Amine Sweetening Unit Operation Manual
Amine Sweetening Unit Operation Manual
Amine Sweetening Unit Operation Manual
JOB NO.:2012ZB03
PROCESS
O 2013-5-15
CONTENTS
1 GENERAL................................................................................. 6
1.1 Project Background and Description......................................................6
5 PROCESS CONTROL................................................................28
5.1 The key control parameter...................................................................28
5.2 The level of shut down.........................................................................31
5.3 Emergency shut down..........................................................................31
6 START-UP PROCEDURES.........................................................31
6.1 General comments...............................................................................32
6.2 Preparation for start-up........................................................................32
6.3 Start-up................................................................................................36
7 NORMAL RUNNING.................................................................41
7.1 Adjust the sour gas load.......................................................................41
7.2 Adjust the Lean amine bypass filters (400-F1A, 400-F2, 400-F3A) flow...........41
7.3 Make up the liquid...................................................................................41
7.4 Anti-foaming...........................................................................................41
7.5 Removal heat stable salt...........................................................................42
8 SHUT DOWN..........................................................................42
8.1 Long time shut down............................................................................42
8.2 Short time shut down ( less than 8hours )...........................................43
8.3 Power lost.............................................................................................44
8.4 Instrument air fail.................................................................................44
9 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS............................................................44
10 TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................45
10.1 General.................................................................................................45
10.2 Troubleshooting list..............................................................................46
11 MAINTENANCE.......................................................................53
11.1 General periodic maintenance.............................................................53
1 GENERAL
OGDCL intends to develop Jhal Magsi Gas Field by installing surface facilities, flow
lines, commingling system and gas purification plant. The gas purification plant unit will be
capable of processing on an average 15 MMSCFD (excluding 10% design margin) raw gas
stream. For implementation of the project Amine Sweetening Unit (Complete Amine unit
with Acid Gas Flare System and D-min Water System) is required for Jhal Magsi Gas Field
Development Project.
JEREH act as the supplier and take charge of Design, Fabrication, Supply and
Commissioning instruction of Amine Sweetening Unit (Complete Amine unit with Acid Gas
Flare System and D-min Water System) for Jhal Magsi Gas Field Development Project by
OGDCL.
The "Amine Unit Package consisting of MDEA (Generic) based gas sweetening unit,
Acid Gas Flare System and De-min Water System is required; to process gas having CO 2
and H2S from Gas field located in Pakistan. The gas will be treated in the Amine Absorber
to remove CO2 up to 3 mol % (max) and H 2S down to 4 ppmv (max) in the treated gas for
subsequent entry into Glycol dehydration unit.
Capacity 15MMSCFD
Temperature 90~145°F
Pressure 1240~1300Psig
2.1.2 Natural gas composition (Mole%)
from Pakistan Meteorological Department, web site data for the UCH Power plant and
nearby field.
2.3.1 Temperature
2.4.4 Nitrogen
Nitrogen purity 99.5 vol%
Minimum supply pressure 90 psig
Nitrogen Dew point -84°F
2.4.5 Hot Oil System
Hot Oil supply header pressure 60 Psig
Hot Oil supply temperature 350°F
Hot Oil Return temperature 300°F
The chemical involved in the amine treating of such gases varies somewhat
with the particular amine being used. For this project information, JEREH select
the MDEA act as the solvent to remove the H2S.The MDEA is denoted as R2R’N.
2R2R’N+H2S = (R2R’N)2S
2R2R’N+H2S (R2R’N)2S
2R2R’N+H2S (R2R’N)2S
Amine after the absorption is referred to as Rich amine and Lean amine after it has
been regenerated. The process is closed loop where the amine is continuously
regenerated, and returned to the contactor for gas sweetening.
Firstly the feed gas (sour gas) containing H 2S and CO2 enter into the Sour gas
evaporative cooler (400-EA1), which control the sour gas temperature under 105~110°F,
the temperature can be monitored by temperature transmitter (400-TIT-003) then gas is
routed to the sour gas filter coalescer vessel to remove free liquids and entrained solids.
The filter accuracy is 5μm. The filter efficiency can reach to 98%. The filter coalescer equip
with the level transmitters, PD transmitter. The filter elements should be replaced when the
DPIT reaches to 7.25psi.
The level transmitters and control valves can keep the coalescer normal level. Which
automatically control by PLC.
On the coalescer drain pipeline the ESDV is provided to isolate this system with other
system.
The gas from this filter coalescer vessel ( 400-V1 ) enters the bottom of the Amine
contactor (400-C1) and flow upward through the column in intimate counter-current contact
with the aqueous amine solution (lean solution). In the column the chemical reaction
between the amine and the feed gas acid gas occurs and the amine solution absorbs the
acid gas. The chemical reaction (due to the heat of reaction between the amine and the
Treated gas (sweet gas) leaves the top of the column and the amine solution loaded
with acid gas (rich solution) leaves the bottom of the column.
The amine contactor equip with the temperature transmitters, level transmitters and PD
transmitter etc.
The temperature transmitters can monitor the temperature trend. And the PD transmitter
can monitor the pressure drop across the trays.
It will alarm and indicate the contactor at abnormal condition when the ΔP reaches the set
point.
Gas inlet also equipped with the flow transmitter and temperature transmitter etc.
On the rich amine outlet pipeline the ESDV is provided to isolation this system with other
system.
Feed gas temperature must be positive (high freezing point of the amine solutions).
But high temperature will affect the performances of the unit.
To reduce the vaporization losses of amine, a mist eliminator pad is installed near the
gas outlet of the contactor to trap entrained solvent, and an evaporative cooler is provided
to control the outlet gas temperature not more than 105°F. And an outlet knockout drum is
provided to collect solvent carryover.
For this unit, the treated gas temperature should be less than105 °F, so an
evaporative cooler (400-EA2) is provided. This equipment will be installed upstream of the
sweet gas K.O. drum.
The treated gas H2S content less than 4ppmv. Here trace H 2S analyzer monitor the
treated gas online. And it will alarm when the H 2S content is high.
On the gas outlet pipeline the ESDV is provided to isolate this system with other system.
Then the treated gas is routed to the Glycol dehydration unit. There also equip with
the flow meter transmitter, temperature transmitter and pressure transmitter to monitor the
process data.
The Rich amine from the amine contactor (400-C1) is then let down and routed to the
Rich Amine Flash Drum (400-V4). This drum (which operating pressure is about 75psig) will
remove a portion of acid gas which evolves from the solution by the pressure let-down
effect. The acid gas stream from the Rich Amine Flash Drum (400-V3) is routed to the acid
gas flare system.
The pressure of Rich amine flash drum is controlled by pressure control valve (400-
PV-006).
Here also equip with level transmitter and keep the normal level by level control valve (400-
LV-012).
The Rich amine from the Rich Amine Flash Drum (400-V3) then passes through the
Rich Amine Strainers (400-S1A/B) to remove the dirty articles. The filter accuracy is
5~10μm. The filter efficiency can reach to 98%. Which equip with the PDIT transmitter to
monitor the DP.
Then the Rich amine is routed to the L/R Amine Heat Exchanger (400-E1A/B). This
heat exchanger serves as a heat conservation device and lowers the total heat
requirements for the process. The Rich amine is heated by the regenerated solution (lean
solution) coming from the regenerator.
Here the inlet and outlet pipeline equip with the temperature transmitters and pressure
gauges.
Then the rich amine is let down to the Amine Regenerator (400-C2), which is a
fractionation column (with trays with a condenser and a reboiler).
The PD transmitter can monitor the pressure drop across the trays.
It will alarm and indicate the regenerator at abnormal condition when the ΔP reaches the
The Regenerator traps out product feeds the Reboiler which is a shell and tube
exchanger using hot oil as heating medium.
The regenerated solution from the Reboiler (at its bubble point at the operating
pressure of the Regenerator) at temperatures about 250 °F, is then routed back to the L/R
Amine Exchanger.
The lean amine booster pumps (400-P103A/B) (2x100%) are provided to send the
The top product of the Regenerator is a water vapor and acid gas mixture. This
stream is handled by the Amine regenerator Condenser (400-EA4) where the water vapor
is condensed to generate reflux to the Regenerator. Evaporative cooler is used for this
purpose.
Regenerator reflux drum is provided to collect the condensed water and acid gas from
the condenser. The acid gas stream from the Reflux Drum is routed to the acid gas flare
system. Water from the Reflux Drum is handled by Regenerator Reflux Pumps (two reflux
pumps: one in operation and one stand-by) and routed back to the top of the Regenerator.
The temperature of the lean amine leaving the L/R Amine Exchanger (400-E1A/B) is
still far above the feed gas inlet temperature. Lean amine high temperatures will result in
lower acid gas pickup by the solution and higher water losses (treated gas higher
temperatures). The Lean amine evaporative cooler (400-EA3) is then provided (using water
and air as cooling medium) to cool the amine.
Lean amine Circulation Pumps (400-P105A/B) (2 x 100 %) are provided to send the
cooled lean solution back to the Amine contactor (400-C1).
Solid impurities such as iron sulfide, iron oxide, sand, pipeline dust must be removed
from the solution in order to prevent corrosion and foaming. Filtration of the solution is
mandatory.
The Filters are located on the lean amine bypass stream to the Amine contactor (400-
C1).
The filtration : 10μm maximum, the flow rate is about 20% of the solution circulation
rate.
The pressure drop: 7.25~14.5 psi. It will alarm when the PD reach the set points. The
filter elements should been replaced.
Carbon Bed Filter can be added downstream of the pre-filter to remove products not
stopped by the pre- filter (hydrocarbon, water soluble compounds, unknown foam
contributors).
The flow rate of the Activated Carbon Filter can be the same the flow to the pre- filter.
The filtration : 5μm maximum, the flow rate is about 20% of the solution circulation
The pressure drop: 7.25~14.5 psi. It will alarm when the PD reach the set points, the
filter elements should be replaced.
Should a Carbon Filter be provided, a downstream additional filter (Lean Amine Post
Filter) must be installed to remove particles of carbon.
The lean amine from the L/R Amine exchanger passes to the amine surge tank, which
provides a steady positive suction head pressure for the amine circulation pumps. The
surge vessel is also used for the addition of make-up solution to maintain the correct
amount and concentration of amine solution in the system.
The lean amine surge tank is blanketed with nitrogen to avoid amine degradation with
oxygen (always avoid amine contact with air).
There exits the amine losses during the amine normal running. The amine losses
include:
(1) Initial amine preparation and provided to replenish losses of amine from the unit.
(2) Spare capacity equivalent to amine solution hold-up (inventory of the unit) for
emergency or maintenance unloading.
The storage tank and the sump vessel is blanketed with nitrogen to avoid amine
degradation with oxygen.
filter casings
pump seals
purge systems
Pumps are provided to route the solution from the sump to the Storage tank or to the
surge vessel.
A certain quantity of water is continuously lost from the solution during the absorption
and regeneration stages (due to the exothermic chemical reaction between the solution and
the acid gas and due to the fact that acid gas from the regenerator is saturated with water
at low pressure).
To replenish losses of water from the solution, a continuous water make-up (DM
water) is required. Details refer to the DM water unit operation manual.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the Tube bundle, fans, showering
pumps, water collecting pan, spray system, access ladders and platforms for
operating and maintenance, vales, instruments etc.
(3) Construction: The equipment consists of the cover, shell, valve trays,
distributor, demister pad, access ladders and platforms for operating and
maintenance, valves, instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the Tube bundle, fans, showering
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the cover, shell, demister pad,
support, valve, instruments etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the cover, shell, support, internals,
demister pad, valve, instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the shell, cover, internals, filter
elements, support, and valves and instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the fix plate, plates, gaskets, loose
plate, support etc.
(3) Construction: The equipment consists of the cover, shell, valve trays,
distributor, demister pad, access ladders and platforms for operating and
maintenance, valves, instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: The equipment consists of the cover, shell, tube bundle,
channel, baffles, plate, support and valves, instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the Tube bundle, fans, showering
pumps, water collecting pan, spray system, access ladders and platforms for
operating and maintenance, valves, instruments, etc.
Protection Engineering
3.12 Regenerator Reflux drum 400-V5
(1)Function: To handle the medium come from the regenerator condenser. To
separate the condensed water and acid gas. The acid gas stream from the
reflux drum is vented to the acid gas flare system. Condensed water from the
reflux drum is pumped back to the top of amine regenerator. And a mist pad
is installed near the gas outlet to catch the 5μmist drops.
(1) Function: Removal of the particulates from the lean amine solution.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the shell, cover, internals, filter
elements, support, and valves and instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the Tube bundle, fans, showering
pumps, water collecting pan, spray system, access ladders and platforms for
operating and maintenance, valves, instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the shell, cover, internals, filter
elements, support, and valves and instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the shell, cover, internals, filter
elements, support, and valves and instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the shell, cover, internals, filter
elements, support, and valves and instruments etc.
(3) Construction: The equipment consists of the cover, shell, support, valves,
instruments, etc.
(3) Construction: the equipment consists of the shell, cover, internals, filter
elements, support, valves and instruments, etc.
4 PROCESS CONTROL
Sour gas from inlet separator/Compression unit goes into amine sweetening
unit to remove H2S. Amine sweetening unit shall be controlled through its own
PLC system.
The process control refers to the follow drawing:
The inlet and outlet of sour gas evaporative cooler equip with the temperature
transmitter 400-TIT-002, 400-TIT -003 to monitor the temperature. And the outlet
temperature transmitter signal input to PLC and go on comparison operation then output a
signal to control the fans and/or cooler showering pump on/off to achieve the temperature
control.
The amine is heated by the hot oil in regenerator reboiler. It equips with the
temperature transmitters 400-TIT-023 and 400-TIT-024.
The 400-TIT-023 signal input PLC and go on PID logic calculation then output a signal
The Max. temperature of lean amine goes into amine contactor should be less than
122°F to avoid the amine losses and increase the absorb effects.
The feed gas inlet pipe and lean amine inlet pipe equip with the temperature
transmitters 400-TIT-004 and 400-TIT-011.
The signal input PLC and go on compare then output a single proportional to
difference in actual temperature and the set point of the controller to control the motor
frequency of the fan of lean amine evaporative cooler.
There equip with the temperature transmitter 400-TIT-033 on the outlet pipe of regenerator
condenser. Which signal input the PLC and go on comparation operation then output a
signal to control the fans and/or cooler showing pump on/off to achieve the temperature
control.
Meanwhile to ensure the rich amine has enough driving force to go into the amine
regenerator.
There equip with the pressure transmitter 400-PIT-006 on the top of amine flash drum.
Which signal input to the PLC and carry out PID logic calculation then output a single
proportional to difference in actual pressure and the set point of the controller to control the
openness of the 400-PV-006.
Here equip with the pressure transmitter 400-PIT-021 on the outlet pipe of amine
regenerator. Which signal input to the PLC and go on PID logic calculation then output a
signal proportional to difference in actual pressure and the set point of the controller to
control the openness of the 400-PV-021.
5.1.3 Level
The amine sweetening unit equips with the below key level transmitters to
control the level process required.
The level of amine contactor
The transmitter 400-LIT-009 and the level control valve 400-LV-009 to control the
amine contactor level automatically.
The transmitter 400-LIT-009 measure the level and output the signal to PLC go on PID
calculation then output a signal proportional to difference in actual level and the set point of
5 START-UP PROCEDURES
5.1 General comments
The following procedures are given as an aid for initial and routine plant start-ups. The
primary concern when commissioning new equipment is personnel safety. At this point, it is
assumed that all start-up personnel are familiar with the process and have studied the flow
sheets, and equipment data. The procedure outlined herein may have to be altered due to
unpredictable circumstances. Before any commissioning takes place, the following general
checks and operations should be performed.
Prior to commissioning the plant, operating personnel should have reviewed the
process and instrumentation diagrams, process flow diagrams and operating manuals.
Each operator should have knowledge of the products the plant is designed to yield and the
operating conditions required to yield these products.
The utility system has finished commissioning and can supply the instruments air,
plant air, hot oil, utility water, Nitrogen gas from the TIP to the processing skid
header.
The power has routed to the MCC and the UPS power has routed to the PLC
control panel.
The DM water treatment unit can supply the treated water and DM water to the
The acid gas flare unit has finished commissioning and at normal running
condition.
The common gas flare unit has finished commissioning and at normal running
condition.
Ensure all PSV, control valves and block valve bypass valves are closed.
Ensure all manual drains, sample points and vents valves are closed.
Ensure all instruments isolation valves are open. (Include pressure gauge,
pressure transmitter, PD gauge, PD transmitter, level meter, and level transmitter.)
Ensure the fire protection and gas detector in the good condition.
Ensure all operating personnel in the area are aware of equipment start-up.
Check all control valves for proper operation and lubrication where required.
Close all valves in the entire plant to provide a known reference from which you
will be able to start opening for purging.
Open and seal all valves that will remain open at all times during plant operation
(i.e. Car Seal Open block valves for pressure safety valves).
5.2.2 Pumps
Check lubrication oil according to manufacturer’s manual indication.
Check free rotation by hand and follow-up with a check on powered rotation
direction.
Check all seal flush piping and oil piping for proper connection (if applicable).
Ensure that suction screens are clean as they may have become clogged with
sand or mill scale during the flushing operation. It is good practice to check these
screens periodically during the initial start-up, as this is the time when most
debris will be accumulated in the suction screens.
In general, none of the rotating equipment should be operated until the specific
equipment manual has been reviewed. However, some general comments are
offered for guidance.
Ensure that no foreign matter is present and blow out dust and dirt.
Test the insulation resistance between phases and also to earth. If the resistance
is less than 5MΩ, the motor should be placed in a warm dry environment until this
reading is obtained. Running a motor having low insulation resistance on full
voltage is not recommended as breakdown may occur before the winding dry out.
5.2.4 Filters
The filters require the following checks prior to start up.
The filter should not have the element removed until circulation has been
established and the lines flushed out well in order to prevent plugging the
element.
5.2.7 Purging
All the vessels and lines, which carry hydrocarbon fluids and MDEA, must be purged
of all air before pressing and start-up. If possible, sweet gas should be used to reduce
hazards in the case of leaks upon pressuring the system. When purging the unit, the
following points should be followed:
Keep gas velocities low to sweep the air out of the system without mixing.
Low purge gas velocities minimize sparks cased by objects (i.e. mill scale, welding
rods, etc.) blowing down the lines.
The explosion limit of air-gas mixtures is in the range of 5~15% by volume gas.
Therefore, the first introduction of gas is the most dangerous zone.
Dead air spaces in vessels can be purged by alternative pressuring and bleeding
down to atmosphere. (DO NOT EXCEED DESIGN PRESSURES OF LINES AND
VESSELS).
The purged gas should be vented to the flare stack where possible (DO NOT LIGHT
Purge unit by individual sections; do not introduce gas to the whole plant at once.
With small sections it is easy to keep track of the un-purged areas.
Map out and cross off sections or lines which are purged on the P&ID’s to avoid
omissions.
A small portable oxygen analyzer can be used to check the effectiveness of the
purging and signal whether the operation is complete. Flexible rubber hoses are
often quite handy to jumper lines during the purging sequence. The sequence of
purging will not be discussed further as the variations are infinite with each one
having its own advantages and disadvantages. Close all valves after purging is
complete.
6.1.1 Degreasing
All the vessels and lines, which carry MDEA must be degreased with 5% (wt)
Na2CO3. When degreasing the unit, the following points should be followed:
Fill the 5% (wt) Na2CO3 to the amine sweetening gas unit at the low level and
establish the Na2CO3 circulation
Keep the unit circulation for 4 hours at cold condition and 10 hours at 158~176°F;
6.1.2 Cleaning
After the unit degreasing, the unit should be cleaned with the DM water.
5.3 Start-up
5.3.1 Preparation DM water
5.3.1.1 Run the Demin water treatment unit and to produce the DM water. The operation
refers to Demin water treatment unit manual.
5.3.1.2 The DM water is routed to the Demin water tank (400-TK4) through the pipeline
1.5”-DW-AF2N-4351.
5.3.1.3 Stop the Demin water treatment unit when the demin water tank (400-TK4) is full.
5.3.2 MDEA solvent make-up
5.3.2.1 Fill the blanked gas N2 through the bypass valve of PCV-005 and vent the N2
through the bypass valve of PCV006. The N2 Purity should be 99.5%v/v;
5.3.2.2 Transfer the barrels of MDEA solvent (purity: 99.5 %( wt), about 19barrels) to the
Amine storage tank (400-TK1);
5.3.2.3 Install the Amine charge pump (400-P107) on the MDEA barrel. And connection
the drive gas plant air with the flexible rubber hoses and connection the pump
outlet with the amine inlet (N1 nozzle) of amine storage tank.
5.3.2.4 Open isolation valves gradually on the plant air supply pipeline 1.5”-PA-AA1-
4453 and on the Amine inlet pipeline 1”-AM-AA2-4178. Start-up the Pump (400-
P107). Transfer the MDEA to the Amine storage tank. The initial MDEA solvent
is about 19 barrels.
5.3.2.5 Close the isolation valves after the MDEA is filled in the amine storage tank.
5.3.2.6 Start-up the Demin water supply pump (400-P113A) and Open the isolation
valve on DM water inlet pipeline 1”-DW-AF2N-4360 and fill the DM water to the
amine storage tank (400-TK1). Record and calculate the DM quantity.
5.3.2.7 The amine solvent 35% (wt), then close the DM water isolation valve and stop
the demin water supply pump (400-P113A).
5.3.2.8 Close the bypass valves of PCV005 and PCV006 and open the isolation valves
of PCV005 and PCV006 to establish the Micro positive pressure for the
amine storage tank (400-TK1).
5.3.2.9 Open the suction valve of Amine transfer pump (400-P108A) and start-up the
pump.
5.3.2.10 Open the discharge valve of Amine transfer pump (400-P108A) and the valve on
pipeline 1.5”-AM-AA2-4174. To circle the Amine for 2~3hours.
5.3.2.11 Close the discharge valves and Stop the Amine transfer pump (400-P108A).
5.3.3 Fill 35 %( wt) amine solvent to the amine sweetening gas unit
6.3.3.2 Fill the blanked gas N2 to the Lean amine surge vessel (400-V4)
6.3.3.5 Fill the N2 to the Amine contactor (400-C1). Keep the Amine contactor pressure
6~10barg.
6.3.3.6 Open suction valve of Amine transfer pumps (400-P108A), start-up the pump, then
open the discharge valves of amine transfer pumps (400-P108A). Fill the amine solvent to
the lean amine surge vessel (400-V4).
6.3.3.7 Open suction and discharge valves of Lean amine circulation pumps (400-P105A),
start-up the pumps when the level of Lean amine surge vessel reach up to 600mm. The
amine solvent is routed to the Amine contactor (400-C1).
6.3.3.8 Open the valves on the amine pipes from Amine contactor to the Rich Amine flash
drum (400-V3). The amine solvent is routed to the Rich amine flash drum (400-V3).
6.3.3.9 Open the valves on the amine pipes from Amine flash drum (400-V3) to Amine
regenerator (400-C2). Adjust the DP pressure between Amine contactor and Amine
regenerator.
The amine solvent is routed to the Amine regenerator via Rich amine strainer (400-S1A),
L/R amine exchanger (400-E1A).
6.3.3.10 Amine solvent goes into the Amine regenerator reboiler (400-E2). And adjust the
levels of the pressure vessels.
6.3.3.11 Stop filling the amine solvent when all the amine levels reach up the process
stipulated point.
6.3.4.1 Fill N2 to the Amine regenerator (400-C2), and control its pressure 14.5psig.
6.3.4.2 Open the suction valves on amine pipes from Amine regenerator reboiler (400-E2)
to the Lean amine booster pump (400-P103A). Start-up the Lean amine booster pump
(400-P103A). Open the discharge valves on the amine pipes from Lean amine booster
pump (400-P103A) to Lean amine surge vessel (400-V4).
6.3.4.3 Open the valves on bypass amine line for filters (400-F1A, 400-F2, and 400-F2A).
And adjust the amine solvent flow scope in 15~20%.
6.3.4.5 Amine solvent circulation has established. And control the Amine circulation flow
50% design flow.
6.3.4.6 To circle the amine solvent 3~4hours, Then take sample to analyzer the amine
density. And then add the DM water or the MDEA if required.
6.3.4.7 Lead the hot oil to the amine regenerator reboiler (400-E2) gradually.
6.3.4.9 the level of Regenerator reflux drum reach the process stipulated point, Start-up the
Regenerator reflux pump (400-P106A).
6.3.4.10 Open the Min flow valve and check the pump running condition.
6.3.4.11 Open the discharge valves of the Regenerator reflux pump (400-P106A) and
adjust the reflux flow to control the level of Regenerator reflux drum.
6.3.4.12 Switch the control of regenerator reflux drum level by FIC-004 and LIC-024 after
the level is stable.
6.3.4.13 Switch the amine sweetening gas unit control mode to automatic mode.
6.3.5.2 Take natural gas sample and ensure the nature gas composition meet the design
condition.
6.3.5.3 Adjust the temperature of amine solvent entering the amine contactor and amine
regenerator reach the design condition.
6.3.5.7 Open the manual valves from the sour gas inlet pipe 3”-PG-EF2N-4001 to the sweet
gas outlet line 3”-PG-EF2N-4008.
6.3.5.8 Open the valve ESDV-001, and adjust the manual valve openness, the sour gas
lead to the amine sweetening gas unit. And monitor the pressure PIT-004 or PI-084 reach
6.3.5.10 Control the temperature of sour gas goes into the amine contractor.
6.3.5.11 Monitor the analyzer 400-AT-001. The sweet gas vents to the common flare
header through the control valve 400-PV-004 until the sweet gas is acceptable.
6.3.5.12 with the sour gas flow increasing adjusts the amine circulation flow, and keeps the
levels balance and temperature stable.
6.3.5.13 set the pressure of PIC-006 at 75Psig. The flash gas vent to the acid gas flare unit
through the PV-006.
6.3.5.14 Control the stream temperature TIC-023 at 251°F through control the hot oil flow.
6.3.5.15 The sour gas from top of the amine regenerator is led to the Regenerator
condenser (400-EA4) to cool the sour gas temperature down to about 122°F. The
condensate is collected in the Regenerator reflux drum and the sour gas vent to the acid
gas flare system.
6.3.5.17 The sweet gas leaves the amine contactor to the sweet gas evaporative cooler and
cools the sweet gas down to about 105 °F and then goes to the sweet gas K.O. drum to
separate. The level of sweet gas K.O. drum (400-V2) is maintained by the 400-LV-011.
6.3.5.18 The sweet gas will delivery to the dehydration unit via the ESDV-008 when the
sweet gas is qualified.
6 NORMAL RUNNING
6.1 Adjust the sour gas load
7.7.1 The lean amine flow will change with the change of the sour gas load. During
operation the lean amine flow should increase firstly when the sour gas load
increase.
6.2 Adjust the Lean amine bypass filters (400-F1A, 400-F2, 400-F3A) flow.
7.2.1 Adjust the flow meter 400-FT-040 indicate 15~20% amine circulation flow. The flow
controlled by the 400-FV-040.
7.3.1 The DM water will fill into the lean amine surge vessel (400-V4) manually to maintain
its level when the level is lower than the design point.
7.3.2 The operator should take lean amine sample to analyzer the lean amine density
interval. And confirm fill the DM water or MDEA to maintain the lean amine density.
6.4 Anti-foaming
Pure amine solutions do not foam. It is only in the presence of contaminants such as
condensed hydrocarbons, small suspended particulate matter, or other surface active
agents such as some pipeline corrosion inhibitors or compressor oil. That a foaming
problem may develop. Foaming usually occurs in the amine contactor or the amine
regenerator, and is accompanied by a sudden noticeable increase in the differential
pressure across the column. Other indications of a foaming condition may be a high solvent
carryover, a drop in liquid levels, and the detection of off-specification gas.
7.4.1 Monitor the DP pressure of filters (400-F1A, 400-F2, 400-F3A), and maintenance the
filters intervals. When the DP pressure is up to the 7.25psi, replace the filter elements.
7.4.2 Monitor the DP pressure of the column, level and off gas when the trend is evident
add the anti-foaming agent. The initial MDEA has mixed the anti-foaming agent. So when
the system foaming add the anti-foaming agent through 400-P112A. The additive amount is
about 1~2ml/m3 amine.
With the amine sweetening gas unit running, the amine will from the stable heat salt
and which will accumulate in the amine solvent.
The routine operation: bleed a little amine and make-up the fresh amine to the system.
The unit running for 1~2 years to test the heat stable salt content and confirm to start-
up the heat stable salt removal unit.
7 SHUT DOWN
8.1.2 Close the valve on the sweet gas delivery pipe 3”-PG-EF2N-4008 and Open the valve
400-PV-004.
8.1.4 Adjust the set point of amine contactor pressure 400-PY-004. And fill the nitrogen to
keep the pressure to maintain the amine circulation.
8.1.6 Circle the amine solvent continuously to cool down the amine temperature.
8.1.12.1 Fill N2 to purge the natural gas circuit. Then Close the 400-PV-004 when the
natural gas is exhausted.
8.1.12.2 Fill the N2 continuous to the natural gas circuit and close the valve ESDV-009,
ESDV-010 and open the drain valves of amine contactor and sweet gas K.O. drum to drain
the amine solvent to amine sump vessel then close the drain valves.
8.1.12.3 Adjust the pressure of 400-PV-006 and vent the off-gas to the flare system. Then
open the ESDV-009, close 400-LV-012, ESDV-011. Fill the N 2 to purge the rich amine flash
drum. When the off-gas is exhausted close the 400-PV-006.
8.1.12.3 Open the drain valves of Rich amine flash drum and Rich amine strainers to drain
amine sump vessel then close the drain valves.
8.1.12.4 Open valve 400-LV-012, close the isolation valve of amine reboiler to the lean
amine strainer and fill the N2 to the amine regenerator to purge the regeneration sour gas
circuit. Close the valve 400-PV-021 when the sour gas is exhausted.
8.1.12.5 Open the drain valves of amine regenerator, amine reboiler and regenerator reflux
drum to drain the amine to the amine sump vessel then close the drain valves.
8.1.12.6 Clean the amine sweetening gas unit with the DM water. The sewage drains to
the open drain system.
8.1.12.7 Fill the nitrogen to purge the individual vessel. Clean the vessel with the DM water
then purge it with plant air and ensure the oxygen content higher than 20 %( v/v) when the
vessels need open to inspection and maintenance. At last isolation the individual vessel
with the blind spacer or isolation valves.
8.2.2 Stop the pump (400-P111A) and switch off DM water feed to the lean amine surge
vessel.
8.2.3 Fill the N2 to the amine contactor to keep the amine solvent circulation if required.
8.3.1 The pumps will stop when the power lost, which will lead to the amine solvent
circulation stop. So close the discharge valves of the pumps and switch the “stop” of the
pumps.
8.3.2 Close the relevant control valves and keep the system pressure. And monitor the
system pressure on HMI to avoid the gas blow-by. Ensure the amine contractor and amine
regenerator to maintain the positive pressure. Fill the N 2 if required.
8.3.3 Close the isolation valve on the sweet gas delivery line.
8.4.1 All the pneumatic valves will switch the fail safety position when the instrument air
lost. Whose positions have indicated on the P&ID.
8.4.2 The relevant control valves closed will lead the low level of vessels. Then which will
8 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
9.1 Prior to disconnecting any components of the unit, all hydrocarbon and sour
gas lines must have been thoroughly purged with nitrogen and residual hydrocarbon and
sour gas level checked.
9.2 The unit uses the hydrocarbon gas. Consequently, be aware of flammability, and
particularly take full care to ensure that connections are leak tight.
9.3 When the unit has been stopped by pressing the “Emergency off” button or incase of
PLC breakdown, the natural gas circuit should be depressed.
9.4 Make sure to read all MSDS present in documents prior to operate or
perform any maintenance on the unit.
9.5 It is necessary to disconnect the ground cables from panel when you need to
remove it from the enclosure.
9.6 The plant should equipped with the gas detector, Firefighting, H2S detector.
9.7 Operation and maintenance shall conform to the sub-manufacturer manual; periodic
testing shall also at least conform to the original equipment Manufacturer at specific interval
and no longer than the prescribed interval dictated by the authority having local jurisdiction.
9.8 The operator should wear protective gear and must have had training.
9 TROUBLESHOOTING
9.1 General
This is probably cause of a problem and suggesting ways how to correct it,
and recover the processing unit back to normal operation. It is still the
responsibility of the plant engineer/operator to use their knowledge of the plant
equipment and process, and their professional judgment to identify the possible
It is not possible here in this manual, to prescribe the exact recipe of how
to trouble shoot all possible problems in the processing unit operation. It is
absolutely essential that the personnel involved are completely familiar with the
equipment they operate and the process of the plant. Continuous
training/learning is necessary.
This usually falls four categories for amine sweetening gas unit.
Forming
Corrosion
The troubles can be the result of a single factor or several factors working in
conjunction .These factors are outlined in the below tables. Generally, final
identification of the cause(s) is a process of elimination.
Treated gas H2S/CO2 feed gas flow exceeds the design capacity (high or low) Adjust the feed gas flow fall in the design
content high scope
Feed gas H2S concentrations increased Increased the lean amine circulation flow rate
Feed gas go into amine contactor temperatures increased Check the Sour gas evaporative cooler
Cool down the feed gas temperature
Lean amine go into amine contactor temperature is too hot Check the lean amine evaporative cooler
High ambient temperature
Amine solvent concentrations too high or too low Check and add the DM water or MDEA to
system
Amine solvent circulation rate too low Increased the amine solvent circulation rate
Lean amine solvent H2S concentrations increased: Check the amine regeneration system
Thermal degradation
Corrosion
Contaminated/dirty solvent
Corrosion products
Treated gas temperature Feed gas temperature high Adjust the feed gas temperature
high Lean amine go into amine contactor temperature high Check the lean amine cooler
Sweet gas evaporative cooler or sour gas evaporative See the evaporative cooler manual
cooler fail
Feed gas flow exceeds the design capacity Adjust the feed gas flow
Lean amine temperature too low Adjust the lean amine temperature and
maintain lean amine temperature 15~20°F
above inlet gas temperature to minimize
hydrocarbon condensation.
Inadequate amine solvent filtration Maintenance the strainers and filters intervals
Note An immediate method to control a foaming problem is the addition antifoam at a location just
upstream of the foam.
Routine sample
Carry over Unwanted or uncontrolled liquid in gas
Tower diameter too small for gas flow Tower pressure below design
Trays at or above flooding Trays damaged or plugged
Corrosion : Rich amine acid gas loading to high Control the Rich amine acid gas loading less
Wall thinning Poor quality make-up DM water Check and maintenance the DM water unit
Heat stable salt form Start –up the heat stable salt removal system
Physical leaks Control the regeneration temperature
Amine solvent flow velocities too high Reduce the amine solvent flow velocity
Note: The MDEA supplied with the delivery has mixed the anti-corrosion agent.
Amine Contactor ΔP increase and 400-DPIT will alarm feed gas flow exceeds the design Adjust the feed gas flow
flooding capacity too high fall in the design scope
Liquid level of contactor bottom will decrease The tray of contactor blocked Stop the unit and
rapidly. And 400-LIT009 will alarm. maintenance the
contactor
Be aware of hazards which may arise when work is being carried out on
energized equipment and take all precautions necessary.
Replace filter elements as needed, do not wait unit the filter is all clogged
up.
On the human machine interface (HMI) to monitor the amine sweetening unit
process parameters and check and list all the alarms in order to
acknowledge the defaults if any.
Inspect all pumps for leakage around packing, glands and tell tale signs in
the drip tray. Check fasteners are secure.
Check for process fluid leaking. Including piping, valves, welds, joints etc.
Control Valves and Actuators – the disk assembly, seat rings etc. should be
checked for wear and leakage and the subject parts replaced as necessary.
Switch the back-up manually valves to ensure which are in working order.
Clean and flush the evaporative cooler details refer to the manufacture’s
specific manual.
11.3.1 Open the inlet and outlet isolating valves of the standby filter.
11.3.2 Isolate the vessel by closing the inlet and outlet isolating valves.
11.3.5 Clean the filter with DW water and drain it to the open drain.
11.3.7 Take out the filter elements and flush the filter element or replace the
elements.
11.4.2 Isolate the vessel by closing the inlet and outlet isolating valves.
11.4.5 Clean the filter with DW water and drain it to the open drain.
11.4.7 Take out the carbon filter elements and replace the elements.
11.4.13 Open the vessel inlet and outlet isolation valves and the carbon filter
goes into use.