Crude Oil Refining: Desalter and Desalting Process

Crude Oil Refining: Desalter and Desalting of Crude Oil

Desalter:

• A desalter is a critical unit in the crude oil refining process that removes salt, water, and other contaminants from crude oil.
• The desalter is typically located at the beginning of the refining process, after crude oil reception and before crude oil fractionation.
• The desalter's primary function is to remove impurities that can:
  • Corrode equipment and pipes
  • Interfere with catalytic processes
  • Affect product quality

Desalting of Crude Oil:

• Desalting is the process of removing salt and other contaminants from crude oil using a desalter.
• The desalting process involves:
  1. Mixing crude oil with water and a demulsifier (a chemical that breaks the emulsion between oil and water)
  2. Heating the mixture to create a separation between the oil and water phases
  3. Separating the salt and water from the crude oil using gravity or electrostatic forces
• Desalting is essential because:
  • Salt can cause corrosion and fouling of equipment, leading to costly maintenance and downtime
  • Salt can also affect the performance of catalysts used in downstream processes, leading to reduced product quality and yield
  • Removing salt and water improves the overall quality of the crude oil, making it suitable for further refining and processing

Learn about the desalter unit and desalting process in crude oil refining, which removes salt, water, and contaminants from crude oil to prevent corrosion and fouling of equipment. Understand the importance of desalting in refining and processing.