Abstract

FORZATTI, R.J.; NATHA, I.; ROUX, L.  and  VAN DEN BERG, D.A.. Sulphuric acid plant water saving options. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2014, vol.114, n.5, pp.355-363. ISSN 2411-9717.

The production of sulphuric acid from sulphur generates heat. The majority of this heat is recovered as steam and is often used to generate electricity. Heat not recovered as steam is rejected to cooling water systems. The design of the turbine, condenser, and cooling water systems impacts the overall water, energy, and environmental footprint of the plant. This review considers a conceptual 2000 t/d sulphuric acid plant with several alternative cooling water systems. The review utilizes Hatch's 4 Quadrant sustainable design tool to compare the alternatives on both an economic and a weighted sustainability scale.

Keywords : sulphuric-burning acid plant; steam; power generation; cooling systems; sustainable design.