Yan’an Energy Chemical Olefin Polymerization Center of Yanchang Petroleum: The steam condensate recovery rate in the polypropylene plant reaches 100%

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Yan’an Energy Chemicals Olefin Polymerization Center of Yanchang Petroleum: Steam condensate recovery rate in the polypropylene plant reaches 100% Author/Source: Yanchang Petroleum Yan’an Energy Chemicals Date: 2022-01-21 Clicks: 16 Since Yanchang Petroleum Yan’an Energy Chemicals began its efforts to reduce energy consumption, the Olefin Polymerization Center has focused on the weaknesses in the operation of its facilities, and by utilizing technological initiatives such as research and development projects and QC activities, it has explored new approaches and methods, achieving significant results. Recently, the reporter learned from the center that the steam condensate recovery rate of the polypropylene plant reached 100%, marking the highest level of steam condensate recovery since the plant began operations. It is understood that in the polypropylene plant, the steam condensate from two of the largest steam consumers – the propylene evaporator E-242 and the stripping tower reboiler E-651 – cannot be recovered. Their steam consumption accounts for approximately 54% of the total steam usage, posing significant challenges to the standardized management of the plant and to environmental protection efforts. To this end, the center launched a QC initiative aimed at improving the recovery rate of condensate from the equipment. In-depth analysis was conducted on the pipeline layout on site and the operating conditions of the process, and active communication was carried out with relevant design firms and industry experts. As a result, issues such as inappropriate heat exchange control methods, insufficient pressure for condensate transport, and unreasonable layout of condensate pipelines were identified. All these problems were rectified during the major maintenance of the equipment. Since the equipment has been in operation for 3 months after the maintenance, 100% of the steam condensate has been recovered. “The complete recovery of steam condensate further reduces the energy consumption of polypropylene plants. The condensate recovery techniques developed in this process are also applicable to other plants, making them highly valuable for widespread adoption. ”As explained by Zhang Bo, the head of the olefin polymerization team.