Steam savings of 33% provided by vacuum system

Journal Article · Sun Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1979 · Chem. Process. (Chicago); (United States)

OSTI ID:6019334

Aslam, J

Abbott Laboratories needed a vacuum system for a batch distillation process used in the manufacture of an anticonvulsant known as Depakene. The system was to handle 10 lb/hr of air at a suction pressure of 2 torr. A vacuum system that was reliable and also one that used a minimum amount of energy was required. Another requirement was a low-level installation, and if possible, availability from one vendor so to achieve single-source responsibility. After considering various alternatives, the plant installed a 4-stage combination system consisting of a liquid-ring vacuum pump and a 2-stage steam-jet ejector unit. Materials of construction were all 316 stainless steel. The liquid ring vacuum pump provides the initial and major reduction in pressure down to 28'' Hg vacuum. The two ejector stages further decrease this pressure to 2 torr. This combination system has been shown to have a utility cost only 2/3 as great as one in which a conventional 4-stage ejector system is used. Hence, utility cost is reduced by 33%. No significant maintenance has been needed on vacuum system since it was installed in June 1978.

• Research Organization: Abbott Labs., North Chicago, IL
• OSTI ID: 6019334
• Journal Information: Chem. Process. (Chicago); (United States), Journal Name: Chem. Process. (Chicago); (United States) Vol. 42:4; ISSN CHPCA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320303* -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Industrial & Agricultural Processes-- Equipment & Processes
CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
DRUGS
ENERGY CONSERVATION
INDUSTRY
PERFORMANCE
PRODUCTION
STEAM
VACUUM SYSTEMS