Process for recovering helium from a natural gas stream

摘要

An improved process for cryogenically separating a helium-bearing natural gas stream comprising subjecting the natural gas stream to a sequence of alternating cooling and separating steps wherein one or more process-derived streams are utilized to effect cooling of the natural gas streams to temperatures in the cryogenic range. The process provides for the separation and recovery of a natural gas liquids product stream consisting substantially of condensed C2 and higher hydrocarbons and a gaseous product stream consisting of at least 50 volume percent of helium with the balance being substantially nitrogen.