Hexane/Methylene vapor trap

[jdehoyos1]

Part of our process involves the transfer of a 80:20 hexane:methylene chloride mixture to outside storage tanks. The solvent storage system is vented to atmosphere and at the end of the vent manifold, we have a activated carbon bed to catch any vapors that managed to escape, and in addition, also have an activated alumina bed to dry the incoming air as the system "breathes".
I want to install a drop tank where condensed vapors will drop before reaching the carbon bed. What size of a condenser do I need to install before the drop tank assuming I have an endless supply of -10 degrees F of glycol (UCAR)heat transfer fluid?

 

[TD2K]

Sizing the exchanger depends on the flow rate of vapors and their temperature (in and out). There's also a temperature rise of the cold fluid unless you plan to run so much through the exchanger that the temperature rise is insignificant. Until you actually have numbers, you don't really know what is a reasonable starting point.

Since pressure drop on the gas side is going to be a significant factor to avoid putting back pressure on your tanks, you could look at a shell and tube exchanger or a plate and frame. Alfa-Laval has their Compablock welded plate and frame exchangers that are suitable for condensing services with low dPs.