In the heart of Iran’s South Pars Energy Zone, a groundbreaking study led by Ehsanolah Assareh, a researcher at the School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University in South Korea, is set to redefine the efficiency and sustainability of energy operations in refineries. The research, recently published in Advances in Engineering and Intelligence Systems, focuses on optimizing the dew point adjustment unit, a critical component in natural gas processing. The findings promise significant strides in energy efficiency, economic savings, and environmental impact reduction.
The study delves into the intricacies of thermodynamic, environmental, and economic improvements in the existing dew point adjustment unit. Assareh and his team used Aspen Hysys software to simulate both the current and optimal process configurations. “By leveraging the low temperature of waste gas to condense vapors above the propane and butane towers, we were able to eliminate the need for air conditioners,” Assareh explains. This innovative approach not only recovers energy but also enhances overall exergy efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide emissions and NGL production costs.
The optimization scenario revealed a substantial increase in total exergy efficiency, jumping to 0.7305, and a notable 23.22% decrease in total exergy loss. Environmentally, the optimal process resulted in a remarkable 39% reduction in carbon dioxide footprint. Economically, the refinery can expect annual savings of $3,107,549.45 in energy supply costs, with an additional 11.54T reduction in NGL value production costs. “These findings underscore the potential for significant commercial impacts in the energy sector,” Assareh notes. “By adopting these optimized processes, refineries can achieve substantial savings while also contributing to a more sustainable future.”
The study’s sensitivity analysis on the turbo-expander outlet pressure further highlights the potential for enhanced performance. The research not only provides a roadmap for immediate improvements but also sets a precedent for future developments in the field. As energy demands continue to rise, driven by technological progress and lifestyle changes, the need for sustainable and efficient energy solutions becomes ever more pressing. Assareh’s work offers a glimpse into a future where refineries can operate more efficiently, economically, and environmentally friendly.
This research, published in Advances in Engineering and Intelligence Systems, is a testament to the power of innovative thinking and technological advancements in reshaping the energy sector. As we move forward, the insights gained from this study will undoubtedly influence future developments, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient energy landscape.
