2 replies to this topic

[onyxgaze]

Hi,

We are faced with a problem of scaling up a set of random packed bed adsorption columns and to design and build the scaled up plant.

The existing plant is an old one and for whom the design data/ engineering documents do not exist. However as the plant is in operation process data and operational steps/ sequences can all be collected.

Now the need is to scale up the plant to 3 times its existing size.

What we know (about the existing plant):
* Equipment sizes/ MOC/ quantity of resin used
* Operation steps/ - sequences of charging/ eluting/ cleaning and resin regeneration steps.
* Pressure/ temperature/ flows/ pH etc which are being maintained presently

What we dont know:
* Basic design data of the existing plant
* Type of / properties etc of the resin used

Is there a procedure which can be followed in such a case? Are there questionnaires regarding adsorption column design which can be filled in by the plant personnel which can be used to engineer this capacity increase.

Thanks in advance.

[SPGC]

Dear Sir
Your problem will be solved & I want to help you.
Would you please send more details of your old adsorption column, such as:
1)The main process(such as sweetening, ...)
2)Fluids incomming and out going of column.
Thanks

[Dacs]

Without the benefit of a more detailed description, this is what I have in mind:

1. Since you'll be able to ascertain the operating cycle of the column, you'll have an idea on how much resin is needed to treat a given volume of gas. From this, you'll have an idea on how much resin you'll be needing in scaling up the plant.

Although I cannot give you any concrete advice with regards to scaling up since I have little background on adsorbers, I think it's wise to maintain the mass flux (mass of treated gas / area of the bed normal to gas flow) in scaling up.

2. You have to at least know the resin used since you'll be needing to purchase them anyway. Since we're talking about an old plant, there must be at least some progress made in that type of technology and you may be able to use newer type of resins that may decrease your capital investment.

That'll be all for now. I think it's also wise if you share with us the specifics in that project so that other people can able to give you a more concrete and detailed advice.

How old is the plant? I find it weird that the basic engineering docs are missing.