Refinery Must Read: Amine Filter Cartridge Common Troubleshooting

Symptoms

Causes

Solutions

1. Foaming

Fluctuating pressure differentials across absorbers or strippers

Amine carryover into downstream equipment

Swinging liquid levels in vessels

Hydrocarbon entrainment

Presence of surfactants or corrosion inhibitors

Suspended solids like iron sulfide

Enhance inlet gas separation to remove entrained hydrocarbons

Implement proper filtration to eliminate suspended solids

Use antifoam agents judiciously as a temporary measure

2. Fouling

Increased pressure drop across the filter

Reduced amine flow rates

Frequent filter replacements

Accumulation of iron sulfide, heavy hydrocarbons, and degradation products

Inadequate filtration leading to sludge formation

Upgrade filtration systems to capture finer particulates

Regularly monitor and replace filters based on pressure drop and contaminant load

Implement a filtration program to manage solids effectively

3. Corrosion

Elevated iron concentrations in the amine solution

Leakages in equipment

Frequent maintenance requirements

Presence of heat stable salts (HSS)

Oxygen ingress

Inadequate corrosion inhibition

Implement HSS removal processes

Ensure proper sealing to prevent oxygen ingress

Use corrosion inhibitors as part of the maintenance program

4.

Off-Spec Gas/LPG

Failure to meet product specifications

Increased levels of H₂S or CO₂ in treated gas

Foaming leading to amine carryover

Inadequate contact between gas and amine

Poorly stripped solvent

Address foaming issues as outlined above

Ensure proper operation of contactors and strippers

Optimize stripping conditions to achieve desired lean amine quality