Process Equipment Malfunctions

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO TROUBLESHOOTING PROCESS EQUIPMENT MALFUNCTIONS

Process Equipment Malfunctions offers proven techniques for finding and fixing process plant problems and contains details on failure identification. Diagnostic tips, examples, and illustrations help to pinpoint and correct faults in chemical process and petroleum refining equipment. Complex math has been omitted. An essential resource for plant operators and process engineers, this book is based on the author's long career in field troubleshooting process problems.

COVERAGE INCLUDES:

• Distillation tray malfunctions
• Packed tower problems
• Distillation tower pressure and composition control
• Fractionator product stripping
• Pumparounds
• Reboiled and steam side strippers
• Inspecting tower internals
• Process reboilers--thermosyphon circulation
• Heat exchangers
• Condenser limitations
• Air coolers
• Cooling water systems
• Steam condensate collection systems
• Steam quality problems
• Level control problems
• Process plant corrosion and fouling
• Vapor-liquid separation vessels
• Hydrocarbon-water separation and desalters
• Fired heaters--draft and excess O2
• Disabling safety systems
• Vacuum systems and steam jets
• Vacuum surface condensers
• Centrifugal pump limitations
• Steam turbine drivers
• Centrifugal compressors
• Reciprocating compressors

Norman P. Lieberman is a chemical engineer with 46 years of experience in process plant operation, design, and field troubleshooting. An independent consultant, he troubleshoots oil refinery and chemical plant process problems and prepares revamp process designs. Mr. Lieberman teaches 20–25 seminars a year on “Troubleshooting Process Plant Operations,” and this book is based on his long experience in field troubleshooting refinery and process plant problems.