Minimalization of Dissolved Heavy Hydrocarbon on Lean Solvent with Absorption Optimization

Abstract

Pertamina EP DonggiMatindok Field has an Acid Gas Removal Unit (AGRU)which is an acid gas (H2S) separator unit that flows from the LP Separator. An increase of pressure differential occurred in the AGRU indicates a foaming tendency and impacting on decrease in sales gas. The well switch method was carried out to overcome foaming event by opening the manual valve in stages from 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% with waiting time of 30 minutes each stage. Besides, solvent flow adjustment is carried out using HYSYS simulation to find optimal solvent flow requirements through ratio of flow balance between feed gas and lean solvent. This method aims to minimize heavy hydrocarbons dissolved in the solvent by optimizing absorption process. After implementing this method, a decrease occurred in the average solvent flow of 2,308 BPD at 10 MMSCFD feed gas, the pressure differential relatively stable at 3-4 psig which indicate no foaming event. Laboratory result shows that Heavy Hydrocarbon Content parameter were 60 mg/L and Particulate Matter Content (>0.45µm) was 22 mg/L. This method also extends the lifecycle of the solvent and has an impact on reducing the solvent packaging waste which categorized as toxic and hazardous waste.