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Innovations to increase efficiency and flexibility in single mixed refrigerant LNG.

Number: 37

Author(s) : INTIERI A., TOGNOTTI M., MENICHETTI D., BOTRINI A.

Summary

It is well known that natural gas has a long-term role in the global energy mix. To keep pacing of the growing LNG demand, an unprecedented wave of export projects is currently being proposed: it is estimated that the world will achieve 800 MTPA of total nameplate capacity by 2030 with multiple additional projects being evaluated.
Recently, the modularized mid-scale LNG solution gained attention as valid alternative to the traditional large-scale and stick-built one. The idea behind this new approach is to split the total capacity into several mid-scale trains instead of a smaller number of large-scale ones. Moreover, these mid-scale trains are more prone to modularization: an approach that allows to gradually develop the project, adding new capacity in phases and limiting the overall financial exposure.
From a process perspective, the technology usually adopted with mid-scale trains is a single mixed refrigerant (SMR) cycle: a well proven solution in the LNG industry which employs brazed aluminium heat exchangers (BAHX) coupled with a Mixed Refrigerant (MR) centrifugal
compressor. The MR is normally consisting in a blend of hydrocarbons and nitrogen, optimized on cycle parameters and feed gas conditions to maximize the efficiency. SMR processes are generally considered a good compromise between inherent efficiency and plant simplicity, and therefore Capital Expenditure (CAPEX), compared to other cycles. In addition, they are generally simpler in terms of process operability, since they require fewer manual adjustments and less frequent operator’s interventions in the key control system settings of the plant versus other types of cycles.
While historically SMR processes have been used in applications with a smaller production throughput per train, latest technology evolution calls for up to 2+ million ton per annum (MTPA) per single train. Given this increase in the production rate, it becomes paramount to increase also the efficiency, reducing the gap of SMR versus traditional multi-cycle refrigeration processes.
Recently, Baker Hughes developed a set of innovations with modularized mid-scale LNG solutions based on SMR processes. These innovations include features to increase cycle efficiency and to extend the plant flexibility and consist in adjusting cycle parameters and adopting new architectural configurations for the cycle. The paper will present the results of Baker Hughes studies, also emphasizing the benefits that can be obtained by combining the rotating equipment know-how in conjunction with process design. These results have been embedded in an innovative family of LNG modular solutions called NMBLTM LNG.

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Details

  • Original title: Innovations to increase efficiency and flexibility in single mixed refrigerant LNG.
  • Record ID : 30034650
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Technology
  • Source: 21st International Conference & Exhibition on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG2026)
  • Publication date: 2026/02/05

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