OPTIMISING FLASH TANKS IN SOUTH AFRICA

A DIVE INTO WATER, CHEMICAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFICIENCY

In the intricate dance of water, chemicals, and environmental processes, achieving optimal performance is crucial. Anssum’s initiative on Flash Tanks Optimisation in South Africa serves as a testament to the company’s commitment to driving systems to their peak potential while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Project Overview

  • Focus Areas: Water, Chemicals, Environment
  • Location: South Africa
  • Project: Flash Tanks Optimisation
  • Status: Completed

Background

Flash tanks, pivotal in the separation of liquids and gases, play a critical role in the chemical processing industry. Over time, the complexity of systems can drift from their original design parameters. Recognising this, Anssum embarked on a mission to bring the flash tanks back to their optimal performance levels.

The Challenge

The control mechanisms surrounding the flash tanks needed a thorough examination:

  • The objective was to ensure that the units operated as per their original design, guaranteeing efficiency and sustainability.
  • The necessity to maintain balance and control, especially with increasing pressures and discharges, was paramount.

Anssum's Strategic Proposal

A deep dive into the system revealed a path to enhanced performance:

  • Revisiting Control Mechanisms: Anssum proposed a revamp of the control mechanisms, suggesting a transition back to simple yet effective PID controllers. This shift aimed at controlling variables within small base layer loops, ensuring precision and reliability.
  • Pressure Augmentation: A notable outcome of the optimisation was the increase in Flash Tank 1’s pressure by 300 kPa, enhancing the tank’s efficiency and throughput.
  • Minimising Variability: With the new control mechanism in place, the variability in liquor discharges was reduced by a significant 38%. This reduction translates to more consistent operations, reduced waste, and enhanced process efficiency.

In Conclusion

Anssum’s Flash Tanks Optimisation initiative in South Africa underscores the company’s dedication to excellence and innovation. By revisiting, re-evaluating, and revamping systems, Anssum ensures that every process not only meets but exceeds its designed potential.

“Anssum’s commitment to water, chemical, and environmental efficiency continues to set benchmarks, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in the industry.“