4 replies to this topic

[t39320]

Good day

 

I have the project to design, build and test a machine that can remove perlite from a cold box in an ASU plant.  This machine must be built on a trailer so that it can be readily transportible to different plants.

 

Is there anyone that can help me with information on what i have to look at or consider or where i can find viable information on perlite handling and removal?

[t39320]

The machine must remove the perlite in such a manner that it is not contaminated or damaged.  it must be safely stored for reuse

[Bodhisatya]

What kind of machine you are talking about,am not sure.

 

I have been associated with Cryogenic Air separation plant for past 3 years.We generally unload Perlite manually.

 

Incase of Nitrogen Generators (Cold Box Height 14 m) generally at the lowermost manhole ,an inclined projection facing towards ground is made separated by a butterfly valve. In case of unloading ,slowly that butterfly valve is opened and discharged Perlite is collected in big Jumbo bags.

 

Where as cold Box that houses Argon Column too (Height 50 m & above) ,at different elevations,just like filling,several such projections are made for unloading Perlite.

 

Generally Perlite unloading is a rare event,so it's done manually here.

 

There might be different automated processes but I am not aware of that,may be some esteemed Forum member will be able to aid you on that.

 

 

Regards

Bodhisatya.

[Art Montemayor]

Like Bodhisatya, I have operated, supervised, and modified Air Separation Units - for 9 years.   I always resorted to manual methods, although this process is rather time-consuming and can cause a production problem because it delays getting the total job done quickly.

 

I can identify a need to quickly and safely remove the insulation and if it were me today, I would simply design a vacuuming system to remove the perlite.  This is a design that should be an easy project for a degreed engineer.  I would incorporate a centrifugal blower and a cyclone separator followed by a screening process to separate the real fine particles of perlite.

 

A vacuum system should be a very effective, thorough, and safe way to remove the perlite quickly and store it temporarily.  In fact, you might even be able to design it to operate in reverse and also install the perlite back in the ASU.

 

[fseipel]

It should be possible to simply rent a vacuum truck for this purpose.  This is used by catalyst service companies.  Variations are available with cyclonic separator and filters.  This does not address recharging.  I'd think dumping with supersack/FIBC bag suspended from a crane would work.