Supersonic nozzle efficiently separates natural gas components

John R. Lacey TransLang Technologies Ltd. Calgary A new technology based on the adiabatic cooling of swirling gas fl ow in a supersonic nozzle is effective in separating and processing natural gas components. A pilot test facility in Alberta, Canada, has shown that the 3-S separation device uses 10-20% less compressor power than plants that use a JouleThomson valve or turboexpander, based on the same extraction level. Potential applications for 3-S separators in gas processing plants include: • Gas preparation for transportation. • LPG extraction, shallow cut, and deep cut. • Offshore gas separation and treatment facilities. • CO 2 extraction, ethane recovery, and LNG applications. 3-S separators provide a cost-effective and highly effi cient extraction process for C 3 + gas components combined with a potential reduction in energy consumption.