Defining the consequences of exothermic behavior in large-scale equipment utilizing DIERS technology

Abstract In addition to knowing the thermal effects associated with reactive systems, it is important in many chemical manufacturing operations to understand the potential consequences of these systems, particularly in regards to their pressure generating potential. Knowing this information, appropriate actions can then be taken to insure that, if loss of thermal control occurs, no damage to plant facilities or harm to personnel results. A method for investigating these consequences is technology developed by the Design Institute for Emergency Relief Systems (DIERS), a sponsored research activity of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AlChE). An important aspect of this technology is that temperature and pressure can be measured on a laboratory scale and the results can then be utilized to determine an appropriately sized vent which can safely relieve pressure should it unexpectedly develop in processing equipment. Experimental apparatuses employed in the DIERS technology are the vent sizing package (VSP) and the reactive systems screening tool (RSST). In this paper, both devices are reviewed, together with their application in a process safety testing program. In addition, factors considered and criteria utilized for establishing the need for this testing are discussed. Finally, applications to real plant situations are presented.