Gas Processors Association Europe

Volker Giesen, BASF SE, Germany

In floating LNG concepts, the performance of the acid gas removal unit has been largely taken for granted - perceived as being a reliable and proven technology. A closer look at the challenges of deep CO2 removal from a natural gas stream under variable sea conditions reveals a potential process bottleneck upstream of the cryogenic process. High concentrations of CO2 can lead to plugging of the main cryogenic heat exchanger (MCHE). 

Are the costs of unplanned shutdowns in FLNG plants due to incomplete gas sweetening being properly considered?