Showing papers in "Chemical Engineering in 1992"

The basics of vacuum processing

Abstract: Vacuum processing in the chemical process industries (CPI); HVP equipment alternative options in falling-film evaporators, wiped-film evaporators, short-path evaporators, distillation boosters. Batch HVP systems offer the best separation efficiencies, but with less throughput

Improve your fired heaters

Abstract: Most of the chemical process industries (CPI) employ direct or indirect-fired heaters in some capacity. This paper reports that because fired heaters are so energy-intensive, and because they affect plant capacity, pollution and safety, it is wise to consider ways to renovate inefficient, unsafe or undersized units. Done properly, this can improve plant capacity and efficiency by 20-25%, with a payback period of three years or less. Whether upgrading a fired heater to accommodate increased market demand, reduce production costs, or increase process safety, a number of approaches can be used: The physical design of a heater is modified, to increase throughput and conserve energy; Cleaner fuels, alternative fuels and air preheating are employed to improve energy efficiency; Equipment is repaired or replaced; Control instrumentation is added for more-precise operation and Maintenance is improved.