Comparison between orthogonal test and response surface optimization in ethane recovery
To address the issue of high energy consumption in the ethane recovery from rich gas using the Recycle Split Vapor(RSV)ethane process,four key process parameters affecting the recovery rate and the total compression power consumption are identified and their optimal value ranges are selected through single-factor and sensitivity analysis.Subsequently,parameter optimization was conducted using orthogonal test method and response surface methodology.The response surface methodology,through variance analysis,Pareto diagram analysis,and optimization,yielded the following optimal process parameters:demethanizer column pressure at 2 800 kPa,cryogenic separator temperature at-47.54℃,dry gas reflux ratio at 14.8%,and cryogenic separator gas-phase split ratio at 14.02%.The ethane recovery rate and total compression power consumption achieved were 93.43%and 7 694.05 kW respectively,outperforming the previous values of 92.87%and 7 784.05 kW.When dealing with fewer parameters,the orthogonal test method is recommended to reduce the test workload.However,the quadratic regression optimization model established by the response surface methodology not only optimizes the process parameters,but also quantifies the interaction effects of parameters on the ethane recovery rate and the total compression power consumption,providing a theoretical basis for the process parameters adjustment on site.