When vortex formation limits outflow from a tank, consider a disc-type vortex breaker Chemical engineers have long said that, while it is easy to get liquid into a tank, it can be difficult to get liquid out. Large line sizes…
Two methods are presented and compared for quickly calculating this important, yet neglected parameter Over the last few decades, a considerable effort has been directed to toward the evaluation of thermophysical and transport properties of air for a wide range…
Transportation is vital to the CPI, so here are some tips to keep your products moving as the market for hazardous-materials shipping continues to tighten All shippers strive to keep costs under control while simultaneously running smooth, efficient and time-sensitive…
The case examples presented here show that proper planning, communication and execution of tasks can add value and reduce unintended negative consequences for many capital-intensive projects Materials management means something different to different groups of people. For the engineering and…
A real-life example is provided to show how to stay on program and within budget Over the past few years, much has been written in the trade press about how to manage large, $1- billion-plus plant-construction and expansion projects in…
Don’t panic — What appear to be scratches on a vessel may be an illusion caused by improperly applied LED lighting Imagine looking into a sight glass for a routine tank inspection, and seeing for the first time numerous scratches…
Follow this guidance to make the most of engineering upgrades that are designed to improve plant operations or boost throughput capacity The chemical process industries (CPI) are functioning in an era of globalization, and between the prevailing economic conditions and…
Fermentation has always been an important part of human history. Human beings are known to have made fermented foods since Neolithic times. With the discovery of microorganisms in the 19th century, fermentation became a viable route to produce synthetic chemicals…
Avoid tedious numerical calculation by using this quick, shortcut method Insulated pipes are important in many applications in the chemical process industries (CPI). When it comes to the insulation itself, the two main questions are: which material should be used;…
The capabilities of laser diffraction systems go beyond particle-size analysis to also predict a catalyst’s propensity to experience attrition Heterogeneous catalysts, where the catalyst is in solid form, enhance many of the gas- and liquid-phase reactions that underpin common operations…