Process Function

Unstable condensate from separators contains dissolved methane through butane causing high vapor pressure and evaporation losses. The stabilizer column uses heat and fractionation to remove these components. Feed enters mid-column while reboiler heat vaporizes lights which exit overhead for compression or fuel. Stabilized condensate exits bottom at Reid Vapor Pressure 9-12 psi meeting pipeline specifications.

System Configuration

Complete packages include fractionation column with 15-30 trays or packing, feed-bottoms heat exchanger preheating inlet condensate improving efficiency, reboiler providing thermal duty, overhead condenser and reflux system, reflux accumulator and pump, instrumentation, and PLC control. Factory-assembled skids minimize field installation with tested equipment.

Equipment Design

ERGIL engineers stabilizers based on condensate flow rate, composition, required RVP, and operating pressure typically 50-150 psig. Column sizing accounts for vapor-liquid loading. Carbon steel construction per ASME Section VIII handles hydrocarbon service. Reboiler options include fired, thermal fluid, or steam heating with duties 1-20 MMBTU/hr.

Applications

Production facilities stabilizing wellhead condensate, gas processing plants treating NGL streams, and gathering systems preparing product for pipeline. Capacities 500-50,000 BPD serving upstream through midstream operations. Suitable for sweet or sour condensate with appropriate materials.

Control Systems

Automated PLC manages reboiler temperature, reflux ratio, column pressure, and levels optimizing separation. Temperature monitoring ensures proper fractionation. Remote monitoring provides performance data. Simple operation requires minimal supervision with proven distillation technology.

Performance Benefits

Prevents storage losses reaching 5-10% without stabilization. Recovers light hydrocarbons for gas sales offsetting costs. Produces specification liquid for pipeline acceptance. Energy-efficient heat integration reduces fuel consumption. Modular design enables capacity expansion. Reliable operation with minimal maintenance across diverse condensate compositions.

ERGIL stabilization units deliver dependable fractionation maximizing liquid recovery while meeting pipeline vapor pressure specifications through proven technology and efficient design.