Editorial comment

Adrienne Blume, Managing Editor

 Gas processing facilities are as varied in design as they are in function. From liquefaction and regasification terminals to gas gathering, processing and export infrastructure, gas processing systems across the world are characterized by geological, geographical, logistical, environmental, mechanical and other challenges.

Some elements are location specific, and some are applicable to many projects of a certain type. This issue of Gas Processing includes several case studies that address design and operational considerations, from both regional and global standpoints.

Consider the source. Gas processing systems must be designed to make the best financial use of the source reserves and the existing and planned infrastructure. The Ichthys LNG project in Australia, with its huge economies of scale and environmentally sensitive location, is a prominent example of a gas production and processing project that considers all of the aforementioned design challenges. Louis Bon, managing director of the Ichthys LNG project, discusses how the operating companies are working to coordinate three mega-projects while minimizing environmental impact during construction and operation.

Meanwhile, in the US Bakken shale formation, midstream companies are seeking ways to reduce associated gas flaring from oil and condensate production, while expanding operations in the play. Additionally, a technical study from the US examines design optimization for inlet separation systems, which are integral in gas conditioning.

Across the Atlantic Ocean, Israel is considering a number of options for exporting its share of the vast gas reserves discovered in the Eastern Mediterranean over the last 15 years. Consultant Gina Cohen explains these options, which include gas transport via pipeline and LNG tanker, along with what the solutions could mean for the energy security and economic future of the region.

Elements of design. Questions often arise early, during technology selection and engineering, but they may also come up during operational troubleshooting. Reviews of different design and operational practices at project sites provide case studies from which industry personnel can learn and exchange knowledge. One such study, out of The Netherlands, pursues the best designs for boiloff gas recondensers at LNG terminals. 

Another study, this time at an LPG unit in Turkey, considers ways to reduce sulfur levels in product LPG. The authors discuss strategies for preserving the operational integrity of the LPG unit and for maintaining product treatment specifications.

The big squeeze. Expanding on the issue’s design focus, a bonus report on gas compression examines the selection and design of different types of gas compressors, from an engineering perspective. A research study from Canada presents an analytical method for evaluating design elements of reciprocating and centrifugal compressors. Additionally, an analysis from Singapore advises how to determine settle-out conditions for recycle gas compressors, which influence equipment design alongside operating conditions. GP