Conventional distillation columns operate by heating with the reboiler at the bottom, and cooling by condenser at the top. SUPERHIDIC technology operates two columns: stripping section (low pressure column) and rectifying section (high pressure column), which realizes interated heat transfer from HP column to LP column).
Key features are as follows:
Side-exchanges accomplished by stabbed-in heat exchangers
- Side-exchangers can be provided at composition where enthalpy change should be provided.
- Heat transfer area can be adjusted so as to meet desirable heat duty.
- Pairing of stages between rectifying section and stripping section can be determined in consideration of desirable heat duty and temperature difference.
- Overall heat transfer coefficient can be predicted in high confidence level.
Rectifying section located below stripping section
- Side-exchanges can be accomplished by means of thermo-siphon/gravity.
- Normal trays or packing is utilized.
- Side-cut to obtain intermediate product or multiple-feed can be carried out.
- Feed stage can be optimized.
Consequently, following advantages are achieved
- Highest energy saving performance in distillation system developed so far.
- Good maintainability as normal facility.
Applications:
Excellent energy saving with good economics is expected by introducing SUPERHIDIC for the following conditions at existing column modification or new installation.
- Temperature difference between the overhead and the bottom lower than 80℃
- Expensive utilities
- Large scale reboiler and/or condenser duty
For well-suited applications (ex. propylene refining column, xylene column, aromatics, etc.), SUPERHIDIC technology realizes 50%+ energy saving from conventional columns
All components are commercially proven and maintenance can be made by conventional means.
The technology is especially suitable to the following cases- Temperature difference between the overhead and the bottom is lower than 80℃- Cost of utility is expensive- High reboiler / condenser load
Typical payback period of 3 to 4 years can be expected for appropriate applications at high utility cost.
Typical EPC period: 2 to 3 years
MEK Column for Maruzen Petrochemical Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Ministry of Economy,Trade and Industry, JapanEmail: [email protected]
Superhidic is co-licensed by National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, and Toyo Engineering Corporation.