Steam Stripping Column Design for Removal of Dissolved Hydrogen Sulfide from Sour Water in Refineries

Abstract

Sour water generated in petroleum refinery operations contains dissolved hydrogen sulfide and other volatile sulfur compounds that pose significant environmental, operational, and safety concerns if discharged without adequate treatment. Efficient removal of hydrogen sulfide is therefore essential for wastewater management, corrosion prevention, and compliance with industrial environmental standards. The present study investigates the design and performance optimization of a steam stripping column for the removal of dissolved hydrogen sulfide from refinery sour water under varying operating conditions. The research focuses on evaluating mass transfer efficiency, stripping performance, steam consumption, and operational stability associated with steam stripping systems. Experimental and process analyses were conducted to examine the influence of steam-to-feed ratio, column pressure, feed temperature, tray configuration, reflux conditions, and residence time on hydrogen sulfide removal efficiency and process performance. Results demonstrate that steam stripping effectively enhances the volatilization and separation of dissolved hydrogen sulfide through vapor–liquid equilibrium and mass transfer mechanisms, resulting in substantial reduction of sulfur contaminants in treated water. The study further reveals that optimized column operating conditions significantly improve stripping efficiency while minimizing energy consumption and operational costs. Increased steam flow and controlled pressure conditions contributed to enhanced contaminant removal and stable column operation. Comparative assessment with alternative sour water treatment technologies confirms the advantages of steam stripping systems, including high removal efficiency, continuous operational capability, and suitability for large-scale refinery applications.