Thread Content
The feed to the distillation tower contains no water, but the output contains 5% water – how can one determine where the leak is?
First, it is necessary to determine whether the product has absorbed moisture; if the sample has been left for an extended period of time, the moisture content analysis will be inaccurate. Secondly, rule out the presence of heat-sensitive substances in the feed that could cause decomposition at high temperatures. Finally, stop the system and test for leaks in the condenser and reboiler.
Check the temperature changes of this device; if there’s not much variation in its temperature, it’s likely there’s a leak at the top of the tower. With a 5% change already, there’s no need to say anything further – just stop operation immediately and perform a pressure test to check for leaks
Reboiler or cooler – stop it for inspection
Reboiler or cooler – stop it for inspection
Analyze the error; other feed streams contain water.
Element tracing detection: Elements that are not present in the product are added to the condenser circulating water and the reboiler steam; once such elements are detected in the product, it can be determined where there is a leak
Check whether it is top-product; if so, examine the COD value of the circulating water. Only if there are no issues should you then determine whether there is a leak in the reboiler
I’ve seen sodium chloride used in factories to measure sodium ions. If sodium ions cause interference, other harmless impurities can be used