Industrial optimization of multi-effect desalination equipment for olefin complex

Abstract

This research consists of a brief overview of some methods used to produce freshwater and how they work, the obvious points of performance, and the advantages and disadvantages of each of these methods. The effects of change in operation parameters on the performance as well as thermal energy consumption of sample MED–TVC (MED with thermal vapor compression) are investigated. This article represents the result of experimental and actual changes provided by process engineering department in Kavian Petrochemical Company (11th Olefin) to find best operating conditions for system stability. The most significant reason to opt these MED units is the internal steam source (5 * 140 ton h−1 boilers) which is located inside the complex’s battery limit making the control of operational variables more accessible. Also, the performance of the system and thermodynamic and thermo-hydraulic equations have been studied carefully. By writing a solving algorithm for the governing equations and implementing it in the MATLAB software, a conceptual design of the system has been considered. By using the written program, the effect of change in parameters such as inlet steam pressure, seawater temperature, feed water temperature, inlet seawater flow, the performance ratio on the steam consumption has been reviewed. Although most of the above-mentioned changes cannot be implemented after the system designing, changes in the steam consumption that is generated inside the complex have been investigated and the results have been communicated to the operation department through the process engineering department to modify the system.