Descaling of thermal desalination water (7th Asalouye Refinery, October 1403)

The descaling operation of two thermal desalination devices (MED), with a production capacity of 168 cubic meters per hour, was successfully carried out in September and October 2024 by the specialized engineering team of Abrizan Company in the joint water facilities of phases 17 and 18 of Asalouye Seventh Refinery. These units, which play a vital role in supplying fresh water to the refinery and ancillary facilities, had encountered a production drop, which had caused a decrease in the water level of the refinery's storage tanks.

The necessity and process of descaling

After investigating the causes of production loss, it was found that the accumulation of carbonate sediments in all its effects has reduced performance efficiency. Therefore, chemical descaling was put on the agenda as the main solution. Initially, samples of sediments were collected. And it was carefully analyzed in the specialized laboratory of Abrizan company. The results of the studies showed that the appropriate chemical solution for descaling these devices is Cold mitreh (MDA0102), which has a high ability to dissolve and remove hard sediments.

Executive steps

After preparing the chemical solution and equipping the workshop in the water intake unit, the implementation team proceeded to install the necessary connections, pumps and equipment to carry out the washing operation. This operation included chemical washing of the five effects of each device independently and separately. This operation was carried out over a period of 7 days and after that, the device was put into operation, which satisfied the group.

Results and Achievements

After the completion of the operation, the production rate of fresh water from the devices increased significantly, and this increase in efficiency not only eliminated the water shortage in the refinery, but also helped reduce the operational pressure in the utility unit. The optimal performance of the devices resulted in a certificate of appreciation being issued by the respected director of this unit for the successful implementation of the two desalination devices.

Project importance

In addition to restoring the efficiency of the devices, this operation demonstrates the ability of the Abrizan Company engineering team to solve complex industrial challenges. The use of scientific and specialized methods in the analysis and implementation of descaling, along with time and cost management, will not only have a positive impact on the production and productivity of the oil and gas, petrochemical, etc. industries, but also serve as a model for other similar projects in various industries in the country.

Summing up

Descaling of the thermal desalination water of the 7th Asalouye Refinery was completed successfully and in less time than expected. This project not only helped restore the refinery’s freshwater production capacity, but also paved the way for improving the sustainability and efficiency of the region’s water facilities.