Abstract: Based on the analysis of the development trend of domestic aromatic complex units and the compositions of energy consumptions of four aromatics units in domestic，it was confirmed that the energy consumption lied mainly on factors of fuel，electricity and steam. The energy saving and consumption reduction methods for aromatic units in domestic and abroad were summarized. Based on the practical experience and investigation results, the energy saving and consumption reduction methods of aromatics complex unit were discussed from the aspects of adopting new adsorbent and new process of single adsorption tower, replacing PDEB with light desorption agent, optimizing operation parameters of adsorption tower and heating furnace, and selecting high efficiency and energy saving equipment. It is recognized that the closely cooperation of design and unit operation is helpful to reduce the energy consumption of the units. The design needs in mind for the possible problems in the process scheme and equipment and optimization to reduce energy consumption as much as possible. It is equally important that standardized production department, fined management and optimized daily operation, so as to further reduce the operation energy consumption of the device.

Key words: aromatic hydrocarbon, absorption tower, para-xylene, desorption agent