Isolated LNG Power Networks for Fault-Tolerant Compressor Trains
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LNG liquefaction plants lack redundancy in their electrical power systems, leading to potential shutdowns due to electric faults, and suffer from inefficiencies and increased greenhouse gas emissions, particularly when gas turbines operate at partial loads.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a motor-driven compressor (MDC) power network electrically isolated from the balance of plant (BOP) power network, with multiple MDC trains and turbine generators, and using a dry low NOx (DLN) controller to optimize turbine operation and reduce emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single interconnected overall electric power supply network is used for all trains and facilities, then the plant can operate with a unified power distribution system, but a failure in any part of the network will shut down the whole plant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power distribution system into separate isolated networks for each train (Train 1 power distribution network, Train 2 power distribution network) rather than using a single interconnected network. This segmentation allows each train to operate independently, so a failure in one train's power network does not affect other trains, thereby maintaining plant operation continuity while managing system complexity.
2Loss of energy
If gas turbines are operated at full or near full load, then fuel efficiency is maximized and emissions are minimized, but the plant cannot adapt to variable power demands and seasonal fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic load management where gas turbines can operate at optimal loads during peak demand periods and shed non-critical loads during lower demand periods. The system dynamically adjusts which loads are served by which train based on real-time conditions, allowing turbines to maintain higher efficiency operating points while still adapting to variable plant demands through intelligent load allocation rather than simply reducing turbine output.
3Reliability
If a single failure of any compressor or driver occurs, then the entire train must shut down, but implementing redundancy increases system complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution into isolated networks per train, where each train has its own dedicated power distribution network. This segmentation provides a form of redundancy at the system level - if one train fails, the other train can continue operating independently on its own isolated network, maintaining overall plant functionality without requiring duplicate compressors or drivers within each train.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments generally relate to a motor driven compressor (MDC) power network electrically isolated and independent from a balance of plant (BOP) power network within an electrical power system and methods for operating the same. In one embodiment, the MDC power network can include one or more MDC trains, and each of the MDC trains can include an MDC distribution bus, one or more MDC turbine generators, one or more electric motors, and one or more compressors. The BOP power network can include a BOP distribution bus, one or more BOP turbine generators, and one or more plant circuits comprising the balance of the plant.