Asphaltenes in TEG system 1

[PSP113]

We have two mechanical refrig. plants that dehydrate sales gas by spraying TEG into the gas-gas exchangers. We are having an issue where asphaltenes drop out of the gas and become entrained in the TEG. When it cycles back, the nozzles get plugged and if we can't clear the plug with a pressure truck, it causes a plant shutdown. Can anyone recommend a chemical or filtration to catch the asphaltenes. In one plant, we currently have 100% filtration at 10 microns. The other plant has a split stream filter system ( one cartridge and one bag ) at 10 microns.

 

[maddocks]

Can you confirm that you're using TEG? Typically it's an 80/20 wt% solution of EG. Do you have carbon filtration on the glycol? How about situating a lean filter downstream of the charge pump and install some fine mesh strainers upstream of the nozzles?

We also advocate blowback of the nozzles to a drain system on a periodic basis - I guess this could be automated so that each day, you could blow the nozzles back to the flare system for a 30 second period. The actual amount of lost glycol should be minimal.

 

[twinprocess]

Carbon filter is a solution for you application.
We can offer you a carbon filter skid for this applications. Check our side

http://www.aminefilter.com

Jan Hermans

 

[dcasto]

You can even get retractable spray nozzels that work like a hot tap tool.

You might look at filtering the EG (as Maddocks points out) after you back exchange it and the temp in belo 20 F. The cold temp could cause the asphaltene to stick together better.