Leak in the vapor column cooler
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If the top cooler of the vapor phase deethanizer leaks (with substance C leaking into the circulating water), could this cause an increase in the pressure at the top of the tower as well as an increase in the temperature there? Experts, please explain why; I don’t quite understand it. Thank you
Leakage occurs in two aspects: carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide can leak into the circulating water, which reduces the cooling area of the heat exchanger and may even cause air blockages. As a result, insufficient heat absorption at the top of the tower occurs, leading to an increase in tower pressure. Circulating water will also enter the medium, causing water to accumulate in the top reflux tank of the tower; if the water is not removed promptly enough, it can lead to the reflux pump running dry and disrupt the operation of the tower.
Medium crosstalk is mutual; it’s a matter of magnitude
It mainly depends on what the pressures of the two media are If the pressure difference is large, the high-pressure medium will penetrate into the low-pressure medium; in other words, C2 and C3 from the top of the tower will end up in the circulating water. The impact on the pressure and temperature at the top of the tower depends on the amount of leakage. What’s truly dangerous is that these substances can be carried along with the water to the circulating water system, increasing the risk of safety accidents.