Various rules of thumb, operating parameters, and benchmark values are presented that
help crude unit operating personnel determine how well a crude desalter is operating. Topics
covered include setting realistic salt and BS&W (bottom sediment and water) limits for
incoming raw crudes, establishing specific desalting goals, ensuring desalter vessels are of
sufficient size, monitoring desalter performance, avoiding desalter upsets, and ensuring that
desalters are properly maintained.