Abstract:

Circulating cooling water (CW) system is a critical component of utility systems in ethylene plants. Its design rationality directly affects the stability, safety, and economic performance of ethylene plants. Based on a case study of a 1.0 Mt/a ethylene plant in China, this paper systematically elaborates on the design principles for CW networks. Key design aspects such as the branched/looped network layouts and the integration of secondary water systems are discussed. The application of PIPENET software in hydraulic modeling, pipe diameter optimization, and diagnosis of flow distribution issues is also described in detail. Scientific hydraulic calculation methods and dynamic adjustment strategies can significantly enhance the energy efficiency of the system while reducing both the capital investments and operational costs of ethylene plants.

Key words: ethylene plant')">

ethylene plant, CW network, hydraulic calculation, PIPENET, network optimization