Improvement of the operation of crude oil distillation systems

Journal Article · Sat Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1995 · Chemistry and Technology of Fuels and Oils

OSTI ID:160402

Gareev, R G

Before 1970, crude oil distillation systems (units and sections) were usually designed by approximate methods without any computerized optimization calculations. Therefore, with the existing flow plans, instrumentation, and mechanical design of these systems, bottlenecks are usually encountered, as well as unutilized reserved in productivity and sharpness of separation. For example, with atmospheric-vacuum tubestill (AVT) units, up to the present time it has not been possible to obtain sharp separation between two naphtha cuts: IBP-85 and 85-140{degrees}C. At the same time, in atmospheric towers with rectangular-cap trays, the safety margin for vapor load may be as high as 30-40%, while there is no such reserve capacity in vacuum towers. Many different versions of AVT unit reconstruction have been described in the scientific and technical literature, aimed at {open_quotes}intensifying{close_quotes} the operation [improving the productivity and efficiency]. However, it is very rare to encounter any sound analysis of the reasons for the unsatisfactory AVT operation before reconstruction; the goals and directions of reconstruction are not formulated; and no detailed results are presented on operating tests of the units after reconstruction. Such publications are {open_quotes}for your information{close_quotes} type particles; however, they do enable the authors to distinguish the following trends in {open_quotes}intensification{close_quotes}: (1) use of high-efficiency contact devices in distillation towers; (2) replacement of low-capacity process equipment with higher-capacity units; and (3) changes in the flow plans and operating conditions of towers, auxiliary equipment, sections, and the units as a whole.

• OSTI ID: 160402
• Journal Information: Chemistry and Technology of Fuels and Oils, Journal Name: Chemistry and Technology of Fuels and Oils Journal Issue: 11-12 Vol. 30; ISSN CTFOAK; ISSN 0009-3092
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
DESIGN
DISTILLATION
DISTILLATION EQUIPMENT
PETROLEUM
PETROLEUM FRACTIONS
PETROLEUM REFINERIES