Rein in LNG energy costs with advanced process control

M. Tay, Rockwell Automation, Austin, Texas High energy costs do not need to be a part of daily life in LNG processing and distribution operations. Today, LNG operators often do not have insights into real-time conditions for processes like liquefication, cryogenic refrigeration and amine treatment. This makes it difficult for them to adjust equipment and help maintain processes at an optimal, energy-efficient state. As a result, producers end up running processes harder, ultimately consuming more energy than is necessary. FIG. 1. Implementing MPC software can help optimize LNG processes and reduce corresponding energy costs. The software can continuously assess existing and p