Process Overview

Natural gas from separators contains heavy hydrocarbons causing high hydrocarbon dew point. Pipeline specifications typically require -10°C to -20°C dew point preventing liquid formation during transmission. The control unit cools gas using refrigeration or mechanical expansion, condensing C5+ hydrocarbons. Cold separator removes condensed liquids while treated gas meeting specification flows to pipeline. Recovered condensate provides valuable NGL product offsetting operating costs.

System Configuration

Complete packages include gas chiller using propane or mechanical refrigeration, cold separator removing condensed liquids, gas-gas heat exchanger preheating cold outlet gas with warm inlet, condensate stabilization if required, refrigeration compressor and controls, instrumentation, and PLC automation. Modular skid design enables rapid installation with factory testing ensuring performance before shipment.

Cooling Technology

Propane refrigeration systems provide reliable cooling to -35°C using proven vapor compression cycles. Mechanical refrigeration with propane or mixed refrigerants achieves lower temperatures for stringent specifications. Joule-Thomson expansion offers simple operation without compressors for moderate dew point reduction. ERGIL selects technology based on inlet conditions, target dew point, gas flow rate, and site requirements optimizing capital and operating costs.

Applications and Capacity

Serves gas gathering systems, processing plant outlet conditioning, pipeline inlet stations, and production facilities requiring dew point compliance. Handles flow rates from 5 to 200 MMSCFD with operating pressures 300-1500 psig. Suitable for both sweet and sour gas service with appropriate material selection and safety systems meeting industry standards.

Control and Monitoring

Automated PLC systems manage refrigeration operation, temperature control, separator level, and safety interlocks. Dew point analyzers verify outlet gas specification with feedback control maintaining compliance. Remote monitoring provides real-time performance data. Energy-efficient operation through variable speed drives and optimized control strategies reduces power consumption while ensuring consistent product quality.

Design Standards

Equipment designed per ASME Section VIII, API 12J, and applicable codes with full pressure vessel certification. Materials selected for low-temperature service with impact testing. Explosion-proof electrical systems for hazardous area classification. Insulation and heat tracing prevent external condensation and maintain process temperatures. Complete documentation includes P&IDs, datasheets, operating procedures, and maintenance guidelines.

Performance Benefits

Prevents costly liquid dropout in pipelines protecting infrastructure and avoiding contractual penalties. Recovers valuable condensate creating revenue stream. Modular design suits greenfield installations or brownfield retrofits. Proven technology with minimal maintenance requirements ensures reliable long-term operation across diverse gas processing applications.

ERGIL dew point control units deliver dependable hydrocarbon management ensuring pipeline specification compliance while maximizing facility economics through efficient design and reliable performance.