THERMODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE AND SCALABILITY ANALYSIS OF THE ETHANE LIQUEFACTION PROCESS: OPTIMIZATION OF REFRIGERANT FLOW AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Abstract

This study investigates the ethane liquefaction process, focusing on its thermodynamic performance and operational efficiency. The process integrates a compressor, a cooler, two heat exchangers, and an expander, supported by a liquid propane regeneration loop to optimize energy recovery. The system operates at a coefficient of performance (COP) of 1.45, indicating moderate energy efficiency, where 1.45 units of cooling energy are generated per unit of energy consumed. For the liquefaction of 50 kmol/h of ethane at 288K and 5 bar, the operational parameters essential to system performance include a liquid propane flow rate of 13 kmol/h and a methane flow rate of 67.4 kmol/h, which ensure efficient heat exchange and stable thermodynamic conditions. In particular, the compressor reaches an ethane pressure of 15 bar, underlining its essential role in the liquefaction process. The system’s COP remains constant at 1.45 across varying ethane loads, from 50 to 200 kmol/h, highlighting its robustness and scalability. However, refrigerant demands escalate with increased ethane loads: liquid propane flow rises from 23 to 44 kmol/h, and methane flow increases from 67.4 to 260 kmol/h. These trends emphasize the need to balance resource availability with operational costs for maintaining system efficiency. Future optimization opportunities include refining equipment efficiency and exploring alternative refrigerants with superior thermodynamic properties. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the ethane liquefaction process, offering insights into enhancing energy efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness for industrial applications.