【Haichuan’s Best Practices】A set of coolers was installed on the export washing line to eliminate the risk of leaks in the pumps

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Since the beginning of this year, Yan’an Petrochemical Plant has conducted in-depth investigations and analyses to address the operational bottlenecks associated with the deethanization reflux pump in the mixed dehydrogenation unit of the light hydrocarbons facility. By carrying out upgrades and optimizing production processes, the plant was able to overcome these bottlenecks successfully. Since the renovation in July, this pump has been operating safely and stably for over three months without a single leak; the problem of seal leakage has been completely resolved, laying the foundation for the long-term safe and stable operation of the facility. 　　It is reported that the deethanizer reflux pump is a key pump in the mixed dehydrogenation unit; leakage from the mechanical seal can cause the medium to enter the white oil tank, leading to a sharp increase in pressure within that tank. This increases the risks associated with operations and further affects the stable operation of the unit. To this end, the Light Hydrocarbons Center established a dedicated technical improvement team that conducted multiple on-site investigations to analyze the causes; it was ultimately determined that the temperature and pressure of the original flushing medium were equal to the vaporization point of the medium in the pumps, which led to frequent leaks. Therefore, the technicians installed a new set of coolers on the existing outlet flushing line to prevent the medium from vaporizing due to high temperatures, which could cause leaks in the mechanical seal. Since its upgrade and renovation, this pump has been operating safely for 3 months without a single leak, achieving significant savings in energy consumption.