Avoid problems during distillation column startups

Journal Article · Mon Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1996 · Chemical Engineering Progress

OSTI ID:276708

Sloley, A W

The startup of a distillation column is the end product of the design process. Indeed, startup is the culmination of the theory and practice of designing the column to meet the process objectives. The author will direct most of this discussion towards column revamps due to their inherent complexity; however, the points apply equally to new columns, as well. The most important question that must be answered prior to a startup is how will the distillation system changes affect initial startup, process control of the system, and normal day-to-day operations? How will the operators run the system? Steady-state distillation-column simulations alone cannot provide an authoritative answer and, indeed, engineers` over-reliance on software too often has led them to ignore many practical aspects. Computer modeling, while an important engineering tool, is not reality. Distillation columns are real functioning pieces of equipment that require practical skills to successfully modify. They are not steady-state solutions that result from converged computer simulations. Early planning, coupled with thorough inspections and comprehensive reviews of instrumentation and procedures, can play a key role in assuring smooth startups.

• OSTI ID: 276708
• Journal Information: Chemical Engineering Progress, Journal Name: Chemical Engineering Progress Journal Issue: 7 Vol. 92; ISSN 0360-7275; ISSN CEPRA8
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN
DISTILLATION EQUIPMENT
MODIFICATIONS
PLANNING
RETROFITTING
START-UP