Allowable temperature drop control for continuous reforming plate heat exchangers
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In recent years, as units have become larger, the heat exchange area of the feed heat exchangers in continuous reforming processes has also increased, and the use of plate heat exchangers has grown as well. However, there have been recent cases of plate heat exchangers being damaged during operation, and temperature drop control is identified as a key factor behind this. According to the requirements provided by the manufacturer, the maximum temperature drop is 50 degrees per hour. As for whether this is feasible for continuous reforming operations, we have collected some data; we feel that this specification is not very precise and that it presents certain challenges. Please, colleagues, provide some information and share your views
The heat exchangers I have there are all tubular
If it is a requirement specified by the manufacturer, then for the plate heat exchanger itself alone, a temperature drop of 50 degrees Celsius per hour seems to be acceptable. However, LZ should note that the heat exchanger is just one component in the reactor circuit; the capacity of the reactor and its internal components also needs to be taken into account. A value below the equipment specifications that meet the minimum temperature drop requirement in the feedback loop should be found as a reference for the cooling operation. It is highly undesirable for improper temperature rises or drops to cause damage to equipment, pipelines, etc.