Classification and technological processes of LNG cold energy utilization modes

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a kind of nonrenewable energy with low temperature and high calorific value. A great amount of cold energy is released in the process of LNG gasification and utilization. And if the cold energy can be used effectively, great economic value and environmental value will be created. At present, there are many kinds of LNG cold energy utilization modes and the technological processes are complex, which are not conducive to the selection of the LNG cold energy utilization scheme for the actual projects. In this paper, domestic and foreign LNG cold energy utilization modes and processes were analyzed. Then, based on different cold energy utilization principles, LNG cold energy utilization modes were divided into energy conversion, single heat transfer and associational heat and mass exchange. And these three LNG cold energy utilization modes were summarized and analyzed from the aspects of basic principle and technological process, so as to provide the convenience for the selection of cold energy utilization mode suitable for actual LNG cold energy utilization project. Finally, the integrated cascading utilization scheme of LNG cold energy was summarized to provide the reference for the rational cascading utilization of LNG cold energy.