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Improved Propane Recovery
Methods
(U.S. Patent No. 6116050 Issued 9/12/2000)
The recently patented Improved Propane Recovery (IPR)
method was developed to achieve high recovery levels (in excess of 98%) of propane in a
natural gas feed without the addition of substantial amounts of recompression and/or
refrigeration HP. The IPR method employs sequentially configured first and second
distillation columns, e.g. a demethanizer tower followed by a deethanizer tower. A cooled
gas feed condensate is separtated in the first column into methane and a liquid phase
comprising ethane and heavier hydrocarbons. The liquid phase is separated in the second
column into a gas phase primarily comprising ethane and a second liquid phase primarily
comprising the desired C3+ hydrocarbons. At least a portion of the second gas
phase is introduced into the first distillation column as a propane free overhead reflux
stream to improve the separation of C3+ hydrocarbons. The process permits
separation and recovery of more than about 99% of the C3+ hydrocarbons in the
gas feed at higher than normal operating pressures. Further, by cooling the second gas
phase with a liquid condensed in a lower tray of the first column, significant capital and
operating costs may be saved. By employing the self refrigeration system (see Improved
Propane Recovery Methods), the need for external refrigeration is eliminated and the
separation efficiency is improved in the first column. Accordingly, the IPR method results
in achievement of higher liquid recovery levels with lower capital requirements and
significant savings in operation.
Improved Propane Recovery Methods (confidential)
(Click on image to enlarge.)
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