PROCEDURE FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF ADDITIVES IN THE COMBUSTION OF CRUDE OIL IN THERMOELECTRIC PLANTS

Abstract

Introduction:
Cuban crude oil has a high content of ash, sulfur, asphaltenes and a high viscosity, among others, which, when subjected to the combustion process, results in corrosive effects in the heat transfer zones, reducing the useful life of the equipment.
Objective:
To design a procedure for the introduction of additives, which will increase the useful life of the equipment by improving the energy efficiency of the combustion process.
Materials and Methods:
It starts from the analysis of the composition and physical-chemical properties of Cuban crude oil and the characterization of the additive. The effectiveness of the additive is evaluated on a laboratory, pilot and industrial scale. The combustion parameters are adjusted and the efficiency of the steam generator is analyzed, with the aim of establishing the required dosage. The corresponding profit/economic cost analysis is carried out. Finally, the procedure is designed to compare with another additive if it exists.
Results and Discussion:
The procedure includes the determination of the chemical composition and physical-chemical properties of the crude oil used, the effect of the additive and the combustion efficiency. It contemplates not only the analysis of the use of an additive in use, but also the introduction of a new one and the comparison with it. It can be implemented in any industry that uses crude oil as fuel in the combustion process.
Conclusions:
The procedure provides the methodological indications for the introduction of additives that allow the improvement of the steam generator combustion process.