【SeaChuan’s Insights from Other Sources】A Minor Modification to Pump P-9153A in the Reboiler Condensate Pump of Jilin Petrochemical Company’s Acrylonitrile Plant Cures a Serious Equipment Problem

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On December 2, the third acrylonitrile workshop of Jilin Petrochemical Company’s acrylonitrile plant completed the modification of pump P-9153A, which is used for the condensate in the reboiler of the recovery tower. This modification effectively solved the problems of chronic vibration and frequent failures associated with this equipment, with an estimated annual savings of 84,000 yuan in maintenance costs. This pump is the core equipment of the recovery tower T-9104, and its stable operation directly affects the smooth operation of the refining system as well as the quality of the product. When the original multi-stage centrifugal pump is used to transport high-temperature thermoset fluids at 118–138°C, the medium tends to vaporize, resulting in a two-phase state. This leads to severe vibration of the pump body and pipelines, accelerates wear of the impeller and bearings, and increases the risk of leakage at connections such as flanges and elbows. Frequent repairs are not only costly but also affect the long-term operation of the device. To address this bottleneck, the factory formed a technical task force to conduct in-depth analysis, and decided to replace the multi-stage centrifugal pumps with single-stage centrifugal pumps that are better suited for vapor-liquid media. The flow channel design of single-stage pumps facilitates the passage of the fluid, thereby reducing cavitation and vibration at their source. During the renovation, the workshop overcame challenges such as the mismatch between the dimensions of the new pump and the existing pipelines sowie limited working space. Through precise measurement, custom-made pipe fittings, and simultaneous construction, installation and commissioning were completed within seven days, ensuring the safe operation of the backup pump. After the modification, the new pump operates smoothly, with vibration significantly reduced and a substantial decrease in failure rate. The investment for this renovation is 80,000 yuan, and it can save 84,000 yuan in maintenance costs per year. Based on a 10-year lifespan for the equipment, the total cost savings amount to approximately 840,000 yuan.