Valero had experienced flame instability and impingement on radiant shock tubes in one of their crude heaters. The deficiency was due to a high-pressure drop in the transition ducting from the convection section to the stack, in addition to air leaks through the doors and joints. The leaks allowed cold ambient air to enter the furnace and increase flue gas, which decreased burner draft.


This turnkey assignment was a complete design-build project. ARB's scope of work included enlarging the size of the three ducts, which necessitated the removal of the stack. Enlarging the ducts reduced the pressure drop and increased draft at the burners, and also provided more uniform flow in the convection section, increasing heater efficiency. Leak points at the doors, flanges and joints were also repaired to eliminate cold ambient air entry into the furnace.


Crude Heater 10-H-100
Owner: Valero Energy
Engineer: OnQuest Engineering
Location: Wilmington, California