Definition:
The series of industrial processes designed to purify raw natural gas by removing impurities and separating valuable hydrocarbons to produce pipeline-quality dry natural gas suitable for transportation and end-use applications.
Key Components:
- Inlet Compression: Compresses raw natural gas to appropriate pressures for processing.
- Gas/Liquids Separation: Separates raw gas from liquids such as condensate and water.
- Condensate Stabilization: Processes raw condensate into saleable natural gas liquids (NGLs).
- Gas Treating: Removes impurities like carbon dioxide (CO₂), hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), water, and mercury.
- Dehydration: Eliminates water vapor to prevent pipeline corrosion and hydrate formation.
- NGL Recovery: Extracts valuable hydrocarbons like ethane, propane, and butane.
- Fractionation: Separates NGLs into individual components for commercial use.
Use Cases/Industries:
- Energy Production: Ensures natural gas meets quality standards for distribution and consumption.
- Petrochemical Industry: Provides feedstocks like ethane and propane for chemical manufacturing.
- Manufacturing: Supplies fuel and raw materials for various industrial processes.
Advantages:
- Product Quality: Delivers clean, dry natural gas suitable for pipelines and consumers.
- Environmental Compliance: Reduces emissions by removing harmful substances.
- Economic Value: Recovers valuable NGLs for additional revenue streams.
Challenges:
- Operational Complexity: Requires sophisticated equipment and control systems.
- Safety Risks: Involves handling hazardous materials under high pressures and temperatures.
- Regulatory Compliance: Must adhere to stringent environmental and safety regulations.
Related Terms:
Gas Sweetening, Hydrocarbon Recovery, Pipeline Specification Gas
Example:
A natural gas processing plant removes impurities and separates NGLs to produce methane suitable for residential heating and cooking.
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Synonyms:
Gas Conditioning, Gas Treatment, Gas Purification
