DEEP CUT VACUUM TOWER PROCESSING PROVIDES MAJOR INCENTIVES Nontraditional Operating Conditions Offer Significant Benefits For Various Crudes

Running a crude vacuum tower in a deep cut mode can provide economic and operational benefits to the refiner. Fully evaluating these benefits usually requires an engineering study. Crude type, furnace, tower, exchanger and vacuum jet equipment all play important roles in the ultimate capacity, low-pressure capability and revamp cost of each specific unit. However, a simplified analysis can benefit initial project feasibility reviews. Economic judgments can be made to determine project feasibilities and potential project payouts. Accurate feed characterization and effective process simulation are key factors in evaluating the deep cut option. Deep cut incentives for typical light and heavy crudes, Brent and Arabian Heavy, are compared. Analyzing resultant yields and payouts establishes economic calculations for various charge rates. This technique is valuable in determining project potential and equipment requirements. By examining deep cut concerns, a structure for benefit and risk analysis can be developed.