PG at NG Letdown Points

Millions of horsepower are used to compress natural gas to facilitate distribution throughout the world.  The compressed gas must be reduced in pressure prior to use by the end user. This pressure drop is typically accomplished through the use of a “throttling” pressure reducing valve positioned at letdown points at the wellsite and all along the production and distribution system network.  During the pressure reduction process these valves “waste” energy that was initially spent to compress the gas. Approximately two thirds of this “lost” energy is recoverable and can be converted to rotary power and electricity through the use of a RadMax expander and connected generator (RXG) in place of or, in combination with, the existing pressure reducing valve. 

A low cost, constant and dependable source of electricity for locations where electricity is not available or is expensive, RXG generated power is essentially “free” and 100% “green” as the cost and economic penalty of producing the power has already been paid in the compression of the natural gas. The generated electricity can be used to power converted pneumatic controllers, electronic equipment, lighting, communications and other site devices to reduce methane emissions and lower operating costs. The power generated can also drive other devices such as compressors and pumps, or provide an on-demand “green” power generation capability to the electrical grid. 

RadMax expanders are slower speed (1,500 – 3,000 rpm) rotary, positive displacement devices that are uniquely better able to handle entrained liquids in the gas flow steam than traditional turboexpanders. RadMax expanders are also better suited for lower and variable flow rates and pressure expansion applications typically associated with end use requirements. 

RadMax natural gas expanders provides a low cost, constant and dependable source of power at locations where electricity is not economically available. Available in sizes to up to 250 kW, RadMax expanders are further scalable by adding multiple expander cams on single shaft.

Targeted Applications Include:

• Green power production at natural gas well site, production and distribution locations for pneumatic controller methane emissions elimination
• Green power production at natural gas production, distribution and storage locations for reduced carbon footprint by offsetting purchased power, and/or sale to grid
• Green power production from gas flow at the meter to production, manufacturing and industrial sites for increased energy use efficiency and reduced carbon footprint
• Green power production from gas flow at the meter to commercial properties (apartments, office buildings, hotels, hospitals shopping centers, etc.) gas meter for increased energy use efficiency and reduced carbon footprint

 Additional InformatioN
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RadMax EX10 Natural Gas Expander-Generator

Power Generation from Natural Gas Fuel Flow to ICEs, Turbines & Boilers