Discontinuous discharge from the top of the distillation tower
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After the distillation tower was put into operation, it was observed that the discharge from the sight glass at the top of the reflux tank was intermittent – occurring in bursts. Initially, it was assumed that the discharge pipe was blocked; after the system was shut down, compressed air was used for cleaning, and the pressure was maintained, with smooth discharge into the reflux tank – so there was no problem there. Another possibility considered was a leak in the heat exchange tubes of the condenser; since circulating water flowed through the tube side while there was no discharge from the shell side, it indicated that the heat exchange tubes were fine. No cause could be identified for some time. I would like to consult the experts. Help analyze it. The vapor at the top of the tower is cooled by a cooler and then condensed by a condenser; the resulting liquid is transferred to the reflux tank via a liquid seal. The shell side of the condenser is under vacuum.
Problem diagnosis: The pressures at both ends of the liquid seal between the condenser and the reflux tank are different. Solution: A vapor balance line can be installed between the vapor phase of the condenser and the reflux tank.
There is a balance tube, and it’s not the first time I’m driving; my driving has been normal before.
Check if it’s still working; generally, there’s no issue with voltage equalization as you mentioned.
It was purged with compressed air; there were no leaks or blockages.
What medium? What is the bubble size? Could it be due to high vaporization rates?
The medium is o-toluidine, with a bubble point of 155 degrees; this is the temperature at which normal operation of the tower reactor takes place, with fluctuations within plus or minus 5 degrees.
It’s back to normal now. The reason was that the baffle at the condenser’s discharge area was too large; by cutting off a piece of it, the resistance was reduced, and now the discharge is smooth. Thank you all!