Application of vortex tube technology in pressure regulation in compressed natural gas (CNG) offtake station

Skid-mounted pressure regulation instruments are usually used to reduce the high pressure of natural gas in the upstream which is distributed to downstream users after that. But during the pressure drop process, because of "Joule-Thomson Effect", ice blockage is likely to happen to the pressure regulating valve, which is a potential risk to the station's safety. Pressure regulation with vortex tube, which can solve the problem of ice blockage during the pressure drop process effectively and recycle the energy from pressure drop, shows a broad application prospect. According to the actual working conditions of a certain station, the scheme design for pressure regulation with vortex tube is made, in which the operation mode is stated, besides, possible problems and expected application effect are explained. Design result indicates that using vortex tube in place of skid-mounted pressure regulation instruments is feasible, which can avoid ice blockage, reduce the workload and cost of daily maintenance for pressure regulating valve. Meanwhile, the cold energy produced in the process of pressure regulation can be used to save energy.