Harvey L Vines

Title: Harvey L. Vines: Innovator in Natural Gas Processing

Introduction: Harvey L. Vines is a distinguished inventor based in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, recognized for his significant contributions to natural gas processing technologies. With an impressive portfolio of five patents, Vines has made strides in processes that enhance the efficiency and recovery of vital resources within the natural gas industry.

Latest Patents: Among his latest innovations, Vines developed a groundbreaking method for nitrogen rejection from natural gas integrated with natural gas liquids (NGL) recovery. This process allows for the recovery of methane, nitrogen, and natural gas liquids from a feed stream at high pressures, utilizing a nitrogen rejection stage combined with a heat pump-driven distillation column. This innovative technology effectively manages nitrogen concentration across a wide range, making it highly adaptable to various feed stream conditions.

In addition to this, Vines has created a process that uses a serpentine heat exchange relationship for cooling, condensing, and subcooling a substantially single-component gas stream. This method entails passing the gas through a heat exchanger that avoids issues like condensed phase backmixing and pot-boiling of the coolant stream. Specifically, it has proven particularly effective for condensing a recycle methane stream within a nitrogen rejection process, applying a methane heat pump cycle to provide necessary refrigeration.

Career Highlights: Vines has dedicated his career to advancing technology within the natural gas sector, particularly through his role at Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. His innovative work not only enhances the efficiency of gas processing but also ensures sustainability and reliability in energy production.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Vines has collaborated with industry experts including Vincent Marano III and James W. Pervier. These partnerships have facilitated the development and refinement of his patented technologies, contributing to the broader field of gas processing innovation.

Conclusion: Harvey L. Vines exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the natural gas industry. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing technologies that improve resource recovery and processing efficiencies. As he continues to contribute to this vital field, Vines remains a notable figure, inspiring future generations of inventors and engineers in the energy sector.