Integrated LNG and NGL Production

Cryogenic NGL extraction plants from natural gas offer an attractive opportunity for LNG production as a side stream. Cold gas is tapped from the overhead of the demethanizer and liquefied via a compact and efficient mixed refrigerant compander process. The enthalpy balance of the NGL plant is maintained by recycling a cold liquid to the NGL column.

The standard concept extracts about 200 tons per day (~130 kgpd) of LNG from the residue gas of a NGL plant with a capacity of 200 MMSCFD. Very favorable economics can be demonstrated, as in addition to the LNG production the NGL plant capacity is boosted by approximately 10%.