Process optimization and simulation of ice-making utilizing cold energy from LNG satellite station

Owing to the vaporizing quantity of LNG changing a lot in different seasons and times, some problems occur in the existing ice-making process by utilizing cold energy from LNG satellite station, including the mismatch between LNG vaporizing quantity and ice requirement, with the unstable output of ice-making. To solve these problems, a novel associated ice-making process was proposed. This process combines the ice-making method of utilizing cold energy from LNG with phase transition refrigerant (R410A) and the vapor compression refrigeration cycle, adopting natural gas engine to provide the power for compressor. In addition to solve the above problem, the new process also can alleviate the seasonal imbalance of electricity and gas. Simulations were carried out with the process software HYSYS, and the key operational parameters of the new process have been determined. The simulation results show that the output of ice-making is about 127 t for the small LNG satellite station that vaporizing quantity is 20×10³-100×10³ m³/d. Compared with the ordinary ice-making method, the new process can save energy up to 7 332 kW per day. If the wholesale price of ice is 8 yuan per 100 kg, the annual gross income will amount to 3 703 600 yuan. The new process has considerable economic benefit.