Analysis: Linear Static Structural-Thermal FEA, Elastic stress analysis to establish actual strength by utilizing Limit Load Analysis to simulate Plastic collapse.

Problem:As recommended by process licensor, the maximum allowable pressure drop for the vessel was dependent on the design of bottom collector set at 10 psid. Due to a planned change in type of Absorber materials, the dP (pressure drop) across the vessel exceeded well before the EOR schedule of 6 years before absorbent change-out. This caused multiple outages in the gas-condensate distillation operations resulting in loss of production $$$.

Results-Conclusion: FEA based solution established that the rib stiffener support beam limited the pressure drop across bottom collector at a limiting load corresponding to maximum dP (pressure drop) of 28 psid. Hence the safe working limit of the pressure drop across the outlet strainer was revised to 28 psid.

Benefits: The gas-condensate distillation operations could safely and reliably continue to operate without any disruption throughout the SOR to EOR 6-year scheduled period, resulting in maximizing MRU throughput.