Parallel Refrigerant Compression Using Positive Displacement Boosters
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Solution Overview
Problem
LNG production in existing liquefaction systems is often limited by the capacity and efficiency of refrigerant compressors, particularly when operating near surge or stonewall conditions, and the addition of secondary dynamic compressors leads to inflexible and costly solutions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a positive displacement compressor in parallel with dynamic compressors in the refrigerant compression system to enhance flow capacity and efficiency, allowing for adjustable flow split and improved operation across varying conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a secondary dynamic compressor is added in parallel to increase flow capacity, then the refrigerant flow rate increases, but the system becomes more complex and less flexible in operation
Solution Approach 1:
The compression system is segmented into multiple independent positive displacement compressors, each capable of operating autonomously. This segmentation allows the system to achieve higher total flow capacity while maintaining operational flexibility, as each compressor can be controlled independently to match varying refrigeration demands without the complexity of coordinating multiple dynamic compressors.
2Productivity
If the compressor operates near surge or stonewall conditions to maximize capacity, then the refrigeration output is maximized, but the system loses operational flexibility and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple positive displacement compressors with independent control capabilities, enabling dynamic adjustment of each compressor's operation. This allows the system to maintain optimal performance across a wide range of operating conditions without being constrained by surge or stonewall limits, as each compressor can be individually regulated to operate within its optimal range while collectively meeting varying refrigeration demands.
3Quantity of substance
If dynamic compressors are used for high capacity refrigeration, then the system achieves high flow rates, but the system becomes less adaptable to varying operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes positive displacement compressors whose displacement parameters can be independently adjusted to match varying refrigeration loads. This allows the system to maintain high flow capacity while being highly adaptable to changing operating conditions, as each compressor's displacement can be modified to optimize performance across different temperature, pressure, and flow rate requirements without the rigid operating characteristics of dynamic compressors.
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 configuration increases LNG production capacity by up to 3.9% while maintaining efficiency and flexibility, addressing the limitations of traditional dynamic compressor systems.
Implementation Method 1
positive displacement compressors function by reducing the volume of the fluid being compressed
Implementation Method 2
Dynamic compressors function by increasing the momentum of the fluid being compressed
Implementation Method 3
Natural gas is cooled, liquefied, and/or sub-cooled by indirect heat exchange against the refrigerants in the heat exchangers
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for increasing the capacity and efficiency of natural gas liquefaction processes by debottlenecking the refrigerant compression system. A secondary compression circuit comprising at least one positive displacement compressor is provided in parallel fluid flow communication with at least a portion of a primary compression circuit comprising at least one dynamic compressor.