Henry Kister shares lessons learned from troubleshooting distillation towers During a course that I was presenting in Houston one year, a participant asked me the following at the end of one of the sessions: “Do you have experience with BX-type…
The proper selection of materials of construction is crucial. The example presented here shows how to use standards to help narrow down the options Since the late 1800s, a steady body of pressure technology codes and standards have been under…
An overview on the importance of standard operation procedures (SOPs) and how to write them Today, it is necessary to have standard operating procedures (SOPs) for steam and condensate systems, boilers, deaerators and even steam process units (Figure 1). An…
Chemical plants should not overlook the potential problems that can arise from damaged or malfunctioning lighting fixtures It is no secret that many chemical plants and industrial sites are prone to harsh environmental conditions that can wreak havoc on equipment…
Using the food-and-beverage industry as an example, these considerations can help engineers design new facilities with sustainability built in Rapid population growth and geopolitical tensions continue to keep food security a top priority for nations all over the world. These…
A recently developed optimization technique called the automated targeting model is demonstrated for its application on inventory management Supply chain management that involves raw material sourcing, product manufacturing and delivery has often been viewed as one of the critical factors…
Accurately and efficiently weighing raw materials and reagents is a key part of many chemical processes, research projects and laboratory analysis. Poor weighing accuracy can contribute to lost revenue, increased labor costs and lower product quality. Calibration of weighing instruments…
Monitoring particle sizes in real time can improve product quality and reduce costs in chemical processes. Presented here is an overview of available technologies for particle-size analysis and an example involving suspension polymerization Effective measurement, in real time, of particle…
Discontinued series IDs associated with producer prices for storage tanks requires a modification to the CEPCI The Chemical Engineering Plant Cost Index (CEPCI) is a widely used tool for comparing plant construction costs in the chemical process industries (CPI) between…
Follow these key considerations when deciding which internals to use in fixed-bed, axial-flow vessels Fixed-bed, axial-flow vessel internals are installed in natural gas plants, petroleum refineries, petrochemical plants, chemical plants and industrial gas facilities. Thermal-swing gas and liquid dehydrators, treaters…