Micro-scale LNG liquefaction plants

This paper deals with the liquefaction of natural gas by micro-scale plants. The aim of the paper is to describe the possible applications of such plants, focusing on the exploitation of stranded wells. A technical and economic analysis of different liquefaction technologies is performed and the liquefaction cycles considered are Linde cycle, Claude cycle and reverse-Brayton cycle. Additional considerations on Mixed Refrigerant Cycles and liquefaction by liquid nitrogen vaporization are reported. Moreover an overview on the competitors technologies (Gas-To-Liquid, Gas-To-Hydrate, Compressed Natural Gas and power generation) is presented in order to understand the most suitable for each given application. Final results of the analysis show the guidelines for economic feasibility of micro-scale liquefaction.