Reactor Diffusers for UK Gas Storage Operator

In 2017, GlaxoSmithKline UK and Partners approached Rosenberg regarding operational challenges with their MIBK (Methyl Isobutyl Ketone) Steam Stripper located in Irvine, Scotland. The column, originally installed in 1985, was experiencing issues such as tray fouling, high-pressure drop, and reduced performance in terms of product purity.

Rosenberg performed a detailed tower simulation to analyse the column’s temperature and vapor-liquid profiles. This included optimising the use of the available site steam and modelling both maximum and minimum operating cases.

For the MIBK-water mixture, the DECHEMA K-value model was selected, incorporating the UNIQUAC thermodynamic framework and Antoine vapour pressure equations to ensure an accurate representation of the system behaviour.

The simulation results revealed that using dry, superheated steam and preheating the foul MIBK feed improved stripping efficiency significantly, The process was identified as inherently prone to fouling, exacerbated by wide operating ranges and the existing sieve tray design. Operating data indicated that sieve trays alternated between running dry and experiencing jet flooding and weeping during batch operations. This inconsistent behaviour was a primary driver of fouling.

The trays offer:

• Superior fouling resistance.
• Higher efficiency.
• Improved suitability for handling wide operating ranges.
• Operational Enhancements:
  • Optimise the steam system to ensure consistent delivery of dry, superheated steam.
  • Increase feed preheating where feasible to enhance stripping efficiency.

By implementing these changes, the column’s performance was significantly improved, reducing fouling, minimising pressure drop, and achieving greater product purity.