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

•Common nitrogen separation processes in LNG plant are simulated using Aspen HYSYS.•Analytic hierarchy process was performed with additional parameters to develop an objective and credible decision methodology.•Proposed methodology can help process engineers to select an appropriate nitrogen separation process for the LNG plant.

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.