Process Integration of Sulfuric Acid Plant Based on Contact Process

Abstract

Development of sulfuric acid production method has taken us to commercial use of contact process in most industries. However, most plants still utilize coolers and steam generators to divert the excess heat. This method of energy recovery is inefficient, thus, this study attempts to redesign commercial heat exchanger network for better efficiency and lower cost. Process integration using composite curve, cascade diagram, heat exchanger network alternatives, completed with improved plant flow diagram are successfully calculated and analyzed by HINT software. Total energy saving can reach up to 74.70% and this results in total cost saving up to $ 18,000/year.