A major Texas refinery experienced steam condensate contamination and severe boiler fouling, which lead to an unplanned shutdown and significant financial impacts. Upon review, the refinery found its grab sampling and lab analysis methods for monitoring organic contamination were inadequate and under-reported values. Samples cooled during transport, allowing hydrocarbons to volatilize and separate. By implementing the Sievers InnovOx On-Line Total Organic Carbon (TOC) Analyzer, which provides real-time contamination alerts, the refinery was able to protect their assets, reduce system downtime, and optimize water reuse by accurately assessing condensate quality.
