Hello experts, Our primary compressor, the Cracked Gas Compressor, is currently experiencing a decrease in efficiency and an increase in pressure drop within the intercooler. I have heard that some plants inject water periodically to clean their compressors during normal operations. I would greatly appreciate your advice on how to effectively clean polymers during normal operation, as well as any relevant experiences you may have. Thank you in advance for your insights. Best regards, Lee.
Before proceeding, have you consulted the Compressor User Manual for guidance? Can you elaborate on the term "cracked gas" for clarity?
The cracked gas emitted from the furnace is an essential component in the ethylene plant, with the cracked gas compressor playing a crucial role in its processing. Also known as the charge gas compressor, the efficiency of our cracked gas compressor has been declining, prompting us to seek out solutions for improvement. This questionnaire serves as one avenue for gathering information to address this issue. Your input would be greatly appreciated. Warm regards, Lee.
There are numerous online resources available that cover the pros and cons as well as techniques related to water wash centrifugal compressors. For more information, conduct a search on Google using the keywords "water wash centrifugal compressor." However, it is important to consult with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) before implementing any procedures.
Thank you for your feedback. The Cracked Gas Compressor plays a vital role in the operation of an Ethylene Plant, similar to the human heart. Some experts may have experience with performing online washing or injecting water into the compressor. I am seeking specific, firsthand insights on water washing practices in the Cracked Gas Compressor at an ethylene plant, rather than general information that can be found through Google. Your guidance on this topic would be greatly appreciated.
Azeo inquired about specific information regarding water washing in the Cracked Gas Compressor at an ethylene plant, rather than general information readily available on Google. It is recommended to consult with the OEM for tailored recommendations that best suit the machine in question. Understanding the process and feasibility will help in making an informed decision on whether to proceed and the appropriate timing.
Hi Lee, it does sound like you could be dealing with a polymer build-up issue. Injecting water can indeed be an effective way of cleaning the compressor, as you mentioned. However, it's crucial to control the water dosage and monitor the operation closely, because an excess of water can cause other issues such as rusting. You might want to consider conducting an off-line water wash first to remove the heavy deposits and then shift to a lower concentration water wash during regular operations. Additionally, some companies use a chemical cleaning solvent designed specifically for such applications, which you could investigate as a potential solution. Always remember, preventive maintenance and regular inspections could save you a lot of trouble.
Hi Lee, it sounds like you're dealing with an interesting challenge here. While water injection can indeed be used to clean specific types of compressors, it's important to note that it's largely contingent upon the make and model of the compressor. Different compressors handle moisture differently, with some being more susceptible to corrosion when exposed to water. Also, bear in mind that water can dilute and displace the lubricating oil, which could have unintended effects on the machine's performance. Instead, you might want to consider other cleaning procedures, such as a simple solvent flush or chemical cleaning, which could prove to be more effective against polymers. Please consult with your manufacturer before making any definitive decisions. They'd have specific guidelines and procedures based on your equipment specifications and requirements. Keep us posted on your progress!
Hi Lee, I've dealt with similar issues in the past, and water injection can be effective if done carefully. The key is to monitor the water-to-gas ratio closely to avoid creating excess moisture that can lead to corrosion or unexpected phase changes. In my experience, using a fine mist rather than a large volume helps maintain efficiency while preventing residue buildup. Additionally, scheduling timed water injections during off-peak times can also be beneficial to minimize disruptions. Have you considered looking into more advanced cleaning solutions, like dry ice blasting or chemical cleaning agents tailored for specific polymer deposits? They might provide a more thorough clean without the risks associated with water. Good luck!
Hi Lee, it's great that you're looking into water injection as a cleaning method! From my experience, using water can help mitigate fouling in compressors and improve performance if done correctly. However, it’s crucial to monitor the water injection rate closely—starting with small amounts and gradually increasing based on performance results often works best. Additionally, maintaining a proper balance to avoid corrosion or other issues is key. Some plants also incorporate regular chemical cleaning cycles alongside water injection to tackle stubborn buildup. It's definitely worth testing in your system to see if it helps relieve the pressure drop and improve efficiency. Good luck!
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Answer: 1. Why is it beneficial to clean a compressor with water during operation? - Cleaning a compressor with water during operation can help maintain efficiency and prevent pressure drop by removing polymers and other contaminants that may accumulate over time.
Answer: - Water can be injected periodically into the compressor to help clean polymers and prevent buildup. It is important to follow proper procedures and guidelines to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
Answer: - Potential risks include water entering sensitive components, corrosion issues, or improper cleaning leading to further damage. It is essential to carefully plan and monitor the cleaning process to mitigate these risks.
Answer: - Sharing experiences and best practices from other plants or experts can provide valuable insights on the most effective methods for cleaning compressors with water during operation. Collaborating with industry professionals can help optimize the cleaning process.
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