3. Law of Poiseuille: Viscous Flow in Pipes
Poiseuille’s law explains why pressure continuously decreases in laminar pipe flow due to viscous energy dissipation, even in pipes with constant diameter and steady velocity.
chemical engineering
LOPA & SIL: Practical Examples
A LOPA analysis is required only when the residual frequency of a major accident scenario remains too high after all independent protection layers are considered. This article explains how HAZOP identifies the hazardous scenarios, how LOPA quantifies the risk gap, and when a SIL-rated safety function becomes necessary—illustrated through two practical process examples.
Safety Interlocks: P&ID Example
Cryogenic VOC abatement systems are highly effective but face operational limits when CO₂ or water freezes at low temperatures. This article explores how molecular sieves complement cryogenic units by removing critical impurities and ensuring safer, cleaner, and more efficient gas purification across complex industrial vent streams.
VOC emission control: CO₂ Solidification Risks
CO₂ solidification in cryogenic abatement systems can reduce VOC emission control performance by causing blockages and loss of operability.
Control Valve Leakage: Often Used Upstream
Even a small internal leakage through a control valve can change process behavior and compromise safety.
This article explains why control valves do not provide tight isolation, how their position in the line affects pressure and flow, and why leakage scenarios must be included in HAZOP analysis.
Tray Efficiency: Improve Column Performance
Discover the key differences between tray and packed columns in distillation. This guide explains efficiency metrics, pressure drop, flow range, maintenance, and typical industrial uses with a clear infographic.
2. Work in Thermodynamics. PV Diagrams
Thermodynamics work describes the mechanical energy exchanged between a system and its surroundings during a transformation. From piston expansion to cyclic processes, it is represented in P–V diagrams as the area under the curve or enclosed by the cycle, making it a key concept for applying the First Law of Thermodynamics.
Vacuum Tank Collapse: Hazards&Prevention
Vacuum conditions in storage tanks can lead to severe structural failures if not properly considered during design and operation. This article explains the main risks of vacuum in tanks, common collapse scenarios, and engineering solutions to prevent them.
Career Opportunities in Chemical Engineering
Discover the wide range of career paths available to chemical engineers — from plant operations to sustainability, safety, R&D, and leadership roles. Learn where chemical engineers work, what skills they need, and which industries offer the highest salaries worldwide.
Vent Header Design: Why Top Tie-Ins Are Safer
Vent header design is critical for safe reactor operation. This article explains why top tie-ins are preferred over bottom tie-ins, how to prevent condensate backflow, and which best practices ensure reliable vent systems connected to a catch tank.