High-pressure cryogenic distillation data for improved LNG production

Abstract

Current methods and models to reliably simulate and predict cryogenic column performance, essential for designing and operating commercial Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) distillation and scrub columns, are currently lacking accurate and reliable empirical data at industrially-relevant conditions (high pressure/low temperature). This leads to conservative design for safety purposes. This paper endeavours to address this gap. Through the use of a unique cryogenic distillation column, critical experimental data at industry-relevant conditions (up to 4 MPa and down to 233 K) have been collected. This constitutes an essential step towards future optimization of LNG scrub columns, eliminating the requirement for over-design, thus improving production and reducing costs. The experimental data were compared with the predictions of the steady state model and showed reasonable agreement, although discrepancies were observed, confirming the need to improve models of LNG scrub columns.