Hi Anton,
This is an exptional article for defininng the design parameters of fractionation tower layout. My only comment is that it does not clearly state what aspects of the design the Piping designer is responsible for, it is also slightly misleading in the degree of information that is often available at the start of design.
In my experience the only info sometimes available is an IFD P&ID, a process data sheet to define the tray type(s) and a Plot Plan. There is often no vendor vessel drawing available at this point.
It is the Designers job to orientate and elevate all trays, nozzles, instruments, manways, platforms ladders and davits and then arrange, support and guide the piping downcomers in a logical arrangement. I believe of all the tasks a Piping desinger is asked to perform tower layout is the most complex and demanding. I also believe that many of todays Mechanical or Process Engineers would be amazed to hear that this task can be entrusted to a mere “draftsman” With Respect, Alan
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