Modularized LNG separation device and flash gas heat exchanger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LNG liquefaction systems require significant plot space due to separate vapor-liquid separators and flash gas heat exchangers, which is a challenge for remote offshore and small-scale liquefaction facilities where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A compact apparatus integrating a heat exchange zone and a separation zone within a single shell casing, where flash gas is separated from the LNG stream and refrigeration is recovered, reducing the system's footprint and operational complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If separate vapor-liquid separator and flash gas heat exchanger units are used, then the liquefaction process is reliable and well-established, but the plot space required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the vapor-liquid separator and flash gas heat exchanger into a single integrated unit. The separator section and heat exchanger section share a common structure where the heat exchanger is positioned within or adjacent to the separator vessel, eliminating the need for separate units and reducing plot space requirements while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated unit performs multiple functions simultaneously: the separator section separates vapor from liquid, the heat exchanger section recovers refrigeration from flash gas, and the combined structure serves as both a separation vessel and a heat exchange system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate equipment items needed.
2Ease of operation
If separate vapor-liquid separator and flash gas heat exchanger units connected by piping are used, then each unit can be optimized independently, but the operational complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the separator and heat exchanger into one unit, the patent eliminates external piping connections between separate units, reducing the number of flanges, valves, and insulation requirements. This simplifies operational procedures and reduces maintenance needs while occupying less plot space.
3Area of stationary object
If conventional separate units are used in land-based LNG plants, then sufficient space is available for equipment arrangement, but the same configuration is unsuitable for floating platforms with limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design creates a compact unit suitable for space-constrained environments like floating LNG platforms while maintaining the functional capabilities needed for various applications. The same integrated unit can be deployed in both land-based and offshore settings, providing adaptability across different installation types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical arrangement within the integrated unit, placing the heat exchanger section above or within the separator section, to maximize space utilization in the vertical dimension rather than spreading equipment horizontally. This dimensional optimization makes the system suitable for compact floating platform installations.
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 integrated design enables more efficient use of space, reduces the power required for recompression, and enhances the overall efficiency of the liquefaction process, making it suitable for Floating LNG and small-scale facilities.
Implementation Method 1
a heat exchange zone (430) located above and in fluid communication with the separation zone (420), the heat exchange zone (430) comprising at least one coil wound tube bundle (431) defining a tube side (432) and a shell side (433)
Implementation Method 2
the separation zone (420) configured to separate flash gas from the LNG product
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are methods and systems for the liquefaction of natural gas to produce a LNG product. The methods and systems use an apparatus for separating a flash gas from a liquefied natural gas (LNG) stream to produce a LNG product and recovering refrigeration from the flash gas. The apparatus includes a shell casing enclosing a heat exchange zone comprising a coil wound heat exchanger, and a separation zone. The heat exchange zone is located above and in fluid communication with the separation zone. Flash gas is separated from the LNG product in the separation zone and flows upwards from the separation zone into the heat exchange zone where refrigeration is recovered from the separated flash gas.