A new vertical continuous vacuum pan (evaporating crystallizer) design

Crystallization is a key section of sugar manufacture for controlling the sugar quality as well as energy consumption. In this paper, i-VCP, a new vertical continuous evaporating crystallizer (vacuum pan) design is described. Unlike some other VCPs, i-VCP has a partitioned shell in the top compartments especially for low-grade massecuites, which helps to keep coefficient of variation at 25–30% and about a vapor consumption of about 28 kg/100 kg massecuite. A high vapor space avoids entrainment and efficient mechanical circulators with variable frequency drives reduce power consumption. Flexibility to use different pressure vapors in different compartments and an inbuilt seed magma crystallizing compartment obviate the demand for a separate batch apparatus. One 100t/h capacity A massecuite i-VCP installed at Dalmia Bharat Sugar Ltd. (India) and one 25t/h capacity B or C massecuite i-VCP have completed their first season without any stoppages.

Ejection of Flammable Liquids During Loading and Unloading: A Preliminary Experimental Investigation

Flammable liquids in industrial settings, e.g., the shop floor or laboratory, may sometimes be transferred or handled in small containers. Pouring a flammable liquid from one container into another presents a hazard potential for static electric discharge and subsequent ignition of the flammable liquid vapors. This phenomenon is well-known and industry guidance documents are available. This risk is usually mitigated with appropriate safeguards against the generation of static electricity or other potential ignition sources. In the instances where an ignition source is present, ignition of the flammable vapors accompanying the liquid pour or in the headspace of the container may occur. If the flammable vapor space above the liquid surface is ignited, the ensuing overpressure and fluid conditions may be sufficient to eject some of the liquid from the container. Flammable liquid ejection can potentially result in the projection or transport of fire over large distances with severe consequences. In this study, we perform a series of bench scale experiments. We aim to determine and investigate the factors influencing the ejection of flammable liquids during loading and unloading of small containers. Developing a better understanding of the parameters governing this phenomenon may allow for the design of engineering safeguards to assist in the prevention of flammable liquid ejection.