GAS Sweetening

PROCESS
GAS SWEETENING
TRAINING MANUAL
Course EXP-PR-PR140
Revision 0.2
Field Operations Training
Process
Gas Sweetening
PROCESS
GAS SWEETENING
CONTENTS
1. OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................4
2. THE AIM OF SWEETENING ...........................................................................................5
2.1. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................5
2.2. THE COMPOSITION OF GAS ..................................................................................7
2.2.1. Raw gas ............................................................................................................7
2.2.2. Commercial gas ................................................................................................8
2.3. EXERCISES............................................................................................................10
3. THE DEACIDIFICATION PROCESS .............................................................................11
3.1. THE IMPURITIES TO BE ELIMINATED .................................................................11
3.2. ABSORPTION AND REGENERATION...................................................................14
3.2.1. Introduction......................................................................................................14
3.2.2. Amine deacidification ......................................................................................15
3.2.2.1. Absorption ..................................................................................................16
3.2.2.2. Regeneration..............................................................................................17
3.2.3. Deacidification with a membrane system (permeation) ...................................18
3.2.4. Deacidification with hot potassium carbonate..................................................18
3.3. AMINE DEACIDIFICATION.....................................................................................19
3.3.1. Amine contactor (absorption column) ..............................................................19
3.3.2. Flash drum ......................................................................................................21
3.3.3. Amine regeneration .........................................................................................21
3.3.4. Reboilers .........................................................................................................23
3.3.5. Head condenser and reflux drum ....................................................................24
3.3.6. Exchangers .....................................................................................................24
3.3.7. Amine and cooler recirculation pumps.............................................................24
3.3.8. Amine filters.....................................................................................................25
3.3.9. Amine reclaimer ..............................................................................................25
3.3.10. Make-up amine..............................................................................................25
3.3.11. Water make-up..............................................................................................25
4. THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF EQUIPMENT..................................................................26
4.1. THE INSIDE OF AN ABSORPTION COLUMN .......................................................26
4.2. THE FUNCTIONS OF THE DIFFERENT EQUIPMENT..........................................27
4.2.1. Unit-inlet raw gas filter .....................................................................................27
4.2.2. Amine contactor column (absorption column) .................................................27
4.2.3. Liquid stop mechanism....................................................................................28
4.2.4. Rich amine flash drum.....................................................................................28
4.2.5. Amine filter ......................................................................................................28
4.2.6. Mechanical filter ..............................................................................................29
4.2.7. Carbon filter (with activated charcoal) .............................................................29
4.2.8. Regeneration column ......................................................................................29
4.2.9. The reflux condenser and the reflux drum .......................................................29
4.2.10. Reboilers .......................................................................................................30
4.2.11. Amine regenerator (reclaimer) MEA process ................................................30
Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN
Last revised: 27/11/2008 Page 2 / 49
Process
Gas Sweetening
4.2.12. Lean amine recirculation pump .....................................................................30

4.2.13. Lean amine cooling towers............................................................................30
4.3. THE ABSORPTION TRAYS....................................................................................31
4.3.1. Bubble trays ....................................................................................................31
4.3.2. Rectangular valve trays ...................................................................................31
4.3.3. KITTEL trays ...................................................................................................32
4.3.4. Step trays ........................................................................................................32
4.3.5. Circular valve tray............................................................................................33
4.3.5.1. V1 model ....................................................................................................33
4.3.5.2. A1-BALLAST model ...................................................................................33
4.3.6. Sulzer packing trays ........................................................................................33
4.4. SAFETY EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................34
4.5. ANALYSERS...........................................................................................................34
5. REPRESENTATION AND DATA ...................................................................................35
5.1. PFD REPRESENTATION .......................................................................................35
6. DEACIDIFICATION AND THE PROCESS ....................................................................36
6.1. LOCATION AND CRITICALITY ..............................................................................36
7. OPERATING PARAMETERS ........................................................................................37
7.1. NORMAL OPERATION...........................................................................................37
7.1.1. Importance of the parameters of a gas sweetening unit ..................................37
7.2. SAFE OPERATION.................................................................................................39
7.2.1. Alarms and safety devices...............................................................................39
7.2.2. Safety barriers .................................................................................................39
8. DEACIDIFICATION PROCEDURE................................................................................41
8.1. ACTIVATION OF THE UNIT ...................................................................................41
8.2. GETTING THE UNIT READY FOR HANDOVER....................................................42
8.3. CORROSION ..........................................................................................................44
8.3.1. The causes of corrosion in the deacidification units ........................................44
8.3.2. Corrosion-sensitive points ...............................................................................44
8.3.3. Means of combating corrosion ........................................................................45
9. TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................................46
9.1. WHAT TO DO IF…..................................................................................................46
9.1.1. Clogging of the absorption column ..................................................................46
9.1.2. Concentration of the amine solution ................................................................46
10. GLOSSARY .................................................................................................................47
11. LIST OF FIGURES ......................................................................................................48
12. LIST OF TABLES ........................................................................................................49

Process
Gas Sweetening
1. OBJECTIVES

Process
Gas Sweetening
2. THE AIM OF SWEETENING
2.1. INTRODUCTION
The aim of raw gas sweetening (also called deacidification or sour or acid gas removal) is
to remove all or part of the sour gases (CO2 and /or H2S) in the raw gas to that it can meet
commercial or process specifications.
Figure 1: Representation of a conventional gas sweetening unit

Process
Gas Sweetening
Raw gas Natural gas containing H2S and CO2
Natural gas from which the H2S and CO2

Desulphurised gas
have been removed
All gases which form an acid when mixed

Acid (or sour) gas
with water
Process whereby the acid gas is removed

Deacidification (or sweetening)
from the raw gas
Product used to chemically absorb acid gas

Amines
in raw gas
Absorption, as opposed to adsorption,

consists in bonding the absorbed molecule
to another, leading to its disappearance by
chemical transformation or modification. On
Absorption (physical and / or chemical)
the other hand, with adsorption the
adsorbed molecule is not altered and
remains in its original form, but not in
suspension on the solvent
Adsorption is not to be confused with

absorption. The former is a surface
phenomenon, in which gas or liquid
Adsorption
molecules adhere to solid surfaces of the
adsorbant molecules, by various processes
that are more or less intense.
Table 1: some terms used in deacidification

Process
Gas Sweetening
2.2. THE COMPOSITION OF GAS
2.2.1. Raw gas
Natural gas essentially contains:
Methane C1
Pure hydrocarbons
Ethane C2 (light components)
Propane C3
Butane C4
Pentanes C5 + Pure hydrocarbons (heavy components)
+ (n>5) Hydrocarbon cuts
Natural gas also contains

contaminants, including:
Hydrogen sulphide (H2S)
Carbon dioxide (CO²)
Carbon oxygen sulphide

Carbon oxygen sulphide(COS)
Carbon disulphide (CS2)
Raw gas also contains impurities

known as mercaptans.
Figure 2: Gas sweetening unit

Process
Gas Sweetening
Carbon dioxide or CO2
is present in all deposits in extremely varied concentrations
is corrosive in the presence of water
reduces the calorific value of natural gas. It crystallises easily at low temperatures
Hydrogen sulphide (H2S)
is extremely toxic and corrosive
certain deposits (Lacq in France) contain up to15 % volume H2S
Carbon oxygen sulphide (COS) and carbon disulphide (CS2):
their presence is linked to a high H2S content in a gas effluent
The impurities in raw gas must be removed to attain the specifications of commercial or
injection gas (see chapter on commercial gas specifications).
In addition, acid gas causes corrosion problems mainly in the presence of free water.
2.2.2. Commercial gas
H2S
The H2S content is generally between 1.5 and 4 ppm vol. at the most.
Its high toxicity calls for specific treatments to reduce its content according to
commercial transport specifications.
Risks of toxicity and ignition when permanently or accidentally exposed to the

atmosphere.
Total sulphur and other contaminants
Maximum sulphur compound contents: between 50 and 150 mg/Sm3
Impurities also include the most detrimental sulphur compounds as well as

oxygen, nitrogen and even metallic atoms such as nickel and vanadium.

Process
Gas Sweetening
CO2
The CO2 is present in a maximum molar concentration of 2 to 3 %.
The CO2 decreases the calorific value of natural gas because it does not provide
any combustion heat.
It is therefore extracted at the same time as the H2S using different processes.
It must be removed when the gas has to be cooled in certain temperature ranges
(plugging crystallisation).
NB: Oxygen is not a natural contaminant of the gas produced but it often appears in
analyses. Its appearance is due to the entry of air in low-pressure systems. It may be
corrosive in certain proportions and may form an explosive mixture with gas.
An example of commercial gas specifications is given below (butane and propane)
Figure 3: Example of commercial gas specifications

Process
Gas Sweetening
2.3. EXERCISES

Process
Gas Sweetening
3. THE DEACIDIFICATION PROCESS
3.1. THE IMPURITIES TO BE ELIMINATED
A distinction is generally made between the four main cases below:
elimination of CO2,
elimination of H2S,
elimination of H2S + CO2,
selective elimination of H2S (selective desulphuration).
An initial process selection can be made on the basis of the partial pressure of acid gases
in the raw gas and the specification of the treated gas.
The partial pressure of a component of a gaseous mixture is equal to the pressure which it
would have if it filled the occupied volume alone.
Different deacidification processes exist according to the presence of different impurities,

for example:
COS and CS2 give, with MEA, components which cannot be regenerated and
which cause solvent losses. It is therefore preferable in this case to choose a
secondary amine such as DEA. COS and CS2, are easier to eliminate using
physical solvents (Sulfinol, Selexol).
Only a small number of processes are economically selective with regard to H2S to
the detriment of CO2. For low or average partial pressures, the use of an amine
such as MDEA is the recommended choice. For higher pressures, physical
solvents such as Selexol may be chosen.
Certain processes are less beneficial from an economic point of view (investment,
energy consumption) if significant flows of gas are to be treated, such as
molecular sieves.

Process
Gas Sweetening
HC
COS CS2 RSH HCN H20 Reclaimer
Lourds
MEA M M F C NO NO YES
DGA C/M C/M M F NO YES
DEA M F C NO NO NO
Amine
SNEA-DEA M (*) M M/F C NO NO NO
DIPA F F C NO NO NO
MDEA NO NO C NO NO NO
CATACARB C/M C/M NO NO NO NO
BENFIELD C/M C/M F F NO NO NO

Carbonate
GIAMMARCO-
M M F C NO NO NO
V
ALKACID M M M C NO NO NO
Table 2: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Chemical solvents
HC
Lourds
SELEXOL C/M C C C C/M C NO
PURISOL C C C C/M C NO
RECTISOL C C C C C/M C
SULFINOL C C/M C M/F NO YES
Table 3: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Physical solvents

Process
Gas Sweetening
HC
Lourds
STRETFORD NO NO F C (**) NO
Table 4: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Direct conversions
HC
Lourds
Tamis
C C C C C
moléculaires
Iron sponge C C C C
Table 5: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Solid bed
C : Almost complete elimination (*) : Can reach up to 70-80%

M : About 50 % elimination (**) : The produces sulphur is contaminated
F : Poor elimination

Process
Gas Sweetening
3.2. ABSORPTION AND REGENERATION
3.2.1. Introduction
A large number of processes exist which are industrially available and each one has its
own specific scope of application.
Certain processes are less beneficial from an economic point of view (investment, energy
consumption) if significant flows of gas are to be treated, such as those using molecular
sieves.
In general, several processes can often be used for a given application:
chemical
physical
chemical and physical
physical adsorption
cryogenic fractioning (CO2 only)
membranes
direct conversion of H2S in sulphur

Process
Gas Sweetening
3.2.2. Amine deacidification
Amine deacidification (DEA, MEA MDEA) is the most frequently used process within the
Total group.
Figure 4: Schematic diagram of amine deacidification
The most commonly used amines are:
MDEA (Monoethanol amine)
DEA (Diethanol amine)
TEA / MDEA (Methyldiethanoamine)
DIPA (Disopropanolamine)
DGA (Diglycolamine)
Process
Gas Sweetening
The raw gas deacidification process depends on the following principles:
At a low temperature and a high pressure, the amine reacts with the H2S and the
CO2 and easily absorbs these gases
At a high temperature and a low pressure, the H2S and the CO2 can easily be
separated from the amine
The amine treatment unit can be divided into 2 parts:
absorption part
regeneration part
3.2.2.1. Absorption
In order to remove the acid gas from the raw gas, the latter must be brought into contact
with an amine solution. An amine solution is an alkaline solution which attracts and
absorbs acid gases such as H2S and CO2.
A chemical reaction occurs

between the amine solution (weak
base) and the acid gas (weak
acid). This is known as the
<absorption process>.
This process takes place in a

column known as a “contactor” (or
absorber). The raw gas comes into
contact with the amine solution; the
acid gas is absorbed but the
hydrocarbons remain in the gas.
Figure 5: Absorption column

“contactor”
When the desulphurised gas

leaves the top of the column, it
contains less than 16 ppm (parts
per million) of H2S and less than 50
ppm of CO2. But these
concentrations mainly depend on
the type of amine that is being used.
The amine which is emitted from the bottom of the column has absorbed acid gas (H2S
and CO2) and is known as “rich amine”. The rich amine must be regenerated before it can
be used again.
Process
Gas Sweetening
3.2.2.2. Regeneration
The removal of acid gas from the rich amine is known as “regeneration”. The operation is
carried out in a column known as an “amine regenerator”. The regenerated amine is
known as “lean amine”.
Low-pressure vapour (4-5 bars) is generally used for the regeneration of the rich solution
in most processes, particularly those using amine solutions. When vapour cannot be used,
regeneration can be done using direct heat or hot oil.
Figure 6: Regeneration column

Process
Gas Sweetening
3.2.3. Deacidification with a membrane system (permeation)
Mainly used for extracting CO2 from crude gases that are poor in H2S
HIGH PRESSURE
GAS MIXTURE RESIDUAL GAS
LOW PRESSURE
PERMEATE GAS
PERMEATE TUBE
RESIDUAL GAS
HIGH PRESSURE GAS MIXTURE HIGH PRESSURE
MEMBRANE/CLOTH COMPOSITE CHANNEL SPACER
HIGH PRESSURE GAS MIXTURE

PERMEATE CHANNEL SPACER RESIDUAL GAS
Figure 7: Membrane system
Deacidification with a membrane system will not be dealt with in this course.
3.2.4. Deacidification with hot potassium carbonate
Another absorption method which is used to remove the acid gas is the method involving
hot potassium carbonate.
The hot potassium carbonate process does not remove all the acid gas and must be
associated with an amine unit.

Process
Gas Sweetening
3.3. AMINE DEACIDIFICATION
Figure 8: Schematic diagram of an FD deacidification unit
3.3.1. Amine contactor (absorption column)
The aim of the amine contactor is to disacidify the raw gas using the amine solution. The
acid gas is absorbed when it comes into contact with the amine solution.
The raw gas first enters filters which remove the hydrocarbon droplets and small solid
particles which may cause foaming (bubbles) if they are not removed.
The lean amine solution enters through the top of the column. It passes down the column
and fills the front tray before moving down to the next trays whilst incorporating acid gas.

Process
Gas Sweetening
When flowing on the trays, the

amine takes up the sour (acid) gases
H2S +CO2
When the raw gas flows up through

the amine it loses its sour (acid) gas.
As the amine solution moves down

the column and the gas moves up it,
each fluid must pass between the
holes of each tray.
These opposing fluids are known as

counter-current fluids.
The counter-current creates contact

between each fluid and allows the
acid gas to be absorbed by the
amine solution.
Figure 9: Absorption column
The raw gas in contact with the

amine frees the acid gases H2S and
CO2 and the amine absorbs the acid
gases.
The high pressure and low temperature in the

column allow the H2S and the CO2 to be absorbed
by the amine.
The circulating amine moves down each tray and

absorbs increasing quantities of H2S and CO2.
Figure 10: operating principle of the amine

contactor

Process
Gas Sweetening
When the amine reaches the bottom of the column, it is practically saturated with H2S and
CO2 which have been absorbed from the raw gas.
This saturated amine is known as a rich amine. It must be regenerated before it can be
used again.
When the gas reaches the top of the absorption column, nearly all the acid gas has been
removed. The gas at the top of the column consists mainly of hydrocarbon.
The hydrocarbon gas which contains little or no H2S and CO2 is known as a purified gas.
The purified gas emitted from the top of the column continues towards the process for
commercial gas or reinjected gas “particularly for offshore activities”.
The chemical reaction produced when the amine solution absorbs the H2S and the CO2 is
an “exothermal” reaction. This means that it produces heat. The temperature of the rich
amine at the bottom of the column is therefore higher than the temperature of the lean
amine at the top of the column. The exothermal reaction in the absorption column
therefore increases the temperature of the amine solution.
3.3.2. Flash drum
The amine absorbs a number of hydrocarbons with the H2S and the CO2 as it passes
through the absorber. The hydrocarbons dissolve easily in the rich amine and can
therefore be easily separated.
The purpose of the flash drum is to separate these hydrocarbons from the rich amine. As
soon as the rich amine flow enters the flash drum, its pressure and speed decrease.
. The hydrocarbon gases flow out from the top of the flash drum. The rich amine flows out
from the bottom of the flash drum into the regeneration column where the H2S and the CO2
are removed.
3.3.3. Amine regeneration
The purpose of the regeneration of amine is as follows:
To separate the H2S and the CO2 from the rich amine
To send the regenerated amine back into the absorption column via the storage
tank
The regeneration column transforms the rich amine back into lean amine by separating the
H2S and the CO2 from the amine solution. This is known as “regeneration”.

Process
Gas Sweetening
The pressure in the regeneration column is lower than that in the absorption column and
the temperature is higher. The rich amine is regenerated at a low pressure and a high
temperature to encourage separation.
The rich amine solution enters the regeneration column through the top part of the column.
It is heated by the vapours which pass through the column.
As the temperature increases, the rich amine emits increasing quantities of acid gas (H2S
and CO2). This acid gas is emitted from the top of the column.
The DEA vapours that pass through the rich amine

at counter current absorb the acid gas (H2S and
CO2) and the amine releases the acid gas
Figure 11: amine regeneration principle

Process
Gas Sweetening
3.3.4. Reboilers
NB: heat appears when the amine absorbs the H2S and the CO2 in the absorption column
(exothermal reaction). The reaction in the regeneration column is the complete opposite
(endothermic reaction).
The acid gas and the amine solution can be separated easily when heat is applied. The
chemical reaction absorbs the heat. The amine solution releases acid gas at a
temperature of 100°C and above.
The reboiler is connected to the bottom of the regeneration column thus providing it with
heat.. Some of the lean amine passes through reboilers where it is heated to a high
temperature. Reflux water is also vaporised which is the main reason why the reboiler has
to be so powerful. Not only must it produce the heat of the absorption reaction but also the
vaporisation heat of the water.
This lean amine returns to the column in the form of vapour. This vapour moves up the
column and absorbs H2S and CO2. It gradually condenses as it moves up to the trays in
contact with the coldest amine. Reflux water also condenses as it moves up.
Figure 12: Reboiler principle

Process
Gas Sweetening
3.3.5. Head condenser and reflux drum
The acid gas is carried to the top of the column by amine vapours. The vapours are cooled
in the head condenser. The acid gases are separated from the condensates in the reflux
drum.
The condensates collected in the reflux drum are sent back to the top of the column. This
cold reflux condenses the hot amine vapours in the gas vapours inside the column in order
to prevent the amine from entering the effluent at the top of the column (loss of amine).
The acid gas leaves the reflux drum and either enters treatment units or is burned with a
flare.
3.3.6. Exchangers
The schematic diagram below

represents an exchanger in which the
fluid which passes on the tube side
penetrates in the channel through the
lower branch. A flow separation plate
forces it to pass through the cluster
tubes.
Figure 13: Exchanger principle
At the other end of the cluster, the fluid is directed through the tubes above the flow
separation plate before being released through the upper branch of the channel.
3.3.7. Amine and cooler recirculation pumps
The lean amine solution circulates from the bottom of the regeneration column through the
recirculation pumps. The main flow (approx. 90% of the lean amine solution) returns to the
absorption column through the head exchanger.
The cooler (head exchanger) reduces the temperature of the amine before it enters the
absorption column.

Process
Gas Sweetening
3.3.8. Amine filters
The filters clean the lean amine before returning it to the absorption column.
The impure amine passes through a cartridge filter (which filters solid particles that cause
foaming >50 microns ) and an activated charcoal filter (HC extraction) . A filtration refection
time is defined according to the amine analyses.
In order to prevent foaming, a silicone based product is injected in the absorber.
3.3.9. Amine reclaimer
(Only for MEA with uninhibited “salt formation” water)
Salt components form in the amine solution circulating in the system. The amine
“reclaimer” removes these undesirable salt compounds from the amine solution.
The amine “reclaimer” is a reboiler type (heat exchanger). It vaporises the amine solution,
the applied heat reverses the chemical reaction which causes the formation of these salt
compounds.
The chemical impurities cannot boil. They are collected in the bottom of the reclaimer.
After a certain time, the reclaimer is deactivated and the impurities are removed.
Approximately 10 % of the amine solution circulating in the filters is recycled in the

reclaimer which corresponds to around 1% of the total amine flow.
3.3.10. Make-up amine
A certain amount of amine is lost during the process (drawn into the gas, evaporation
etc…) and amine make-up from the storage tank is necessary.
3.3.11. Water make-up
Les pertes en eau sont permanentes. La vapeur d’eau sature le gaz traité, le gaz du ballon
de flash ainsi que le courant de gaz acides sortie régénérateur. Un appoint est donc aussi
primordial.
Water loss is permanent. The steam saturates the treated gas, the gas from teh flash drum
and the sour gas stream leaving the regenerator. Water make-up is therefore required and
essential.

Process
Gas Sweetening
4. THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF EQUIPMENT
4.1. THE INSIDE OF AN ABSORPTION COLUMN
Figure 14: The inside of an absorption column

Process
Gas Sweetening
Figure 15: Lining of a column
4.2. THE FUNCTIONS OF THE DIFFERENT EQUIPMENT
4.2.1. Unit-inlet raw gas filter
Aim:
To remove liquid hydrocarbons and fine solid particles drawn into the raw gas
(which could result in the foaming of the amine solution in the process)
4.2.2. Amine contactor column (absorption column)
Aim:
To bring the lean amine (regenerated) into contact with the raw gas
For all the acid gas to be absorbed by the amine solution
For the gas at the top of the column to be clean (less than 16 ppm H2S)

Process
Gas Sweetening
4.2.3. Liquid stop mechanism
Aim:
Preventing liquid from being drawn into the desulphurised gas at the top of the
column (loss of amine)
4.2.4. Rich amine flash drum
Aim:
To separate hydrocarbons and raw gas vapours from the rich amine by reducing
the pressure and speed of the rich amine (flash – the vapours separate and are
emitted from the top of the drum, the rich amine is emitted from the bottom of the
drum).
Figure 16: Flash drum
4.2.5. Amine filter
Aim:
To remove impurities from the lean amine solution. These impurities may cause
foaming which can cause damage to the equipment. The solution is to pass
through a mechanical filter followed by a carbon filter.
Process
Gas Sweetening
4.2.6. Mechanical filter
Aim:
To remove dirt and other solid particles from the amine solution
4.2.7. Carbon filter (with activated charcoal)
Aim:
To remove the hydrocarbon entrainment from the amine solution. It achieves this
by passing through active carbon (active carbon is carbon which has been treated
to increase its contact surface, which creates a larger contact surface with the
hydrocarbons so that it is easier to remove the hydrocarbons).
4.2.8. Regeneration column
Aim:
To enable the rich amine solution to come into contact with the amine vapours
obtained from the reboilers.
The amine vapour:
Increases the temperature of the rich amine
Removes the acid gas from the amine solution (strip gas)
Moves the acid gas up to the top of the column (the hot acid gas is emitted from
the column in the form of vapour)
The strip amine is emitted from the bottom of the column in the form of a lean amine.
4.2.9. The reflux condenser and the reflux drum
The hot acid gas at the top of the regeneration column enters the reflux drum after passing
through a head condenser (head condenser)
The fluids are separated into liquids and gases in this reflux drum and are sent back to the
regeneration column via a pump.
The acid gas leaving the column goes towards an acid gas treatment process or towards
the pipe.
Process
Gas Sweetening
4.2.10. Reboilers
They provide the necessary heat for the evaporation of a proportion of the water contained
in the amine solution. This vapour is used as a stripping vapour.
Low-pressure vapour (4-5 bars) is used for the regeneration of the rich solution in most
processes, particularly those involving amine solutions.
4.2.11. Amine regenerator (reclaimer) MEA process
This uses a small quantity of lean amine and purifies it by increasing its temperature.
When all the liquid has changed to vapour, it is returned to the regeneration column. All
the solids remain in the drum.
4.2.12. Lean amine recirculation pump
This conveys the lean amine in the storage tank up to the absorption column .
4.2.13. Lean amine cooling towers
They control the amine temperature setting it lower than the temperature of raw gas when
it enters the absorption column.
At this temperature:
The lean amine absorbs the acid gas
The hydrocarbons are not condensed or absorbed by the solution
If the amine is too hot, it will not absorb the acid gas
If the amine is too cold, it will absorb the hydrocarbons

Process
Gas Sweetening
4.3. THE ABSORPTION TRAYS
4.3.1. Bubble trays
Figure 17: Bubble trays
The caps are made from pressed steel.
4.3.2. Rectangular valve trays
There are 2 types of strap

which are adjusted
differently.
A pin is used to allow for a

flow from top to bottom for
the evacuation of the liquid.
Figure 18: Rectangular

valve trays

Process
Gas Sweetening
4.3.3. KITTEL trays
These trays consist of a

stainless steel extended
material frame with a thickness
of 1.5 mm and a 4 mm mesh in
the form of a polygon with even
and uneven trays distributed
around a central mast in the
column.
Figure 19: KITTEL Tray
4.3.4. Step trays
Perforated stainless steel trays with a thickness

of 2 mm and 3 mm holes with a pitch of 6.
The originality of the system lies in the

arrangement of the trays in the column.
The tray is less effective than the others if

standard flows are not used.
Figure 20: Step tray

Process
Gas Sweetening
4.3.5. Circular valve tray
4.3.5.1. V1 model
Economical valve intended for general use. The 3 integral

valve pins slide freely in the tray orifice.
The sunken pins prevent the valve from adhering to the

tray.
Figure 21: Circular valve tray - Model V1
4.3.5.2. A1-BALLAST model

The orifice, regardless of whether it is
equipped with a flange ring set into the
tray, is opened by a light valve above
which another valve of varying weight acts
as a tare.
The entire system is mobile within a cage

which serves as a guide and a lift stop.
The opening is created in two stages
depending on the gas flow treated.
Figure 22: Circular valve tray - Model A1-

BALLAST
4.3.6. Sulzer packing trays
Type of packing used in a wide range of

applications.
Adapted to small to very large liquid loads.
The largest diameter provided to date: 12 m
Liquid load from 0.2 to over 300m3/m2h
Mellapak 250Y Sulzer packing.
Standard stainless steel execution.
Figure 23: Sulzer tray

Process
Gas Sweetening
4.4. SAFETY EQUIPMENT
By-pass valve with absorbing base
All the absorption columns in the desulphurisation units at a very high pressure (approx.
70 bars) are equipped with a floating valve whose aim is to block the column base output
pipe C201 in the event of a very low level.
4.5. ANALYSERS
H2S detector
The H2S detector is used to detect the abnormal presence of toxic gas. Several devices
are positioned at “sensitive“ points in the desulphurisation units in order to notify the
control room of potential H2S leaks.
Explosimeter
This device has been designed to measure and display concentrations of combustible
gases or vapours on a scale of 0 to 100% LEL (Lower Explosive Limit).
The VISTA 3100 chromatographer
The chromatographer analyses rich acid gas in order to adjust the unit to obtain a 75%
concentration of H2S.
The sulphurimeter
Continuous, rapid, precise measurement of the H2S content of DEA or MDEA after
regeneration.
The Monocolor
The monocolor is used to control the amount of H2S in the desulphurised gas before and
after sodium hydroxide washing.
CO2 analyser
Continuous measurement of the CO2 content in the washed gas before sodium washing.
The pH metre
A pH metre at the cooling water output of the exchangers measures the pH and detects a
leak in the coolers.

Process
Gas Sweetening
5. REPRESENTATION AND DATA
5.1. PFD REPRESENTATION
Figure 24: Example of a PFD

Process
Gas Sweetening
6. DEACIDIFICATION AND THE PROCESS
6.1. LOCATION AND CRITICALITY
The deacidification unit is located in the gas treatment section.
Puits Inj / Gas lift

producteurs
Traitement
Pipe réseau
sur champ
(Désulfuration,Compression Traitement GL
,Déshydratation) pour livraison
pour transport
par pipeline
à un réseau de
consommation
réseau de
consommation
Gisement Constituants
de gaz naturel indésirables
Gaz associé Constituants
C1+C2+C3+C4 indésirables
Traitement
sur champ
pour transport Pipe Pétrole brut
par bateau ou
stabilisé,
pipeline ou stockeur déshydraté et
dessalé
Constituants
indésirables
Gisement
de pétrole brut
Figure 25: Location of deacidification in the process
As we have seen above, the role of a gas sweetening unit is to extract all of part of the
sour gases in the raw gas, so that it can meet market or process specifications.
If this function ceases, it is easy to understand that serious problems will arise regarding
the quality of the gas delivered downstream of the unit.
As the installation of a back-up uit in parallel cannot be considered (cost, space) we can
say that the gas sweetening unit is highly critical for the process.

Process
Gas Sweetening
7. OPERATING PARAMETERS
7.1. NORMAL OPERATION
7.1.1. Importance of the parameters of a gas sweetening unit
The operating parameters of a gas sweetening unit in normal operation are controlled by
the regulation of each equipment part.
Operating the different equipment components of a unit consists in having them run as
long as possible at the desired parameter settings.
The parameters: deacidicfcation, pressure, temperature and level are used to meet H2S
and CO2 specifications.
Pressure
The acid removal pressure in the absorber depends on the pressure of the gas
being processed. Pressures in the flash drum, regeneration column and reboiler
have been set by the process, so pressure is a regeneration optimisation
parameter.
La température
Temperature is also essential to operation.
Level
Only the liquid level ensures that the liquid retention time.
The following checks should be conducted on a unit in normal operation.
Observe the variations in pressure, temperature and the flow control instruments
to see if the latter are properly controlling the correct operating ranges.
The regulation valve positioning diaphragm must be in operation. The operator

should check this from time to time, with the control room and depending on the
possibilities of the site, by performing a full unrestricted open close operation.
The level ports must be drained and cleaned regularly to prevent erroneous
readings.

Process
Gas Sweetening
Typical parameters of a gas sweetening unit:
Absorber
o The pressure of the process gas
The flash drum
o Between 5 and 15 bar(a)
The regeneration column
o Between 1.5 and 1.8 bar(a)

Process
Gas Sweetening
7.2. SAFE OPERATION
7.2.1. Alarms and safety devices
Two protection levels are ensured by the different sensors
The sensors and valves that have a safety function are distinct form the process
regulation organs
Shut-down valves are also distinct
Safety systems must be tested without shutting down production
There is a protection system for over / under pressures
The decompression system is connected to the flare or to a vent
Valves cannot be isolated except for by coupling (interlock type) valves or by

valves locked in the open position.
7.2.2. Safety barriers
The safety bars allow for the activation of all or part of a unit depending on the triggering
safety level.

Process
Gas Sweetening
Figure 26: Typical example of safety barriers (FW Lacq unit)

Process
Gas Sweetening
8. DEACIDIFICATION PROCEDURE
8.1. ACTIVATION OF THE UNIT
Before opening the combustion chamber and launching the separation process, the
deacidification unit must be in service.
The activation procedure for this unit on each site is governed by a specific
OPERGUID procedure (procedure writing format)
For the circulation of the amine solution, the operator is in charge of:
Monitoring the availability of the system.
Visual inspection of all manual valves
Monitoring the auto position of the automatic valves
Line-up of the amine circuit
→ absorption column
→ flash drum
→ regeneration column
→ reboiler
→ return to storage tank
The same operation needs to be carried out in the different gas networks, particularly at
the battery limits (unit inflow and outflow).
As soon as the line-up has been completed, the amine circulation can be launched in the
absorber by the charge pump. Once the correct level has been attained, the amine
circulation continues through the flash drum towards the regeneration column and the
storage tank.
When the circulation is effective, the reboilers can be activated in order to attain a bottom
temperature of 130 °C in the column. From this stage, as soon as the separation chain has
been activated, it will be possible to open the gas valves at the input and output points of
the unit (it is usually recommended to flare the gas leaving the unit until specifications
have been reached).

Process
Gas Sweetening
Key points
Pressurising the deacidification unit before circulation by swelling the unit either by
means of the dispatching pipe or the injection pipe or the pool
The silicone will only be injected once the raw gas is removed (NB: silicone
prevents foaming during the absorption of raw gas by the amine solution).
8.2. GETTING THE UNIT READY FOR HANDOVER
According to the different installations of the unit, it is important to remember that the raw
gas and the acid gas are highly noxious.
Therefore, prior to all interventions involving the opening of a device or removal of valves,
filters, lines, etc. degassing must+ inerting (with nitrogen) must be carried out.
NB: there is a risk of inflammation in the sulphur deposits when opening the manholes on
a vessel which is often due to the temperature and the mixture with oxygen.
Plan for permanent water flushing of the inner walls of the column.
Reminder:
At high concentrations hydrogen sulphide (H2S) can paralyse the olfactory nerves (sense
of smell), rendering this toxic gas undetectable and thereby all the more dangerous.
H2S can be the cause of serious damage to the eye, respiratory tract and even the brain.
Short exposure to high concentrations of H2S (about 500 to 1000 ppm) rapidly causes
respiratory paralysis that can lead to death.

Process
Gas Sweetening
Adverse effects on health
H2S (in ppm) EFFECTS
0.002 -0.2 OFLACTORY THRESHOLD
3–5 STRONG ODOUR
10 OPERATING LIMIT OF EXPOSURE
10 – 50 EYE IRRITATION
50 – 100 SERIOUS EYE PROBLEMS
250 LOSS OF SENSE OF SMELL
SERIOUS RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS

300 – 500
MORTAL DANGER
SERIOUS CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM PROBLEMS

500 – 1000
RESPIRATORY PARALYSIS
1000 IMMEDIATE DEATH
Table 6: Effects of H2S

Process
Gas Sweetening
8.3. CORROSION
8.3.1. The causes of corrosion in the deacidification units
The equipment used in the desulphuration units (regeneration columns, automatic valves,
piping, etc.) is often subject to considerable damage caused by corrosive agents in the raw
gas (H2S, CO2, mercaptans, etc.).
In addition, other factors may play a part in activating corrosion in the units:
increase in the concentration of the amine solution (>400 g/l) ;
accidental introduction following the stoppage of units of untreated water (fire

water) containing acid and mineral salts, oxygen, algae and bacteria;
Formation (as a result of the ageing of the solution) of amino acids contained in
the MDEA residues;
“jarring” of tubes in the exchangers, reboilers, operating jerks, increased

temperatures (main factor in the acceleration of corrosion).
Corrosion is activated and intensified in the desulphuration units by erosion due to an

excessive fluid velocity in the piping and automatic valves in which significant expansion
takes place (bottom of absorber, bottom of flash drum).
8.3.2. Corrosion-sensitive points
The most serious cases of corrosion are found in equipment which is exposed to the
circulation of hot MDEA.
absorber bottom, expansion valve (erosion/corrosion);
automatic valve (formation of calcite/corrosion);
amine/amine exchangers (stainless steel clusters and valves need to be installed);
reboilers (clusters and shell);
regeneration columns (upper part);
circulation lines

Process
Gas Sweetening
8.3.3. Means of combating corrosion
Eliminating electrochemical corrosion by cathode protections.
Monitoring the condition of the installed protections.
Ensuring that the braids are replaced during work on the exchangers.
Preventing air from entering the MDEA:
o during storage;
o by only using demineralised water for dilution during the refection of the
filters.
Maintaining the MDEA inlet temperature in the absorber at a reasonable value

which is compatible with the flooding frequency
Preventing frequent flooding (if possible) by closely monitoring the injection of

silicones, with the stability of the unit probably being one of the most effective
measures in terms of limiting corrosion.
Operating the regeneration columns at the lowest possible pressure.
Maintaining an H2S content in the regenerated DEA < 1.2 g/l whilst maintaining a
reboiling rate which is not excessive.
Maintaining the amine concentration > 380g/l.

Process
Gas Sweetening
9. TROUBLESHOOTING
9.1. WHAT TO DO IF…
9.1.1. Clogging of the absorption column
If the pressure differential (difference in pressure between the top and bottom of the
column) increases, the beginnings of clogging may be suspected.
This means that the level of amine on the trays of the column increases.
In order to rectify this problem, it is necessary to control and possibly increase the silicone
injection.
9.1.2. Concentration of the amine solution
By monitoring the concentration of the amine solution, it is possible to determine whether a

reboiler or an exchanger contain leaks.
If a passage exists from the reboiler vapour or the water in an exchanger, the
concentration of amine in the solution decreases; the initial indication of this is an increase
in the level in the storage buffer tank.

Process
Gas Sweetening
10. GLOSSARY

Process
Gas Sweetening
11. LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Representation of a conventional gas sweetening unit.........................................5
Figure 2: Gas sweetening unit .............................................................................................7
Figure 3: Example of commercial gas specifications ...........................................................9
Figure 4: Schematic diagram of amine deacidification.......................................................15
Figure 5: Absorption column “contactor” ............................................................................16
Figure 6: Regeneration column..........................................................................................17
Figure 7: Membrane system ..............................................................................................18
Figure 8: Schematic diagram of an FD deacidification unit ................................................19
Figure 9: Absorption column ..............................................................................................20
Figure 10: operating principle of the amine contactor ........................................................20
Figure 11: amine regeneration principle ............................................................................22
Figure 12: Reboiler principle ..............................................................................................23
Figure 13: Exchanger principle ..........................................................................................24
Figure 14: The inside of an absorption column ..................................................................26
Figure 15: Lining of a column.............................................................................................27
Figure 16: Flash drum........................................................................................................28
Figure 17: Bubble trays......................................................................................................31
Figure 18: Rectangular valve trays ....................................................................................31
Figure 19: KITTEL Tray .....................................................................................................32
Figure 20: Step tray ...........................................................................................................32
Figure 21: Circular valve tray - Model V1...........................................................................33
Figure 22: Circular valve tray - Model A1-BALLAST ..........................................................33
Figure 23: Sulzer tray ........................................................................................................33
Figure 24: Example of a PFD.............................................................................................35
Figure 25: Location of deacidification in the process .........................................................36
Figure 26: Typical example of safety barriers (FW Lacq unit)............................................40

Process
Gas Sweetening
12. LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: some terms used in deacidification ........................................................................6
Table 2: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Chemical solvents .................12
Table 3: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Physical solvents..................12
Table 4: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Direct conversions.................13
Table 5: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Solid bed ...............................13
Table 6: Effects of H2S.......................................................................................................43


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PROCESS

4.2.12. Lean amine recirculation pump .....................................................................30

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

2. THE AIM OF SWEETENING

Figure 1: Representation of a conventional gas sweetening unit

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

Raw gas Natural gas containing H2S and CO2

Natural gas from which the H2S and CO2

All gases which form an acid when mixed

Process whereby the acid gas is removed

Product used to chemically absorb acid gas

Absorption, as opposed to adsorption,

Adsorption is not to be confused with

Table 1: some terms used in deacidification

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

2.2. THE COMPOSITION OF GAS

2.2.1. Raw gas

Natural gas essentially contains:

Pentanes C5 + Pure hydrocarbons (heavy components)

+ (n>5) Hydrocarbon cuts

Natural gas also contains

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S)

Carbon dioxide (CO²)

Carbon oxygen sulphide

Carbon disulphide (CS2)

Raw gas also contains impurities

Figure 2: Gas sweetening unit

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

Carbon dioxide or CO2

is present in all deposits in extremely varied concentrations

is corrosive in the presence of water

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S)

is extremely toxic and corrosive

certain deposits (Lacq in France) contain up to15 % volume H2S

Carbon oxygen sulphide (COS) and carbon disulphide (CS2):

their presence is linked to a high H2S content in a gas effluent

2.2.2. Commercial gas

Risks of toxicity and ignition when permanently or accidentally exposed to the

Total sulphur and other contaminants

Maximum sulphur compound contents: between 50 and 150 mg/Sm3

Impurities also include the most detrimental sulphur compounds as well as

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

The CO2 is present in a maximum molar concentration of 2 to 3 %.

An example of commercial gas specifications is given below (butane and propane)

Figure 3: Example of commercial gas specifications

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

3. THE DEACIDIFICATION PROCESS

3.1. THE IMPURITIES TO BE ELIMINATED

A distinction is generally made between the four main cases below:

elimination of H2S + CO2,

selective elimination of H2S (selective desulphuration).

Different deacidification processes exist according to the presence of different impurities,

Training Manual EXP-PR-PR140-EN

DGA C/M C/M M F NO YES

CATACARB C/M C/M NO NO NO NO

BENFIELD C/M C/M F F NO NO NO

Table 2: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Chemical solvents

SELEXOL C/M C C C C/M C NO

SULFINOL C C/M C M/F NO YES

Table 3: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Physical solvents

Table 4: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Direct conversions

Table 5: Absorption of impurities in the gas to be treated – Solid bed