Composite Fluid Sampling Apparatus for Real-Time LNG Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for compositional analysis of liquefied natural gas (LNG) are limited, often assuming uniform composition across entire shipments, leading to potential errors in assessing properties like gas compressibility and impurity levels, especially in remote or offshore locations where comprehensive testing facilities are not readily available.
Innovation Solution
A portable apparatus that collects a composite sample of LNG by taking discrete samples at selected intervals and volumes, allowing for real-time analysis using a gas chromatograph, enabling accurate assessment of composite properties and retention of samples for further analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If discrete samples are collected at selected intervals to form a composite sample, then measurement precision of composite properties is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling process is segmented into multiple discrete sample collections at different time intervals, which are then combined to form a composite sample. This segmentation allows for more accurate representation of the fluid's composite properties while managing device complexity through modular sampling components.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities to perform both discrete spot sampling and composite sample collection using the same device. This universality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while still achieving improved measurement precision.
2Loss of information
If multiple discrete samples are collected and combined into a composite sample, then information about impurity levels is improved, but loss of time in sampling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling system operates continuously, collecting discrete samples at predetermined time intervals without interruption. This continuous operation ensures comprehensive impurity detection across the entire fluid shipment while minimizing total sampling time compared to manual intermittent sampling methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-determines the number and timing of discrete samples to be collected based on expected impurity distribution patterns. This preliminary planning optimizes the sampling schedule to achieve maximum impurity detection accuracy within the shortest possible time frame.
3Ease of operation
If a portable apparatus is used for real-time analysis, then ease of operation in remote locations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable apparatus merges the sampling system, composite sample collection vessel, and gas chromatograph analysis system into a single integrated unit. This combination enables real-time compositional analysis in remote locations while managing overall device complexity through functional integration rather than separate distributed systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to be self-contained with all necessary components for sampling, sample storage, and analysis included in one portable unit. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external laboratory facilities or additional support equipment, improving ease of operation in remote locations while the integrated design keeps complexity manageable.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and accurate real-time collection and analysis of composite properties of LNG, allowing for precise determination of commercial value and detection of impurities, even in remote locations, without the need for transporting samples.
Implementation Method 1
a gas chromatograph coupled to the valve
Data Source
AI summary
Composite sampling of a fluid flowing through a conduit includes collecting, in a vessel coupled to the conduit through which the fluid is flowing, a first discrete sample of fluid from the conduit, the first discrete sample having a first selected volume, and collecting, in the vessel and at a first interval from the first sample, a second discrete sample of the fluid from the conduit, the second discrete sample having a second selected volume, thereby forming a composite sample in the vessel while the vessel is coupled to conduit. The composite sample includes the first discrete sample and the second discrete sample, and may include one or more additional discrete samples. An apparatus for collecting the composite sample includes a gas chromatograph, and is arranged such that the composite sample is provided to the gas chromatograph without removing the composite sample from the apparatus or transporting the composite sample.