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Gas Hydrate Formation Prediction

GPSA · Katz · Baillie-Wichert

Hydrate Formation Predictor — Predicts hydrate formation temperature using Katz (sweet gas) and Baillie-Wichert (sour gas) methods per GPSA Section 20. Calculates inhibitor depression using Hammerschmidt equation for methanol, MEG, or DEG.

Operating Conditions

psig
°F
air=1
SG range: 0.55 (dry) to 0.80 (rich gas)

Prediction Method

mol%
mol%
Note: H₂S and CO₂ RAISE hydrate temperature (per GPSA Figure 20-8). Use Baillie-Wichert for >1% H₂S or >3% CO₂.

Hydrate Prevention

wt%
Typical Ranges (Hammerschmidt):
• Methanol: 20-40 wt% (18-49°F depression)
• MEG: 40-65 wt% (25-70°F depression)
• DEG: 50-70 wt% (22-51°F depression)

About This Calculator

Predicts gas hydrate formation temperature and calculates thermodynamic inhibitor requirements per GPSA.

Methods:

  • Katz (1959): Sweet gas P-T curve from GPSA Figure 20-4
  • Baillie-Wichert: Sour gas correction for H₂S/CO₂
  • Hammerschmidt: Inhibitor depression equation

Key Points:

  • Hydrates form when T < T_hydrate at given P
  • Maintain 10-15°F safety margin
  • Accuracy: ±5°F for sweet gas, ±3-5°F with inhibitor

Frequently Asked Questions

What methods does this calculator use to predict hydrate formation temperature?

The calculator uses the Katz method for sweet gas based on GPSA Figure 20-4, and the Baillie-Wichert method for sour gas containing H2S or CO2. Baillie-Wichert should be used when H2S exceeds 1% or CO2 exceeds 3%.

How do H2S and CO2 affect gas hydrate formation temperature?

H2S and CO2 raise the hydrate formation temperature compared to sweet gas, as documented in GPSA Figure 20-8. This means sour gas is more prone to hydrate formation and requires more aggressive prevention measures.

How does the Hammerschmidt equation calculate inhibitor requirements?

The Hammerschmidt equation calculates the freezing point depression achieved by thermodynamic inhibitors such as methanol, MEG, or DEG. It determines the required inhibitor concentration in the free water phase to suppress hydrate formation below the operating temperature.

What does the hydrate prediction calculator do?

It predicts gas hydrate formation temperature and calculates inhibitor needs using the Hammerschmidt correlation.

What method does this hydrate calculator use?

It uses the Hammerschmidt correlation to estimate hydrate formation conditions and required inhibitor concentrations.

Is this hydrate prediction calculator free to use?

Yes, it is a free online calculator that provides instant hydrate formation temperature and inhibitor requirement results.