Advances in LNG Expander Technology

The first use of cryogenic liquefied gas expanders dates back to the late nineties. The proven advantages of incorporating liquid expanders in the LNG liquefaction process lead the way to equip every new liquefaction plant with LNG expanders. The basic design concept of cryogenic expanders has remained unchanged since their inception, but several improvements in the detailed design have been successfully accomplished. This paper presents an overview of the advanced design of LNG expanders.