Improve the calculation of solids precipitation in gas compositions

I. Miethe, G. Lauermann and B. Jungfer, Linde AG, Pullach, Germany The formation of solids during the cooling of natural gas streams is of high importance in gas processing, as the operational reliability of the entire plant is at stake. How can the freezing point be estimated accurately when a full analysis, including detailed data on heavier hydrocarbons, is not available? Light hydrocarbons up to n-pentane are generally detailed in the design basis of LNG, NGL or ethane separation plants. However, heavier hydrocarbons that might clog pipes at lower temperatures are often lumped together into pseudo-components according to their boiling point. A new method has been developed to improve