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In modern refineries, fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) is a process by which refineries convert residual oils from the atmospheric and vacuum distillation columns into more valuable gasolines and middle distillates. Here, long-chain hydrocarbons are cracked using pulverized catalysts such as aluminum and silicates.
Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) slurries are by-products generated during the FCC process in petroleum refineries, a crucial operation for converting heavy hydrocarbons into more valuable lighter fractions, such as gasoline and fuel oil. FCC slurries typically contain a mixture of hydrocarbons, catalyst fines, and other solid impurities. Handling these slurries poses several challenges due to their complex composition and the need for efficient separation of solids from the liquid phase. Despite these challenges, FCC slurries can be further processed or utilized in various industrial applications and their management is essential for both economic efficiency and environmental compliance.
Boosting treatment efficiency through centrifugal technology
Our centrifugal separators utilize the principle of centrifugal force to enhance the separation of solids from liquids. When FCC slurry enters the centrifuge, the high-speed rotation creates a strong force that pushes the heavier solid particles to the outer edge (periphery) of the separator, while the clarified liquid is collected from the center. This centrifugal action achieves superior separation precision, ensuring that even the finest catalyst particles are effectively removed from the slurry. High-speed disk separators from GEA demonstrate a separation efficiency of 90% for particles smaller than 5 microns.
Unlike traditional separation methods, centrifugal separators can operate continuously, thus enhancing overall processing efficiency. These separators are also highly adaptable, capable of handling varying slurry compositions and viscosities, making them suitable for a wide range of applications within the refining process. Designed for robustness, centrifugal separators require minimal maintenance and are built to withstand harsh operational conditions, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. By efficiently separating and recovering valuable hydrocarbons, centrifugal separators help minimize waste and reduce the environmental footprint of the refining process.
O processo inovador da GEA representa um marco no pré-tratamento de biocombustíveis, como óleo vegetal hidrotratado e combustível de aviação sustentável. Eliminando o processo de clareamento, os fabricantes se beneficiam de um potencial de economia significativo: custos operacionais mais de 50% menores e até 12% menos emissões de CO2.
El cambio climático y el aumento de la población mundial ejercen una presión cada vez mayor sobre la industria alimentaria, que consume mucha energía, para alimentar a más personas sin afectar aún más al planeta. George Shepherd, Global Technical Sustainability Manager de GEA, explica cómo GEA utiliza sus conocimientos de ingeniería para ayudar a los procesadores a producir de forma más sostenible y, al mismo tiempo, aumentar la productividad.