rise with differential pressure. This suggests that media integrity is assured even at higher differential pressures. Comparison with conventional elements The removal efficiency of the conventional elements when compared with the Transcend Solutions Grade Y elements indicates a significant improvement in removal efficiency relative to the conventional filter elements, as shown in Table 6 . Summary A systematic and cost-effective approach to contamination control in a tail gas amine unit significantly improved fluid quality and operational performance without capital expenditure. The initiative achieved three key outcomes: (a) amine fluid contamination was reduced to non-detectable levels, (b) the online life of rich separators improved tenfold – from 28 hours to more than 14 days, and (c) filtration costs were cut by more than 90%. Several best practices were identified: “ A systematic and cost-effective approach to contamination control in a tail gas amine unit significantly improved fluid quality and operational performance without capital expenditure ” Full-flow vs slip-stream filtration : Full-flow filtration is preferred as it effectively removes contaminants, avoids recirculation of solids, and reduces erosion, foaming, and fouling – issues commonly seen with slip-stream systems. v Rich vs lean filtration : Rich-side full-flow filtration is prioritised to protect downstream equipment such as heat exchangers and stripper columns. While having both lean and rich filtration is ideal, rich filtration alone still provides significant benefits. w Total suspended solids (TSS) analysis: Accurate, in situ TSS analysis is essential to monitor filtration effectiveness. Bottle sampling is discouraged due to potential artefacts from amine precipitation or air exposure. x Target amine quality : Optimal amine performance is achieved at TSS levels below
Removal efficiency of upgrade elements compared to the conventional elements
Sample # Inlet
Outlet
Conventional
Grade Y
(mg/l)
(mg/l) filter removal efficiency (%)
1,2
4.1 1.0 8.0 ND
1.7 ND 1.1 ND
59%
11,12 13,14 15,16
80-100%
94%
50-100%
Average removal efficiency (from average effluent and influent over the available samples)
59%
84%+
Table 6
1 mg/L. The study demonstrates that levels below 0.2 mg/L are feasible with proper filtration. y Filter media selection : Certain materials are unsuitable for amine service – polypropylene (swells in hydrocarbons), polyester (prone to hydrolysis), and string-wound filters (low efficiency, poor sealing). High-integrity materials and positive O-ring seals are recommended. z Seal integrity : Reliable O-ring seals prevent bypass and ensure filtration effectiveness for fine particles. { Quench water filtration : Often overlooked, this is vital as quench systems are highly contaminated and can adversely affect amine quality. Full-flow filtration of quench water is recommended to prevent downstream contamination, especially in systems prone to SO₂ breakthrough.
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Matt Thundyil
David Seeger
Arvind Chaturvedi
Eric McIntosh
Roy McDoniel
Refining India
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