Evaluations of the capacity of an existing brine system and estimation of salt loading profile for increased soft water demand to avoid soil contamination

Abstract

AbstractAs part of the expansion of a new chemical manufacturing facility, the debottlenecking of an existing brine system for an increase in soft water demand and the usefulness of the method was studied. Mathematical equations were used to estimate the salt loading profile. The effect of increasing soft water demand on the brine system was studied using parameters such as the amount of salt, the number of refills of brine tank, the brine pump run time, the number of days for the salt pit to empty, and the number of brine truck deliveries. The generalized mathematical equations derived and presented in this study can be used for any debottlenecking studies. The study showed that the existing brine pit and brine pumps can be reused for the future brine demand. The study showed with a good truck delivery logistics and a robust pit maintenance program, the number of regenerations can be increased while utilizing the existing brine pit system. The risk level remained the same as in existing pit systems since an increase in the frequency of pit maintenance was used to account for higher brine levels in the pit. The study methodology can be utilized for similar brine and softener systems in plant expansion operations to avoid a new pit system and to reduce capital costs. Brine seepage through the new concrete walls was avoided effectively. A polyvinyl chloride above ground tank system is recommended for brine service in all future projects where feasible.