Absorption
Absorption is a common process in chemical engineering where one substance is taken up by another, like a sponge soaking up water, but at an industrial scale. Chemical engineers use this method to separate gases or liquids, purify products, or remove unwanted substances from industrial processes. For example, it's used to remove pollutants from factory emissions or to purify drinking water. This is one of the fundamental separation techniques that chemical engineers work with, alongside other methods like distillation or filtration.
Examples in Resumes
Designed and optimized Absorption columns for gas purification system
Led team implementing new Absorption technology reducing plant emissions by 30%
Troubleshot Absorption processes in petrochemical facility
Managed scale-up of industrial Absorption units from pilot plant to full production
Typical job title: "Chemical Process Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Chemical Process Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach troubleshooting an absorption column that's showing reduced efficiency?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss systematic approach including checking operating conditions, analyzing feed compositions, inspecting equipment condition, and reviewing maintenance history. They should mention importance of data analysis and team coordination.
Q: How would you lead a project to upgrade an existing absorption unit?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate project management skills, including budget consideration, timeline planning, risk assessment, and coordination with different departments. Should also discuss how to minimize production disruption.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors would you consider when designing an absorption system?
Expected Answer: Should mention flow rates, temperature control, pressure conditions, safety considerations, and material selection. Should also discuss basic economics and efficiency targets.
Q: How do you ensure safety in absorption operations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss monitoring systems, safety protocols, emergency procedures, and preventive maintenance. Should also mention proper operator training and documentation.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain what absorption is in simple terms?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept using simple analogies, describe common applications, and show understanding of basic principles without complex technical terms.
Q: What basic measurements and controls are important in absorption processes?
Expected Answer: Should mention temperature, pressure, flow rates, and composition measurements. Should understand basic control loops and monitoring requirements.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of absorption processes
- Reading process flow diagrams
- Basic safety protocols
- Equipment monitoring
Mid (2-5 years)
- Process optimization
- Troubleshooting skills
- Equipment specification
- Safety management
Senior (5+ years)
- Process design and scale-up
- Project management
- Team leadership
- Advanced problem-solving
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures
- Unfamiliarity with common process equipment
- Lack of hands-on plant experience
- Poor understanding of process control basics
- No experience with standard engineering software
Related Terms
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