Unlike other fractionation columns, the deethanizer column needs the help of the refrigeration system for cooling the overhead stream. C 4+ at the bottom of the depropanizer is processed in the downstream fractionation columns in the same manner as in the depropanizer. Finally, the refined C 3 stream is split into two streams one is sent to the refrigeration unit for storage, and the other is suppled to local domestic customers. The C 3 stream at the top of the column subsequently moves to the mercaptan oxidation and dehydration units, and impurities such as sulfur and moisture are removed to specification. As a product, C 2 is supplied to committed customers, and C 3+ flows into the depropanizer column, where C 3 and C 4+ are produced in a similar manner as in the deethanizer column. C 2+ is a feedstock, while C 2 and C 3+ are products at the top and bottom of the column, respectively.
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The deethanizer is a fractionation column used in NGL fractionation plants to separate C 2+ into C 2 and C 3+. With enhanced cooling capacity, a more valuable propane component can be significantly recovered from the ethane product stream in the deethanizer column, creating more economic benefits. The study found that the coefficient of performance (COP) for the propane refrigeration system could be increased by approximately 5%. The simulation included a heat exchanger design and rating simulation, where heat exchanger size was calculated and attained. An investigation found that the propane product stream after the dehydration unit in the NGL treating area is the best source.Ī study was conducted using proprietary process simulation software. It is essential to find the right process stream to be heat-exchanged as a coolant without any process issues, rather than costly utilities. To overcome this challenge, an initiative is proposed to enhance the efficiency of a propane refrigeration system by synthesizing a new heat exchanger downstream of the air fan cooler.
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As a result, gas plant operators may end up losing more profitable components to less valuable product streams, or they must curtail the feedrate to some extent before the product goes off-spec in extremely hot conditions.
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Extremely hot ambient temperatures in the Middle East often lead to reductions in efficiency and limitations of cooling capacity. Air temperature plays a key role in determining the efficiency of the air coolers and, therefore, the entire refrigeration system. Noh, Saudi Aramco, Yanbu, Saudi ArabiaĪ propane refrigeration system, consisting of a compressor, air coolers, an expansion valve and an evaporator, is commonly used for deethanizer overhead cooling in the oil and gas industry. Smart coolant for NGL processing in very hot regions