Enhancing energy efficiency in the refinery and petrochemical sector
Centrifugal compressors and reboilers are crucial in refineries and petrochemical plants, accounting for up to 50% of energy use. Their efficiency depends on maximising latent heat extraction during steam condensation and maintaining proper pressure and temperature in condensers.
With over 75 years of water treatment expertise, Kurita’s patented Dropwise Condensation Technology is trusted by more than 500 customers worldwide to improve productivity and boost heat transfer efficiency in steam condensation systems.
Why Choose Kurita Dropwise Condensation Technology?
Kurita DW – 108 is an advanced chemical product engineered to enhance steam condensation processes within the petrochemical industry. By efficiently removing the condensate layer barrier, heat transfer is increased by up to 30%, resulting in:
- Reduced vacuum levels in vacuum steam condensers
- Up to 16% improvement in power generation and compression capacity for steam-powered turbines and centrifugal compressors in power plants
- Up to 4% reduction in steam usage for centrifugal compressors
- Up to 15% increase in productivity for distillation column reboilers
- Up to 8% savings in steam consumption for distillation column reboilers
Application of Kurita Dropwise Condensation Technology
Energy-efficient solution with minimal capital investment, as it is service-based. The product is dosed directly into the steam line, where it quickly forms a hydrophobic film on condensation surfaces to boost heat transfer. Our local experts handle installation and dosage adjustments to ensure the best results for your plant. The technology works with standard boiler water treatments and does not affect condensate water quality.
We deliver ongoing service support through regular site visits by a dedicated Kurita sales manager. This ensures treatment is optimised, performance and water quality are continually monitored, and your team’s questions are promptly addressed.
The success of Kurita Dropwise Condensation Technology will be based on optimising steam flow, condenser vacuum, and cooling water inlet temperature.
Our performance evaluation follows a structured four-step process:
- Immerse: We evaluate your plant’s current efficiency and monitoring systems, setting clear KPIs for the demonstration phase.
- Architect: Our experts design the optimal treatment and dosing set-up tailored to your plant’s needs.
- Deliver: Over at least six months, we apply the technology and monitor results, adjusting service for maximum benefit.
- Evolve: At the end of the trial, we review the results together and, if KPIs are met, establish a long-term service partnership.
Testimonials
Additionally, the steam condensate containing this chemical can be returned to the system as boiler feed water.
- Condensing turbine has maintained condenser vacuum levels despite rising seawater temperatures from 2021 to 2023, particularly in summer. This improvement resulted in over a 10% increase in gas compressor output.
- Steam condensate with Dropwise additive (15-20 mg/L) can be reused as boiler feed water.
- Technical assistance remains timely and relevant.
Additionally, the technical assistance provided has been timely and relevant.
Case Studies
Improvement of heat transfer coefficient in Ammonia Recovery Reboiler Unit
Boosting heat transfer efficiency of the condenser and increased the heat drop of the steam turbine
Operation Improvement by Increasing Heat Transfer in Boiler Condenser
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