Energy Reports (Nov 2020)

Comprehensive comparison of enhanced recycle split vapour processes for ethane recovery

  • Shijian Zhang,
  • Hong Jiang,
  • Jiaqiang Jing,
  • Min Qin,
  • Di Chen,
  • Chuan Chen

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6
pp. 1819 – 1837

Abstract

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The recycle split vapour (RSV) process is used for ethane recovery all over the world. However, improvements in RSV are required to treat unconventional feed gases under special conditions. In this paper, we propose three enhanced processes: RSV with propane refrigeration and pre-pressurization (RSVPP), RSV with propane and ethylene combined refrigeration (RSVPE) and RSV with propane and mixed refrigerant refrigeration (RSVPM). A comprehensive comparative analysis of the performances of these processes is carried out using conventional RSV as a reference. All the enhanced processes exhibit excellent performance in terms of the ethane recovery rate. However, the characteristics of each process cannot be differentiated using a single measure to compare the processes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the modified RSV processes in terms of economy, energy consumption and exergy. Thus, the advantages and disadvantages of each enhanced process are highlighted, enabling researchers to distinguish among the three proposed processes from different perspectives.

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