Gas Processors Association Europe

Peter Baldwin, Ramgen Power Systems, USA

Ramgen Power Systems is developing a unique shockwave compression technology for use on high molecular weight gases like CO2.  The primary goal is a low-cost, high-efficiency CO2 compressor that will significantly reduce the overall capital and operating costs of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS).
CO2 compressors represent approximately 1/3 of the significant capital and operating cost of a post-combustion, amine-based CCS system.  The CO2 compressor power required for a pulverized coal power plant is 8-12% of the plant rating, depending largely on the suction pressure.  A 1,000 MW PC plant would require 100 MW, or 134,000 hp for CO2 compression at an estimated $150 million equipment cost for today’s 3 x 50% configuration. Installation costs at $75-100 million would be in addition.