VDU Steam Ejector Efficiency Studies

Many hydrocarbon separation applications can be improved by Vacuum
Distillation Unit (VDU). The relative volatility of many hydrocarbon binary pairs of
components improves with lower pressure, improving the separation efficiency. At
lower pressures hydrocarbon components vaporize at lower temperatures, reducing the
degradation of products by condensation or polymerization. Steam ejector is used to
maintain the operating pressure (vacuum condition) in the VDU. These vacuum systems
normally provide reliable and consistent operation. However, process conditions,
supplied utilities, corrosion, erosion and fouling all have an impact on ejector system
performance. This study will explain on fundamental working principle of ejector in
vacuum system. Besides, there are also guidelines on troubleshooting practices in the
ejector system. The purpose of this project is to study the efficiency of steam ejector in
VDU. This study will cover all the potential aspects that could be the major effects to
the steam ejector efficiency in vacuum system. It could be possible to make use the
project as the fundamental of crude vacuum tower overhead ejector systems
troubleshooting in order to improve performance and product quality in oil refining
process.