Midstream
Mono Ethylen Glycol (MEG)
Natural gas pipelines buried deep below sea level face extreme conditions such as freezing temperatures, salt water and corrosion. To ensure smooth and efficient gas transportation, mono ethylene glycol (MEG) is added to the natural gas. An innovative aspect of this process involves using a separator centrifuge to purify the MEG, enabling it to be reused continuously without losing its effectiveness.
Benefits of our centrifuges
- Extremely high g-force provides the best clarification results
- Capable of separating particles with a diameter of only 1 micron with an efficiency of 80-90%
- Can operate in partial and total ejection mode to minimize MEG losses
- Integrated into complete skids for ease of use
- Explosion-protected and corrosion-resistant materials
- Suitable for upstream applications to manage salt, water and corrosion particles
- High throughput capacity, with the largest systems handling up to 15,000 barrels per day (100 m³/h for water-based medium)
- Proven performance with high efficiency in various installations
The importance of MEG treatment in gas pipelines
Mono ethylene glycol (MEG) plays a crucial role in the oil and gas industry, especially in subsea gas pipelines. It is an important substance that fulfils several functions, including as an antifreeze and pH stabilizer. By preventing the formation of ice and hydrates, MEG ensures that pipelines remain clear and functional. This versatile compound is added to the natural gas before it is transported through the pipelines. Its characteristics help to absorb water while acting as an anti-corrosive agent to continuously protect the infrastructure. MEG effectively absorbs salt water, accumulates salt crystals and captures the finest corrosion particles, thereby offering enhanced corrosion protection.
As MEG is transported along with gas, condensate and water to onshore or offshore processing plants, its ability to be regenerated and reused adds to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. However, the contamination of MEG gradually increases during the transport process, making regular treatment of the contaminated MEG in appropriate gas treatment plants particularly important. This ensures that MEG continues to perform its protective functions effectively, maintaining the integrity of subsea gas pipelines and contributing to the overall reliability of the gas transportation system.
How GEA centrifuges help to handle MEG
GEA provides cutting-edge centrifuge technology specifically designed for the efficient clarification of mono ethylene glycol (MEG) in natural gas pipelines. These centrifuges expertly tackle the challenges associated with MEG processing, such as the removal of salt, water and corrosion particles, ensuring that MEG remains effective and reusable.
A key feature of GEA separator centrifuges is their ability to generate an extremely high g-force, which ensures superior clarification results by efficiently separating contaminants from MEG. With a capacity to handle up to 15,000 barrels per day (bpd) / 100 m³/h for water-based medium, these separators achieve an 80-90% removal efficiency for particles as small as one micron. The design of GEA centrifuges allows for flexible operation in both partial and total ejection modes, minimizing MEG losses and maximizing cost-effectiveness.
GEA centrifuges are designed for use in demanding conditions and are characterized by a robust and reliable construction, which includes a gas-tight ex design, nitrogen blanketing and compliance with industry norms such as NORSOK standards. Their compact integration into complete skid systems ensures easy installation and seamless operation. Additionally, these centrifuges are constructed with high-grade materials like duplex and super duplex steel to resist corrosion and ensure highest quality standards, making them suitable for both onshore and offshore applications. They effectively compensate for constant platform movements while maintaining high separation efficiency.
Achieving MEG treatment goals with centrifuges
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