Air Cooler For Oil Refinery Application, API 661, ASME SEC VIII
Div-1
Yuhong Group air cooler for an oil refinery is a critical piece of
equipment used to cool process fluids, gases, or equipment in
refinery operations. These coolers are essential for maintaining
optimal temperatures, ensuring safety, and improving the efficiency
of refining processes. Below is an overview of air coolers in oil
refineries, including their types, applications, and key
considerations:
Types of Air Coolers Be Used In Oil Refineries:
1. Forced Draft Air Coolers:
- Fans are located at the bottom, forcing air upward through the
finned tubes.
- Suitable for high-temperature applications.
- Easier maintenance as fans are accessible.
2. Induced Draft Air Coolers:
- Fans are located at the top, pulling air through the finned
tubes.
- Better air distribution and reduced hot air recirculation.
- Commonly used in refineries due to their efficiency.
3. Horizontal Air Coolers:
- Tubes are arranged horizontally, and air flows perpendicular to
the tubes.
- Ideal for cooling large volumes of process fluids.
4. Vertical Air Coolers:
- Tubes are arranged vertically, and air flows upward or downward.
- Used in space-constrained areas.
5. V-Shaped or A-Frame Air Coolers:
- Tubes are arranged in a V-shape to maximize surface area.
- Compact design, suitable for high-capacity cooling.
| CONTRACTOR’S OBLIGATIONS. | | I | Perform detailed engineering and design as per API 661
requirements. | | II | Ensure compliance with industry standards such as ASME, API, and
client-specific design codes. | | III | Generate general arrangement (GA) drawings and detailed fabrication
drawings. | | IV | Procure raw materials and components as per approved design and
applicable standards, including finned tubes, headers, fans,
motors, bearings, and structural steel. | | V | MTCs for pressure parts shall be as per EN10204 3.1 & EN10203
2.2 for non-pressure parts. | | VI | Fabricate structural components, tube bundles, and header boxes as
per the approved design and quality standards. | | VII | Carry out precise machining of critical parts, such as tube sheets
and flanges. | | VIII | Perform tube-to-tube sheet expansion or welding (if applicable) per
API 661 & ASME. | | IX | Assemble finned tube bundles with structural frames. | | X | Install fans, motors, gearboxes, and drive systems (as applicable). | | XI | Integrate auxiliary components, such as louvers, dampers, etc.
(where applicable). | | XII | Follow ASME Section IX or equivalent standards for welding
processes. | | XIII | Conduct weld qualification tests, if not already qualified, and
maintain welding procedure specifications (WPS). | | XIV | NDT and Hydrotesting shall be conducted in line with the applicable
code requirements. | | XV | Conduct air cooler performance tests, including fan performance
checks. | | XVI | Carry out vibration and noise level testing for fans and motors. | | XVII | Perform surface preparation as per the applicable standards. | | XVIII | Galvanizing/Painting of the supplied air coolers and associated
structural components. | | XIX | Provide detailed reports, including material certifications, test
results, and inspection reports. | | XX | Packing suitable for sea & road transport and loading of goods
at Contractor premises shall be in the scope of supply of the
Contractor. | | XXI | Supply, at its own expense, all skilled manpower, tools, machinery,
equipment, consumables and paint required for the completion of
works as per the scope of the contract. | | XXII | Follow all the necessary QA/QC and safety procedures and comply
with all the standard application procedures to the satisfaction of
Client and End-User | | XXIII | Carry out the Contractor’s obligations under this contract in a
prompt, efficient and diligent manner consistent with good
professional practices and standards, and use all reasonable care,
attention and skill in the performance of those obligations; | | XXIV | Contractor will be solely responsible for the quality of its
workmanship and for the workmanship of its personnel or any other
parties representing the Contractor. | | XXV | Contractor will, at its own cost, repair / replace any work that
does not meet the industrial standards of quality. |
Applications in Oil Refineries:
1. Crude Oil Cooling: Cooling crude oil after distillation or other
processes.
2. Gas Cooling: Cooling hydrocarbon gases or vapors in refining
processes.
3. Lube Oil Cooling: Maintaining optimal temperatures for lube oil
systems.
4: Condensation: Condensing vapors into liquids for further
processing.
5: Equipment Cooling: Cooling compressors, turbines, and other
machinery.
Key Considerations for Air Coolers in Oil Refineries:
1. Material Selection:
- Tubes and fins must be resistant to corrosion, high temperatures,
and chemical exposure.
- Common materials include carbon steel, stainless steel, and
aluminum.
2. Heat Load and Capacity:
- The cooler must handle the specific heat load and flow rates of
the refinery process.
3. Environmental Conditions:
- Air coolers must operate efficiently in varying ambient
temperatures and weather conditions.
- Dust, humidity, and corrosive environments should be considered.
4. Energy Efficiency:
- Variable frequency drives (VFDs) on fans can optimize energy
consumption.
- Proper design to minimize pressure drop and maximize heat
transfer.
5. Maintenance and Accessibility:
- Easy access for cleaning and maintenance is crucial to prevent
fouling and ensure longevity.
- Regular inspection of fins, tubes, and fans is necessary.
6. Safety:
- Air coolers must comply with safety standards for handling
flammable or hazardous materials.
- Proper ventilation and fire protection measures are essential.
QUALITY DOCUMENTATION.
The Contractor will deliver to the Client the Quality documentation
concerning of delivery of Goods under the contract within the
scope, including but not limited to:
1: Inspection & Test Plan
2: Material Test Certificates
3: WPS, PQR for Welding
4: NDT & Hydrotest Procedures
5: Sandblasting & Painting Procedure
6: As Built Drawings
7: All Inspection Reports.
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