Distributed LNG Production Using Pipeline Compressor Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
The natural gas industry faces challenges in finding a cost-effective method for producing and distributing liquid natural gas (LNG) as a viable transportation fuel, given the high costs associated with large-scale production and transportation from centralized facilities.
Innovation Solution
The method leverages the existing North American gas pipeline network by utilizing compressor stations to convert natural gas into LNG through pressure let-down gas expansion, generating cold temperatures and utilizing these temperatures to cool and expand a secondary gas stream, thereby producing LNG at geographically distributed locations with reduced logistical and capital expenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If large-scale centralized LNG production plants are used, then production capacity is improved, but capital investment cost and transportation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized large-scale LNG production into multiple small-to-medium scale production units distributed along the pipeline network at compressor stations. Each unit independently produces LNG locally, eliminating the need for a single large plant and reducing individual capital investment requirements while maintaining overall production capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements localized LNG production at geographically distributed compressor stations near end-use markets. This local production approach eliminates long-distance transportation costs and allows each production unit to be sized appropriately for its local market demand, reducing both capital investment and operational costs.
2Productivity
If large-scale centralized LNG production plants are used, then production capacity is improved, but transportation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized production and long-distance transportation system into multiple distributed production units. By producing LNG locally at compressor stations near consumption points, the system eliminates the need for expensive long-distance LNG transportation while maintaining adequate production capacity to serve local markets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point centralized production model to a multi-point distributed production model along the pipeline network. This spatial redistribution eliminates the transportation dimension by producing LNG directly at or near the point of consumption, thereby eliminating transportation costs entirely.
3Adaptability or versatility
If compressor stations are utilized for LNG production, then distribution network utilization is improved, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing compressor stations serve dual functions: continuing their primary role of compressing natural gas through the pipeline while simultaneously functioning as LNG production units. This multi-functionality utilizes existing infrastructure and reduces the need for separate dedicated LNG production facilities, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables compressor stations to produce their own fuel for the compression process by generating LNG and associated fuel gases from the natural gas stream they are already processing. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external fuel supply infrastructure and simplifies the overall system by making each station self-sufficient.
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
This approach enables small-to-medium scale, cost-effective production and distribution of LNG, reducing costs by utilizing existing infrastructure and allowing for localized production near markets, thus making LNG a more competitive alternative to traditional transportation fuels.
Implementation Method 1
lowering a pressure of the first natural gas stream to produce cold temperatures through pressure let-down gas expansion
Implementation Method 2
cooling the second natural gas stream with the cold temperatures generated by the first natural gas stream
Implementation Method 3
expanding the second natural gas stream to a lower pressure, thus producing LNG
Data Source
AI summary
A method for producing liquid natural gas (LNG) includes the following steps. Compressor stations forming part of existing natural-gas distribution network are identified. Compressor stations that are geographically suited for localized distribution of LNG are selected. Natural gas flowing through the selected compressor stations is diverted to provide a high pressure first natural gas stream and a high pressure second natural gas stream. A pressure of the first natural gas stream is lowered to produce cold temperatures through pressure let-down gas expansion and then the first natural gas stream is consumed as a fuel gas for an engine driving a compressor at the compressor station. The second natural gas stream is first cooled with the cold temperatures generated by the first natural gas stream, and then expanded to a lower pressure, thus producing LNG.