How do newbies in refineries handle the processes?
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I started working at the plant not long ago. My supervisor told me to take the PID diagram and go to the site to understand the process flow, saying only that I needed to figure out how the main process fluids moved. When I arrived at the site, I began by following the path taken by the fluids through the various areas; there were many valves of different types, and it was confusing to tell which ones were what. Additionally, the platforms were quite high, and even a slight breeze could make me feel like I might float away. Could some of you who have more experience give me some specific advice? How should I approach understanding the process flow when I first arrive at the site, and to what extent do I need to be familiar with it? I’m also a bit afraid of heights – how can I overcome that? I sincerely hope that the more experienced colleagues will share their insights; I am extremely grateful!
There’s nothing that can be done about acrophobia; the instructor is right. Follow the PID process step by step, taking into account factors such as the direction of fluid flow, valves as key parameters, equipment parameters, equipment performance, equipment power, operating status, and consumption levels. . . . . . Ask more, observe more, remember more. When you turn a page into a book and then simplify it back to one page, you have achieved mastery
Following procedures is the foundation of learning a craft; one must be prepared to put in extra effort.
I think one should consult a specialist to learn about the manufacturing process; having a discussion on-site is necessary. It’s important to understand the general procedures involved. Look at PID diagrams frequently, and as you become more familiar with them, don’t try to handle the valves right away – learn gradually and steadily, so that you can master the skill properly
Yes, I know that the process is fundamental; I will check each pipeline one by one, but I always feel that the efficiency is low and progress is slow. Even after checking them, things remain confusing for me – I can barely remember the flow direction of the main fluids, and I can’t retain much else. I have a notebook with me, but I’m not sure what to write down while following the process. I hope the senior can provide some specific suggestions to improve learning efficiency.
Thank you. I know the general manufacturing process as well as the flow of the main raw materials. However, the actual situation on site is very different from what’s shown in the PID diagrams. I can describe the main steps based on those diagrams, but I get lost when I’m at the site. It seems like I’m only knowing theory without any practical experience. I hope you can give me more advice. You mentioned looking at PID diagrams, and I’m doing that as well; I’d like to ask you a few more questions regarding how to interpret PID diagrams. My understanding of this is as follows: 1. Remember the function of each pipeline. 2. Memorize the main valves. 3. Remember the tag number of the reaction equipment. What else needs to be done? I earnestly ask those with more experience to share some insights on PID control. Thank you.
Things like material codes, pipe diameter, wall thickness, whether insulation is present, and so on. First, get a good understanding of the process; you can learn those details later. Within a month you should have a general idea of the process, and then you can refer to the diagrams on site to determine which valve corresponds to which position
Generally, it is run system by system. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Having insight is the most important thing; it’s useless to get anxious when you don’t have it yet. Experience needs to be built up gradually – it’s impossible to become successful overnight. Many problems are just like a piece of paper over a window – they can be broken with just a push. It seems very difficult when you don’t understand, but once you do, it appears to be quite simple.
First, become familiar with the main process, and remember the device IDs and instrument IDs clearly. Once you are proficient with the main process, then move on to memorizing some of the auxiliary processes or start/stop procedures； When documenting the main process, it can be done in segments, by system, or further broken down into units based on devices. Once each segment is memorized, they can be put together like building blocks.
Identify each pipeline one by one; write down those that are not visible or unclear. Remember to draw them by yourself, as this is the only way to remember them well.