PRODUCTION • PROCESSING • HANDLING
THERAMAN REVOLUTION
An advanced commercial Raman spectroscopy system offers a more efficient means of accurately measuring LNG composition and concentration
R
epresenting nearly a quarter of the global energy mix, natural gas plays an important role in meeting worldwide energy needs.
Troughout the natural gas supply chain, gas producers require accurate real-time measurement of the composition of liquid natural gas (LNG) for in-process sampling or during transport for custody transfer. LNG is comprised of methane with heavier components such as ethane, propane, butane and trace elements such as sulphur compounds and aromatics. As such, data on the composition and concentration of the elements in the mixture can enable producers to increase process understanding and efficiency, improve quality, and establish the value of the product. Te need for real-time measurement begins when natural gas is converted into liquid form using one or more compressor
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trains for liquefaction and purification. Rundown lines then transfer LNG streams to storage tanks. By measuring the composition in the rundown, LNG producers better understand the product that is going into their tanks. Tis data enables them to predict how the LNG will age and better plan shipments by pipeline, train and rail. Although there are established techniques used for this type of measurement, these systems typically require samples to be extracted for testing, with results delayed for 20 minutes or longer. As a result, Raman spectroscopy is quickly gaining traction as an efficient, reliable, and economical alternative that can produce accurate, real-time results.
RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY Since its discovery in the 1920s, Raman spectroscopy has revolutionised process
analysis with its non-destructive mode of operation and capability to measure sample composition. Raman spectroscopy is a laser-based optical analysis technique used to measure compositions through the vibrational properties of molecules. For many years, however, Raman equipment had the reputation for being expensive, cumbersome and difficult to use. Now, advancements in the stability and portability of solid-state Raman systems and technological improvements in lasers, optics, and detectors have made the technique faster and more accessible for real-time inline analysis. As a result, Raman is now increasingly being used as a powerful measurement solution for LNG composition and concentration. When applied to inline processes, it can provide results in seconds. “Raman in the analysis of LNG composition is an important
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