Conditions for ethanol side extraction
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Recently, the ethanol level in the product from the methanol distillation tower in our plant’s double-tower process has exceeded the specified limit (260 ppm). We plan to extract ethanol through a side sampling port located above the feed inlet. Could you please advise when it is appropriate to carry out this side sampling, and how to determine the appropriate amount to extract? Thank you!
It is possible to conduct a trial extraction and then analyze the sample containing ethanol to determine its concentration. Select a production point with a high ethanol content for extraction. Then, the changes in the ethanol content of the product are monitored based on the amount extracted and the number of extraction times, in order to draw lessons from the experience.
There are usually 3 extraction valves, and they can be opened one by one to test which one results in a higher concentration after sampling and analysis.