EP3892946A1 - Agile installation of a hydrocarbon liquefaction unit - Google Patents

Agile installation of a hydrocarbon liquefaction unit Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3892946A1
EP3892946A1 EP21166576.5A EP21166576A EP3892946A1 EP 3892946 A1 EP3892946 A1 EP 3892946A1 EP 21166576 A EP21166576 A EP 21166576A EP 3892946 A1 EP3892946 A1 EP 3892946A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
refrigeration cycle
nitrogen
natural gas
cold box
liquefaction
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP21166576.5A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Oriane FARGES
Yoland PLAMONDON
Christophe Szamlewski
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Air Liquide SA
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Original Assignee
Air Liquide SA
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Air Liquide SA, LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude filed Critical Air Liquide SA
Publication of EP3892946A1 publication Critical patent/EP3892946A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/0002—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures characterised by the fluid to be liquefied
    • F25J1/0022—Hydrocarbons, e.g. natural gas
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/02—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process
    • F25J1/0228—Coupling of the liquefaction unit to other units or processes, so-called integrated processes
    • F25J1/0235—Heat exchange integration
    • F25J1/0237—Heat exchange integration integrating refrigeration provided for liquefaction and purification/treatment of the gas to be liquefied, e.g. heavy hydrocarbon removal from natural gas
    • F25J1/0238—Purification or treatment step is integrated within one refrigeration cycle only, i.e. the same or single refrigeration cycle provides feed gas cooling (if present) and overhead gas cooling
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/003—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures characterised by the kind of cold generation within the liquefaction unit for compensating heat leaks and liquid production
    • F25J1/0047—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures characterised by the kind of cold generation within the liquefaction unit for compensating heat leaks and liquid production using an "external" refrigerant stream in a closed vapor compression cycle
    • F25J1/005—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures characterised by the kind of cold generation within the liquefaction unit for compensating heat leaks and liquid production using an "external" refrigerant stream in a closed vapor compression cycle by expansion of a gaseous refrigerant stream with extraction of work
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/006—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures characterised by the refrigerant fluid used
    • F25J1/007—Primary atmospheric gases, mixtures thereof
    • F25J1/0072—Nitrogen
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/02—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process
    • F25J1/0203—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process using a single-component refrigerant [SCR] fluid in a closed vapor compression cycle
    • F25J1/0204—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process using a single-component refrigerant [SCR] fluid in a closed vapor compression cycle as a single flow SCR cycle
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/02—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process
    • F25J1/0221—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process using the cold stored in an external cryogenic component in an open refrigeration loop
    • F25J1/0222—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process using the cold stored in an external cryogenic component in an open refrigeration loop in combination with an intermediate heat exchange fluid between the cryogenic component and the fluid to be liquefied
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/02—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process
    • F25J1/0243—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used; Details of the refrigerant compression system used
    • F25J1/0257—Construction and layout of liquefaction equipments, e.g. valves, machines
    • F25J1/0259—Modularity and arrangement of parts of the liquefaction unit and in particular of the cold box, e.g. pre-fabrication, assembling and erection, dimensions, horizontal layout "plot"
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/02—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process
    • F25J1/0243—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used; Details of the refrigerant compression system used
    • F25J1/0279—Compression of refrigerant or internal recycle fluid, e.g. kind of compressor, accumulator, suction drum etc.
    • F25J1/0285—Combination of different types of drivers mechanically coupled to the same refrigerant compressor, possibly split on multiple compressor casings
    • F25J1/0288—Combination of different types of drivers mechanically coupled to the same refrigerant compressor, possibly split on multiple compressor casings using work extraction by mechanical coupling of compression and expansion of the refrigerant, so-called companders
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J3/00—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification
    • F25J3/02—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream
    • F25J3/0228—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream characterised by the separated product stream
    • F25J3/0247—Processes or apparatus for separating the constituents of gaseous or liquefied gaseous mixtures involving the use of liquefaction or solidification by rectification, i.e. by continuous interchange of heat and material between a vapour stream and a liquid stream characterised by the separated product stream separation of CnHm with 4 carbon atoms or more
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2230/00—Processes or apparatus involving steps for increasing the pressure of gaseous process streams
    • F25J2230/24—Multiple compressors or compressor stages in parallel
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2230/00—Processes or apparatus involving steps for increasing the pressure of gaseous process streams
    • F25J2230/32—Compression of the product stream
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2230/00—Processes or apparatus involving steps for increasing the pressure of gaseous process streams
    • F25J2230/60—Processes or apparatus involving steps for increasing the pressure of gaseous process streams the fluid being hydrocarbons or a mixture of hydrocarbons
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2240/00—Processes or apparatus involving steps for expanding of process streams
    • F25J2240/40—Expansion without extracting work, i.e. isenthalpic throttling, e.g. JT valve, regulating valve or venturi, or isentropic nozzle, e.g. Laval
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2270/00—Refrigeration techniques used
    • F25J2270/14—External refrigeration with work-producing gas expansion loop
    • F25J2270/16—External refrigeration with work-producing gas expansion loop with mutliple gas expansion loops of the same refrigerant

Definitions

  • the technical field of the invention is that of the liquefaction of natural gas using a nitrogen refrigeration cycle.
  • the present invention relates to an installation of a natural gas liquefaction unit using a nitrogen refrigeration cycle and its unit.
  • the invention defines the design of Natural Gas liquefiers using a nitrogen refrigeration cycle called Turbofin TM.
  • the nitrogen cycle is a closed loop.
  • the natural gas only passes through the liquefaction zone called the cold box.
  • the nitrogen in the cycle is compressed in a compressor and then cooled, before being compressed a second time, by two boosters, or blowers, coupled to two separate turbines.
  • the pressure at the outlet of the two boosters of the turbines is identical.
  • This makes it possible to treat only one suction pressure, which simplifies the architecture of the compressor. unit and improves its operational efficiency, simplifying operations and maintenance.
  • the nitrogen is then pre-cooled before being expanded to create two different cold temperatures. These last two temperatures correspond to two liquefaction temperatures.
  • Liquefaction comprises one or more exchangers as well as, in general, an element allowing the separation of the heavy hydrocarbon components of the C6 + type contained in the natural gas.
  • the gas thus purified, composed essentially of methane, is recovered to be liquefied through exchangers located in said cold box.
  • the aforementioned separation equipment is located in the same heat-insulating assembly called a cold box.
  • the liquefaction unit called cold box can, depending on the liquefaction volumes, consist of one or more cold boxes. These can be vertical or horizontal.
  • the aforementioned equipment and / or subassemblies are located around a distribution module comprising all the connections necessary for the process between all the equipment as well as the connections to the outside of the assembly. liquefaction. All the elements allowing the measurements and the control of the liquefaction assembly are also located in this sub-assembly called the central module.
  • the machines called turbine / booster are based on their capacities, located or not on the same supporting structure.
  • Each of these satellite modules includes the process function for which it has been identified as well as the elements allowing its control and intrinsic safety.
  • connection between the central module and the satellites is adapted for each project condition and / or for each physical variation of each of these satellite modules.
  • the present invention makes it possible to define the interconnection zone as a central distribution module between all the process modules.
  • This can cover process-related equipment or other modules with process subassemblies.
  • process subassemblies are those configured for the implementation of the process functions which are necessary for the implementation of the cold fluid necessary for the liquefaction of a natural gas stream.
  • the process functions are clearly separated from each other as well as from those linked to the designs of each supplier, and the interconnection allows the possibility of changing suppliers without changing the flow of fluids.
  • the adaptation of the connections to the modules is done during assembly on site.
  • sub-assemblies and satellite equipment are designed to be autonomous and independent from a process as well as mechanical point of view.
  • the present invention allows a natural gas liquefaction plant using a nitrogen cooling cycle which adapts to the environment in a simple and less expensive manner.
  • the system makes it possible to propose a flexible arrangement of the installation according to the environment.
  • a cold box integrates one or more heat exchangers in a heat-insulating envelope, generally made of steel or carbon.
  • the cold box combines the exchangers with their associated cryogenic equipment: separator tanks, two-phase supply tanks, distillation columns, connection pipes, valves and instrumentation.
  • This installation makes it possible to align the modules of the cold part (heat exchange module and separator module) together and to add the hot part (compressor module) in alignment or perpendicular to this alignment and thus reduce the space requirement. to the ground and also reduce the lengths of interconnections.
  • Fig. 1 shows a representation of a block diagram of a liquefaction unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the interconnection module 4 rests on a frame allowing its handling connected to the cold box at said assembly zone.
  • the interconnection module comprises one or more elements chosen from control valves, manual valves, valve actuators.
  • important elements for the control of the liquefaction assembly are arranged in the interconnection module, the assembly and handling of which on site are simpler and safer, which facilitates the assembly of these elements and facilitates their installation. 'access for maintenance.
  • Unit safety is improved.
  • one or more valves are of the pressure safety valve type, which corresponds in English to the acronym “PSV” for “Pressure Safety Valve”.
  • the unit comprises one or more pressure safety valves, all of which are arranged in the interconnection module.
  • the NG feed stream can be a natural gas stream which can be pretreated, in which one or more substances, such as sulfur, carbon dioxide, water, are reduced, so as to be compatible with temperatures. cryogenic, as is known in the state of the art.
  • Heat exchangers are known in the art, and can have various arrangements of their feed stream (s) and refrigerant streams.
  • the temperature can be about -150 C to -160 ° C.
  • the liquefaction of the NG feed stream is carried out by means of a refrigerant fluid or nitrogen stream expanded in one or more refrigerant circuits to pre-cool the NG feed stream,
  • a heat exchange module comprises walls for thermally insulating the heat exchanger from the outside and comprises a skeleton making it possible to transport the heat exchange module in order to fix it.
  • the skeleton can be made with stainless steel irons so as to reduce the effects of thermal diffusion.
  • this skeleton can have the shape of a container, thus forming the edges of a rectangular parallelepiped also called a right pavement. So it is easy to transport.
  • the skeleton of the heat exchange module can further include means to facilitate installation.
  • element By element is meant a module, or a compressor, or an expansion valve or a circuit of a module, or a cooler, or a separator.
  • connectors is understood to mean a tube or pipe which may or may not be insulated and which may include valves or limiters.
  • current is understood to mean one or more fluids which may be in the liquid phase or in the gas phase or both circulating in elements of the system.
  • entry is meant that the fluid enters and therefore gives a sense of current flow.
  • an input of a first element is connected downstream of an output of a second element.
  • outlet is meant that the fluid leaves an element and therefore gives a direction of current flow.
  • an output of a first element is connected upstream of an input of a second element.
  • connected is meant to connect for the transport of a fluid, for example an inlet connected to an element implies that a fluid can pass from the element to the inlet either directly or through other elements.
  • fixed is meant the physical assembly of one element to another element to make them integral with one another.
  • expanded current is meant the current downstream of an expansion valve circuit and upstream of a compressor.
  • compressed current is meant the current upstream of an expansion valve circuit and downstream of a compressor.
  • the liquefied natural gas at the end of the process which is the subject of the present invention can then, for example, be transferred to a storage or transport device.
  • the method that is the subject of the present invention in particular provides an optimization of the investment expenditure.
  • the fact of having a modular system makes it possible to offer several arrangements of the modules and thus to reduce the costs of finding an installation as well as the cost of manufacture.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Oil, Petroleum & Natural Gas (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Separation By Low-Temperature Treatments (AREA)

Abstract

Unité de liquéfaction de gaz naturel comprenant :- Au moins une boîte froide cryogénique comprenant :• Au moins un échangeur de chaleur ;• Une zone fixe d'assemblage sur sa paroi extérieure ;- Au moins un cycle de réfrigération en boucle fermée à l'azote ;- Au moins un dispositif d'équipements nécessaires à la mise en œuvre de la liquéfaction d'un courant de gaz naturel à partir d'un courant d'hydrocarbures d'alimentation ;- Au moins un module d'interconnexion comprenant un moyen porte tuyaux et un ensemble de tuyauteries et vannes, conçu pour connecter ladite au moins une boîte froide avec au moins un dispositif d'équipements du cycle de réfrigération et/ou de séparation des éléments hydrocarbure de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel.caractérisée en ce que le module d'interconnexion repose sur un châssis permettant sa manutention et est relié à la boîte froide et aux autres sous-ensembles procédés ou équipements situés en satellites par ladite zone de fixation.Natural gas liquefaction unit comprising: - At least one cryogenic cold box comprising: • At least one heat exchanger; • A fixed assembly area on its outer wall; - At least one closed-loop refrigeration cycle at the nitrogen; - At least one equipment device necessary for carrying out the liquefaction of a natural gas stream from a hydrocarbon feed stream; - At least one interconnection module comprising means pipe holder and a set of pipes and valves, designed to connect said at least one cold box with at least one equipment device for the refrigeration cycle and / or separation of C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in natural gas. that the interconnection module rests on a frame allowing its handling and is connected to the cold box and to the other process or equipment subassemblies located in satellites by said fixing zone.

Description

DOMAINE TECHNIQUE DE L'INVENTIONTECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Le domaine technique de l'invention est celui de la liquéfaction de gaz naturel utilisant un cycle de réfrigération à l'azote.The technical field of the invention is that of the liquefaction of natural gas using a nitrogen refrigeration cycle.

La présente invention concerne une installation d'une unité de liquéfaction de gaz naturel utilisant un cycle de réfrigération à l'azote et son unité.The present invention relates to an installation of a natural gas liquefaction unit using a nitrogen refrigeration cycle and its unit.

ARRIERE-PLAN TECHNOLOGIQUE DE L'INVENTIONTECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Afin de réduire l'impact environnemental, on est amené à utiliser des procédés de liquéfaction du gaz naturel. L'évolution du marché pousse à l'utilisation de liquéfacteurs proches des zones publiques pour assurer une gestion des livraisons plus efficace. Les terrains disponibles sont en général de petite dimensions et doivent répondre à des contraintes environnementales fortes.In order to reduce the environmental impact, we have to use natural gas liquefaction processes. Market developments are pushing for the use of liquefiers close to public areas to ensure more efficient management of deliveries. The land available is generally small and must meet strong environmental constraints.

Habituellement ce type d'unités utilise des réfrigérants mixtes qui sont des mélanges de gaz avec des rendements importants pour la liquéfaction du gaz naturel. Cependant leur dangerosité entraine des configurations d'usines très étalées avec un risque sociétal très important. L'invention définit la conception des liquéfacteurs de Gaz Naturel utilisant un cycle de réfrigération à l'azote appelé Turbofin™.Usually this type of unit uses mixed refrigerants which are gas mixtures with high yields for the liquefaction of natural gas. However, their dangerousness leads to very spread out factory configurations with a very significant societal risk. The invention defines the design of Natural Gas liquefiers using a nitrogen refrigeration cycle called Turbofin ™.

RESUME DE L'INVENTIONSUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

L'invention offre une solution aux problèmes évoqués précédemment. Un aspect de l'invention concerne une unité de liquéfaction de gaz naturel comprenant :

  • Au moins une boîte froide cryogénique comprenant :
    • ∘ Au moins un échangeur de chaleur ;
    • ∘ Une zone fixe d'assemblage sur sa paroi extérieure ;
  • Au moins un cycle de réfrigération en boucle fermée à l'azote ;
  • Au moins un dispositif d'équipements nécessaires à la mise en œuvre de la liquéfaction d'un courant de gaz naturel à partir d'un courant d'hydrocarbures d'alimentation ;
  • Au moins un module d'interconnexion comprenant un moyen porte tuyaux et un ensemble de tuyauteries et vannes, conçu pour connecter ladite au moins une boîte froide avec au moins un dispositif d'équipements du cycle de réfrigération et/ou de séparation des éléments hydrocarbure de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel.
caractérisée en ce que le module d'interconnexion repose sur un châssis permettant sa manutention et est relié à la boîte froide et aux autres sous-ensembles procédés ou équipements situés en satellites par ladite zone de fixation.
Selon d'autres modes de réalisation, la présente invention concerne :
  • Une unité telle que définie ci-dessus, caractérisée en ce que le module d'interconnexion comprend notamment un ou plusieurs éléments choisis parmi des soupapes de commande, des soupapes manuelles, des branchements d'échantillons, des tuyauteries, des panneaux prédécoupés avec des actionneurs de soupapes, des instruments, des sources de vapeur, de l'éclairage, des échelles et des plates-formes, des boîtes de jonction pré-câblées, des plateaux de câbles instrumentaux/- électriques, des supports de tuyauteries, de la canalisation.
  • Une unité telle que définie ci-dessus, caractérisée en ce que le module d'interconnexion comprend un ou plusieurs éléments choisis parmi des soupapes de commande, des soupapes manuelles, des actionneurs de soupapes.
  • Une unité telle que définie ci-dessus, caractérisée en ce que lesdits autres sous-ensembles procédés ou équipements sont nécessaires à la mise en œuvre d'au moins une fonction procédé choisie parmi la compression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, la surpression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, la détente de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, le refroidissement de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, la liquéfaction du courant de gaz naturel, la séparation des éléments hydrocarbures de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel, le module d'interconnexion étant dépourvu de tels sous-ensembles procédés ou équipements. En d'autres termes, le module d'interconnexion ne comporte aucun sous-ensemble procédé ou équipement tel que défini ci-avant. En particulier, le module d'interconnexion est dépourvu de module séparateur.
  • Une unité telle que définie ci-dessus, caractérisée en ce que le cycle de réfrigération comprend un premier moyen de compression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, un moyen de refroidissement de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, un deuxième moyen de compression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, ledit deuxième moyen de compression comprenant deux surpresseurs couplés à deux moyens de détente respectifs, lesdits surpresseurs étant configurés pour comprimer l'azote du cycle de réfrigération à pression identique.
  • Une unité telle que définie ci-dessus, caractérisée en ce que ledit châssis a une structure métallique.
  • Une unité telle que définie ci-dessus, caractérisée en ce que ledit au moins un échangeur de chaleur est un échangeur de chaleur en aluminium brasé.
  • L'utilisation d'une unité telle que définie ci-dessus pour liquéfier un courant de gaz naturel.
Un procédé de mise en service d'une unité de liquéfaction telle que définie ci-dessus, comprenant les étapes suivantes :
  • Installation sur site d'un cycle de réfrigération en boucle fermée à l'azote et d'une boîte froide comprenant :
    • ∘ Au moins un échangeur de chaleur ;
    • ∘ Une zone fixe d'assemblage sur sa paroi extérieure ;
  • Installation sur site d'un module d'interconnexion comprenant un moyen porte tuyaux et un ensemble de tuyauteries et vannes, conçu pour connecter ladite au moins une boîte froide avec au moins un dispositif d'équipements du cycle de réfrigération et/ou de séparation des éléments hydrocarbure de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel.
  • Fixation dudit module d'interconnexion à la boîte froide et à au moins un dispositif d'équipements, permettant la mise en œuvre du procédé de liquéfaction utilisant ladite boîte froide, déjà disposé sur le site.
Le gaz naturel est composé de différent gaz ayant des caractéristiques physiques différentes. L'azote est un corps pur et ne permet pas de suivre l'intégralité des composés du gaz naturel pour leur liquéfaction. Cependant le procédé permet en se servant du principe « compression détente » et donc de la production de froid avec des rendements de liquéfactions élevés.
Le procédé se compose de deux grands parties. La partie création de froid identifiée par le nom de cycle azote et la partie liquéfaction du gaz naturel. Un cycle de réfrigération à l'azote s'entend d'un cycle dans lequel le fluide réfrigérant est de l'azote, contrairement aux cycles à réfrigérants mixtes dans lesquels le fluide réfrigérant est un mélange de différents constituants, en particulier un mélange d'hydrocarbures.The invention offers a solution to the problems mentioned above. One aspect of the invention relates to a natural gas liquefaction unit comprising:
  • At least one cryogenic cold box comprising:
    • ∘ At least one heat exchanger;
    • ∘ A fixed assembly area on its outer wall;
  • At least one closed loop nitrogen refrigeration cycle;
  • At least one equipment device necessary for carrying out the liquefaction of a stream of natural gas from a stream of feed hydrocarbons;
  • At least one interconnection module comprising a pipe holder means and a set of pipes and valves, designed to connect said at least one box cold with at least one equipment device for the refrigeration cycle and / or separation of C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in natural gas.
characterized in that the interconnection module rests on a frame allowing its handling and is connected to the cold box and to the other process or equipment sub-assemblies located in satellites by said fixing zone.
According to other embodiments, the present invention relates to:
  • A unit as defined above, characterized in that the interconnection module comprises in particular one or more elements chosen from control valves, manual valves, sample connections, pipes, pre-cut panels with actuators valves, instruments, steam sources, lighting, ladders and platforms, pre-wired junction boxes, instrument / - electrical cable trays, pipe supports, piping.
  • A unit as defined above, characterized in that the interconnection module comprises one or more elements chosen from control valves, manual valves, valve actuators.
  • A unit as defined above, characterized in that said other process or equipment subassemblies are necessary for the implementation of at least one process function chosen from the compression of the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, the overpressure nitrogen in the refrigeration cycle, expansion of nitrogen in the refrigeration cycle, cooling of nitrogen in the refrigeration cycle, liquefaction of the natural gas stream, separation of the C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in the natural gas, the interconnection module being devoid of such process or equipment subassemblies. In other words, the interconnection module does not include any method or equipment subassembly as defined above. In particular, the interconnection module does not have a separator module.
  • A unit as defined above, characterized in that the refrigeration cycle comprises a first means of compressing the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, a means of cooling the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, a second means of compressing nitrogen from the refrigeration cycle, said second compression means comprising two boosters coupled to two means of respective expansion, said boosters being configured to compress the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle at the same pressure.
  • A unit as defined above, characterized in that said frame has a metallic structure.
  • A unit as defined above, characterized in that said at least one heat exchanger is a brazed aluminum heat exchanger.
  • The use of a unit as defined above to liquefy a stream of natural gas.
A method of commissioning a liquefaction unit as defined above, comprising the following steps:
  • On-site installation of a closed loop nitrogen refrigeration cycle and cold box including:
    • ∘ At least one heat exchanger;
    • ∘ A fixed assembly area on its outer wall;
  • On-site installation of an interconnection module comprising a pipe holder means and a set of pipes and valves, designed to connect said at least one cold box with at least one equipment device of the refrigeration cycle and / or separation of C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in natural gas.
  • Attachment of said interconnection module to the cold box and to at least one equipment device, allowing the implementation of the liquefaction process using said cold box, already placed on the site.
Natural gas is made up of different gases with different physical characteristics. Nitrogen is a pure substance and does not make it possible to follow all the compounds of natural gas for their liquefaction. However, the process makes it possible by using the “compression expansion” principle and therefore the production of cold with high liquefaction yields.
The process consists of two main parts. The cold creation part identified by the name of nitrogen cycle and the natural gas liquefaction part. A nitrogen refrigeration cycle is understood to mean a cycle in which the refrigerant fluid is nitrogen, unlike cycles with mixed refrigerants in which the refrigerant fluid is a mixture of different constituents, in particular a mixture of hydrocarbons.

Le cycle azote est une boucle fermée. Le gaz naturel ne fait que traverser la zone de liquéfaction appelé boite froide. L'azote du cycle est comprimé dans un compresseur puis refroidi, avant d'être comprimé une deuxième fois, par deux boosters, ou surpresseurs, couplés à deux turbines distinctes.
De préférence, la pression en sortie des deux boosters des turbines est identique. Contrairement aux configurations dans lesquelles les sorties des turbines froides et chaudes ont des pressions différentes et sont donc comprimées à deux étages différents du compresseur de cycle, cela permet de ne traiter qu'une seule pression d'aspiration, ce qui simplifie l'architecture de l'unité et améliore son efficacité opérationnelle, en simplifiant les opérations d'exploitation et de maintenance.
L'azote est alors pré-refroidi avant d'être détendu pour créer deux températures froides différentes. Ces deux dernières températures correspondent à deux températures de liquéfaction. Ces dernières correspondent elles-mêmes à deux températures moyennes de liquéfaction des gaz composés du gaz naturel.
Chaque étage de compression correspond à un réchauffement du gaz. Pour optimiser la compression suivante le gaz doit être pré-refroidi par des équipements appelés « réfrigérants », fonctionnant par échange avec de l'air, ou avec de l'eau.
La conséquence pour ce type de liquéfaction, est le nombre important de connexions reliant les équipements les uns aux autres. Cette configuration entraine un coût important comparé à la taille du cycle de liquéfaction.The nitrogen cycle is a closed loop. The natural gas only passes through the liquefaction zone called the cold box. The nitrogen in the cycle is compressed in a compressor and then cooled, before being compressed a second time, by two boosters, or blowers, coupled to two separate turbines.
Preferably, the pressure at the outlet of the two boosters of the turbines is identical. Unlike the configurations in which the outlets of the cold and hot turbines have different pressures and are therefore compressed at two different stages of the cycle compressor, this makes it possible to treat only one suction pressure, which simplifies the architecture of the compressor. unit and improves its operational efficiency, simplifying operations and maintenance.
The nitrogen is then pre-cooled before being expanded to create two different cold temperatures. These last two temperatures correspond to two liquefaction temperatures. The latter themselves correspond to two average liquefaction temperatures of gases composed of natural gas.
Each compression stage corresponds to a heating of the gas. To optimize the following compression, the gas must be pre-cooled by equipment called “refrigerants”, operating by exchange with air, or with water.
The consequence for this type of liquefaction is the large number of connections linking the equipment to each other. This configuration results in a significant cost compared to the size of the liquefaction cycle.

La liquéfaction comprend un ou des échangeurs ainsi, en général, qu'un élément permettant la séparation des composants hydrocarbures lourds de type C6+ contenus dans le gaz naturel. Le gaz ainsi épuré, composé essentiellement de méthane, est récupéré pour être liquéfié aux travers des échangeurs localisés dans ladite boite froide. Les équipements de séparation précités sont localisés dans un même ensemble calorifuge appelé boite froide.Liquefaction comprises one or more exchangers as well as, in general, an element allowing the separation of the heavy hydrocarbon components of the C6 + type contained in the natural gas. The gas thus purified, composed essentially of methane, is recovered to be liquefied through exchangers located in said cold box. The aforementioned separation equipment is located in the same heat-insulating assembly called a cold box.

L'ensemble de liquéfaction appelé boite froide peut, en fonction des volumes de liquéfaction, se composer d'une ou plusieurs boites froides. Celles-ci pouvant être verticales ou horizontales.The liquefaction unit called cold box can, depending on the liquefaction volumes, consist of one or more cold boxes. These can be vertical or horizontal.

Les équipements et/ou sous-ensembles précités sont localisés autour d'un module de distribution comportant l'ensemble des connexions nécessaires pour le procédé entre tous les équipements ainsi que les connexions vers l'extérieur de l'ensemble de liquéfaction. Tous les éléments permettant les mesures et le contrôle de l'ensemble de liquéfaction est également situés dans ce sous ensemble appelé module central.The aforementioned equipment and / or subassemblies are located around a distribution module comprising all the connections necessary for the process between all the equipment as well as the connections to the outside of the assembly. liquefaction. All the elements allowing the measurements and the control of the liquefaction assembly are also located in this sub-assembly called the central module.

Les machines appelées turbine/booster sont en fonction de leurs capacités, localisées ou pas sur la même structure porteuse.The machines called turbine / booster are based on their capacities, located or not on the same supporting structure.

Chacun de ces modules satellites comporte la fonction procédé pour laquelle il a été identifié ainsi que les éléments permettant son contrôle et sa sécurité intrinsèque.Each of these satellite modules includes the process function for which it has been identified as well as the elements allowing its control and intrinsic safety.

La connexion entre le module central et les satellites est adaptée pour chaque condition de projet et/ou pour chaque variation physique de chacun de ces modules satellites.The connection between the central module and the satellites is adapted for each project condition and / or for each physical variation of each of these satellite modules.

La présente invention permet de définir la zone interconnexion comme un module central de distribution entre tous les modules procédés. Cela peut couvrir les équipements liés au procédé ou d'autres modules comportant des sous-ensembles procédé. Ces autres sous-ensembles procédé ou équipements sont ceux configurés pour la mise en œuvre des fonctions procédé qui sont nécessaires à la mise en œuvre du fluide froid nécessaire à la liquéfaction d'un courant de gaz naturel. Les fonctions procédé, sont clairement dissociées les unes des autres ainsi que de celles qui sont liées à des conceptions de chaque fournisseur, et l'interconnexion permet la possibilité de changer de fournisseurs sans pour autant changer la circulation des fluides. L'adaptation des connexions aux modules se faisant lors de l'assemblage sur site.The present invention makes it possible to define the interconnection zone as a central distribution module between all the process modules. This can cover process-related equipment or other modules with process subassemblies. These other process or equipment subassemblies are those configured for the implementation of the process functions which are necessary for the implementation of the cold fluid necessary for the liquefaction of a natural gas stream. The process functions are clearly separated from each other as well as from those linked to the designs of each supplier, and the interconnection allows the possibility of changing suppliers without changing the flow of fluids. The adaptation of the connections to the modules is done during assembly on site.

Pour répondre à cette exigence les sous-ensembles et équipements satellites sont conçus pour être autonomes et indépendants d'un point de vue procédé mais aussi mécanique.To meet this requirement, sub-assemblies and satellite equipment are designed to be autonomous and independent from a process as well as mechanical point of view.

La présente invention permet une installation de liquéfaction de gaz naturel utilisant un cycle de refroidissement à l'azote qui s'adapte à l'environnement de façon simple et la moins onéreuse.The present invention allows a natural gas liquefaction plant using a nitrogen cooling cycle which adapts to the environment in a simple and less expensive manner.

Grâce à l'invention, le système permet de proposer un agencement flexible de l'installation en fonction de l'environnement.Thanks to the invention, the system makes it possible to propose a flexible arrangement of the installation according to the environment.

Cela permet en outre de garantir l'efficacité du procédé quel que soit le type d'hydrocarbure, notamment le gaz naturel.This also makes it possible to guarantee the efficiency of the process regardless of the type of hydrocarbon, in particular natural gas.

Cela permet en outre de garantir une construction avec un coût maitrisé du fait de la construction des modules possible en usine et de la livraison des modules directement sur le site tout en pouvant s'adapter à l'environnement du site.This also makes it possible to guarantee construction at a controlled cost due to the fact that the modules can be built in the factory and the modules are delivered directly to the site while being able to adapt to the site environment.

Une boîte froide intègre un ou plusieurs échangeurs de chaleur dans une enveloppe calorifuge généralement en acier ou en carbone. La boîte froide combine les échangeurs avec leurs équipements cryogéniques associés : ballons séparateurs, ballons d'alimentation diphasique, colonnes de distillation, tuyauteries de raccordement, vannes et instrumentation.A cold box integrates one or more heat exchangers in a heat-insulating envelope, generally made of steel or carbon. The cold box combines the exchangers with their associated cryogenic equipment: separator tanks, two-phase supply tanks, distillation columns, connection pipes, valves and instrumentation.

La présente invention permet donc de résoudre le problème identifié plus haut en deux points au moins :

  • Le nombre de tuyauteries faisant la connexion entre équipements entraîne un coût du montage et un impact important sur le coût global de l'installation.
    1. a. La présente invention permet de définir la zone d'interconnexion comme un module central de distribution entre tous les modules nécessaires au procédé.
    2. b. Cette dissociation entre les « fonctions procédés » (Compression, Surpression, Détente, Refroidissement, Liquéfaction), qui sont liées à des conceptions de chaque fournisseur, et l'interconnexion permet la possibilité de changer de fournisseurs sans pour autant changer la circulation des fluides. L'adaptation des connexions aux modules se faisant lors de l'assemblage sur site.
  • Pour suivre l'évolution voulue par l'utilisateur sans devoir modifier la conception générale du parcours des fluides, chaque module doit pouvoir avoir un seuil d'acceptation des contraintes extérieures.
La présente invention va couvrir essentiellement la partie cryogénique du procédé. Elle constitue la zone de liquéfaction de cette dernière. Pour limiter les pertes thermiques cette partie du procédé est installée dans un boite calorifuge appelé boîte froide. Les températures varient entre +20°C à -196°C. Les équipements sont donc soumis à des contraintes mécaniques fortes. Pour réduire les effets mécaniques il est commun de répartir les contraintes sur l'ensemble de la ligne procédé concernée. La solution mise en œuvre dans la présente invention permet de faire une approche de la gestion des contraintes en définissant la boite froide comme étant autonome. La gestion des contraintes internes à la boite froide se fera en plaçant un point fixe en limite de boite froide ou en donnant des contraintes admissibles pour d'autres parties.The present invention therefore makes it possible to solve the problem identified above in at least two points:
  • The number of pipes making the connection between equipment entails an assembly cost and a significant impact on the overall cost of the installation.
    1. To. The present invention makes it possible to define the interconnection zone as a central distribution module between all the modules necessary for the method.
    2. b. This dissociation between the “process functions” (Compression, Overpressure, Expansion, Cooling, Liquefaction), which are linked to the designs of each supplier, and the interconnection allows the possibility of changing suppliers without changing the flow of fluids. The adaptation of the connections to the modules is done during assembly on site.
  • To follow the evolution desired by the user without having to modify the general design of the fluid path, each module must be able to have an acceptance threshold for external constraints.
The present invention will essentially cover the cryogenic part of the process. It constitutes the liquefaction zone of the latter. To limit thermal losses, this part of the process is installed in a heat-insulated box called a cold box. Temperatures vary between + 20 ° C to -196 ° C. The equipment is therefore subject to strong mechanical stresses. To reduce the mechanical effects, it is common to distribute the stresses over the whole of the process line concerned. The solution implemented in the present invention makes it possible to take an approach to the management of constraints by defining the cold box as being autonomous. The management of internal stresses in the cold box will be done by placing a fixed point at the edge of the cold box or by giving admissible stresses for other parts.

Cette installation permet d'aligner les modules de la partie froide (module d'échange thermique et module de séparateurs) ensemble et d'ajouter la partie chaude (module compresseur) en alignement ou perpendiculairement à cet alignement et ainsi diminuer l'encombrement de surface au sol et en outre diminuer les longueurs d'interconnexions.This installation makes it possible to align the modules of the cold part (heat exchange module and separator module) together and to add the hot part (compressor module) in alignment or perpendicular to this alignment and thus reduce the space requirement. to the ground and also reduce the lengths of interconnections.

L'invention et ses différentes applications seront mieux comprises à la lecture de la description qui suit et à l'examen des figures qui l'accompagnent.The invention and its various applications will be better understood on reading the following description and on examining the accompanying figures.

DESCRIPTION DES FIGURESDESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

La figure est présentée à titre indicatif et nullement limitatif de l'invention.

  • La figure montre une représentation d'un schéma de principe d'un système de liquéfaction selon un exemple de mode de réalisation de l'invention.
The figure is presented as an indication and in no way limiting the invention.
  • The figure shows a representation of a block diagram of a liquefaction system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION DETAILLEEDETAILED DESCRIPTION

Fig. 1 montre une représentation d'un schéma de principe d'une unité de liquéfaction selon un exemple de mode de réalisation de l'invention. Fig. 1 shows a representation of a block diagram of a liquefaction unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Sur la figure 1, l'unité de liquéfaction 1 de fluide d'hydrocarbures comprend

  • Au moins une boîte froide cryogénique 2 comprenant :
    • ∘ Au moins un échangeur de chaleur ;
    • ∘ Une zone fixe 8 d'assemblage sur sa paroi extérieure ;
  • Un dispositif de différents équipements 3 nécessaires à la mise en œuvre du fluide froid nécessaire à la liquéfaction d'un courant de gaz naturel à partir d'un courant d'hydrocarbures d'alimentation ;
  • Un module d'interconnexion 4 comprenant un moyen porte tuyaux et un ensemble de tuyauteries, vannes de contrôle, et connexion électricité et instrumentation 5, 6, 7, conçu pour connecter ladite au moins une boîte froide 2 avec l'au moins un dispositif d'équipements 3 du cycle de réfrigération et/ou de séparation des éléments hydrocarbures de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel.
On the figure 1 , the hydrocarbon fluid liquefaction unit 1 comprises
  • At least one cryogenic cold box 2 comprising:
    • ∘ At least one heat exchanger;
    • ∘ A fixed assembly area 8 on its outer wall;
  • A device of different equipment 3 necessary for the implementation of the cold fluid necessary for the liquefaction of a stream of natural gas from a stream of feed hydrocarbons;
  • An interconnection module 4 comprising a means for carrying pipes and a set of pipes, control valves, and electricity and instrumentation connection 5, 6, 7, designed to connect said at least one cold box 2 with the at least one device for equipment 3 for the refrigeration and / or separation cycle of C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in natural gas.

Le module d'interconnexion 4 repose sur un châssis permettant sa manutention relié à la boîte froide au niveau de ladite zone de d'assemblage.The interconnection module 4 rests on a frame allowing its handling connected to the cold box at said assembly zone.

Avantageusement, le module d'interconnexion comprend un ou plusieurs éléments choisis parmi des soupapes de commande, des soupapes manuelles, des actionneurs de soupapes. Ainsi, on agence des éléments importants pour le contrôle de l'ensemble de liquéfaction dans le module d'interconnexion, dont le montage et la manutention sur site sont plus simples et plus sûrs, ce qui facilite le montage de ces éléments et en facilite l'accès pour la maintenance. La sécurité de l'unité s'en trouve améliorée. En particulier, une ou plusieurs soupapes sont du type soupape de sécurité de pression, ce qui correspond en langue anglaise à l'acronyme « PSV » pour « Pressure Safety Valve ». Selon un mode de réalisation particulier, l'unité comprend une ou plusieurs soupapes de sécurité de pression, dont la totalité est agencée dans le module d'interconnexion.Advantageously, the interconnection module comprises one or more elements chosen from control valves, manual valves, valve actuators. Thus, important elements for the control of the liquefaction assembly are arranged in the interconnection module, the assembly and handling of which on site are simpler and safer, which facilitates the assembly of these elements and facilitates their installation. 'access for maintenance. Unit safety is improved. In particular, one or more valves are of the pressure safety valve type, which corresponds in English to the acronym “PSV” for “Pressure Safety Valve”. According to a particular embodiment, the unit comprises one or more pressure safety valves, all of which are arranged in the interconnection module.

Le courant d'alimentation NG peut être un courant de gaz naturel qui peut être prétraité, dans lequel une ou plusieurs substances, telles que du soufre, dioxyde de carbone, de l'eau, sont réduites, de manière à être compatible avec des températures cryogéniques, comme cela est connu dans l'état de la technique.The NG feed stream can be a natural gas stream which can be pretreated, in which one or more substances, such as sulfur, carbon dioxide, water, are reduced, so as to be compatible with temperatures. cryogenic, as is known in the state of the art.

Les échangeurs de chaleur sont connus dans l'état de la technique, et peuvent avoir divers arrangements de leur(s) flux d'alimentation et des courants de réfrigérant.Heat exchangers are known in the art, and can have various arrangements of their feed stream (s) and refrigerant streams.

Lorsque le flux d'hydrocarbures liquéfié ou au moins partiellement liquéfié LNG est du gaz naturel liquéfié, la température peut être d'environ -150 C à -160°C.When the liquefied or at least partially liquefied hydrocarbon stream LNG is liquefied natural gas, the temperature can be about -150 C to -160 ° C.

La liquéfaction du courant d'alimentation NG est effectuée grâce à un fluide ou courant d'azote réfrigérant détendu dans un ou plusieurs circuits réfrigérant pour pré-refroidir le courant d'alimentation NG,The liquefaction of the NG feed stream is carried out by means of a refrigerant fluid or nitrogen stream expanded in one or more refrigerant circuits to pre-cool the NG feed stream,

Un module d'échange thermique comprend des parois pour isoler thermiquement par rapport à l'extérieur, l'échangeur thermique et comprend un squelette permettant de transporter le module d'échange thermique pour le fixer.A heat exchange module comprises walls for thermally insulating the heat exchanger from the outside and comprises a skeleton making it possible to transport the heat exchange module in order to fix it.

Le squelette peut être réalisé par des fers inox de façon à diminuer les effets de la diffusion thermique. En outre ce squelette peut avoir la forme d'un containeur, formant ainsi les arrêtes d'un parallélépipède rectangle appelé aussi pavé droit. Ainsi il est simple à transporter. Le squelette du module d'échange thermique peut en outre comprendre des moyens pour faciliter l'installation.The skeleton can be made with stainless steel irons so as to reduce the effects of thermal diffusion. In addition, this skeleton can have the shape of a container, thus forming the edges of a rectangular parallelepiped also called a right pavement. So it is easy to transport. The skeleton of the heat exchange module can further include means to facilitate installation.

Par élément, on entend un module, ou un compresseur, ou un détendeur ou un circuit d'un module, ou un refroidisseur, ou un séparateur.By element is meant a module, or a compressor, or an expansion valve or a circuit of a module, or a cooler, or a separator.

Par connectique, on entend un tube ou tuyau pouvant être isolé ou non isolé et pouvant comprendre des valves ou limiteurs.The term “connectors” is understood to mean a tube or pipe which may or may not be insulated and which may include valves or limiters.

Par courant, on entend un ou des fluides qui peut être en phase liquide ou phase gazeuse ou les deux circulants dans des éléments du système.The term “current” is understood to mean one or more fluids which may be in the liquid phase or in the gas phase or both circulating in elements of the system.

Par entrée on entend, que le fluide rentre et donc donne un sens de circulation du courant. Autrement dit une entrée d'un premier élément est reliée en aval d'une sortie d'un deuxième élément.By entry is meant that the fluid enters and therefore gives a sense of current flow. In other words, an input of a first element is connected downstream of an output of a second element.

Par sortie on entend, que le fluide sort d'un élément et donc donne un sens de circulation du courant. Autrement dit une sortie d'un premier élément est reliée en amont d'une entrée d'un deuxième élément.By outlet is meant that the fluid leaves an element and therefore gives a direction of current flow. In other words, an output of a first element is connected upstream of an input of a second element.

Par relié, on entend relier pour le transport d'un fluide, par exemple une entrée reliée à un élément implique qu'un fluide peut passer de l'élément à l'entrée soit directement soit par le biais d'autres éléments.By connected is meant to connect for the transport of a fluid, for example an inlet connected to an element implies that a fluid can pass from the element to the inlet either directly or through other elements.

Par connecté, on entend la connexion de deux éléments (sortie d'un élément à une entrée d'un autre élément) pour le transport de fluide à l'aide d'une connectique ou connecté directement l'un à l'autre (une sortie directement reliée à une entrée d'un élément (sans tuyau). Autrement dit, il n'y a pas d'autres éléments entre les deux éléments.By connected, we mean the connection of two elements (output of one element to an input of another element) for the transport of fluid using a connector or connected directly to each other (one output directly connected to an input of an element (without pipe), in other words, there are no other elements between the two elements.

Par fixé, on entend le montage physique d'un élément à un autre élément pour les rendre solidaire l'un à l'autre.By fixed is meant the physical assembly of one element to another element to make them integral with one another.

Par courant détendu, on entend le courant en aval d'un circuit détendeur et en amont d'un compresseur.By expanded current is meant the current downstream of an expansion valve circuit and upstream of a compressor.

Par courant compressé, on entend le courant en amont d'un circuit détendeur et en aval d'un compresseur.By compressed current is meant the current upstream of an expansion valve circuit and downstream of a compressor.

Le gaz naturel liquéfié à l'issu du procédé objet de la présente invention peut ensuite, par exemple, être transféré à un dispositif de stockage ou de transport.The liquefied natural gas at the end of the process which is the subject of the present invention can then, for example, be transferred to a storage or transport device.

Le procédé objet de la présente invention procure notamment une optimisation des dépenses d'investissement. En effet, le fait d'avoir un système modulable permet de proposer plusieurs dispositions des modules et ainsi diminuer les coûts de recherche d'installation ainsi que le coût de fabrication.The method that is the subject of the present invention in particular provides an optimization of the investment expenditure. Indeed, the fact of having a modular system makes it possible to offer several arrangements of the modules and thus to reduce the costs of finding an installation as well as the cost of manufacture.

Claims (9)

Unité de liquéfaction de gaz naturel comprenant : - Au moins une boîte froide (2) cryogénique comprenant : • Au moins un échangeur de chaleur ; • Une zone fixe (8) d'assemblage sur sa paroi extérieure ; - Au moins un cycle de réfrigération en boucle fermée à l'azote ; - Au moins un dispositif d'équipements (3) nécessaires à la mise en œuvre de la liquéfaction d'un courant de gaz naturel à partir d'un courant d'hydrocarbures d'alimentation ; - Au moins un module d'interconnexion (4) comprenant un moyen porte tuyaux et un ensemble de tuyauteries et vannes (5, 6, 7), conçu pour connecter ladite au moins une boîte froide (2) avec au moins un dispositif d'équipements du cycle de réfrigération et/ou de séparation des éléments hydrocarbure de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel. caractérisée en ce que le module d'interconnexion (4) repose sur un châssis permettant sa manutention et est relié à la boîte froide (2) et aux autres sous-ensembles procédés ou équipements (3) situés en satellites par ladite zone fixe (8) d'assemblage.Natural gas liquefaction unit comprising: - At least one cryogenic cold box (2) comprising: • At least one heat exchanger; • A fixed assembly area (8) on its outer wall; - At least one closed loop nitrogen refrigeration cycle; - At least one equipment device (3) necessary for carrying out the liquefaction of a stream of natural gas from a stream of feed hydrocarbons; - At least one interconnection module (4) comprising a pipe holder means and a set of pipes and valves (5, 6, 7), designed to connect said at least one cold box (2) with at least one device for refrigeration cycle equipment and / or separation of C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in natural gas. characterized in that the interconnection module (4) rests on a frame allowing its handling and is connected to the cold box (2) and to the other process or equipment sub-assemblies (3) located in satellites by said fixed zone (8 ) assembly. Unité selon la revendication précédente, caractérisée en ce que le module d'interconnexion (4) comprend notamment un ou plusieurs éléments choisis parmi des soupapes de commande, des soupapes manuelles, des branchements d'échantillons, des tuyauteries, des panneaux prédécoupés avec des actionneurs de soupapes, des instruments, des sources de vapeur, de l'éclairage, des échelles et des plates-formes, des boîtes de jonction pré-câblées, des plateaux de câbles instrumentaux/- électriques, des supports de tuyauteries, de la canalisation.Unit according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the interconnection module (4) comprises in particular one or more elements chosen from control valves, manual valves, sample connections, pipes, pre-cut panels with actuators valves, instruments, steam sources, lighting, ladders and platforms, pre-wired junction boxes, instrument / - electrical cable trays, pipe supports, piping. Unité selon la revendication 2, caractérisée en ce que le module d'interconnexion (4) comprend un ou plusieurs éléments choisis parmi des soupapes de commande, des soupapes manuelles, des actionneurs de soupapes.Unit according to Claim 2, characterized in that the interconnection module (4) comprises one or more elements chosen from control valves, manual valves, valve actuators. Unité selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que lesdits autres sous-ensembles procédés ou équipements (3) sont nécessaires à la mise en œuvre d'au moins une fonction procédé choisie parmi la compression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, la surpression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, la détente de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, le refroidissement de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, la liquéfaction du courant de gaz naturel, la séparation des éléments hydrocarbures de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel, le module d'interconnexion (4) étant dépourvu de tels sous-ensembles procédés ou équipements.Unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said other process or equipment sub-assemblies (3) are necessary for the implementation of at least one process function chosen from the compression of the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle , the overpressure of the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, the expansion of the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, the cooling of the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, the liquefaction of the natural gas stream, the separation of the C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in natural gas, the interconnection module (4) being devoid of such process or equipment subassemblies. Unité selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que le cycle de réfrigération comprend un premier moyen de compression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, un moyen de refroidissement de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, un deuxième moyen de compression de l'azote du cycle de réfrigération, ledit deuxième moyen de compression comprenant deux surpresseurs couplés à deux moyens de détente respectifs, lesdits surpresseurs étant configurés pour comprimer l'azote du cycle de réfrigération à pression identique.Unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the refrigeration cycle comprises a first means for compressing the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, a means for cooling the nitrogen of the refrigeration cycle, a second means for compressing nitrogen from the refrigeration cycle, said second compression means comprising two boosters coupled to two respective expansion means, said boosters being configured to compress nitrogen from the refrigeration cycle at the same pressure. Unité selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que ledit châssis a une structure métallique.Unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said frame has a metallic structure. Unité selon l'une des revendications précédentes caractérisée en ce que ledit au moins un échangeur de chaleur est un échangeur de chaleur en aluminium brasé.Unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one heat exchanger is a brazed aluminum heat exchanger. Utilisation d'une unité telle que définie à l'une des revendications précédentes pour liquéfier un courant de gaz naturel.Use of a unit as defined in one of the preceding claims for liquefying a stream of natural gas. Procédé de mise en service d'une unité de liquéfaction telle que définie aux revendications 1 à 6, comprenant les étapes suivantes : - Installation sur site d'un cycle de réfrigération en boucle fermée à l'azote et d'une boîte froide (2) comprenant : • Au moins un échangeur de chaleur ; • Une zone fixe (8) d'assemblage sur sa paroi extérieure ; - Installation sur site d'un module d'interconnexion (4) comprenant un moyen porte tuyaux et un ensemble de tuyauteries et vannes (5, 6, 7), conçu pour connecter ladite au moins une boîte froide (2) avec au moins un dispositif d'équipements (3) du cycle de réfrigération et/ou de séparation des éléments hydrocarbure de type C6+ contenu dans le gaz naturel. - Fixation dudit module d'interconnexion (4) à la boîte froide (2) et à au moins un dispositif d'équipements (3), permettant la mise en œuvre du procédé de liquéfaction utilisant ladite boîte froide (2), déjà disposé sur le site. Method of commissioning a liquefaction unit as defined in claims 1 to 6, comprising the following steps: - On-site installation of a closed loop nitrogen refrigeration cycle and a cold box (2) comprising: • At least one heat exchanger; • A fixed assembly area (8) on its outer wall; - On-site installation of an interconnection module (4) comprising a pipe holder means and a set of pipes and valves (5, 6, 7), designed to connect said at least one cold box (2) with at least one equipment device (3) for the refrigeration cycle and / or separation of C6 + type hydrocarbon elements contained in natural gas. - Attachment of said interconnection module (4) to the cold box (2) and to at least one equipment device (3), allowing the implementation of the liquefaction process using said cold box (2), already placed on the site.
EP21166576.5A 2020-04-07 2021-04-01 Agile installation of a hydrocarbon liquefaction unit Pending EP3892946A1 (en)

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