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Our plant uses the Linde process; methanol is extracted from the middle part of the CO2 absorption tower, cooled, and then returned to the tower, with extraction taking place in two stages. Both of the sites where sampling is performed are equipped with local level gauges. Currently, the temperature of the methanol drawn off for the first time is -17 degrees (originally -24 degrees); it is then cooled to -45 degrees before being sent into the tower for washing and absorption. The temperature of the methanol drawn off for the second time is -13 degrees (originally -16 degrees), and it is cooled to -46 degrees before going to the lower part of the tower. The temperature of the lean methanol entering the tower is -58 degrees. If a slight load is applied, the CO2 content at the gas outlet increases, as does the temperature of the extracted methanol. During the tower inspection today, it was found that the level gauges at the two methanol extraction points were full. Based on this analysis, it is possible that some of the hot methanol leaks directly from the riser tube to the next section, causing the temperature of the extracted methanol to rise. This is equivalent to an upward shift in the absorption load of the entire absorption tower. Dear experts, is my analysis correct? What level should the liquid level at the extraction point be maintained at? If the liquid level reaches its maximum, is it due to gas blockage in the pipeline, and how should it be handled?
It seems that the overall cooling capacity is not sufficient; the two level gauges are at full level, which is normal, and the load is slightly high. Is the amount of washing sufficient?