Among the key benefits offered by pneumatically conveying bulk solids is the ability to route materials around obstructions in the plant using bends in the pipeline. However, these changes in direction involve a considerable number of particle impacts on the…
This practical overview of ASTM standards can serve as a roadmap when selecting and evaluating heat transfer fluids Heat-transfer-fluid systems are often used for process heating to 500°F or higher. To accomplish heating above 500°F, steam pressure must be above…
Working with supercritical fluids poses challenges when designing heat exchangers. Some practical tips and precautions are presented here Industrial applications involving fluids at high pressure — pressure above the critical pressure of a particular fluid — are increasing in number.…
Facing a site security audit might seem daunting, but proper preparation will help to meet the goals of enhancing security and reducing risk What are the downsides of failing to pass a security audit or inspection? Is it the fear…
Within the chemical process industries (CPI), the need to design safety systems to prevent process failures from occurring, or to control them when they do, is well recognized, as is the importance of having confidence in the safety systems that…
Selecting the best air mover for a bulk-solids pneumatic-conveying application is a critical design decision. Provided here is information on three classes of air movers when dilute-phase pneumatic conveying is required In a typical bulk-solids pneumatic-conveying system, an air mover…
In low-temperature conditions, the use of compatible sealing materials is essential for leak-tight operation and proper functionality of pressure-regulating devices Harsh, frigid conditions are among the most challenging industrial environments (Figure 1) for fluid-handling applications. At these temperatures, it is…
Pumping hazardous chemicals requires specific shaft-sealing technologies to ensure containment and reliability Hazardous chemicals are defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA; Washington, D.C.; www.epa.gov) as those that are potentially harmful to human health and the environment. Existing as gases…
This column is based on “2-Propylheptanol Production Process - Cost Analysis,” a report published by Intratec. It can be found at: www.intratec.us/analysis/2-propylheptanol-production-cost. Also known as 2-PH and 2-propylheptyl alcohol, 2-propylheptanol is a branched fatty alcohol, primarily used in the production…
To avoid problems with solids flow in bins and hoppers, the friction between the equipment walls and the flowing solids is an important factor to understand. Provided here is a review of flow patterns in bins and hoppers, and practical…