Mixed refrigerant cooling process and system
US10323880B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 27, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jun 18, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 3, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25J2270/66
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention relates to methods of increasing the operability, capacity, and efficiency of natural gas liquefaction processes, with a focus on mixed refrigerant cycles. The present invention also relates to natural gas liquefaction systems in which the above-mentioned methods can be carried out. More specifically, a refrigerant used in a pre-cooling heat exchanger of a natural gas liquefaction plant is withdrawn from the pre-cooling heat exchanger, separated into liquid and vapor streams in a liquid-vapor separator after being cooled and compressed. The vapor portion is further compressed, cooled, and fully condensed, then returned to the liquid-vapor separator. Optionally, the fully condensed stream may be circulated through a heat exchanger before being returned to the liquid-vapor separator for the purpose of cooling other streams, including the liquid stream from the liquid-vapor separator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.