Vacuum Distillation

Vacuum distillation operations are typically done through wet or dry operations, which are represented
in Figure X.X. The main difference between the ideas behind the two processes is simply that the wet
operation makes use of steam together with the entering feed. The steam is used to reduce the partial
pressure of the hydrocarbons. The difference between the equipment used in both operations also
revolves around the same idea (Kaes, 2000).

Tabulated below in Table X.X are the differences between the two operations and their respective
ratings to determine which operation would be used in the plant design. The weight is given higher to
the capital cost compared to the operational because of the demanded seven years to breakeven. Costs
required in the short term would be given more importance.

Dry Operation Wet Operation

Criteria
Description Rating Description Rating

Includes the vacuum distillation

Includes mainly the vacuum
Capital Cost
distillation column, ejectors,
(50%)
and a boot cooler
column, ejectors, stripping zone
50% and a pre-condenser for the 40%
overhead gases before entering
the ejectors.

No steam is injected into the

Steam is injected into the
Operational Cost column, however, cooling is
25% entering feed and into the 15%
(30%) required in the bottoms
stripping section
stream to avoid coking
Coking
Coking is generally avoided 20% Coking is generally avoided 20%
(20%)
Overall Rating
95% 75%
(100%)