Polyurethane pipe insulation reduces heat loss by 85%
The staff of Diamond Shamrock Chemicals Company recognized the need to replace the insulation in the sodium hydroxide evaporation unit at their Deer Park, TX facility. The caustic evaporation unit consists of 42 process vessels, tanks, and connecting pipes. The vessels range from 8 to 27 feet in height. The system also includes more than 3000 lineal feet of pipe ranging from 2 to 24 inches in diameter. Fluid temperatures vary from 100 to 270/sup 0/F. Over the years, asbestos-containing calcium silicate had been severely damaged by water and caustic leaks. Due to the age, weathering, and wear of this material, the insulating efficiency had been reduced to approximately 50%. As a result, the steam economy for the evaporators was low. An energy survey was conducted and revealed that a total of 14.96 million Btu/hr was being lost. Of this amount, 35% could be attributed to uninsulated equipment. Each group of equipment was then evaluated individually for its economic contribution to the project. The results of the study indicated that replacing the insulation would serve two purposes: it would provide improved safety for workers, and it would reduce heat loss by an estimated 85% per year. Although the materials tested all exhibited adequate insulating properties, only polyisocyanurate was able to withstand the harsh environment present at the Deer Park plant. Further, ease of installation proved to be a noteworthy characteristic. Fabrication and installation of the insulation was performed by Arrow Insulation of Houston. The reinsulation project met Diamond Shamrock's requirements for worker safety, ease of maintenance, and energy cost savings. Reduction of heat losses by 85% will result in a payback in a little over three years.
- Research Organization:
- Diamond Shamrock Chemicals Co., Solon, OH
- OSTI ID:
- 5544160
- Journal Information:
- Chem. Process. (Chicago); (United States), Journal Name: Chem. Process. (Chicago); (United States)
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
CHEMICAL REACTORS
THERMAL INSULATION
PIPES
PERFORMANCE
CHEMICAL PLANTS
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
HEAT LOSSES
SAFETY
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY LOSSES
INDUSTRIAL PLANTS
LOSSES
320303* - Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization- Industrial & Agricultural Processes- Equipment & Processes