Debottleneck Considerations for SDA Units

Описание: RefComm 2021 presentation - 312

abstract:
Several considerations are typically evaluated while revamping an existing SDA unit and discussed, such as conversion to a supercritical solvent recovery scheme to enhance energy savings for a higher capacity, revamping only a few pieces of equipment for smaller capacity increment, revamping the Rotating Disc Columns with the new state of art packed beds, etc. Many other operational issues are also discussed with successful solutions such as foaming in the flash towers, fouling in thermosyphon reboiler, loss of solvent into the product.
A fast-tracked project that was driven by economics was discussed including all the above considerations. Overall, the refiner is very pleased with the revamp modifications made on their existing unit and was able to achieve their project objectives with the eliminating of the unit bottlenecks. In this presentation, we will provide further information on the modifications made to the SDA that helped refiner achieve their objectives.

speaker bio:
Gopal Akilla, P. Eng (Alberta) is currently working as Director, Solvent Deasphalting Technology at Wood. He joined Foster Wheeler in 2012 and had more than 30 years of combined experience in the refinery engineering industry. His past employers are KBR Technology and Fluor -Canada. He has expertise in technologies, namely solvent deasphalting, low sulfur diesel, gasoline hydrotreaters, lube oil hydrotreaters, CDU/VDU units, FCC main fractionators, and gas plants. His experience also includes supporting detailed engineering services for these units. As a leader, Gopal supervises and mentors a team of engineers to design engineering activities and technical assistance. As an individual contributor, serves as a subject matter expert in solvent deasphalting technology (SDA) with recognized authority; complete broad and technically complex engineering assignments, apply advanced theories and develop new methods. He has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the National Institute of Technology, Warangal, A.P, India.