Why do chemical processing equipment have pressure drop limits?
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I work in pressure vessel design; I’m no expert in chemical processing processes, but I’m curious as to why there are restrictions on pressure drop in chemical equipment. Those who work in this field must understand this well. Could anyone please explain it to me? :P
I’m not sure what device you mean; but regardless of the device, if the pressure drop increases, it directly results in a higher pump head being required, which in turn leads to higher energy consumption. For some refining units, the same principle applies regarding the pressure drop required for certain tower top coolers, especially those in the vacuum distillation towers. A high pressure drop results in a lower vacuum level at the tower top, which in turn leads to a lower rate of distillation. To maintain the desired performance levels, a higher feed temperature is necessary, thereby increasing energy consumption.
The main considerations are energy consumption and the production capacity.