Cryogenic Turbo Expander

Generating Cold from High-Pressure Gas

 

The cryogenic turbo expander is a key component in LNG liquefaction processes, air separation units, and cryogenic refrigeration cycles. It produces refrigeration by expanding high-pressure cryogenic gas through a turbine wheel, while simultaneously recovering shaft power that can be used to drive a generator or compressor. The expander handles LNG, liquid nitrogen, liquid argon, and liquid oxygen across a temperature range of -196°C to -20°C and pressure differentials from 0.5 MPa to 10 MPa.

High-pressure cryogenic gas enters the turbine housing and expands through the impeller, dropping in pressure and temperature. The expansion process extracts energy from the gas stream, which is converted into rotational shaft power. The impeller is precision-machined on five-axis equipment and dynamically balanced for high-speed operation. Bearings and seals are validated for cryogenic service, with aerodynamic journal bearings or magnetic bearings available depending on the application. Wetted components are manufactured from stainless steel, aluminum alloys, or copper alloys validated for cryogenic service.

Flow rates range from 0.5 m³/h up to 500 m³/h, with pressure differentials from 0.5 MPa to 10 MPa. The expander can be supplied as a skid-mounted package integrating the turbine body, bearing system, seal system, and control system on a common base for simplified site installation. Various braking options are available including fan braking, electric braking, and compressor braking.

Testing and Quality Assurance

 

Each expander undergoes mechanical running tests and aerodynamic performance testing before shipment. The company holds multiple patents in cryogenic turbo expander technology and maintains ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 certifications. Custom-engineered expanders have a lead time of approximately 32 weeks from technical approval to delivery.

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Cryogenic turbo expanders are used in LNG liquefaction, air separation, natural gas liquid recovery, and pressure energy recovery. After delivery, installation guidance, commissioning support, and spare parts supply are available as specified in the contract.

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