(45a) Optimizing Preflash Option for Light Tight Oil Processing

The basic function of crude distillation units is to provide the initial separation of crude oil feed into the desired fractions to feed to downstream units. Newly introduced light tight feed processing may limit existing crude distillation unit capacity. Addition of feed pre-flashing option may be one of feasible options to improve crude distillation unit capacity for light tight oil processing.

Two preflash options which are commonly implemented to crude distillation unit are (1) preflash drum and (2) preflash columns. Each option has strengths and weakness.

This paper introduces improved preflash system which optimizes traditional preflash drum and preflash column option. The refinery economics are maximized through optimum OPEX and CAPEX. The case study including revamp economics will be demonstrated.