Democratic and Popular Algerian Republic

Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research

KASDI MERBAH UNIVERSITY OUARGLA

Faculty of Applied Sciences

Department of Process Engineering

COPY
Performed by

Dr. SELLAMI Mohamed Hassen

Processing methods
natural gas
(Lessons & exercises)

For students:

-1eraMaster's Year in Natural Gas Engineering

Module: Natural Gas Processing Methods - MGN 24
 SUMMARY

Chapter I. Generalities on crude gas Page

I.1. Introduction 1
I.2. Characteristics of raw gas. 1
I.2.1 The calorific power ......................................................... 1

I.2.1.1. The higher calorific power............................... 1

I.2.1.2. The lower calorific value………………………………………….. 2
I.2.2. The chemical composition....................................................... 2

I.2.3. The density……………………………………………………………………. 3

I.2.4. The average molar mass............................................................ 3

I.3. Origin of the constituents……………………………………………………… 4

I.3.1. Bacterial or biochemical gas………………………………………….. 4
I.3.2. Thermal gas……………………………………………………………. 4
I.4. The different types of natural gas………………………………………….. 4
I.4.1. Dry gas…………………………………………………………………… 4
I.4.2. The wet gas………………………………………………………………. 5
I.4.3. Condensate gas……………………………………………………….. 5
I.4.4. Associated gas................................................................. 5

Chapter II. Processing methods for raw gas

II.1. Introduction.
II.2. The PRITCHARD process…………………………………………………… 6
II.3. The HUDSON process .......................................................... 7

II.4. Mixed processes……………………………………………………………... 7

II.5. Absorption of acidic gases by an amine solution……………………. 8
II.5.1. Choice of the absorbent, problems and solutions.......................... 9
II.5.2. Calculation of an absorption column........................................... 10

Chapter III. The dehydration of natural gas

III.1. Introduction 13
III.2. Natural gas hydrates ..……………………………………………… 13
III.2.1. Nature and structure.................................13

I
 III.2.2. Prevention of hydrates ..................................................... 14

III.3. The dehydration methods……………………………………… 15

III.3.1. Pre-dehydration by cooling of the gas………………………. 15
III.3.2. Dehydration by absorption…….…………………………………… 16
III.3.3. Dehydration by gas permeation...................... 17
III.3.4. Dehydration by paradsorption... 18
III.3.4.1 Generalities 18
III.3.4.2. The types of adsorption ... 19
III.[Link]. Physical adsorption ……………………………………………... 19
III.[Link]. Chemical adsorption ……………………………………………..19
III.3.4.3. Characterizations.................................................... 20

III.3.4.4. The adsorption processes.............................. 22

III.3.4.5. The adsorbents used (structure and characteristics)... 23

III.[Link]. Activated alumina... 23
III.[Link]. Silica gel..............................................24
III.[Link]. Molecular sieves... 25
III.3.4.6. Concept of the mass transfer zone... 26
III.3.4.7. Duration of cycles………………………….. .……………………….. 27
III.3.4.8. The thermal efficiency of the regeneration process................. 29

III.3.4.9. Calculation of an adsorber and the amount of molecular sieve... 29

Exercises………………………………………………………………………………34
Annexes...........................................................44

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Natural gas processing methods

Chapter I. General Information on Crude Gas
I.1. Introduction
Raw gas or natural gas is a mixture of hydrocarbons with a tendency
paraffinic (Saturated hydrocarbons) containing methane (CH4) and ethane
(C2H6in large proportion which gives it a calorific power and a
remarkable combustibility.
In addition to being a fuel, natural gas is used in manufacturing industries.
cement, glass, ceramics, etc. It is considered a material
first in the petrochemical industry, let's take methanol as an example,
ammonia, fertilizers, etc.

I.2. Characteristics of crude gas

At the final stage of its production, crude gas is characterized by the properties
following:

I.2.1. The calorific power

It is the amount of heat in Joules or calories released during combustion.
total of a cubic meter, a kilogram, or a mole of gas generally at
15°C and under atmospheric pressure. The unit of calorific power is therefore:
(J/m3(J/kg) or (J/mol).
In other words, the calorific power represents the enthalpy of combustion by
unit of volume, mass, or mole of gas at a temperature of 15°C.

I.2.1.1. The higher calorific power (H.C.P)

It is the heating value of the gas measured or calculated if the water released from the

combustion is in liquid form.

I.2.1.2. The lower calorific power (L.C.V)

It is the calorific power of the gas measured or calculated if the water released from the

combustion is in the form of a vapor.

To find the relationship linking the (C.S.P) to the (C.I.P), we analyze the reaction scheme.
of the combustion of a hydrocarbon, assuming that the combustion releases (n)
moles of water:
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(P.C.S)
CxH2n (g)+ (x+n/2)O2 (g) x CO2 (g)+ n H2The(l)

(P.C.I) (H2O)

x CO2 (g)+ n H2The(g)

Since the (P.C.S) and the (P.C.I) are released heats, then it is obvious
what:
(P.C.S) < 0 and (P.C.I) < 0. On the other hand, we have: , so according to the diagram
reactive above it comes:

(I.1)

The previous equation can be written in another way using the enthalpy of
condensation of water instead of its enthalpy of vaporization, or:
, so he comes:

(I.2)

I.2.2. The chemical composition

It represents the percentage of elements and compounds in the gas, it is
used for the study of vaporization, the calculation of molecular weight and for
determination of certain other properties as a function of pressure and/or
temperature such as compressibility, density, etc. The composition of the gas
can also be given in mass fractions of the components.

I.2.3. The density

The density of any gas is defined as being the ratio of a mass
of a volume of gas on the mass of the same volume of air taken in the same
pressure and temperature conditions.

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The density of the gas can also be expressed as the ratio of the mass
the volume of gas to that of air under the same conditions of pressure and
temperature.
The density of the gas is therefore:

(I.3)

Under normal conditions (0°C and 1 atm), we have: .

The density of the gas can also be expressed by the following relationship, in
introducing the compressibility factor (Z) into the equation of state of gases
perfects

(1.4)

For 1 mole of any gas including air taken under normal conditions, the
molar volume is 22.4 L; thus the ratio of the densities reduces to
a report of molar masses since the volumes are equal, then the density
becomes:

(I.5)

I.2.4. The average molar mass

Let (n) be the total number of constituents of the gas, (Mi) and (xi) are respectively the
molar mass and the molar fraction of each component, the molar mass
The average gas is calculated by the following equation:
(I.6)

I.3. Origin of the constituents

The different compositions of gas are due to the diversity of its origins or
other terms of its deposit, distinguishes then:

I.3.1. Bacterial or biochemical gas

The mode or manner of formation of bacterial gas, also known as biochemical, is due to
to the action of bacteria on organic debris (animal and plant) that
accumulate in the sediments.

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The action of these bacteria generally leads to the formation of sulfide.

of hydrogen (H2S) that is found as a constituent in raw gas.
This type of gas where sulfur is found is referred to as impure gas or dirty gas.

I.3.2. Thermal gas

During the evolution of sedimentary basins, animal sediments and
plants subjected to high temperatures and pressures undergo a
thermal degradation that gives alongside hydrocarbons a slight range of
non-hydrocarbon compounds such as: N 2, CO2, H2O…etc. The presence of
hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in this gas is rare or negligible.

I.4. The different types of natural gas

The appearance of a liquid phase associated with gas depends on the conditions of
pressure and temperature in the reservoir and at the surface, this leads us to
distinguish the following types of gases:

I.4.1. Dry gas

This type of gas contains a large percentage of methane (CH4) and contains very
few hydrocarbons heavier than ethane (C2H6), it does not form any phase
liquid under production conditions.

I.4.2. The humid gas

This type of gas forms a liquid phase (water and/or condensates) during the
production on the surface conditions when there will be pressure drops
and/or temperature, it is less concentrated in light hydrocarbons.

I.4.3. The condensate gas

This type of gas forms a liquid phase (water and/or condensates) in the reservoir and
during production, the condensed phase is richer in constituents
heavy.

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I.4.4. The associated gas

This last type of gas is generally found in oil fields.
coexists in the reservoir with the oil phase either in free form (gas of
coverage) or in dissolved form in the oil phase.
The dissolved gas will be recovered after the atmospheric distillation of crude oil.

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Chapter II. Processing Methods for Crude Gas

II.1. Generalities
The treatment of natural gas involves purifying it and removing certain substances from it.
constituents present at the well exit such as: water, acidic gases (CO2,
H2S...) and heavy hydrocarbons (condensates) to bring it to specifications
commercial.
Several processes have been implemented, including:

II.2. The PRITCHARD process

It is based on the cooling of the gas through heat exchange and by
simple relaxations with the addition of a propane loop (C3H8) like
refrigerant fluid to reach temperatures close to -23 at the end of the cycle
C°.
The principle of operation the process is structured around four stages
presented by the following diagram:

Fig. II.1The steps of the PRITCHARD process

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II.3. The HUDSON process

It is based on the cooling of gas through heat exchange and supplemented by
a expansion through a dynamic machine called TURBO-EXPANDER, which
allows to reach a temperature level close to -50°C.
The operating principle of the process revolves around four stages presented
by the following diagram:

Fig. II.2The steps of the HUDSON process

II.4. Mixed processes

These are the most commonly used processes because they use a mixture of the process.
PRITCHARD and the HUDSON process.
A Joule-Thomson expansion valve and a dynamic machine (TURBO-
EXPANDERS) are used in addition to a propane loop for the
cooling which allows them to reach lower temperatures going
down to –66°C.
In these processes, the separation of gas from its impurities is more effective.

II.5. Absorption of acidic gases by an amine solution

The acidic gases accompanying natural gas are generally harmful, such as hydrogen sulfide.
of hydrogen (H2S) is very corrosive and it is one of the most poisonous

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dangerous for catalysts, especially adsorbents; carbon dioxide

(CO2) is a corrosive gas and it can form carbon hydrates in the presence
water (CO2.7H2O), and consequently leads to clogging of pipes and/or
equipment. The removal of carbon dioxide is generally referred to as a
decarbonization.
The removal of acid gases is done by washing natural gas with a
amine solution in a countercurrent absorber.
Two types of solutions are used:
Monoethanolamine (M.E.A): (OH-C 2H4-NH2) is used in the form of
from a diluted solution of 15 to 20% by mass in distilled water.
Diethanolamine (D.E.A): (OH-C 2H4)2-NH is used in the form of a
diluted solution of 20 to 30% mass by distilled water.
To establish the chemical reactions between the diluted amine solution and the gases
acids, and to simplify the writing we set: (OH-C 2H4) R and therefore we
aura
(M.E.A) (R-NH2) and
D.E.A (R)2-NH
Absorption reactions
1/Absorption with the (M.E.A):
a/Absorption of (CO2) :

R-NH3
1
2R-NH2+H2O+CO2 CO3 + Q
2
R-NH3

b/Absorption of (H2

R-NH3
1
2R-NH2+H2S S + Q
2
R-NH3

The absorption reaction (direction 1) is generally favored at low temperature.

and at high pressure; in our case, we are working at a pressure above 12
bars and a temperature between 25 and 50°C. The absorption reaction is
accompanied by a release of heat (Q) called absorption heat.

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2/Absorption with the (D.E.A):

a/Absorption of (CO2) :

R
1
R2-NH +H2O+CO2 NH3CO3 + Q
2
R

b/Absorption of (H2S):
R
1
R2-NH + H2S NH3S + Q
2
R

II.5.1. choice of the absorbent, problems and solutions

When the gas to be treated is impure (contains sulfur compounds), the use
from (M.E.A) is not recommended because it is sensitive regarding the
sulfur products, notably COS and CS2who form with the (M.E.A) some
non-renewable compounds, so in this case we use the (D.E.A) despite the
small quantity that must be used from the (M.E.A) compared to the quantity of the
(D.E.A).
The other problem encountered with the (M.E.A) is the foaming which reduces the
phenomenon of absorption.
The amine solution generally has a corrosive nature; corrosion is
often observed at the top of the absorption column and in the exchanger
heating or cooling of the amine solution.
To avoid or resolve the previously mentioned problems, one must:
Limit the concentration of the (M.E.A) to 20% by mass.
Avoid salt problems by using distilled water during dilution.
from the concentrated amine solution.
Limit the temperature during desorption (regeneration) to avoid the
degradation of the amine, or working at low pressures.
Monitor the amount of the amine solution and the proper functioning of the
regenerator to avoid foaming.
Increase the temperature of the absorber to prevent condensation.
heavy hydrocarbons.

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Use filters in the amine solution circuit.

Occasionally inject silicone as an anti-foaming agent.

II.5.2. Calculation of an absorption column

The quantitative and qualitative calculation of an absorption column requires the
the following knowledge:
a/ Basic data Poor Amine

(L.P)
As basic data, you need to know:
The processing capacity that is expressed Lean gas

in mass or molar flow rate of the gas (G.P)

rich.
Rich gas
The composition of rich gas.
(G.R)
The service temperature and pressure.
The mole fraction of CO2in the Rich friend

poor gas. Fig. (L.R)

II.3 Diagram of an absorber

b/ Material balance of the absorber

The overall material balance of the absorber is given by the relationship:
(II.1)
Using the charts and the partial pressure of (CO2In the rich gas, we draw the
absorption rate (TAbswho is:
é
(II.2)

c/ Thermal balance of the absorber

The thermal balance of the absorber includes the incoming heat flows and
outgoing by adding as incoming calorific flow the thermal effect of
the absorption (heat of absorption), so we can write:
(II.3)
The calorific flows of gas and/or liquid are generally known in
knowing their temperatures, their mass flow rates, and their specific heats
whether at the entrance or at the exit, so generally we have:
(II.4)
And also:

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(II.5)
The specific heat capacities of the gas and the absorbent respectively: and are

evaluated between the inlet temperature and that of the outlet.

To evaluate the output temperature of the rich absorbent, the following will be considered.
absorption heat

é (II.6)

Sizing of the absorber

3
By knowing the volumetric flow rate ( ) inQ(m/s)
v of the gas and its maximum speed (

Vmax) in (m/s) and using graphs drawn based on the parameters

criticisms and/or depending on the compression factor, one can easily find the
diameter of the absorption column by the equation:

(II.7)

The maximum speed of the gas is given as a function of its density by the
relation

(II.8)

The number of trays in the absorption column is calculated using the relationship
next that takes into account the content of (CO2) in the rich gas and in the gas
poor, in other words at the entrance and exit of the absorber:

(II.9)

With YS andYErespectively the molar ratio of CO2in the poor gas and

in the rich gas.

The height of the column depends on the number of plates and the distance.
between two consecutive plates, this distance generally depends on the type of
plateau.
The suppliers of the trays are the only ones who set this distance according to
the effectiveness of each type of tray.
If the distance between two successive plateaus is (h), then the height of the
absorption column will be:
(II.10)

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Chapter III
The dehydration of natural gas
III.1. Introduction
Dehydration is a process of removing liquid water molecules or
vapors contained in the gas, through the use of physical or chemical means
in order to avoid the following problems:
- Risk of pipe corrosion (especially in the presence of acidic gases such as
CO2and H2S).
- Risk of hydrate formation causing blockages in the pipelines and
production and transportation facilities.
- Two-phase flow and increase in pressure drop.
- Risk of solidification in cryogenic processes.
- Reduction of the calorific power of the gas.

III.2. Natural gas hydrates

[Link] and Structure
Hydrates are solid compounds in which water is associated with
hydrocarbons by physical and chemical type bonds.
Hydrates are crystals that resemble snow, they float on water and
their density is between 800 and 900 kg/m3.
The structure of hydrates is such that they can be considered as solutions.
of gas in crystalline solids.
Hydrates associate a specific number of a given hydrocarbon.
water molecules and this number depends on the size of hydrocarbon molecules.
Hydrates can form when certain thermodynamic conditions are met.
pressure and temperature are combined.
This explains their formation during the isenthalpic expansion (Joule expansion)
Thomson) of the gas. Generally, the formation of hydrates is favored
by the presence of fine particles acting as crystallization germs such as
what microcrystals of hydrate and solid particles (dust, oxides of
corrosion); it is generally favored by the factors
which contribute to increasing the turbulence of the flow, such as
high flow rate, pressure pulsation and any type of agitation.
The main chemical formulas of natural gas hydrates are:
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- CH4.7H2O
- C2H6.8H2O
- C3H8.18H2O
- CO2.7H2O

Among the main hydrocarbons that make up natural gas and that form
hydrates in the presence of water, methane, ethane, the propane and
Isobutane. Normal butane only forms at temperatures below 1°C.
We did not highlight the existence of pentane or hexane hydrates.

III.2.2. Prevention of hydrates

Hydrates cannot form without liquid water being in contact with the
gas, any action aimed at preventing their production goes through:
- Mechanical processes aimed at extracting water or thermal treatments.
allowing to raise the temperature of the gas effluents.
- The use of water-soluble substances.
- Under a given pressure, the reduction of the formation temperature of
hydrates in a gas can be obtained if water is incorporated with
substances such as alcohols, likely to lower its boiling point
freezing.
- Constituents such as ammonia, which act on its structure.
- Salts that in solution reduce its activity.

III.3. Dehydration methods

The presence of water leads to various problems for exploitation: Depending on the
temperature and pressure conditions prevailing in a facility, the steam
water can condense and cause the formation of hydrates, solidify or
to promote corrosion if the gas contains acidic components. To avoid this
Phenomenon, it is necessary to reduce the water content of gas by means of
appropriate treatment techniques. The dehydration of natural gas is carried out
by different types of processes:
Absorption.
Adsorption.
Gas permeation.

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III.3.1. Pre-dehydration by cooling of the gas

The water content of natural gas at the saturation point decreases when the pressure
increases or when the temperature decreases. As a result, the compression
and/or cooling are generally used as a pre-step
dehydration, before an adsorption or absorption process.
Method used to simultaneously control the dew points (water-
hydrocarbons) of natural gas.
Method also recommended upstream of another process of
dehydration.

Fig. III.1 Pre-dehydration by lowering the temperature

III.3.2. Dehydration by absorption

Absorption is a process for recovering the heavy fractions contained in
the gas, so it is a partial or total transfer of the heavy fractions of the
gaseous phase to the liquid phase.
So the absorption operation involves circulating countercurrent in a
absorption column, the gas at the bottom and the glycol at the top. By lowering the glycol
through the plates of the column absorbs water.
Generally for the absorption of water molecules contained in a gas
which has a dew point ranging from 15°C to 50°C (60°F to 120°F). We use:
CH2-O-CH2-CH2-OH
Triethylene glycol (TEG)
CH2O-CH2-CH2-OH

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ethylene glycol
Diethylene glycol (DEG) O
CH2-CH2-OH

CH2-OH
Monoethylene glycol (MEG)
CH2-OH

The desired properties for the solvent are as follows:

Great affinity for water;
Reduced cost;
Non-corrosive character;
Stability in relation to hydrocarbons;
Thermal stability;
Easy regeneration;
Reduced viscosity;
Low vapor pressure at contact temperature;
Reduced solubility in hydrocarbons;
Low tendency to foaming and emulsification formation;
Kinetics of rapid adsorption;
Low pressure drop;
Resistance to attrition;
Chemical inertia;
No volume expansion effects with temperature and saturation.

III.3.3. Gas permeation dehydration (membrane):

Separation processes use separation by selective passage.
(permutation) of one or more compounds.
The composition of the matter passing through the membrane is therefore
different from the composition retained by the membrane.
This type of operation is schematized in figure III.2. In practice, the
membranes are integrated into a support to form what is called
a module.

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In this figure, the flow passing through the membrane is called

permeate, and the flow retained by the membrane is called retentate.
The pressure difference between the incoming stream and the permeate stream creates the
driving force of separation, the fraction of the incoming flow that passes through
the membrane is called rate of conversion. .

Fig. III.2 Dehydration by permeation membranes

III.3.4. Dehydration by adsorption

III.3.4.1. Generalities
When the molecules present in a fluidizing flow come into contact
with a solid surface, they will be held at the surface by forces that
dependent on both the chemical and physical nature of the solid and the molecules
gases. This interaction is adsorption mainly due to forces of
Van der Waals. This adsorption can be several molecules thick.
On a commercial adsorbent, water is adsorbed to a thickness of two.
up to three molecules. Therefore, to have a large capacity
For adsorption, it is necessary to have a huge surface. The surface is the key element.
key to any good commercial adsorbent. Some commercial adsorbents exhibit
a surface of 800 m²/g and can hold up to 318 liters of water per m³.
There is another phenomenon related to adsorption:
Capillary condensation, which is the tendency of adsorption forces to
concentrate at the level of the pores. These forces increase as
the diameter of the pores approaches the diameter of the molecule to be adsorbed.

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Molecular sieves add another mechanism, that of their maximum degree.

of selectivity, based on:
The size of the molecules to be adsorbed starting from the concept of critical diameter which
constitutes an important criterion for determining whether a molecule can pass through or not
the opening of the pores and penetrating into the crystalline structure. The pores of the different

molecular sieves only allow molecules with a diameter to pass through

the critique is less than or equal to the diameter of the pores.

The critical diameters of the molecules most often encountered are given by the
table ([Link](I)).
Polarity or the degree of unsaturation; the more polar and unsaturated the molecule is
saturated, the more it will be in the crystal.

III.3.4.2. The types of adsorption

There are two types of adsorption, physical adsorption and chemical adsorption.

III.[Link]. Physical adsorption

Physical adsorption is based on the action of Van Der Waals forces.
The influence extends only over negligible distances from the surface.
In accordance with the principle of LE CHATELIER, the process being in this case

always exothermic, the volume of the adsorbed gas decreases when the temperature
it increases, and it is practically null as soon as it reaches a hundred °C.

The FREUNDLICH Isotherm

It is represented by an equation of the type:
(III.1)
Where: (a) is less than 1, and (K) separation factor, it increases with temperature in
green attendant 1.
This equation is often verified in the field of pressures.
intermediaries.

The Langmuir isotherm:

It is fundamental in the theoretical study of adsorption and corresponds to the type
1 in the BET classification.
His equation is written as:

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(III.2)
With:
- a: fraction adsorbed relative to saturation
-Qmrepresents the corresponding adsorbed quantity of a monolayer
complete molecular.

III.[Link]. Chemical adsorption

It corresponds to the formation of real chemical bonds through transfers.
electronic interactions between the molecules at the interface of the two phases. These bonds are

of covalent types, but they can be slightly polarized.

These gases can be recovered by a rise in temperature, accompanied by
by a pumping. The formation of these chemical bonds explains that the
The phenomenon usually only appears at quite high temperatures.
(200°C) and that they only become reversible at even higher temperatures.
high
The chemical-sorption isotherms have a shape reminiscent of the isotherm.
physical adsorption. The first explanation of chemisorption was the theory
from the monomolecular layer of LANGMUIR. However, it does not account for
of the strong chemical bond between the molecules and it would be more accurate to speak of
monolayer, with bonds forming between atoms, ions, or radicals.
LANGMUIR admitted on the other hand that each atom of the solid surface constitutes
a site capable of fixing a molecule or an atom.

III.3.4.3. Characterizations
Experimentally, it is often possible to distinguish between the two types.
of adsorption, but in certain cases, it is necessary to examine several
criteria simultaneously to be able to conclude. This notably concerns heat
of adsorption, the kinetics of the process, temperature and the equilibrium between
phases.

A–Adsorption heat
The heat released during adsorption is probably the most important criterion.
important.

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In physisorption, the amount of heat released per mole of adsorbed gas is

generally between 2 and 6 kcal, but values up to 10
kcal/mol can be found.
However, lower values comparable to adsorption heats
Physical appearances can be encountered.

B-Kinetics of processes
The speed at which the process occurs is also used as
criterion. Due to the nature of the bonds that occur during adsorption
physically, it does not require any activation energy and thus the adsorption
the physique establishes itself very quickly. Indeed, the speed of the adsorption process
is not solely related to the adsorption gap, but to several stages
successive ones of a different nature that can influence the overall speed of the
Process. The speed criterion is used for the distinction, but if it is alone, it
can lead to erroneous conclusions.

C-Temperature
Physical adsorption only begins near the boiling point.
from the adsorbate to the operating pressure, while the chemistry-sorption can take place
at temperatures higher than the boiling point temperature, at pressure
of adsorption considered. However, for highly porous adsorbents,
Physical adsorption occurs at much higher temperatures than the
boiling temperature of the adsorbate for a ratio (P / P0 < 10¯5).
(P is the partial pressure of the vapors in the system, and P0the pressure of
vapor existing above pure liquid, at the same temperature.

D-Balance between phases

The adsorption of a fluid by a solid is manifested by the existence of
the solid-fluid interface, of a layer where the distribution of molecules is different
of those reigning within the fluid. If one places an adsorbent in a mixture
liquid, its composition varies more or less quickly until reaching a
equilibrium value. Similarly, the introduction of an adsorbent into a container
containing a gas at a certain initial pressure causes a decrease in the
pressure due to the adsorption of the gas by the solid.

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The existence of an adsorbed layer is due to the fact that at the surface of a solid, the
molecules or atoms that make it up have incomplete bonds with the rest
the solid. When this is placed in the presence of a fluid, the non-connections
compensated tend to saturate with the help of adsorbed fluid molecules.
This adsorption occurs spontaneously and is accompanied by a decrease in
the free energy of the system is always an exothermic phenomenon.

III.3.4.4. The adsorption processes

The principle diagram of a dehydration operation by adsorption in a fixed bed
is represented in figure (III.3). The process works alternately and
periodic, each bed going through successive stages of adsorption and
desorption.
During the adsorption step, the gas to be treated is sent onto the adsorbent bed.
who fixes the water. When the bed is saturated, hot gas is sent to regenerate
the adsorbent.
After regeneration and before the second adsorption step, the bed must be cooled.
This is accomplished by sending in cold gas. After heating, the same gas can...
serve to carry out the regeneration. Under these conditions, four beds are necessary
in practice, two beds operating simultaneously in adsorption, one bed in
cooling and a bed in regeneration.
In some cases, it is important that the part of the bed used is the largest.
possible in order to limit the use of an expensive adsorbent or to maintain the size
from the adsorber to the minimum.

This can be achieved with a low increase in the complexity of the process by
using a three-bed system, based on alternating operation (charge,
regeneration, compensation) figure III.3.
The material transfer zone runs through the entire loaded bed, ensuring that
the bed is completely loaded, and reaches the bed in compensation. At that moment
in short, the loaded bed is put into the regeneration phase, while the bed in
compensation becomes the charged bed and the regenerated bed becomes the bed of
compensation.

22
Gasprocessingmethods [Link]/UKMO

Figure III.3: Adsorption dehydration process

III.3.4.5. The adsorbents used (structures and characteristics)

Adsorbent products have an extremely porous structure. Their
Their physical properties allow them to capture and store water and moisture.
in their microscopic orifices, which are arranged in layers, pores and
channels. The adsorbents are insoluble in water. Under the effect of heat, they
returning the stored moisture. There are different types of adsorbents:

III.[Link] Activated alumina

Activated alumina is a porous, amorphous, and partially hydrated form.
aluminum oxide (AL2O3) containing very small amounts of other
materials. Its specific surface is (250-350) m2/g, and a pore volume (20-
30 cm3/100g and it has a lower capacity than silica gel but it can
dry the gas at a dew point of -75oC (approximately 1 ppmv H)2O). In some
Dynamic operating conditions, the actual water loads are between 1/2 and 2/3.
given values on a figure.
In the grain sizes normally used for drying, the particles
Activated alumina has a bulk density of approximately 833 Kg/m³3Given that the
The packaged material contains about 50% void, which indicates that the density of
each particle, depending on the total volume including the pores, is
of about 1.6. The actual density of solid material in alumina particles
activated is about 3.3, which means that the pores must occupy about
50% of the volume of each particle.

23
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Activated alumina allows achieving high purities on the treated gas,

residual water content can be on the order of ppm. Hydrocarbons
Heavy substances are adsorbed but cannot be desorbed afterwards during the
regeneration. As a result, the treated gas must be dry or degassed.

III.[Link] The Silica Gel

Silica gel is among the main adsorbents and is suitable for
numerous applications. It is a form of silicic acid composed of granules.
irregular and porous. Its specific surface area is (700-850) m 2/g, and a volume of
pores (40-50) cm 3/100g. The basic products are essentially silicate of
sodium and sulfuric acid. These chemical substances are exposed to a
chemical reaction under given conditions and produce a very silica gel
rich in SiO2Silica gel is compatible with all materials except
strongly alkaline substances and hydrofluoric acid. It does not release any
smoke, is completely odorless and does not attack metals. The very large surface
the interior of the silica gel is divided into an infinite number of microscopic pores that
allows it to adsorb up to 36% of its own weight without modification
Structural. Silica gel is regenerated between 120 and 200°C. This process can
to be continuously renewed without degradation of the effectiveness of the gel.
The water content in the gas treated by adsorption on silica gel is approximately 10.
ppm. It adsorbs hydrocarbons which are then desorbed during the
regeneration, it can be used to simultaneously separate water and the fraction
condensate of treated gas while respecting certain precautions for use. The silica gel
is destroyed by free water that bursts the granules and, being acidic in nature, reacts
with the basics.

III.[Link] Molecular sieves (zeolites)

Molecular sieves are synthetic zeolites. They are characterized by a
regular pore diameter and a crystalline structure. They are mainly used
in applications requiring maximum air dehumidification.
Regardless of the relative humidity, they adsorb about 20 to 22%
water vapor. They combine the advantages of a low clean volume and a

24
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

high adsorption capacity. They are also regenerable by heating

which must be performed between 300 and 400°C.
They can produce dew points lower than -[Link] (0.1 ppmv).
Molecular sieves are made of a mixture of metal oxides.
(Al2O3<35%), SiO2(<47%), (Na2O<16%), (K2(CaO<1%), (MgO <0.1%), (O<1%)
(Fe2O3<1%), (TiO2<0.5%), (P2O5<0.5%).
The adsorption process using molecular sieves has the characteristics
following:
1. The concentrations of H2Or must be weak;
It is recommended for high load flows;
The residual water percentage is very low;
It requires intermittent operation;
5- The content of heavy hydrocarbons must be limited;
6- The presence of COS and CS2is harmful;

The adsorbent is an expensive product that must be replaced every 3 years.

The advantages of molecular sieves are:
A slow degradation over time.
2. The decrease in adsorption capacity with the increase of the
temperature is less pronounced.
[Link] have a high adsorption capacity at low concentrations of
the adsorbate.
They are more recommended for the dehydration of liquids.

Figure (III.4) summarizes the drying capacity for water vapor of the agents.
common adsorbents depending on the relative humidity of the air at 25°C.

25
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Fig. III.4 Water vapor adsorption capacity at 25°C for some

common adsorbents

III.3.4.6. Concept of the mass transfer zone

The mass transfer zone (MTZ) corresponds to the length of the bed required for
adsorption phenomenon, that is to say the distance that a unit must travel
gas to reduce the water concentration to zero.
As the adsorption process continues, a larger portion
the entrance section of the bed becomes saturated and the ZTM shifts from
more and more towards getting out of bed. Therefore, a dehydrator will have at least
two zones, one zone in equilibrium or saturated, and one mass transfer zone
as shown in figure (III.5). When the downstream limit of the ZTM reaches the exit of the
Lit, this is said 'saturated' or 'exhausted' and the point is defined as a point of
saturation.

26
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

ZTM

A
B

AXIS OF THE COLUMN

[Link].5 The mass transfer zone in an adsorber

III.3.4.7. Duration of cycles

Generally, the minimum dehydration cycle is 8 hours while the
The regeneration cycle is 04 hours for each adsorber (Table III.1).
dehydration cycle length determines the dimensions of the equipment and
the charge of the drying material. The longer the drying cycle, the more the
Containers and stocks are important, but the efficiency of the sieves is better.
molecular. This decreases the number of regenerations and prolongs the life of
desiccant material, figure (III.7) illustrates a decrease in capacity
saturation as a function of the number of regeneration cycles.

Table (III.1) Service and regeneration planning of the three dryers

Time 0 4 8 12 16 20 24
Ads No. 1 Service Regenerate Service Regenerate
Ads N°2 Regenerate Service Regen Service
Ads No. 3 Service Regenerate Service Regenerate Service

27
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

20 mesh mattress

3 mesh mattress

Tamis Bed
Di

Molecular

Ceramic balls

Grill

Fig. III.6 Schematic of a molecular sieve adsorption column

28
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Capacity %

25

20

15

10
400 800 1200 1600 2000

Number of cycles

Fig. III.7 Saturation capacity of molecular sieves as a function of

regenerations

III.3.4.8. The thermal efficiency of the regeneration process

The efficiency of heating cycles generally ranges between 40 and 50%.
The following correlation is used by the DAVISON company to estimate effectiveness.
regeneration thermal
(III.3)

With: t(h) the heating time in hours.

III.3.4.9. Calculation of an adsorber and the amount of molecular sieve

To estimate the length of the ZTM, the following equation developed by
Simpson and Cummings is used. For the molecular sieves we have:

(III.4)

In inches (1 inch = 1 inch = 2.54 cm)

Amount of water adsorbed per unit of time and surface in lbH2O/ft2.h.
surface speed of the gas in ft/h.
Relative saturation of the diet in %.
29
Gasprocessingmethods [Link]/UKMO

The calculation formulas are those used by W.R. Grace Davison for the
design of a dehydrator.

1-Calculation of gas properties

The molecular weight of the feed gas.
Mw= (III.5)
b/Compressibility factor.
Z = f(P) = 1.046–2.034 * 10-4* P + 4.571 * 10-8*P2
P: is the gas pressure in Psia
c/Gas density in lb/ft3.

g= (III.6)

The value 379 corresponds to the molar volume of the gas in (ft3) at 14.7 psia and 520°R.

é °

2-Calculation of gas velocity

(III.7)
é
è

3-Calculate the water load of the feed gas

10-6 (III.8)

Water content of the feed gas

4-Length of the saturated zone.

(III.9)

Adsorption capacity.
Density of the desiccant.
A: cross-section of the dehydrator.
5-Estimation of the height of the lost bed
W.R. Grace Davison introduces a new term called 'lost bed height.'
(LBH) to account for the reduction of the load

30
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

(III.10)

6-Calculation of the total height of the bed

The total height of the bed therefore becomes:

(III.11)

7-Calculation of the total amount of molecular sieve.

md (III.12)
A: cross-section (or section) of the column.

8-Calculation of pressure losses

The pressure drop is estimated in turbulent flow (Re<100) according to the equation
of ERGUN:
(III.13)

Pressure drop per unit height of absorber (Psi/ft)

Dynamic viscosity of the gas in cP (1 Poise = kg/sm)
Gas speed in (ft/min)
Density of the gas in (lb/ft)3)
These calculations do not take into account the pressure losses through the
ceramic balls, so we take an additional value of 10% so we
aura
(III.14)
For the calculation of pressure losses in the case of regeneration, the same ones are used.

equations except that the regeneration gas flow and temperature change.

9-Calculation of the amount of heat during regeneration

A/Heating phase:
The total amount of heat provided for the heating phase of the dehydrator
full between the temperature TIand the temperature Tfis the sum of the quantities of
following heat:
Q1Amount of heating heat of the molecular sieve
Q1(mCp)sieve(Tf-Ti) (III.15)
Q2Quantity of heating heat of ceramic balls

31
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Q2= (mCp)marbles(Tf-Ti) (III.16)

Q3Heating heat quantity of the metal column
Q3=(mCp)column(Tf-Ti) (III.17)
Q4Amount of desorption heat and heating of water
Q4=(mCp)water(Tf -Tiwater∆H(desorption/water) (III.18)
Q5Amount of heat for desorption and heating of hydrocarbons
Q5(mCp)[Link] -Ti) + m(H.C)∆H(desorption/H.C) (III.19)
It is noted that the mass of desorbed hydrocarbons constitutes 10% of the mass.
desorbed water
m(H.C)0.1 m(water) (III.20)
Q6Amount of heat lost to the outside, estimated to be 10% of the
sum of other quantities of heat:
Q6= 0.1(Q1+ Q2+ Q3+ Q4+ Q5) (III.21)
So the amount of heat received from the heating gas is the sum of all the
quantities of heat Q1to Q6:
QHeating= 1,1(Q1+ Q2+ Q3+ Q4+ Q5) (III.22)
The amount of heat given off by the heating gas is the same amount received by
the adsorber in regeneration in absolute value but with a negative sign:
QHeating Gas = -QAbsorber= -1,1(Q1+ Q2+ Q3+ Q4+ Q5) (III.22)
QHeating Gas =Transferred(mCp)Heating Gas(Tf–TH)<0 (III.23)
We can draw the regeneration gas flow that is at a high temperature (TH)
by combining the relations (III.22) and (III.23) and dividing by the time of
regeneration

(III.24)
ééé ééé –

A/Cooling phase:
During the cooling phase of Tfto Tithe adsorber contains only the
sieve and the ceramic balls in its metal column, then it is necessary to eliminate from
balance the quantities of heat for the desorption of water and hydrocarbons, and it is necessary to
neglect the amount of heat exchanged with the outside. The balance will be established
only with the amounts of heat released by the metal column, the
ceramic balls and the molecular sieve, then it comes:
Q Cold gas = - (Q1+ Q2+ Q3) =(mCp)Cold gas(Ti–Tf) (III.25)

32
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

The flow rate of the cooling gas can be derived by dividing its mass taken from the
relation (III.25) by the cooling time:

(III.26)
–

33
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

EXERCISES
Exercise /01 (Course Questions)
1/ What is natural gas decarbonization?
2/ Cite as an example 2 absorbents used in decarbonization.
3/ Why do we not eliminate nitrogen (N)?2natural gas?
4/ What is a dirty gas?
5/ Why do we not use activated carbon in gas dehydration?
6/ Why the regeneration of the molecular sieve is done by hot gas in
the adsorber from bottom to top?
7/ Why should we eliminate sulfur and sulfur compounds before the
dehydration?
8/ Why do we install dust filters before the adsorber?
9/ Name 3 known water adsorbents.
How to choose between 2 different natural gases?
11/ Why is the amount of heat during the heating of a water adsorber with a sieve
molecular is greater than the amount of heat extracted during the
cooling?
12/Why is the cooling of the molecular sieve adsorber done by a
treated gas (dehydrated) and does not contain acid gases?
13/The linear pressure drop in the adsorber, is it a function of temperature?
or not? Justify your answer.
14/ Why is the maximum speed of the rich gas limited?
15/A rich gas contains: ( H2S, C02, H2O), list in order in a few lines the
necessary treatments and the products used in each treatment.
16/In which device do we perform the following operations:
A/ Cool the gas to use it in the cooling of the adsorber?
B/ Heat the gas for use in the regenerating the adsorber?
C/ The decarbonization of gas?
D/ The desulfurization of gas.

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 Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Exercise /02
The gas from the Hassi-R'mel reservoir primarily consists of the indicated gases.
in the following table:
Composed % molar % massic Mass molar
(g/mol)
N2 5.0
(H2O)v
CO2 0.4
CH4 78.0
C2H6 7.8
C3H8 2.6
C4H10 1.4
C5H12 3.6
Total 100
1-/ Complete the table.
2-/ Calculate the density of this under Normal conditions of (P and T)
gaseous mixture if we accept that this gaseous mixture does not behave
like a perfect gas and the compressibility factor Z=0.8
3-/ Now the mixture is considered as an ideal gas, what will this be
density under the following conditions:
A/ (P = 1atm, T = 25°C)
2.5 atm
C/ (Deposit conditions P = 100kg/cm2T = 200°C
The constant of perfect gases: R = 8.32 J/mol.K = 0.082 [Link]/mol.K
The partial pressure of the water vapor associated with the gas is 0.6.
atm, find the pressure
Total of the mixture, deduce the partial pressure of CO2.

35
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Exercise /03
Let the reaction be: C(s) + 2H2O (g) CO2(g) +2H2
Calculate the heat of reaction at constant pressure at 25°C and at 300°C if
we give:
∆Hf°(H2O (g)) = -242 kJ/mol , ∆Hf°(CH4-75 Kj/mol
∆Hcomb(CH4(g)) = -803.4kJ/mol.
8.65 j/molK2O (g)) = 35.5 j/molK,
Cp(H2(g)) = 28.85j/molK; Cp(CO2(g)) = 25.5j/molK.
It is accepted that the combustion of methane CH4(g) gives CO2(g) and of H2O (g)
Exercise / 04
C6H6 + 7.5 O2 -> 6 CO2 + 3 H2OH
6 6and you

toluene C7H8.
2-Calculate the higher heating value at 25°C in Kcal/Kg for benzene C6H6
and for toluene C7H8.
At 25°C: ΔH Condensation (H2O)v = -588 cal/Kg
The lower heating value (LHV) of benzene = -9595 cal/Kg
The lower heating value (LHV) of Toluene = -9686 cal/Kg

Exercise / 05
The gas from the Brides field (Gassi-Touil) is composed according to the following table
Mass Mass flow rate
Components % molar % mass molar (kg/h)
(g/mol)
N2 0.82
CO2 8.24
CH4 89,91
C2H6 0.79
C3H8 0.06
i-C4H10 0.01
n-C4H10 0.03
i-C5H12 0.07
i-C5H12 0.07
Total 100 108353

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Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

1-/ Complete the table.

This gas powers an Absorber that removes carbon dioxide (CO2) by a
solution of monoethanolamine (MEA = Absorbent) dissolved in water at 20%
massive not containing any (CO2The absorber operates under the conditions
following: (P = 60 atm, T = 25°C)
Calculate the partial pressure of (CO2in mmHg.
Find the total molar flow rate of the rich gasN G*Rdeduce the molar flow rateNC*O2
in the rich gas.
N c*o2absorbed
Use the absorption rateTA to find the molar flow rateN M*EA
N MEA poor
*

poor, we accept that the molar percentage of CO2in the poor gas is
0.3%.
Calculate under operating conditions the density of this mixture.
gaseous if we accept that its compressibility factor Z=0.89

Qv
3-Calculate the diameter of the absorber using the equation: DA
0.7854Vmax

A  G
with QV the volumetric flow rate of the rich gas, and Vmax 75 , and that the density
G

average of the amine solutiond A 0.982 .

4-Calculate the number of trays from the absorber using the equation:
YS
Log
YE
NP
Log 1  E

With YS andYErespectively the molar ratio of CO2in the lean gas and
in the rich gas and (E = 0.127) valve constant.
The constant of ideal gases: R = 8.32 J/mol.K = 0.082 [Link]/mol.K

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Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Exercise / 06
An associated gas from a Saharan reservoir is composed according to the table
following:
% Flow
Components % molar Molar mass massive
(g/mol) (kg/h)
N2 0.73
CO2 7.23
CH4 90.00
C2H6 1.80
C3H8 0.06
i-C4H10 0.02
n-C4H10 0.02
i-C5H12 0.07
i-C5H12 0.07
Total 100 110500

1-/ In order to eliminate carbon dioxide (CO2) by absorption in a solution of

Monoethanolamine (MEA = Absorbent) dissolved in water at 15% by weight
container:
(0.1 moles of (CO2)/moles of MEA).
The absorption occurs under the following conditions:
12.2 bars
Complete the table.
Calculate the partial pressure of (CO2in mmHg.
Find the total molar flow rate of the rich gasN G*Rdeduce the molar flow rateNC*O2
in the rich gas.
N c*o2(absorbed)
Use the absorption rateTA to find the molar flow rate *
NMEA
N M*EA poor
poor, we accept that the molar percentage of CO2in the low gas is
0.3%.
Calculate the density under operating conditions G(kg/m3 ) why
gas mixture if we accept that its compressibility factor Z=0.9

38
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Qv
2 - Calculate the diameter of the absorber using the equation:DA (m) 1.284
Vmax

with QV the flow rate volumetric you gas rich in(m3/s), and

970 G
Vmax(m/s) 2.08.10 2 .
G

3- Calculate the theoretical number of trays of this absorber using

YS
the equation:N P 7 .3627ln , withYSand YE respectively the molar ratio
YE

of CO2in the lean gas and in the rich gas. What is the actual number of
plateaus if the efficiency of the plateau is 0.8?
Deduce the height H of the absorber if the distance between two plates
successive is h=40cm
The constant for ideal gases is: R = 8.32 J/mol.K = 0.082 [Link]/mol.K

Exercise / 07
The associated gas of GPL2/Hamra (HMD) from the dehydration section is
composed
according to the following table:

Molar mass (g/mol)

Components % molar
H2O 0.0753
N2 2.6347
CO2 1.42
CH4 69.52
C2H6 17.63
C3H8 5.58
i-C4H10 0.56
n-C4H10 1.63
n-C5H12 1.47
i-C5H12 0.38
Total 100

39
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]

The total pressure of this associated gas is 97.3 bars and its temperature is
T= 56°C
The volumetric flow rate of the gas at the inlet of the dryer is 362003 m3/h.

The adsorbent used in the dryer is the molecular sieve of type (4A°), of
density 740kg/m3with an average particle diameter Dp3.17mm.
The inner diameter of the adsorption column is 2.6m.
Complete the table.
Calculate the density (d gof this gas mixture compared to air.

Find the compressibility factor (Z) of the gas, and deduce its mass.
volumetric g in lb/ft3.

The constant of perfect gases is: R = 10.73 psi.ft3/lb.°R

II- the superficial speed of the gas is given by an empirical relationship:
GTZ
Vg (ft/min) with: T (°R), P (psi), G (lbgas/[Link])2) being the mass velocity
162Pdg

gas.
G 3600 1.06 g Dp ,
s S being the density of the adsorbent (lb/ft3).Dpin

(ft)
find the value of each of these speeds.
Check the value of the column diameter using the following formula:

QZT
D 5 (ft). With Q: (volumetric flow rate of gas in MMFt3/day).
2PVg

III-Another empirical relationship calculates the metallic thickness of the dehydrate.

(in) :
D
P.
E 2 , P (psi), S (maximum stress of the metal = 18900 psi), calculate E
S 0.6P
in mm.

40
 Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Exercise / 08
To establish an energy balance for a molecular sieve dehydrator during the
regeneration phase and the heating phase, the necessary data are
presented in the following table:
Sieve Balls in Column H2O H/C Gas from Gas of
molecular ceramics metallic cooling down...
Mass 41955 7142 186510 4770 477 mreg mref
(lb)
Cp 0.24 0.25 0.12 1 0.91 0.72 0.72
(Btu/lb°F)
TI(°F) 132.8 132.8 132.8 132,8 132,8 500 104
Tf(F°) 378 378 378 378 378 428 132.8

1- Calculate the amount of heat in (Btu) that is absorbed by:

a- the molecules of the molecular sieve
ceramic balls
c- the metal column and its accessories
of water and the desorbed hydrocarbons knowing that their energies of
Desorption are respectively: 1800 Btu/lb and 342 Btu/lb
2- Calculate the regeneration gas flow rate if the regeneration time is
3.5h, it is accepted that the thermal losses to the outside account for 10%
the total energy transferred by the heating gas.
3- Deduce the flow rate of the cooling gas if the regeneration time
is 2h

41
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Exercise / 09
A associated gas coming from a biochemical deposit consists of:
Gaseous components % molar Molar mass (g/mol)
H2S 1.40
(H2O)V 1.40
CO2 1.40
CH4 70.00
C2H6 17.00
C3H8 5.55
i-C4H10 1.55
n-C4H10 1.70
Total 100
The mass flow rate of this gas is 105kg/h. This gas must undergo treatment
following:
A/ Desulfurization + decarbonation by absorption at:
(P = 15 bars, T = 25°C) in the presence of a 20% mass solution of DEA.
1- Complete the table
2- Calculate the molar flow rate of the rich gas.

3- Deduce the molar flow rate and the partial pressure for: (H2S), (CO2) and
(H2O)V.
4- It is accepted that the absorption rate of (CO2is equal to the rate
absorption of (H2S) by the DEA and which is 80% mol of (CO2)/mol DEA,
What is the total mass flow rate of pure DEA necessary for absorption?
totally the (CO2) and the (H2S) ?
1 g/mol
g/mol.
B/ Dehydration by adsorption in the presence of activated alumina (Al2O3).
In this process, the desulfurized and decarbonized gas is compressed to: 60 bars
and 50°C before entering the adsorber.
1- Calculate the new partial pressure of water in this rich gas.
It is accepted that the adsorption rate is: 0.8 mol(H2O)/mol (Al2O3),
what is the mass of the adsorbent (Al)2O3used per hour to adsorb
totally the water present in the gas?

42
Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. X. NORMAND summary lessons on the refining industry Technip Edition,

Paris 1976.
2. P. Wuithier Refining and Chemical Engineering Technip Edition Paris 1972.
3. R.F. Golstein and A.L. Waddams The petroleum chemical industry E and F.N
Spon London 1967.
4. Refining and Petrochemistry Course of I.A.P / Boumerdes 1986.
5. P.R. Bauquis and E. Bauquis; Oil and Natural Gas. Technip Edition 2005.
6. P. George; Oil, natural gas, and petrochemicals in the world. Annals of
geography. 1959.
7. A. Rojey, B. Durand, C. Jaffret, S. Jullan and M. Valais; natural gas,
production, processing and transportation. Technip Edition 1994.
8. J.L. Humphrey and G.E. Keller; separation processes. Technical edition
selection sizing. 2001.
9. Operational manual for gas dehydration. Sonatrach 2007.
Adsorption theory, modeling and analysis
[Link]; Dynamic adsorption on molecular sieve in fixed bed. School
Higher School of Electrochemistry and Electrometallurgy. 1974.
12.M. Guisnet and F.R. Ribeiro; Nano zeolites serve the
catalysis. Dunod Edition. 2006.
13.A. Charreau and R. Cavaillé; Drying equipment and choice of a process.
Techniques of the engineer. 1988.

43
 Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Annexes

Table (1): Comparison of the properties of common adsorbents

Alumina Silica gel
Molecular sieve
Main components activated (silica gel)
SiO2 - 99.8% 40-42%
AI2O3 99% - 33-36%
specific surface area (m²/g) 300-350 750 700-800
Pore volume (ml/g) 0.35 0.43 0.30
Average pore diameter
40 22 3A°-4A°-5A°-10A°
(Angstrom)
Average temperature of
170-200 200-270 200-300
regeneration C°
Water adsorption capacity
22 type 4A°
à of the temperatures
19 42 21.5 type 5A°
environments in
28.5 type 13X
(Kg of water/100Kg adsorbent)

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Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Tableau (2) - Regeneration Sequences

TIME
STEP SEQUENCE
in me

1 Closure of adsorption valves at the inlet and outlet of the dryer 1

2 Opening regeneration valves for the inlet and outlet of dryer 1

Opening of output valves of the heaters TC205

AUTO0C
3 5
FV201 MAN ---->AUTO, Opening
FV202 AUTO---->MANU, Closure

4 Closure of the bypass valve of dryers XV214 1

Heating following an ascending ramp

5 20
TC 205 Case, SV = 1800C -------> 2750C

Heating with a constant temperature of 2750C

6 126
TC 205 AUT
Heating along an ascending ramp
7 15
TC 205 Case, SV=2750C----->2000C
Closing valve of the heater outlet
TC205----->MAN,TV 205 Closed
8 5
Closure FV 201
Opening FV202, MANU ----->AUTO

9 By-pass valve opening of dryers XV214 71

10 Wait 1

Closure of regeneration valves for entrance and exit

11 1
dryer

12 Shut off valves for adsorption at the inlet and outlet of the dryer 1

13 Opening of adsorption valves for the inlet and outlet of the dryer 1

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Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

Table (3) - diameter critics of certain molecules

MOLECULE CRITICAL DIAMETER ( A0)

Hydrogen 2.4
Acetylene 2.4
Oxygen 2.8
Carbon monoxide 2.8
Carbon dioxide 2.8
Nitrogen 3.0
Water 2.8
Ammonia 3.6
Hydrogen sulfide 3.6
Methane 4.0
Ethylene 4.2
Ethane 4.4
Methanol 4.4
Ethanol 4.4
Methyl mercaptan 4.5
Propane 4.9
Propylene 5.0
Ethyl mercaptan 5.1
Butene 5.1
1,3 Butadiene 5.2
Chlorodifluoromethane R-12 5.3
Thiophene 5.3
I-Butane to i-C22 H46 5.6
Dichlorodifluoromethane (R-12) 5.7
Cyclohexane 6.1
Benzene 6.7
Toluene 6.7
p-xylene 6.7
m-xylene 7.1
o-xylene 7.4
Triethylamine 8.4

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Gasprocessingmethods [Link]/UKMO

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Gastreatmentprocesses [Link]/UKMO

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Gasprocessingmethods [Link]/UKMO

49