Evaluating the Debottleneck Options for Existing LNG plants using Simulation Models

摘要

There is a significant emphasis on utilizing the existing natural gas assets to their maximum potential. The first step in achieving this is operating the existing LNG plants at their maximum capacity [1]. Beyond that, there are economic incentives in debottlenecking the existing LNG plants to increase their capacity. There are various options available to perform the debottlenecking of existing plants. The evaluation and selection of the best options to increase the plant capacity are important for optimum return on the investment. This paper discusses the methodology utilized to debottleneck LNG plants based on ConocoPhillips Optimized Cascade? Process*. An overall plantwide simulation model is used as one tool to perform the evaluation and optimization of the various debottleneck options.