Steady-state modelling and simulation of optimum pentane stabilization and recovery options for the Ghana Gas Processing Plant

This study focuses on the steady-state modelling and simulation of optimum pentane stabilization and recovery options for the Ghana Gas Processing Plant. Due to inefficient fractionation, the stabilized condensates from the plant contain significant amounts of butanes, and the pentane recovered is flared, leading to losses of valuable condensate. Using Aspen HYSYS (V11) with the Peng-Robinson equation of state, the separation and simulation process was performed under steady-state conditions. The investigation focused on optimizing key operational parameters, including the overhead product rate of the T-300 fractionation column and the vent rate of the T-340 pentane stripper column, to enhance pentane recovery. Sensitivity analyses revealed that increasing the overhead product rate improved pentane recovery but caused column flooding at excessive rates. Optimizing the vent rate was crucial for minimizing pentane losses to the heavier condensate stream. The study demonstrates that precise control of these parameters significantly enhances pentane stabilization, offering an efficient strategy for reducing flaring losses and improving overall gas processing efficiency.