Liquid level control of the propylene cooler in low-temperature methanol washing
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Regarding the level control of the propylene cooler in low-temperature methanol washing processes, after consulting several manufacturers in this field, it was found that some of them have level control for their propylene coolers while others do not. What is the reason for this? Without level control, they tried to use level control, but the system’s temperature increased ； Is the liquid level related to the heat exchange area of the propylene cooler?
As for whether to install a liquid level control system, I will analyze it from the following two aspects: First, considering the low-temperature methanol washing process, a small amount of liquid level is preferable when the system is operating stably, as this helps to maintain a good balance between the unit and the low-temperature methanol system. However, an excessive liquid level can affect the heat exchange area of the heat exchangers, thereby impacting their efficiency. (Because propylene refrigeration relies on phase-change refrigeration.) Secondly, from the perspective of the unit, if there is a liquid level in the propylene cooler, then when the unit is restarted after shutdown, this will cause the unit system to start under high pressure, which poses difficulties in starting the unit. So it depends on how you consider things, on which aspect you give more importance.