Session: 20-05 Operation and testing in Oil and Gas Applications

Submission Number: 179106

System Design and Flow Conditioning of Hydrocarbon Samples for Gas
Chromatograph Measurements 

The ability to identify and quantify the chemical composition of the process fluid mixture is paramount in chemical, petrochemical, and refining applications, especially when the process fluid composition is directly related to the end product’s quality or value. In these applications, the mixture component fractions and chemical composition may often change. Identifying and quantifying the chemical components at state points or at the process output allows the operators to adjust plant operation to maximize product quality and yield rates.

There are multiple methods for analyzing mixture compositions, including gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS). GC units (not including combined GC-MS systems) are generally lower cost than MS units and are better suited for analyzing mixtures of volatile components. While both methods can be completed in off-site chemistry labs, implementing GC or MS directly in the system offers the benefits of real-time composition data, allowing operators to adjust process controls on a much faster timescale. However, in order to utilize these methods directly in the system, the process gas samples must be properly conditioned to provide accurate and repeatable readings and prevent damage to the GC or MS unit.

This paper explores the design of a flow conditioning system for GC analysis in an olefin-cracking demonstration test loop in San Antonio, Texas. Discussions here include the methods for removing water, cooling the sample, cleaning the sample, managing condensation, and providing a pressure-temperature stable injection into the GC unit. The rationale for selected conditioning equipment is presented here, along with the implications of incorrect flow conditioning.

Presenting Author: Nicholas Bishop Southwest Research Institute

Presenting Author Biography: Mr. Nicholas Bishop is a Research Engineer at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) where he supports mechanical design and demonstration testing efforts. His main focus has been the design and development of an olefin-cracking test loop on SwRI's campus in San Antonio, TX. Mr. Bishop's experience includes component and piping design, thermofluidic system modeling, pilot test facility development, and the design of multiple facility supply systems.

Authors:

Nicholas Bishop Southwest Research Institute
Kelsi Katcher Southwest Research Institute
Jason Wilkes Southwest Research Institute
Niklas Gross Southwest Research Institute