Cooling Function

Stabilized naphtha exits fractionation columns at 120-180°C requiring cooling to 40-60°C before storage to minimize vapor generation, prevent tank overheating, and meet product specifications. The cooler removes sensible heat through water or air cooling, condensing any residual vapors and delivering liquid at safe handling temperature. Proper cooling prevents storage losses and protects downstream equipment from thermal damage.

Design Configuration

Shell-and-tube construction with naphtha on tube side enabling easy mechanical cleaning and cooling medium on shell side. Multiple tube passes optimize heat transfer while maintaining acceptable pressure drop. ERGIL sizes exchangers based on naphtha flow rate, inlet temperature, target outlet temperature, and available cooling medium with typical duties 1-10 MMBTU/hr.

Cooling Methods

Water-cooled units use cooling tower water or once-through water systems providing compact design with high heat transfer efficiency. Air-cooled exchangers employ finned tubes with forced or induced draft fans offering operation without water consumption, suitable for water-scarce locations. ERGIL selects cooling technology based on site utilities, climate conditions, and operating economics.

Material Selection

Carbon steel construction suitable for stabilized naphtha service. Stainless steel tubes where naphtha contains corrosive compounds or water. Tube-side design facilitates cleaning addressing potential fouling from naphtha residues. Materials rated for operating pressures typically 50-150 psig and temperatures to 200°C.

Applications

Refinery naphtha stabilizer outlet cooling, gas plant natural gasoline conditioning, condensate processing facilities, and petrochemical naphtha handling systems. Serves facilities processing 1,000-50,000 BPD with installations across refineries, gas plants, and condensate terminals worldwide.

Control Features

Temperature control modulates cooling water flow or air fan speed maintaining target outlet temperature. Prevents overcooling that could affect product viscosity or handling characteristics. Outlet temperature monitoring ensures specification compliance. Integration with upstream stabilization controls optimizes overall system performance.

Performance Benefits

Protects storage tanks from excessive temperature reducing vapor losses and improving safety. Enables safe product handling and loading operations. Energy recovery potential through heat integration with cold process streams. Reliable cooling ensures consistent product quality meeting commercial specifications. Minimal maintenance with periodic cleaning schedules.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME Section VIII or TEMA standards with appropriate pressure and temperature ratings. Materials selected for hydrocarbon service. Hydrostatic testing validates integrity. Removable tube bundles simplify maintenance access. Insulation optional depending on ambient conditions and safety requirements.

ERGIL naphtha coolers deliver reliable temperature control ensuring safe storage conditions and product quality through efficient heat removal and proven exchanger technology.