ENHANCING EFFICIENCY

IN SOUTH AFRICA'S LIQUOR FILTERS CONTROL

In the quest for greater efficiency in the realms of chemicals, environment, and energy, Anssum’s project centred on the Liquor Filters Control Optimisation in South Africa offers a blueprint for enhanced process efficiency and sustainability.

Project Overview

  • Focus Areas: Chemicals, Environment, Energy
  • Location: South Africa
  • Project: Liquor Filters Control Optimisation
  • Status: Completed

Setting the Scene

Liquor filters play a pivotal role in the chemical process industry, particularly in the filtration of liquors. A pressing challenge was the inefficiency observed in the existing liquor filters, which were predominantly run in manual mode. This approach led to the passage of more fibres to the recovery circuit, resulting in fibre concentrations in the filtered liquor ranging from 300-400 ppm. Such high fibre concentrations directly contributed to fouling in the evaporators, a scenario further exacerbated by the addition of a third liquor filter.

The Challenge

The crux of the challenge revolved around:

  • The passage of high fibre concentrations, directly causing fouling in the evaporators.
  • The impending risk posed by the addition of a third liquor filter, which under the current operational paradigm, threatened to introduce even more fibrous liquor to the recovery circuit.

Anssum's Innovative Solution

Recognising the gravity of the challenge, Anssum proposed a solution rooted in control optimisation:

  • Transition from Manual to Automated Control: Anssum introduced a shift from the existing manual mode of operation to a more efficient control-based approach.
  • Optimising Liquor Filter Vat Level Control: The newly proposed control mechanism centered on managing the level of the liquor filters’ vat through the adjustment of the drum’s rotation speed.
  • Tangible Results: The success of the project was palpable, with initial results showing a commendable 25% reduction in fibre passage. This not only optimised the filtration process but also significantly reduced the risk of fouling in the evaporators.

Conclusion

The Liquor Filters Control Optimisation project in South Africa exemplifies Anssum’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. By embracing advanced control mechanisms and veering away from traditional manual modes of operation, Anssum continues to lead the way in process efficiency, championing a future where chemicals, energy, and environmental conservation are harmoniously balanced.

Anssum’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, while ensuring responsible and sustainable practices, sets the gold standard in the industry.