(55a) Crude Vacuum Column Wash Section – A New Design Approach

Process simulations using the results of a model developed by Trompiz and Fair at the Separations Research Program (SRP - University of Texas at Austin) for predicting liquid entrainment from sprays can closely reproduce the actual operation of the wash section of crude vacuum distillation columns. The process simulation should use the net wash oil flow rate which reaches the wash bed and not the total wash oil flow rate measured and controlled in the crude vacuum unit operation. This new approach of simulating a crude vacuum column provides the right basis for new designs or revamps involving the wash section of crude vacuum units to prevent coke formation in the wash bed and ensure its proper performance.