Abstract
A dynamic model to simulate LNG reliquefaction process has been developed. The model was applied to two candidate cycles for LNG reliquefaction process, which are Reverse Brayton and Claude cycles. The simulation was intended to simulate the pilot plant under construction for operation of the two cycles and evaluate their feasibility. According to the simulation results, both satisfy control requirements for safe operation of brazed aluminum plate-fin type heat exchangers. In view of energy consumption, the Reverse Brayton cycle is more efficient than the Claude cycle. The latter has an expansion valve in addition to the common facilities sharing with the Reverse Brayton cycle. The expansion valve is a main cause to the efficiency loss. It generates a significant amount of entropy associated with its throttling and increases circulation flow rates of the refrigerant and power consumption caused by its leaking resulting in lowered pressure ratio. It is concluded that the Reverse Brayton cycle is more efficient and simpler in control and construction than the Claude cycle.
