IMPROVEMENT OF ACETONE-BENZENE MIXTURE RECTIFICATION PROCESS ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Abstract

Modern approaches to energy saving in chemical-technological systems are considered. The rectifier for separation of the acetone-benzene mixture was examined, and the process streams data extraction was performed. Using the methods of pinch analysis, it was shown that the organization of energy recovery is not enough effective, and the minimum temperature difference in the regenerative heat exchanger is lower than necessary one, which indicates an overestimation of the required heat transfer surface area. The choice of D T min was justified. For this value, the target energy values of external utilities and recovery were found by the method of composite curves. Using the rules of pinch analysis, a grid diagram was obtained and two options for the placement of heat exchange equipment were proposed that ensure the achievement of energy targets. The modern plate heat-exchange equipment was selected and the option offering a lower volume of capital investments was chosen. For the best option, an economic assessment was carried out, showing the payback period of the project no more than one year. Energy recovery will increase by more than two times and energy saving will be 5% approximately.