These tips, based on experience, can help engineers keep on top of their many tasks It is not uncommon for engineers to be working on multiple projects at the same time. Have you been in a situation where project priorities…
An overview of the many factors to be considered when selecting materials of construction Selecting a material of construction for process equipment in the chemical process industries (CPI) is normally not difficult. The material selection is often based on past…
Process temperature measurement is a constantly evolving field, and new technologies have allowed for more reliable measurements to be realized in many applications Process temperature is the most widely used measurement in the chemical process industries (CPI), and is crucial…
Accurate measurements of exposures to aerosols and dusts by plant personnel can be tricky. Here is some help for determining exposures and addressing uncertainties Uncontrolled aerosols (defined as suspensions of fine solid or liquid particles in gaseous media) in the…
Hydrogen (H2) is an important chemical feedstock, mainly applied in the manufacture of ammonia and methanol, and for hydroprocessing operations in petroleum refineries. Also, since H2 is an energy carrier, it has been considered for stationary power and transportation applications.…
Catalysis is among the most important chemical phenomena in industrial chemistry, as well as in many biological and research fields. This one-page reference provides a review of several of the fundamental concepts underlying catalysis. Catalyst basics A catalyst interacts with…
Alternative designs for pressure relief systems may offer investment cost savings Pressure relief systems for the chemical process industries (CPI) are essential to prevent a process system, or any of its components, from being subjected to pressures that exceed the…
A practical step-by-step guide for reducing future tube failure Forced outage of a direct-fired heater is the worst nightmare for any operator in a petroleum-refining or petrochemical plant. Since fired heaters are not replaceable by spares, forced outage in many…
Seven methodologies are described to help operations staff take greater ownership of asset performance The definition of ownership — to act as an owner — implies certain responsibilities. Consider the range of behaviors demonstrated by individuals when it comes to…
Adding flare-gas recovery units at strategic locations of an olefin plant can not only reduce emissions, but will save money as well Although gas flaring is necessary at some chemical process industries (CPI) plants or facilities, more and more efforts…