Problems with polypropylene recycle gas compressors
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The polypropylene plant uses domestically produced labyrinth-type compressors of grade 2 with 4 columns. When producing random copolymer products with a high melt index, frequent shutdowns occur due to low pressure differences across the filters of the lubricating oil pumps. Analysis shows that the viscosity of the lubricating oil drops to around 70, and its flash point falls to 60; this is likely caused by oligomers, condensed oils, and butene entering the oil tank. Has anyone encountered a similar situation? How can it be handled to ensure that such impurities do not get into the oil tank? I would like to seek advice from colleagues in the polypropylene industry or experts familiar with labyrinth machine design.
I’ve never seen it; what is the pressure of propylene used for purging the crankcase? Is it too high, which causes the olefins to dissolve more easily? Or for some other reason; I don’t know. Waiting for experts.