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Petrochemical Design ›› 2026, Vol. 43 ›› Issue (3): 42-47.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1005-8168.2026.03.008/

• PROCESS OPTIMIZATION • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Energy-saving Optimization of Condensation System of Propylene Recovery Column in a Propylene Oxide Unit

Li Xinran   

  1. (SINOPEC Engineering Incorporation, Beijing, 100101)

  • Received:2026-06-22 Online:2026-08-25 Published:2026-09-07

Abstract:

This paper studies the condensation system of propylene recovery column in a propylene oxide unit, compares two process design schemes, and explores the feasibility of energy-saving optimization paths for the system. Scheme I is a conventional process flow, consisting of an overhead condenser, a reflux drum, and a discharge pump. In light of the fact that the overhead stream is mainly composed of propylene and liquid propylene is required as the refrigerant, the optimized Scheme II is proposed, which involves installing a compressor at the top of the propylene recovery column. This scheme increases the dew point temperature through compression, allows the overhead condenser to use circulating water for cooling, and installs a reflux drum and a discharge pump to complete the subsequent material conveying. A detailed comparative calculation of the two schemes was conducted using ASPEN simulation software. The simulation results indicate that Scheme II can significantly reduce the load of refrigerant system and effectively reduce the comprehensive energy consumption of the unit. It is concluded that Scheme II offers significant energy-saving benefits, providing a valuable reference for the modification of condensation systems in similar units.

Key words:

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