Optimization of desulphurization system for increased acidic components content in natural gas.

Aiming at the inferior product gas quality and frequent equipment troubles due to the increase of acidic components content in natural gas in recent years, the process of desulphurization system after the increase of MDEA solution circulation flow rate was simulated by Aspen HYSYS software. The simulation result demonstrated that it was necessary to increase MDEA solution volume flow rate gradually from 63. 25 m³/h to 102. 85 m³/h to satisfy national standards when the volume fraction of CO₂ and H₂S was increased from 5. 280% and 0. 028% to 6. 280% and 0. 052% respectively. Key facilities were implemented a series of optimization by the professional softwares of FRI-Tray Rating, and HTRI Xchanger Suite, etc. The fluid mechanics performance of amine absorber and regenerator were qualified for different volume flow rates of MDEA solution after calculation. When the volume flow rates increased, it was feasible schemes to add the same model of lean/rich amine heat exchanger in series and simultaneously change the specification of heat exchange tube to meet the demand and resolve block. Optimized two-level flash device could greatly relieve frequent fluctuation and fixing the high-efficiency corrugated plate demister at inlet could avoid system foaming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]