Global algorithm for systematic retrofit of tubular process furnaces

Abstract

Tubular process furnaces are widely used especially in the chemical and petrochemical process plants and refineries. Retrofit of a furnace is usually recommended for increasing plant capacity or improvement of the furnace (and/or plant) energy efficiency. Many different constraints of existing furnace design and operation are the reasons for which the retrofit of a furnace is a very difficult task. Main operational and geometrical constraints are taken into account in furnace retrofit integration approach created earlier. This approach was developed primarily for improvement of the furnace energy efficiency. When furnace retrofit for increasing the plant capacity is performed additional criteria have to be considered. Then fluid hydrodynamic behaviour plays an important role and influences the retrofit strategy. This problem is discussed in the paper and results in suggestion of the global conceptual algorithm for furnace retrofit strategy. Practical case studies demonstrate applicability of the proposed global furnace retrofit algorithm.