Packed Extraction Towers in Propane Deasphalting Units

[diebach]

My question relates to Propane Deasphalting Units which recover a deasphalted oil (DAO) from vacuum residue by countercurrent extraction with propane acting as solvent. Extraction towers typically have used Rotating Disc Contactors, or some type of tray internals. Does anybody habe experience with using random packings, or even structured packings in such extractors? If so, any problems with plugging or foulung? What type of packings have been used sucessfully?
Would appreciate your response!

 

[chemicalengineerthai]

You can use random packing and have plan for annual shutdown for soaking with solvent with kerosine or light gas oil by bring it out to the solvent chamber at the ground.

Do not use structured packing-definitely , It is sticky material heavier than fouling problem.