Simulation of an Acid Gas Removal Process Using Methyldiethanolamine; an Equilibrium Approach

Abstract

This chapter deals with adopting a rigorous equilibrium stage model for simulating an amine-based Acid Gas Removal (AGR) process, which is not straightforward technique. It may also be a frustrating exercise in simulation. The complexity of the system is mainly attributed to the necessity of considering both chemical and phase equilibrium issues to characterize such an electrolytic system. An effective approach for simulating a Methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) system using Aspen Plus RadFrac equilibrium stage model is also discussed. For thermodynamic modeling, the approach uses the electrolyte-NRTL model, Redlich-Kwong-Soave equation of state, and Henry's law. Component Vaporization efficiencies were incorporated in the simulation to account for the departure from equilibrium. Furthermore, another process simulator namely ProMax and developed by Bryan Research and Engineering, Inc. is used for the purpose of comparison. Challenges faced during this practice and troubleshooting are also considered.