Process for liquefying a natural gas stream containing at least one freezable component
US5956971A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 26, 1998 |
| Grant date | Sep 28, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 26, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S62/929
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
This invention relates to a process for producing pressurized liquid rich in methane from a multi-component feed stream containing methane and a freezable component having a relative volatility less than that of methane. The multi-component feed stream is introduced into a separation system having a freezing section operating at a pressure above about 1,380 kPa (200 psia) and under solids forming conditions for the freezable component and a distillation section positioned below the freezing section. The separation system produces a vapor stream rich in methane and a liquid stream rich in the freezable component. At least a portion of the vapor stream is cooled to produce a liquefied stream rich in methane having a temperature above about -112.degree. C. (-170.degree. F.) and a pressure sufficient for the liquid product to be at or below its bubble point. A first portion of the liquefied stream is returned to the separation system to provide refrigeration to the separation system. A second portion of the liquefied stream is withdrawn as a pressurized liquefied product stream rich in methane having a temperature above about -112.degree. C. (-170.degree. F.).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.