Application of heat integration in reducing energy consumption in the ethane extraction unit

Heat integration using pinch analysis is one of the most important practical tools to achieve solutions that reduce energy consumption in operational units. Using this tool and determining the targeting, the conditions of the process in which the maximum potential of energy savings can be achieved are examined and evaluated. The method of this paper is to analyze the best energy saving opportunities using the pinch analysis method in the Ethane extraction unit of Pars Petrochemical Company. In this research, the approach based on the limitations of the industry and the application of solutions that impose the less modifications and investment costs on the industrial unit have been used.Technical and operational studies show that the most opportunities for energy savings occur in heat integration between air coolers and heat exchangers. According to the two final solutions, 12,950 Kilowatt of energy will be saved annually in this unit.