(211a) Quench Systems for Gas and Liquids Crackers - a Primer

The quench system is a unique part of an ethylene plant. The oil and water quench towers are some of the largest in the plant and represent a significant fraction of the total investment cost. They also can be the source of some of the largest operating problems in the plant. Olefin plant engineers, operators and managers must have an understanding of how the quench system is designed.

The oil and water quench towers and their related systems are critical for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the ethylene plant. This paper presents fundamental principles for the design of these systems such as performance objectives, configuration choices, and design procedures. This paper is focused on providing basic knowledge to people relatively new to the ethylene business.