Introduction
Damun Petrochemical aims to produce benzene and toluene as one of the driving projects of the petrochemical industry, approved by the National Petrochemical Company (NPC), and is being implemented in the Mahshahr Free Petrochemical Zone. This project includes five main units: hydrogenation, extraction distillation, purification, storage, utility, and offsite facilities, with products including benzene, toluene, gasoline, and fuel oil. The feed used in this project is 80,000 tons of pyrolysis gasoline annually. The basic engineering and technical know-how for the aromatic unit have been developed through reverse engineering by domestic knowledge-based companies. After receiving the initial approval, geotechnical studies and environmental impact assessments (EIA) were also conducted. Site preparation and land stabilization for an area of 1.2 hectares, along with fencing around the site, have been completed.
Process Description
The simulation process for the extraction of benzene and toluene at Damun Petrochemical is a complex modeling system designed to optimize the separation of benzene and toluene from hydrocarbon mixtures. This simulation utilizes advanced thermodynamic and kinetic models to replicate the real-world behaviors of chemical processes, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in industrial operations.
1. Feed Preparation: The simulation begins with the preparation of a hydrocarbon feed, typically a naphtha fraction obtained from crude oil refining. The composition, temperature, and pressure of the feed are precisely defined to match the characteristics of the actual feed used in the plant.
2. Distillation Column Configuration: The simulation adjusts operational parameters for each column, including reflux ratios, boiling rates, and the duties of the condenser and boiler. These parameters are crucial for effectively separating benzene and toluene from other hydrocarbons.
3. Extraction Process: The primary extraction technique simulated is extraction distillation, which enhances separation using a solvent that selectively dissolves benzene and toluene. The simulation models the interaction between the solvent and the hydrocarbon mixture, optimizing the solvent-to-feed ratio and temperature to achieve maximum separation efficiency.
4. Solvent Recovery: Following extraction, the simulation includes a solvent recovery unit where the solvent is regenerated for reuse. This involves distillation or additional separation steps to isolate the solvent from any dissolved hydrocarbons. The efficiency of solvent recovery is vital for process sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
5. Product Refining: The separated benzene and toluene streams undergo further refining to meet product specifications. The simulation models additional distillation or adsorption units to remove impurities, ensuring high-purity benzene and toluene products.
6. Economic and Environmental Analysis: The simulation provides a comprehensive economic analysis, including estimates of capital and operational costs. Additionally, environmental impact assessments are conducted to evaluate emissions and waste generation, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability goals.
Conclusion
The simulation process for the extraction of benzene and toluene at Damun Petrochemical serves as a vital tool for engineers and plant operators, offering precise insights and optimization capabilities to enhance production efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impacts. Through detailed modeling and analysis, this simulation supports the design, operation, and continuous improvement of benzene and toluene extraction processes in petrochemical plants.
Simulation of Benzene and Toluene Recovery at Damun Petrochemical Using Aspen Hysys
In this project, the simulation of benzene and toluene recovery at Damun Petrochemical has been carried out using Aspen Hysys version 14. For purchasing the project or obtaining more information about it, please proceed through the link below.