Water addition to amine in MEA plant 2

[almostbroken]

I have seen two methods of adding makeup water to an amine plant. One method adds water to the surge drum and the second method to the inlet of the high pressure amine pump. Does anyone have any insights as to what is the better way?

Almost Broken

 

[maddocks]

Most new facilities being constructed are adding the water to the lean amine surge tank - basically on the suction of the amine booster pumps. Apparently my previous method of adding it to the reflux shocks the regen momentarily and can cause some operating swings in reboiler performance. You could also add to the rich side of the amine flash tank, but why mess with sour equipment.

 

[EmmanuelTop]

Another good method is to design the system with washwater section above the stripping section (lean amine inlet). That way, you are able to maintain the desired conc. of amine and to reduce amine losses in the overhead stream, at the same time.