Project Synopsis
Evaluate the an existing lube-oil filtration system for the Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Unit Wet Gas Compressors and provide recommendations for improving filtering efficiency and operability.Project Summary
FCC UNIT WET GAS COMPRESSOR LUBE-OIL FILTER IMPROVEMENT DESIGN
The client operates an independent petroleum refinery in Montana. The client hired Process Engineering Associates, LLC (PROCESS) to evaluate the current lube-oil filtration system for the Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Unit Wet Gas Compressors and provide recommendations for improving filtering efficiency and operability. PROCESS identified the main deficiency in the current system as the inability to swap filter elements on-line without either shutting the compressor down or circulating the lube-oil unfiltered. PROCESS worked with filtration equipment and valve vendors to match the current filter with a spare filter and install a 6-way switching valve to be able to switch flow to the spare filter without interrupting lube-oil flow to the compressor. PROCESS developed a drawing of the current piping configuration to ensure the new filters and valves could be incorporated into the system while meeting the existing design conditions and spacing standards for ergonomic access for operations and maintenance. PROCESS also provided project management for the implementation of this project.
PROCESS was able to complete this project under schedule and under budget. The deliverables resulting from this project, including preliminary process flow diagrams (PFDs) for the recommended modifications, isometric piping sketches for layout and spacing, and vendor certified drawings, were compiled in a project report submitted to the client.
Industry Type
- Petroleum Refining Operations
Utilized Skills
- Filtration systems knowledge
- Efficiency and operability improvements
- Equipment vendor utilization