Design of Industrial Process Refrigeration Systems

Abstract

When considering electric driven refrigeration compressors, proper integration with the process may result in reduced power consumption. However, the total utility situation must be considered when evaluating the compressor driver. Conversion from steam drivers to electric drivers may be more economical when considering proper process integration. These questions and various scenarios must be addressed in light of the total process requirements and constraints. During the last few years, Union Carbide has successfully applied ADVENT™ technology to several complex processes that utilize refrigeration systems. In most cases the design of a complex refrigeration system in isolation (i.e., without considering process integration) generally results in non-optimum refrigeration levels and excessive refrigeration consumption. By applying ADVENT™ Process Integration Technologv to these non-optimal designs, retrofit projects have emerged that clearly identify how to optimize the existing design with good project economics. This paper presents the results of an ADVENT Process Integration Study for the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) of Palo Alto, California. The study objective was to demonstrate process synthesis techniques for retrofit design in two industrial refrigeration intensive processes: an olefins process and a beer brewery process. Study results for each retrofit design are explained along with generalized guidelines for application to other processes. An industry scoping portion of the study is discussed in terms of identifying refrigeration intensive processes. Specific and general conclusions are presented to help facilitate proper industrial refrigeration system design throughout the industry.