Process for separating a multi-component pressurizied feed stream using distillation
US6199403A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 13, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25J2290/62
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A process is disclosed to remove a high-volatility component, such as nitrogen, from a feed stream rich in methane to produce a product substantially free of the high-volatility component. The feed stream is expanded and fed to a phase separator which produces a vapor stream and a liquid stream. The vapor stream is enriched in the volatile component. The liquid stream, which is lean in the volatile component and rich in methane, is pumped to a higher pressure and heated to produce a pressurized liquefied product stream having a pressure sufficient for the product stream to be at or below its bubble point and having a temperature above about -112.degree. C. (-170.degree. F.).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.