Shell Turbo Technologies has successfully passed a performance guarantee test at the Gbaran-Ubie Central Processing Facility (CPF) in Nigeria, achieving an increase in natural gas processing capacity without requiring new infrastructure.
Furthermore, this implementation was developed by Shell Catalysts & Technologies in collaboration with Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, the asset operator, as part of the Gbaran Phase 3B – Uzu project.
Modernization of TEG dehydration units
During scheduled shutdowns, proprietary internals were installed in two triethylene glycol (TEG) dehydration trains. This upgrade optimized the performance of the contactors responsible for removing moisture from the gas.
Likewise, the improvement in gas-liquid interaction increased the processed flow rate while maintaining water dew point specifications within the required parameters.
Increased gas capacity in Nigeria without physical expansion
One of the most relevant aspects of the project is that the capacity increase was achieved without building new facilities. This positions the technology as an efficient solution for maximizing existing assets.
In this context, debottlenecking the process trains allowed the plant to meet its liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply commitments in Nigeria.
Operational impact and cost reduction
From an operational standpoint, the adoption of this technology reduced the need for expansion investments, shortened project timelines, and lowered operating costs.
Similarly, exposure to health, safety, and environmental risks was reduced by avoiding additional construction work.
Field technology validation
The guarantee test confirmed that the column internals developed by Shell meet the intended performance targets.
According to company spokespersons, this solution allows for the release of significant additional capacity by optimizing existing processes, establishing itself as a viable alternative for gas plants looking to improve efficiency without expanding infrastructure.
Source and photo: Shell Catalyst & Technologies