The Desalter is a crucial part of the CDU that removes impurities from crude oil before it enters the furnace.
✔ Key functions of the Desalter:
-
Removes salts (NaCl, MgCl₂, CaCl₂) – Prevents corrosion in heat exchangers and the distillation column.
-
Removes water & sediments – Reduces the risk of fouling and emulsion formation.
-
Reduces metals & contaminants – Prevents catalyst poisoning in downstream refining processes.
✔ How the Desalter Works:
-
Wash water is injected into the crude oil to dissolve salts.
-
Electrostatic separation is used to pull water and salts out of the crude.