooled in three steps to 4,-17,-34 ºC in heat exchangers E-1A, E-1B and E-1C
361
respectively. Outlet mixed refrigerant from E-1C follows to D-4 drum. Outlet liquid from D-4,
362
stream 305, is cooled to -128 ºC. Stream 304, D-4 gas product, is cooled to -128 ºC via E-2A
363
heat exchanger. Next it is throttled to 300 kPa via V-4. Next, cooled and condensed stream,
364
stream 307, supplies the required refrigeration for sub cooling the pressurized LNG. Stream 307
365
passes through the E-2B heat exchanger and is cooled to -161 ºC. Refrigerant returns to E-2B via
366
V-5 economizer valve. Refrigerant leaves E-2B at -139 ºC and 300 kPa. This stream is able to
367
supply a portion of the required duty of E-2A. Next, stream 313 and outlet stream from V-4
368
follows to a mixer and supply the required cold utility of E-2A. Mixed refrigerant is pressurized
369
in three steps by C-300A and C-300B compressors.
370 371
Fig.7. Composite curves of the C3-MR process. 2.5.4. Liquefaction section
372
Compressed and lean gas, stream 117, enters E-2A and E-2B heat exchangers and is cooled to
373
-128 and -162 ºC respectively. Sub cooled and pressurized LNG is expanded to atmospheric
374
pressure via V-104 valve. LNG becomes two phase after passing through a throttling valve.
375
Finally LNG leaves the D-101 drum as a liquid product of the process. Table 4 shows main
376
streams condition and composition.
377 378
Table 4. C3-MR configuration main streams data 3. Process analysis
379
Power consumption per liquid product and NGL recovery are main factors which should be
380
considered through the analysis of such processes. NGL recovery level depends on the supplied
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381
refrigeration in the process and it can be increased with increasing the refrigeration load.
382
However increasing the refrigeration load increases the required power in the process. Feed
383
composition is another important factor which can affect the power consumption.
384 385
3.1. NG to LNG thermodynamic trajectory
386
In NGL recovery process natural gas is cooled before following to the fractionation column. In
387
this step a portion of the cooled gas which contains heavy hydrocarbons is separated in flash
388
drum. However gas and liquid products of the cold separator in the process are sent to the
389
demethanizer column for more separation. Output lean gas from NGL recovery process is
390
subcooled and converted to LNG. Fig. 8 shows thermodynamic trajectory of the NG to LNG in
391
P-T diagram.
392
Fig.8.NG to LNG thermodynamic trajectory
393 394
3.2.Composite Curves Analysis
395
Overall composite curves present temperature driving force in the heat transfer devices of the
396
process. Required cold and hot utilities in the process are detectable in the composite curves.
397
Exergy is defined as amount of energy that can be converted to work in reversible process to(in)
398
standard condition [37]. The quality of energy is measured by exergy. Driving force of the heat
399
transfer is temperature difference. In design step, balance between deriving force and minimum
400
temperature approach must be considered. In this study minimum temperature approach was
401
supposed to be 2 ºC. Closer composite curves mean closer Tc and Th and lower LMTD [26]. 17 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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402
Table 5 presents minimum temperature approach and LMTD of each heat exchanger in the
403
processes.
404 405
Table 5. LMTD and minimum temperature approach of the heat exchangers
406 407
Fig.3 illustrates composite curves of the MFC process. Mixed refrigerant and three cycles result
408
close composite curves. As a result, MFC configuration has the highest efficiency between the
409
introduced processes. MFC has good efficiency, but three cycles need more equipment and more
410
capital cost. Dual mixed refrigerant was developed for elimination a cycle and using advantages
411
of mixed refrigerants. Each interval in Fig. 4 shows one heat exchanger. Using MR refrigerant
412
and two cycles results such composite curves. Fig.7. shows composite curves of C3MR process.
413
Three stage propane pre cooled cycle can be detected in the cold composite curve, based on its
414
stair way style. As expected, C3-MR process has the lowest efficiency between the introduced
415
processes. Reliability and simple operation of this configuration are two of the most important
416
advantages. However its efficiency is lower than the DMR and MFC configurations.
417 418
3.3. Effect of the integration on the utility consumption and composite curves
419
Changing the side streams mass flow rate affect the total heat capacity (∑ṁCP) of the cold
420
composite curves. So when flow rate of the side streams decreases temperature of the outlet
421
streams increases and accordingly the cold composite goes up and a temperature cross may be
422
occurred. So if mass flow rate of the side streams is decreased cold composite nears hot
423
composite. Effect of the side streams operating condition on the style of the composite curves in 18 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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424
MFC configuration heat exchangers (E-1A and E-1B) is illustrated in Fig. 9. Left side composite
425
curve shows effect of the side 1R temperature on the position of the cold composite. Right side
426
diagram presents cold composite curve variations when flow rate of the sides 2R and 3R are
427
reduced up to 20% and their temperature is decreased up to 10 ˚C (heat exchanger outlet)
428
towards the initial value. In the integrated configurations changing the operating condition of the
429
effective streams cause different parts of the processes to be affected. Reducing the side streams
430
outlet temperature decreases a portion of the cold load which is consumed in the heat
431
exchangers. Accordingly they return to the tower in a lower temperature. Such changing reduces
432
the striping section temperature and affect the demethanizer performance.
433
extracted refrigeration load from the side streams decreases the cycles load should be increased
434
to compensate it.
Also when the
435
Fig.9. Effect of the side streams operating condition on the style of the composite curves
436
NGL section supplies a portion of the required cold utility in the precooling section. However
437
demethanizer tower needs cold utility in low temperature for separation of the C2+. As described
438
a part of the required cold utility is supplied by about 37% of the gas outlet from the cold
439
separator (stream 105 in MFC configuration). This stream returns to the top section of the
440
column as recycle stream. Flow rate and temperature of the recycle stream are main parameters
441
for the ethane recovery level. In the liquefaction multi stream heat exchanger, recycle stream is a
442
hot stream that is cooled by refrigeration system. Increasing the recycle stream flow rate
443
increases the total specific heat and consequently reduces slope of the hot composite curve as
444
illustrated in Fig. 10. Effect of the recycle flow rate is investigated in MFC configuration (Fig.
445
10). In such condition refrigerant flow rate must be increased to avoid the temperature cross in
446
the heat exchanger. 19 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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447 448
Fig. 10. Effect of the recycle flow rate on the hot composite curves style 3.4. Refrigeration systems analysis
449
T-S and P-H diagrams provide valuable information about the thermal design of the refrigeration
450
cycles. Fig.11 illustrates T-S and P-H diagrams of the C3-MR process refrigeration cycles. Three
451
compression steps can be detected in the P-H diagram of the pure propane refrigerant cycle.
452
Three pressure level of the methane pre cooling cycle decreases the required power [38].
453
Fig.11. P-H and T-S diagrams of the C3-MR configuration
454
Numbers in the figures refer to the name of the streams in the specified configurations. P-H and
455
T-S diagram of DMR configuration refrigeration cycles is shown in Fig. 12.
456
Fig.12.T-S and P-H diagrams of the DMR configuration
457
The hottest cycle in MFC and DMR configurations is two pressure level refrigeration system.
458
Like the precooling section in C3-MR configuration, the required power decreases by using two
459
pressure levels towards the one stage system. T-S and P-H diagrams of MFC configuration are
460
illustrated in Fig. 13. The middle and liquefaction cycles are the simplest cycles that applied in
461
the integrated processes.
462
Fig. 13. T-S and P-H diagrams of the MFC configuration
463 464
T-S diagram is a common and helpful tool for analysis of the refrigeration systems. Area of the
465
T-S diagram shows the required work for cooling. So based on this concept multi stage
466
refrigeration systems need less work. Three stage propane refrigeration cycle and two or three
467
cycle system consume lower energy. Another important factor which can be used for 20 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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468
refrigeration cycle analysis is coefficient of performance (COP). Table 6 shows COP of all
469
cycles and total COP of liquefaction systems. COP is defined as ratio of the transferred heat from
470
the cold source to the required power. High COP means the required power for providing certain
471
refrigeration is low. MFC configuration cycles have the best COP between the other ones
472
because three independent mixed refrigerant liquefaction systems able to transfer heat closer to
473
the reversible condition. As expected C3-MR has the lowest COP. Three stage propane
474
precooling cycle generate entropy more than the other cycles as described in the composite
475
curves analysis.
476
Table 6. COP of the refrigeration cycles
477 478
3.5. Feed composition effect
479
Feed composition is one of the most important factors which can affect the NGL recovery level
480
and economic evaluations. Heavier feed needs more refrigeration load, larger heat exchangers
481
and higher capital and operating cost for a given NGL recovery level. In the other hand leaner
482
gases need more severe condition for high ethane recovery level [4]. Mehrpooya et al [1] studied
483
feed composition effect on the ethane recovery and power consumption in a novel ethane
484
recovery process. Table 7 shows effect of the feed composition on specific power of the process
485
configurations.
486
Table 7. Specific power versus methane content of the feed
487
All constrains such as temperature approach and % 90+ ethane recovery are met. As can be seen
488
total specific power increases with methane content. Heavier feeds need more cooling in the
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489
precooling refrigeration cycles and produce fewer LNG than the feeds with high methane
490
content. Low methane content feeds send leaner gas to the liquefaction section and accordingly
491
LNG section needs lower cooling duty, while precooling section consumes higher cooling duty.
492
It means lower portion of the feed is cooled to very low temperatures and total power
493
consumption decreases. But lighter feeds produce more LNG and consequently denominator of
494
the specific power index increases. But total power consumption increases with a higher rate.
495
Finally effects of these two factors decrease the specific power and increase the total specific
496
power.
497
3.6. Effect of the cold recycle specifications on the ethane recovery and specific power
498
A portion of the precooled natural gas is liquefied after precooling as illustrated in Figures 1,
499
3&5. Separated and precooled gas after D-2 (Figures 1&3) and D-100 (Fig.6.) is divided to two
500
parts. In a specified condition, %40 of the discharged gas from the pre separation drum (D-2 and
501
D-100) is cooled and follows to top tray of the NGL recovery column, T-100. Cold recycle flow
502
rate is a main factor for NGL recovery level. Recycle stream temperature is another important
503
design factor. It is clear that, higher amount and colder recycle result higher NGL recovery.
504
Table 8 shows effect of the cold recycle stream temperature on the ethane extraction and specific
505
power. For increasing the NGL recovery recycle stream temperature and flow rate should be
506
decreased and increased respectively. As shown in Table 9 increasing the recycle ratio increases
507
the hydrocarbon recovery. But a little decrease in the ethane recovery is observed by increasing
508
the reflux ratio after the maximum recovery. Increasing the reflux ratio causes temperature of the
509
rectifying section in the tower decreases and a little decrease in α C1/C2 in constant pressure is the
510
reason of such behavior. So, there is an optimum reflux ratio for achieving 90%+ ethane
511
recovery [5]. 22 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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512
Higher flow rate and cooler recycle stream need more cold utility and more power consumption
513
in the refrigeration cycles. As illustrated in Tables 8&9, specific power (kWh/ kg LNG)
514
increases by NGL recovery level.
515 516
Table 8. Effect of the recycle stream temperature on the ethane recovery and specific power at
517
the constant flow rate (40% of the gas product from D-2 and D-100)
518
Table 9. Effect of the recycle ratio at constant temperature (-88ºC) on the ethane recovery and
519
specific power
520 521
4. Numerical implementation
522
Graphical user interface (GUI) simulators with wide range of data bank are perfect choice for
523
modeling and solve the chemical processes [7]. Selection of Equations of state (EOS) is another
524
important factor which can affect the results significantly. There are many EOSs in data bank of
525
the chemical process simulators like HYSYS and Aspen Plus. Recommended EOS for natural
526
gas cryogenic processes is PR (Peng Robinson) and modified PR or PRSV EOS [8, 39]. Previous
527
studies in the related areas confirm using PR or PRSV for natural gas liquefaction [4, 8]. Also
528
using HYSYS and Aspen simulator is prevalent for simulation of LNG and NGL processes [40,
529
41].
530
5. Energy consumption analysis
531
In this study integrated NGL/LNG processes are introduced. Energy efficiency of these
532
processes is high and they can recover C2+ higher than 90%. Specific power and ethane recovery 23 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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533
are about 0.36-0.4 kWhr/Kg LNG and 92% respectively. Also in design step it was tried to
534
decrease the complexity of the configurations as simple as possible. Main streams mass flow rate
535
and main equipment power consumption are presented in Table 10. There are a few data about
536
this type of processes. Cuellar at al. [16, 23, 42] introduced an integrated process. The results
537
showed that maximum specific power and ethane recovery were 0.335 kWhr/Kg LNG and 87.5
538
% respectively. Nonetheless they did not disclose the process configurations and feed
539
composition. Introduced processes in this study shows the specific power is between 0.35-0.38
540
kW-hr/kg LNG and ethane recovery is upper than 92 %. The newest integrated process in this
541
area is introduced by Vatani et al [25]. They worked on a NGL based process configurations.
542
Table 11 presents a comparison between introduced and previous processes. Simpler process
543
configuration needs simpler control system and less capital cost. Also increasing the efficiency
544
of the processes reduces the energy consumption and operating costs. Ethane recovery is a
545
function of the column temperature and reflux ratio.
546
Table 10. Main equipment power consumption and specific power
547
Some devices such as compressor and multi stream heat exchangers can be removed by
548
integration. Also it is expected that heat integration decreases the required cold and hot utility.
549
Required hot utility can be covered by integration between the tower and precooling cycle.
550
Reported specific power for such processes is 0.5 to 0.7 kWhr/kgLNG. Multi stage compressors
551
can be replaced with singe stage compressors in each refrigeration cycle. Table 11 compares
552
processes with this assumption.
553
Table 11. Comparison between the introduced configurations and other processes.
554 24 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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555
Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
6. Exergy analysis
556
Exergy is the maximum attainable useful work in a process that brings the system into the
557
reference state [43, 44]. By exergy analysis method, second law efficiency and amount of the lost
558
work can be calculated for a system. [37]. Exergy can be used for design and performance
559
evaluation of the chemical processes [45, 46].
560
Exergy balance and irreversibility: considering the control volume at the steady state condition
561
the exergy balance can be expressed as
562
𝐸𝑥𝑖 + 𝐸𝑥𝑄𝑖 = 𝐸𝑥𝑜 + 𝐸𝑥𝑄𝑜 + 𝑊𝑠ℎ + 𝐼
563
(2)
Where
564
Exi and Exo are exergy flow of inlet and outlet material streams respectively.
565
ExQi and ExQo are exergy flow of inlet and outlet energy streams respectively.
566
Wsh is shaft work and I represent irreversibility.
567
6.1. Exergy efficiency
568
Exergy efficiency can be calculated by two different methods: input-output and fuel-product.
569
Input – output method is defined by Eq.3 . But there are various relations for calculation of
570
exergetic efficiency by fuel-produced method [6, 47].
571
𝜂=
572
Table 12 demonstrates the exergetic efficiency definitions for main components of the processes.
573
Second law analysis of the tower is done by exergy balance around it.
∑ 𝐸𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑜𝑢𝑡 ∑ 𝐸𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑖𝑛
=1−
∑ 𝐸𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑦𝑒𝑑
(3)
∑ 𝐸𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑖𝑛
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574
Table 12. Definitions for exergetic efficiency of the process components
575
Fuel – product method is used for calculation of the exergy efficiency of the processes. Results
576
indicate the exergy efficiency of the under consideration processes is acceptable. Table 13 shows
577
the overall exergy analysis results for the processes and their cycles.
578
Table 13. Exergy efficiency of the processes and their cycles
579 580
Table 14 presents exergy distraction and exergy efficiency of the main components such as
581
compressors, multi stream heat exchangers, air cooler and expansion valves. The greatest
582
distraction is related to the compressors and multi stream heat exchangers. But J-T valves have
583
the least exergy efficiency because expansion process is inherently irreversible. Exergy
584
efficiency of the heat exchangers increases by operating temperature. The reason is that entropy
585
generation at lower temperatures for a constant heat transfer rate is higher (Eq.4 and Eq.5).
586
𝑆𝑔𝑒𝑛 = ∑
587
𝐸𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑦𝑒𝑑 = 𝑇0 𝑆𝑔𝑒𝑛
588
𝑄𝑖
(4)
𝑇𝑖
(5)
A part of the exergy distraction in a component can be removed by increasing the components
589
performance. Also exergy distraction of the process can be decreased by some of the
590
modification procedures. For example replacement of the throttling valves with expanders can
591
recover some exergy losses as a shaft work.
592
Table 14. Results of exergetic efficiency of the processes components.
593 594
7. Conclusion 26 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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595
Three reliable and efficient novel process configurations for co-production of LNG and NGL are
596
introduced and analyzed. Ethane recovery in all of them is above 90%. Conventional
597
refrigeration systems like MFC, DMR and C3-MR are used for supplying the required
598
refrigeration. Specific power of the processes for typical feed gases is lower than the 0.4
599
kWhr/kgLNG. In order to discuss about the advantages of the introduced processes their
600
performance should be compared with the similar cases. Specific power, ethane recovery,
601
number of stages and process components are the parameters which can be considered. But
602
specific power and ethane recovery depend on the feed composition. So new processes outputs
603
were checked with the feed condition of the other similar cases and the results show that their
604
performance is considerably better. Simple design and using reliable configuration in refrigerant
605
systems and NGL recovery section are other advantages of these processes.
606 607 608
References:
609 610 611 612 613 614 615 616 617 618 619 620 621 622 623
[1] Barclay, M. and N. Denton, Selecting offshore LNG processes, 2005, LNG Journal. [2] Arthur J. Kidnay, W.R.P., Fundamentals of Natural Gas Processing2006: Taylor and Francis Group, LLC. [3] Doug Elliot, W.R.Q., Shawn Huang,Jong Juh (Roger) Chen,R. J. Lee,Jame Yao,Ying (Irene) Zhang, BENEFITS OF INTEGRATING NGL EXTRACTION AND LNG LIQUEFACTION TECHNOLOGY, in AICHE2005. [4] Mehrpooya, M., A. Vatani, and S.M. Ali Mousavian, Introducing a novel integrated NGL recovery process configuration (with a self-refrigeration system (open–closed cycle)) with minimum energy requirement. Chemical Engineering and Processing: Process Intensification, 2010. 49(4): p. 376-388. [5] ENGINEERING DATA BOOK (GPSA). Vol. 1,2. 2004. [6] Tirandazi, B., et al., Exergy analysis of C2+ recovery plants refrigeration cycles. Chemical Engineering Research and Design, 2011. 89(6): p. 676-689. [7] Mehrpooya, M., A. Jarrahian, and M.R. Pishvaie, Simulation and exergy-method analysis of an industrial refrigeration cycle used in NGL recovery units. International Journal of Energy Research, 2006. 30(15): p. 1336-1351.
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[8] Mehrpooya, M., F. Gharagheizi, and A. Vatani, Thermoeconomic analysis of a large industrial propane refrigeration cycle used in NGL recovery plant. International Journal of Energy Research, 2009. 33(11): p. 960-977. [9] Mehrpooya, M., A. Vatani, and S.M.A. Mousavian, Optimum design of integrated liquid recovery plants by variable population size genetic algorithm. The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, 2010. 88(6): p. 1054-1064. [10] Lily Bai, R.C., Jame Yao, Douglas Elliot, RETROFIT FOR NGL RECOVERY PERFORMANCE USING A NOVEL STRIPPING GAS REFRIGERATION SCHEME, in IPSI LLC2006: Houston, Texas U.S.A. [11] Mehrpooya, M., F. Gharagheizi, and A. Vatani, An Optimization of Capital and Operating Alternatives in a NGL Recovery Unit. Chemical Engineering & Technology, 2006. 29(12): p. 14691480. [12] Mehrpooya, M.V., A., System and method for recovering natural gas liquids with outo refrigeration system, 2013. [13] Finn A.J, J.G.L.T.T.R., developments in natural gas liquefaction. Hydrocarbon Processing, 1999: p. 4759. [14] Shukri, T., LNG technology selection, 2004: HYDROCARBON ENGINEERING. [15] Vatani, A., M. Mehrpooya, and A. Palizdar, Advanced exergetic analysis of five natural gas liquefaction processes. Energy Conversion and Management, 2014. 78: p. 720-737. [16] Cuellar, K.T., et al., CO-PRODUCING LNG FROM CRYOGENIC NGL RECOVERY PLANTS, in 81st Annual Convention of the Gas Processors Association2002. [17] Brostow, A.A. and M.J. Roberts, Integrated NGL Recovery In the Production Of Liquefied Natural Gas, 2013, Google Patents. [18] I.Ransharger, W., Intermediate pressure LNG refluxed NGL revovery process, 2008, Google Patent [19] Wesley Qualls, W.L.R., Shawa S.Huang, Jame Yao, Doug Elliot, Jong Juh Chen, Rong-Jwyn Lee, LNG facility with integrated NGL extraction technology for enhanced NGL recovery and production flexibility, 2007, ConocoPhilips Company, Google Patent [20] Mark Julian Robert, A.A.B., Integrated NGL Recovery And Liquefied Natural Gas, 2010, Google Patent [21] Mark Julian Robert, H.C.R., Integrated high pressure NGL recovery in the Production of Liquefied Natural Gas 2003, Google Patent [22] Adam Adrian Brostow, M.J.R., Integrated NGL recovery in the production of liquafaction natural gas, 2008, Google Patent. [23] John D. Wilkinson, H.M.H., Kyle T.Cuellar, Natural Gas Liquefaction, 2007, Ortloff Engineering Ltd. [24] John D. Wilkinson, J.T.L., Hank M. Hudson, Kyle T.Cuellar, Natural Gas Liquefaction, 2005, ElkCorp. [25] Vatani, A., M. Mehrpooya, and B. Tirandazi, A novel process configuration for co-production of NGL and LNG with low energy requirement. Chemical Engineering and Processing: Process Intensification, 2012. [26] Mehrpooya, M., A. Vatani, and S.M.A. Moosavian, Introducing a new parameter for evaluating the degree of integration in cryogenic liquid recovery processes. Chemical Engineering and Processing: Process Intensification, 2011. 50(9): p. 916-930. [27] Mohammad Hosseini, Mehdi Mehrpoya, Ali vatani, Integrated processes for co-generation LNG and NGL, 2013: Iran. [28] Smith, R., Chemical Process Design and Integration 2 nd ed2005: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [29] Khan, M.S., et al., Energy saving opportunities in integrated NGL/LNG schemes exploiting: Thermalcoupling common-utilities and process knowledge. Chemical Engineering and Processing: Process Intensification, 2014. 82: p. 54-64.
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[30] Luis Castillo, R.N., Camilo González, Carlos A. Dorao, Alfredo Viloria, TECHNOLOGY SELECTION FOR LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG) ON BASELOAD PLANTS, in International Gas Convention2010: Venezuela. [31] Paul Bosma, R.K.N., Liquefaction Technology; Developments through History, in 1st Annual Gas Processing Symposium2009. [32] Justin Bukowski, Y.N.L., . Stephen Boccella, Leo Kowalski, INNOVATIONS IN NATURAL GAS LIQUEFACTION TECHNOLOGY FOR FUTURE LNG PLANTS AND FLOATING LNG FACILITIES, in International Gas Union Research Conference2011. [33] He, T. and Y. Ju, Design and Optimization of a Novel Mixed Refrigerant Cycle Integrated with NGL Recovery Process for Small-Scale LNG Plant. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 2014. 53(13): p. 5545-5553. [34] Rivera, V., A. Aduku, and O. Harris, Evaluation of LNG Technologies, 2008. [35] Mark Pillarella, Y.-N.L., Joseph Petrowsk, THE C3MR LIQUEFACTION CYCLE: VERSATILITY FOR A FAST GROWING, EVER CHANGING THE C3MR LIQUEFACTION CYCLE: VERSATILITY FOR A FAST GROWING, EVER CHANGING LNG INDUSTRY LNG INDUSTRY, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
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[36] Alabdulkarem, A., et al., Optimization of propane pre-cooled mixed refrigerant LNG plant. Applied Thermal Engineering, 2011. 31(6-7): p. 1091-1098. [37] Kotas, T.J., The Exergy Method of Thermal Plant Analysis1995: KRIEGER PUBUSHINO COMPANY MALABAR, FLORIDA. [38] Yunus A. Çengel, M.A.B., Thermodynamics. 7 ed2006: McGraw-Hil. [39] Hyprotech HYSYS v3.2, User Guide, Aspen Technology Inc., 2003,. [40] Mortazavi, A., et al., Performance enhancement of propane pre-cooled mixed refrigerant LNG plant. Applied Energy, 2012. 93: p. 125-131. [41] Aspelund, A., et al., An optimization-simulation model for a simple LNG process. Computers & Chemical Engineering, 2010. 34(10): p. 1606-1617. [42] Martinez, T.L., et al., Liquefied natural gas and hydrocarbon gas processing, 2013, Google Patents. [43] Chang, H.-M., H.S. Lim, and K.H. Choe, Effect of multi-stream heat exchanger on performance of natural gas liquefaction with mixed refrigerant. Cryogenics, 2012. 52(12): p. 642-647. [44] Ali Vatani, M.Mehrpooya., Ali Palizdar, Energy and exergy analyses of five conventional liquefied natural gas processes. International Journal of Energy Research, 2014. doi: 10.1002/er.3193. [45] Gharagheizi, F. and M. Mehrpooya, Prediction of standard chemical exergy by a three descriptors QSPR model. Energy Conversion and Management, 2007. 48(9): p. 2453-2460. [46] Meratizaman, M., et al., Energy and exergy analyses of urban waste incineration cycle coupled with a cycle of changing LNG to pipeline gas. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 2010. 2(5): p. 217-221. [47] Marmolejo-Correa, D. and T. Gundersen, A comparison of exergy efficiency definitions with focus on low temperature processes. Energy, 2012. 44(1): p. 477-489. [48]J.D. Seader , E.J.H., Seperation Process Principles ed. s. edition1998: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [49]Brostow, A.A. and M.J. Roberts, Integrated ngl recovery and liquefied natural gas production, 2006, Google Patents. [50]Curt, G. and J. Mak, Configurations and methods of integrated ngl recovery and lng liquefaction, 2007, Google Patents. [51] Mak, J. and C. Graham, Configurations and methods of integrated ngl recovery and lng liquefaction, 2013, Google Patents. [52] Smith, E.M., Advances in thermal design of heat exchangers2005: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
715 716
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Table caption:
Table 1. Demethanizer tower data sheet. Table 2. MFC configuration main streams data Table 3. DMR configuration main streams data Table 4. C3-MR configuration main streams data Table 5. LMTD and minimum temperature of the heat exchangers Table 6. COP of the refrigeration cycles Table 7. Specific power versus methane content of the feed Table 8. Effect of the recycle temperature at constant flow (40% of gas outlet from D-2 and D-100) Table 9. Effect of the recycle ratio on the gas outlet from D-2 and D-100 at constant temperature (-88ºC) Table 10. Main equipment power consumption and specific power Table 11. Comparison between the introduced configurations and other processes. Table 12. Definitions for exergetic efficiency of the process components Table 13. Exergy efficiency of the processes Table 14. Results of the exergetic efficiency of the processes components.
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Figure caption:
Fig.1. LNG refrigeration systems classification Fig.2. Process flow diagram of the MFC configuration Fig.3. Composite curve of the MFC configuration Fig.4. Process flow diagram of the DMR configuration Fig.5. Composite curve of the DMR configuration Fig.6. Process flow diagram of the C3-MR configuration Fig.7. Composite curves of the C3-MR configuration Fig.8. NG to LNG thermodynamic trajectory
Fig.9. Effect of side streams on the MFC composite curve Fig. 10. Effect of recycle flow rate on the hot composite curve Fig.11. P-H and T-S diagrams of the DMR configuration Fig.12.T-S and P-H diagrams of the C3-MR configuration Fig. 13. T-S and P-H diagrams of the MFC configuration
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Table 1. Typical demethanizer tower data Inlet streams Name Utility Cold reflux Expanded Gas Condensed liquids Condensed cold liquid Side Stream Side Stream Side Stream Lean Gas NGL Side Stream Side Stream Side Stream
MFC
DMR
115 109 117
115 109 117
110
110
115
14628
2500
-64
Side 1R Side 2R Side 3R
Side 1R Side 2R Side 3R
Side 1R Side 2R Side 3R
87000 83865 75020
2500 2500 2500
35 0 0
18 30 27 19
-97 28.5 14 -11 -48
1 30 29 26 18
112 NGL Side 1 Side 2 Side 3
112 NGL Side 1 Side 2 Side 3
Rate (kg/h) 120359 180538 34131
Specification Pressure Temperaturen (kPa) (˚C) 2500 -97 2600 -65 2550 -48
C3MR 113 108 111
Outlet streams 116 253281 NGL 96381 Side 1 87000 Side 2 83865 Side 3 75020
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2500 2500 2500 2500 2500
Tray Number 1 9 14
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Composition 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 operation 22 condition 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
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Table 2. MFC configuration main streams data Feed gas
Hot MR
Middle MR
Cold MR
NGL
NG to liquefaction
LNG
methane
0.83
0.00
0.14
0.40
0.01
0.99
0.99
ethane
0.07
0.20
0.35
0.00
0.39
0.01
0.01
propane
0.05
0.64
0.21
0.00
0.32
0.00
0.00
n-butane
0.00
0.16
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
ethylene
0.00
0.00
0.30
0.42
0.00
0.00
0.00
nitrogen
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.18
0.00
0.01
0.00
Dioxide carbon
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.00
C4+
0.04
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.28
0.00
0.00
temperature
37.00
36.00
35.00
35.00
28.13
-37.18
-162.78
pressure molar flow (kmole/hr)
6309.00
1700.00
2790.00
2900.00
2500.00
6300.00
101.30
18000.00
24000.00
18500.00
12000.00
2882.01
15118.87
14843.23
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Table 3. DMR configuration main streams data
composition
operation condition
Feed gas
Hot MR
Middle MR
NGL
NG to liquefaction
LNG
methane
0.83
0.00
0.42
0.01
0.99
0.99
ethane
0.07
0.25
0.30
0.39
0.01
0.01
propane
0.05
0.64
0.21
0.32
0.00
0.00
n-butane
0.00
0.11
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
ethylene
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
nitrogen Dioxide carbon C4+
0.01
0.00
0.07
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.04
0.00
0.00
0.27
0.00
0.00
temperature
37.00
35.00
35.00
28.05
-37.31
-162.54
pressure
6309.00
4860.00
4860.00
2500.00
6300.00
101.32
molar flow (kmole/hr)
18000.00
25000.00
25000.00
2884.59
15114.94
14622.64
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Table 4. C3-MR configuration main streams data
composition
operation condition
Feed gas
C3-MR
Middle MR
NGL
NG to liquefaction
LNG
methane
0.83
0.00
0.42
0.01
0.99
0.99
ethane
0.07
0.00
0.30
0.39
0.01
0.01
propane
0.05
1.00
0.21
0.32
0.00
0.00
n-butane
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
nitrogen
0.00
0.00
0.07
0.00
0.01
0.00
Dioxide carbon
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.00
C4+
0.04
0.00
0.00
0.27
0.00
0.00
temperature
37.00
35.00
35.00
27.23
-37.35
-162.86
pressure
6309.00
1430.00
4900.00
2500.00
6300.00
100.00
molar flow (kmole/hr)
18000.00
25500.00
25000.00
2892.45
15108.41
14773.58
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Table 5. LMTD and minimum temperature approach of the heat exchangers Process
C3-MR
DMR
MFC
Heat exchanger name
E-1A
E-1B
E-1C
E-2A
E-2B
E-1A
E-1B
E-2
E-3
E-1A
LMTD (⁰C) Min. Approach (⁰C)
9.3 2
15.4 4
14.6 3
4.7 2
5.6 3.3
5.4 2
3.7 2
4.8 2.1
6.8 4.5
4.9 2
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E-1B E-2
E-3
5.2 2.1
3.6 2
4.7 2.2
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Table 6. COP of the refrigeration cycles Process MFC DMR C3-MR
Cycle
COP
200 300 400 200 300 C3 MR
5.15 2.49 2.31 5.20 1.72 3.03 1.98
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Total COP 3.34 2.85 2.34
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Table 7. Specific power versus methane content of the feed MFC configuration MC*
S.P**
T.S.P***
DMR configuration
C3-MR configuration
S.P
T.S.P
S.P
T.S.P
0.162 0.184 0.214 0.231 0.251
0.389 0.384 0.377 0.376 0.375
0.167 0.195 0.220 0.242 0.264
0.75 0.361 0.157 0.375 0.8 0.353 0.178 0.370 0.85 0.348 0.204 0.365 0.88 0.345 0.221 0.363 0.9 0.344 0.235 0.361 * Methane Content ** Specific Power (kWh/kg LNG) ***Total Specific Power (kWh/kg produced liquids)
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Table 8. Effect of recycle temperature at constant flow rate (40% of gas outlet from D-2 and D-100) DMR configuration
MFC configuration Temperature (⁰C) -60 -70 -80 -88
E.R* 57 77 88 91
S.P** 33.95 34.7 35.03 35.22
E.R 59.5 78.9 90.6 92.1
S.P 34.4 35.4 36.0 36.8
*ethane recovery (percent) **specific power (kW h/kg LNG)*100 (without air coolers power consumption)
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C3-MR configuration E.R 60.53 79.8 91.0 92.4
S.P 34.6 36.1 37.4 38.1
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Table 9. Effect of recycle ratio on the gas outlet from D-2 and D-100 at constant temperature (-88ºC) MFC configuration recycle ratio 0.3 0.35 0.4 0.45 0.5
E.R* 76.7 86.8 92.3 92.3 92.3
S.P** 34.4 34.7 35.3 35.7 36.2
DMR configuration E.R 82.3 90.3 92.1 92.4 92.1
S.P 35.5 36.1 36.7 37.3 37.8
*ethane recovery (percent) **specific power (kW h/kg LNG)*100
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C3-MR configuration E.R 82.4 91.2 92.4 92.2 92.3
S.P 36.9 37.5 38.1 38.3 38.7
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Table 10. Main equipment power consumption and specific power Configuration
MFC Component Name
C3-MR
Power(kW)*
Compressors
C-100
Air Coolers
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
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DMR
Component Name
Power(kW)*
Component Name
Power(kW)*
C-100
5834.73
C-100
5839.84
6065.05
C-300A
16812.07
C-300A
31189.65
C-300
59800.44
C-300B
1664.72
C-300B
15902.8
C-200A
6202.73
C-200A
24093.41
C-300C
10082.51
C-200B
17389.5
C-200B
10203.73
C-200A
2408.9
TE-100
2126.28
C-400A
7147.9
C-200B
7379.48
C-400B
21974.9
C-200C
20461.62
TE-100
2314.61
TE-100
2099.48
AC-200A
0.725
AC-200
2081.63
AC-200
1537.12
AC-2002B
164.9
AC-300A
123.1
AC-300
225.5
AC-300A
51.6
AC-300B
289.12
AC-300B
165.925
AC-300C
15
AC-400
1585.9
Feed
440069.66
440069.66
440069.66
LNG
240715.5
239486.19
236974.34
NGL Specific power (kWh /kg LNG)
194758.37
194902.86
194736.52
0.364
0.391
0.375
Mass flows (kg/hr)
* Mechanical efficiency =0.75
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Table 11. Comparison between the introduced configurations and other processes.
New design Vatani et al. design [23] Commercial plant
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Refrigeration system
Number of Compressor
Number of Tower
Number of Heat exchangers
Ethane Recovery
Specific Power (kW h/kg LNG)
Comparison
MFC
4
1
4
92%
0.364
*
DMR
3
1
4
92%
0.375
*
C3-MR
4
1
5
92%
0.391
*
DMR
3
1
4
93%
0.42
≈ 0.37
APCI [17, 49] ConocoPhillips Design [18] ConocoPhillips Design [19]
C3-MR
̶
1
̶
̶
̶
̶
Cascade
4
1
9
̶
̶
̶
Cascade
3
2
9
̶
̶
̶
Ortloff [16, 23, 42]
̶
5
2&1
5
42-95%
0.28 0.43, 0.5
≈ 0.35
Pure-MR
̶
2-3
3
25-85 %
̶
̶
Fluor Technologies alternatives [50, 51] ̶ not available data
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Table 12. Definitions for exergetic efficiency of the process components
component
Exergy distraction
Compressors and Expanders
𝐼 = 𝐸𝑥𝑖 − 𝐸𝑥𝑜 = ∑𝑚̇𝑖 . 𝑒𝑖 + 𝑊 − ∑𝑚̇𝑜 . 𝑒𝑜 [6]
Throttling valves[37]
𝐼 = 𝐸𝑥𝑖 − 𝐸𝑥𝑜 = ∑𝑚̇𝑖 . 𝑒𝑖 − ∑𝑚̇𝑜 . 𝑒𝑜 [37]
Heat exchangers
𝐼 = 𝐸𝑥𝑖 − 𝐸𝑥𝑜 = ∑𝑚̇𝑖 . 𝑒𝑖 − ∑𝑚̇𝑜 . 𝑒𝑜 [52]
Separators, drums & mixers Tower [48]
Aircoolers Process (Overall)
Exergy efficiency
𝜂=
𝜂 = 1 − ��
∑(𝑚̇ 𝚤 .△𝑒𝑖 )
𝐼 = 𝐸𝑥𝑜 + 𝐸𝑥𝑄𝑜 + 𝑊𝑠ℎ − 𝐸𝑥𝑖 + 𝐸𝑥𝑄𝑖 [15]
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∆𝑒 Δ𝑇 ∆𝑒 Δ𝑃
� +�
∑(𝑚̇ 𝚤 .△ℎ𝑖 ) ℎ
𝜂=
𝑊𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 𝐸𝑥𝑖 − 𝐸𝑥𝑜 = ∑𝑚̇𝑖 . 𝑒𝑖 − ∑𝑚̇𝑜 . 𝑒𝑜
𝐼 = 𝐸𝑥𝑖 − 𝐸𝑥𝑜 = ∑𝑚̇𝑖 . 𝑒𝑖 + 𝑚̇𝑎𝑖 . 𝑒𝑎𝑖 + 𝑊 − ∑𝑚̇𝑜 . 𝑒𝑜 − 𝑚̇𝑎𝑜 . 𝑒𝑎𝑜 [15]
𝑊
η=
𝐼 = 𝐸𝑥𝑖 − 𝐸𝑥𝑜 = ∑𝑚̇𝑖 . 𝑒𝑖 − ∑𝑚̇𝑜 . 𝑒𝑜 [6, 7] 𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑊𝑜𝑟𝑘(𝐿𝑊) = 𝑇0 (� 𝑚̇𝑜 . 𝑠𝑜 − � 𝑚̇𝑖 . 𝑠𝑖 )
∑𝑚̇.𝑒𝑖 −∑𝑚̇.𝑒𝑜
𝜂= 𝜂=
∑𝑚̇𝑜 .𝑒𝑜 ∑𝑚̇𝑖 .𝑒𝑖
[6]
∑(𝑚̇ 𝚤 .△𝑒𝑖 )
[6]
𝑊𝑚𝑖𝑛 𝐿𝑊 + 𝑊𝑚𝑖𝑛
∑𝑚̇𝑜 .𝑒𝑜 +𝑚̇𝑎𝑜 .𝑒𝑎𝑜
∑𝑚̇𝑖 .𝑒𝑖 +𝑚̇𝑎𝑖 .𝑒𝑎𝑖 +𝑊
𝜂=
� � [52]
∑(𝑚̇ 𝚤 .△ℎ𝑖 ) 𝑐
∑ 𝐸𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑜𝑢𝑡 ∑ 𝐸𝑥𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑖𝑛
[15]
[37]
Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
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Table 13. Exergy efficiency of the designed processes and cycles process
Exergy net in(kW)
Exergy net out(kW)
efficiency
MFC
136829.5
80560.4
0.59
DMR
136392.6
76089.7
0.56
C3-MR
140420.0
76836.1
0.55
44 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
Cycles efficiency 400 0.53 300 0.75 200 0.73 300 0.72 200 0.73 300 0.74 200 0.65
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Table 14. Result of exergetic efficiency of the process components.
Heat exchangers
Compressor and expander
Valves
MFC
Air Coolers
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
C3-MR
Equip.
Efficiency
Loss(kW)
V-100
0.3
584
V-101
0.4
451
V-3
V-200
0.9
1480
V-4
V-300
0.86
1316
V-5
V-1
0.54
619
V-100
V-2
0.53
159
V-101
V-3
0.69
1014
V-102
V-4
0.31
2415
C-200A
0.775
5340
DMR
Equip.
Efficiency
Loss(kW)
V-1
V-103
0.15 0.55 0.98 0.55 0.89 0.21 0.39 0.21 0.72
2930 587 82 2712 1027 412 592 168.2 2338
C-200A
0.74
634
C-200B
0.75
1832
V-2
Equip.
Efficiency
Loss(kW)
V-100
0.21
408
V-101
0.83
593
V-102
0.26
167
V-103
0.93
2351
V-200
0.89
382
V-300
0.9
2615
V-301
0.92
1071
C-100
0.67
1870
C-200B
0.78
2188
C-200C
0.77
4724
TE-100
0.5
1047
C-300A
0.76
3959
C-300A
0.77
7270
C-200A
0.76
1485
C-300B
0.76
387
C-300B
0.79
3348
C-200B
0.79
3667
C-100
0.68
1944
C-300C
0.78
2195
C-300
0.8
11141
TE-100
0.52
1142
C-100
0.68
1873
TE-100
0.5
1038
E1-A
0.97
2070 2246
E-1A
0.97
1687
E-1A
0.97
2355
E-1B
0.92
E-1B
0.98
1460
E-1C
0.92
1742
E-1B
0.98
1027
E-2
0.97
2702
E-2A
0.74
5609
E-2A
0.94
5983
E-3
0.94
2416
E-2B
0.88
1413
E-2B
0.85
1599
7803.5 AC-200
0.93
3251.5
AC-300A
0.97
962.6
AC-200
0.9
4594.75
AC-300B
0.97
1867
AC-300
0.92
5220.26
AC-300C
0.99
682.5
AC-400
0.86
AC-200A
0.98
741
AC-200B
0.98
1028.5
AC-300A
0.99
173.3
AC-300B
0.99
238.1
Demethanizer Tower Second Law Analysis Efficiency : 0.51 , Lost Work: 1905 kW
demethanizer
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Fig.1.
Refrigeration systems
Multi stage
Cascade
Single stage
Pure refrigerant
Mixed refrigerant
Pure refrigerant
Mixed refrigerant
Pure refrigerant
Mixed refrigerant
APCI (AP-N) N2 expansion
APCI(SMR) Black & Veath (PRICO II) BHP(cLNG)
ConocoPhillips (POCP) Technip‐TEALARC
LindeStatoil(MFC)
propane Precooling refrigeration cycle
Shell (DMR) Axens-IFP
APCI (C3-MR) Shell (C3-MR) APCI (AP-X) Shell(PMR)
Two cycles Three cycles
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48
Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
Fig.2. 307
308
309 C-300B
AC-300B
306 C-300A
AC-300A
206 207
208
200
C-200B AC-200A
AC-200B
300
411
409
C-200A
410 C-400A
AC-400 C-400B
408 400
205
407
V-100
405 406
401 201 301
Feed gas E-1A
404
204
V-101
V-200
V-300
305
203
121
403
402
202
302 118
101
105 E-1B
107
303 V-4
E-2
E-3
E
119
120
D-1
102 LNG
108
D 114
103
C
A
D-2
V-1 109
112 115
B
V-2 104
side3 C-100
116 TE-100
113
108 V-3
110
117 Side3R side2R
side2 side1R
side1
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T-101
NGL
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Fig.3.
48 ACS Paragon Plus Environment
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Fig.4. 313
C-300
AC-300 312 211
210
209
AC-200
308
310
C-200A 302
C-200B
408 200
306
203
208
V-200
202
Feed gas
301 E-1A
311 207
309
V-300
121
V-301
V-201
304
206
205
201
D-300
308
303
307 V-4
101 E-1B
105
102
119
118 E-2
120
D-1
E-3 LNG
108 113 114
107 103
C-100
116
TE-100
side3 115
D-2
112
V-1 109 V-2
104
108 V-3 Side3R
110
117
side2R
side2 side1R
side1
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T-101
NGL
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Fig.5.
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Fig.6. 318 317
AC-300C 300
220
216 215
202
C-200A 222
210 D-1
201
304
214
D-2
D-3
D-4 310
205 V-1
V-2
203 206
207
211
V-3
212 309
209
204
213 302
101 E-1A
102 E-1B
306
120 119 V-104 E-2B
118
E-1C 112
105 107
116
117
D-100 Side2R
109
113 108
Side3R
Side1R
104
C-100
V-101
114 V-102
115
110 111
T-100
V-100 Side2 NGL Side1
side3
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121
D-101
LNG
TE-100 103
V-5 311
P-39 307
V-4
106
312
313
E-2A
305
303
301 Feed gas
C-300A
218
C-200B
222
AC-300A C-300B
217
AC-200
314
AC-300B
C-300C
219
221 C-200C
315
316
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Fig.7.
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Fig.8.
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Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
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Fig.9.
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Fig.10.
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Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
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Fig.11.
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Fig.12.
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Fig. 13.
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