News and Insights

In July 2025, the helium recovery unit at the Qingyang Plant achieved a successful one-time commissioning! During the trial run, the unit operated stably, and all key indicators met the design expectations. This marks the official transition of Sepmem's BOG (Boil-Off Gas) helium recovery project into the production and operation stage.

Helium, as a rare and non-renewable strategic resource, is experiencing ever-increasing demand. It plays an irreplaceable role in various fields, particularly in aerospace, nuclear weapons, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and semiconductors. However, helium is scarce in nature and is primarily extracted from natural gas. During the LNG production process, helium becomes concentrated and enriched in the Boil-Off Gas (BOG) as the natural gas liquefies. Therefore, how to extract helium from BOG efficiently and economically has become a critical issue that requires urgent resolution.

The helium recovery unit commissioned this time adopts  Sepmem's independently developed process, which includes key steps such as hydrogen removal, membrane separation, and pressure swing adsorption. The entire process operates at normal temperature without using cryogenic technology, significantly reducing equipment requirements and simplifying the process. SEPMEM’s helium recovery unit enables the extraction of helium from BOG and its purification to high-purity helium (with purity exceeding 99.999%), meeting the needs of various industries. During commissioning, the project team ensured strict quality and safety control, while technical personnel closely monitored all operational data, laying a solid foundation for achieving one-time startup success.

 Sepmem's BOG helium recovery project represents an efficient and environmentally friendly approach to resource utilization and holds great significance for promoting the sustainable development of both the natural gas and helium industries. The helium recovery unit at the Qingyang Plant has a processing capacity of 300 Sm³/d. The LNG products produced by the project can be transported nationwide through cylinder filling and tube-skid loading, helping to alleviate helium supply shortages while contributing to local economic and industrial development.

The successful one-time commissioning is the best recognition of our earlier efforts. Next, we will focus on optimizing operating parameters to ensure safe, stable, and long-cycle operation, striving to reach full capacity and meet all performance targets as soon as possible.  Sepmem will continue to uphold its mission of “Dedicate to Clean Energy, Promote a Low-Carbon Future,” providing reliable support for local industries and injecting renewed vitality into regional economic development!