Decision methodology for nitrogen removal process in the LNG plant using analytic hierarchy process

Abstract

In this study, method for selecting an appropriate nitrogen separation process in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant is suggested and its validity is confirmed using a well-known decision making technique of analytic hierarchy process. In order to develop an objective decision methodology, various decision parameters, sub-parameters as well as the concept of scale of assessment were introduced, and its consistency among these parameters was also checked by calculating the consistency index (C.I.). The methodology suggested in this article will contribute in selecting an appropriate nitrogen separation process in the LNG plant with less bias and subjectivity associated with the decision making procedure.