This column is based on “Polypropylene Carbonate Production – Cost Analysis,” a report published by Intratec. It can be found at: www.intratec.us/analysis/polypropylene-carbonate-production-cost. Polypropylene carbonate (PPC) is a thermoplastic polymer produced from the catalyzed copolymerization of carbon dioxide (CO2) and propylene…
Understanding project risks is critical to arriving at useful cost estimates. Since each capital project in the chemical process industries (CPI) is somewhat unique, it can be difficult for engineers and project leaders to price risks in their estimates and…
Under the right conditions, the smallest atom can attack and disable sophisticated instrumentation. Understanding how this happens can help users avoid problems Engineers of a certain age may remember the childhood disappointment of a helium-filled balloon going flat overnight. This…
In today’s digital age, there is still a need for mechanical pressure measuring instruments for safety, efficiency and economical advantages. Selecting the right type is described here Whether at work or at home, more and more areas of life are,…
This column is based on “Cumene from Benzene and RG Propylene (Zeolite Catalyst) – Cost Analysis,” a report published by Intratec. It can be found at: www.intratec.us/analysis/cumene-production-cost. Cumene (also known as isopropylbenzene) is an organic compound of the aromatic hydrocarbon…
Periods of reduced heat-transfer-fluid (HTF) system operation offer opportunities for mechanical integrity engineers to perform necessary maintenance. Here are suggestions for using the downtime for maintenance tasks. Safety These activities support ongoing safety of the HTF unit. Leak repairs. Repair…
A personal development strategy helps to set engineers up for success in their personal and professional lives As chemical engineers, we have been trained to be data-driven, fact-based problem-solvers. This focus serves us well when we are tackling difficult technical…
By understanding the basics of industry standards, such as API 682, plants can make great strides in controlling fugitive emissions related to equipment seals Chemicals that unintentionally leak from equipment into the atmosphere are known as fugitive emissions. These gases…
In continuous crystallization, it is often challenging to accurately measure mass flowrates, but the method described here enables a simpler path to a balanced crystallization process To gain optimal value from industrial crystallization processes, it is clear that understanding specific…
This column is based on “Isopropyl Alcohol Production from Acetone – Cost Analysis,” a report published by Intratec. It can be found at: www.intratec.us/analysis/isopropyl-alcohol-production-cost. Isopropyl alcohol (also known as isopropanol or 2-propanol) is a colorless and flammable liquid with a…