(45e) Prevent Damage in FCC Main Column Slurry Pumparound Zones with Proper Design and Operation

Severe service grid packing has become widely used in FCC Main Fractionator slurry pumparound zones to improve capacity and heat removal efficiency. Although most units operate without any issues or mechanical damage, there have been reports of isolated, but repeated, incidents involving severe damage to the internals in some Main Fractionators. The analysis of one case where significant damage was observed led to a determination of the most probable cause of the damage and resulted in a solution to prevent future damage. Proper unit operation in conjunction with a robust mechanical design of the packed bed internals is recommended as the best method to ensure reliable operation in this very severe application.