Simplified Structural Analysis and Design Procedures for Sulfur Recovery Units

Abstract

This paper presents cost-effective guidelines for practicing engineers to design, evaluate, or review the structural design of the sulfur recovery unit (SRU) used in refineries. Extensive efforts have been made over the last few years to develop economical strategies for the process and mechanical design aspects. Limited work is available in practice dealing with structural design of SRUs. This paper bridges the gap and provides economical structural engineering methodologies that can be utilized in practice for the design of SRUs. The sulfur vessel supports are categorized into three systems. Numerical and approximate models are proposed to simplify the analysis and the loading mechanisms during operation and testing. Design examples are also provided for steel pipe racks and vessel support systems that are commonly used in the sulfur recovery units.