Optimize cracked-gas compressors with smart-automation technology
04.01.2011
| Cox, P. , Emerson Process Management, Brussels, Belgium
Machine health monitors can provide critical information to avoid unit and plant-wide shutdowns
Keywords:
[olefins]
[ethylene]
[compressors]
[maintenance]
[cracked-gas compressors]
[valves]
The cracked-gas compressor (CGC) is the single most critical piece of equipment in an ethylene plant (Fig. 1). This asset can cost as much as $50 million and operates 24/7 under demanding conditions. Because it has no backup, ethylene producers know that if their CGC trips—whether the trip is caused by excess vibration, a surge, an instrument malfunction or other problems—their entire ethylene process may be halted for up to a week.
| |
Fig. 1. The cracked-gas compressor is an ethylene plant’s
most critical asset. (Photo courtesy of Elliott Co.) |
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