Search by topic : Petrochemicals
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Maximising para-xylene Capacity

John B Robertson UOP LLC

2005 / Q1

A team approach to unlocking the potential of a world-scale aromatics complex. Greatest-ever para-xylene capacity gains were achieved by evaluating options for removing existing plant limits and by using improved economic planning models
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Emissions data Management

Paul Reinermann and Robert Golightly Pavilion Technologies Inc

2005 / Q1

To meet environmental accounting regulations, the key for petrochemical plants is precise management of emissions data. The complexities of integrating market-based regulations with a plant control network are described here  
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Direct olefin hydration process.

Dominic W Ching, Equistar Chemicals.

1999 / Q1

A review of the improvement, operations and economic aspects of direct olefin hydration, considered to be environmentally and technically a sound commercial method for obtaining a consistently high-quality alcohol product.
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Reduction of LNG terminal costs

Arif Habibullah, Parsons Energy & Chemicals Group Inc.

1999 / Q1

The LNG  terminal is an important link in the liquefied natural gas chain, accounting for 20 per cent or more of the total project cost.  It also has potential for cost reduction.  The author discusses various strategies for cutting cost and their impact on terminal design.
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Plant power failure and its indirect effects: a case study.

Donald F Schneider, Status Engineering Inc

1999 / Q1

A total electrical failure at a major olefins plant was restored within half an hour, but it spawned a succession of health, safety and environmental problems that were to be felt for months.
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New reforming catalyst at Russian gas facility.

S Z Alekseev, L A Alekseeva, RAO Gasprom
V M Berdnikov, Astrakhangasprom
A Rouquier, A Pochitaloff, D I Garanin, Procatalyse
C Pradel, IFP

1999 / Q1

With advancing automobile engine design, a major Russian gas processing complex was faced with the need to produce unleaded, high octane gasolines, which meant replacing existing monometallic Russian catalyst with a new breed of catalyst.  This is an account of how the change was accomplished.
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Modularised technology for GTL applications

J Richard Hensman and Mike Ashley, Davy Process Technology

2004 / Q1

A new gas-to-liquid plant designed to convert natural gas to liquid fuel or syncrude has shown how technical developments, such as smaller reformers, can bring efficiency, simplicity and reduced plant size and improve quality of product.
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Producing fuels from Fischer-Tropsch Waxes

Zhong Zhou, Yulong Zhang, John W Tierney, Irving Wender, University of Pittsburgh

2004 / Q1

Hybrid catalysts made by combining zeolites with platinum-promoted tungstate-modified zirconia provide a promising way to obtain higher catalytic activity and higher selectivity for desired fuel products.
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Increasing value from steam cracker olefin streams

Marco Tagliabut, Marco Ferrari, Paolo Pollesel, EniTecnologie SpA

2004 / Q1

The autors present two different strategies for increasing the value of C4-C5 streams from steam cracking, by conversion into BTEX aromatics or propylene: a technology based on two novel catalysts is described.
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Asset life extension Laza Krstin ABB Engineering Services

 

2005 / Q3

A case study showing how asset life extension helped a leading manufacturer of ammonia and urea to assess the condition of its plants and put in place effective asset strategies that support the achievement of business objectives



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Refinery and petrochemical integration opportunities

Patrick D Lavergne Lyondell Chemical Company
Robert S Bridges Equistar Chemicals

2005 / Q3

Against a background of tighter fuel specifications and petrochemical expansion, various strategies exist for exchanging process streams between ethylene plants and refineries, bringing about economic operating benefit and capital reduction


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On-purpose propylene production

Steve Zinger Chemical Market Associates Inc (CMAI)

2005 / Q3

Five types of on-purpose propylene production are available, including propane dehydrogenation, metathesis, olefins cracking and interconversion, high severity FCC, and gas-to-olefins. Each one is discussed in detail



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Process safety through instrumentation

Roman Maurer Endress+Hauser Messtechnik GmbH+Co KG

2005 / Q3

Typical safety loops with pressure transmitters, level monitoring and flow meters illustrate the application of the international IEC 61511 standard in the petrochemical industry



 
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Improving profits in olefins complexes

John Philpot, KBC Advanced Technologies Inc

2005 / Q4

A Hungarian ethylene producer has identified more than a $30 per ton increase in profit.  The initial phases of a profitabiltiy programme show what can be achieved in a collaborative effort with the right tools and methodologies.

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LNG technology and equipment

Xiang Dong, Xin Jiang Guagshui Liquefied Natural Gas Develpment Co Ltd

Eginhard Berger, Linde AG

Albert Meffert, Tractebel Gas Engineering

Li Wei Bin, Sinopec Shanghai Engineering Co Ltd

2005 / Q4

A review of improvements to the Shan Shan LNG processing facilities, ranging from gas treatment and liquefaction with a single mixed refrigerant cycle in spiral-wound heat exchangers through storage to unloading and distribution in China.

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Ethylene furnace scheduling

 Rob J Vasbinder and Jeff D Kelly, Honeywell Process Solutions

2005 / Q4

One solution to the logistical constraints seen in ethylene plant furnace scheduling is technology that automatically generates multiple optimised schedules for schedulers to analyse and quickly select the best one to be executed.

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Increasing propylene for the petrochemical market Solly Ismail Engelhard Corporation

 

2005 / Q2

Increasing FCC propylene with shape-selective additives minimises the impact on unit process conditions and equipment. Production of butylenes and isobutene without significant increases in dry gas and coke yield is an added benefit


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Alternative routes to paraxylene production Jacques Rault Christian Dupraz Françoise Montecot Axens

 

2004 / Q2

An integrated refining and petrochemical approach to paraxylene manufacture from various feedstocks, such as excess aromatics in reformate or pyrolysis gasoline. A paraxylene production complex is reviewed and its component units described


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New technology to produce ethyl acetate Mike Tuck and Mike Ashley Davy Process Technology

 

2004 / Q2

Ethanol dehydrogenation to ethyl acetate allows a wider choice of feedstocks. Miniature process units reproduced the conditions for a full-scale plant with modules to investigate factors of process development and engineering design


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Engineering gas-to-liquids projects – Part 1 Simon C Clarke Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

 

2004 / Q3

An insight into the R&D, optimisation and engineering activities needed to take Fischer-Tropsch pilot plant data through all development stages, from “ballpark” scoping to the more detailed levels of engineering definition



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Repositioning pygas, octane and toluene

Mark Fisler Chemical Market Associates Inc

2004 / Q3

Sulphur regulations are exerting new pressure to retain aromatics in the gasoline pool. As a result, new molecules may need to be sourced for aromatics. The author discusses how current and future configurations will be used to meet demand


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Engineering gas-to-liquids projects – Part 2

Simon C Clarke Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

2004 / Q4

A selection of profitable contracting strategies for capital-intensive GTL projects. The author reviews how GTL projects have evolved, from their inception through the various stages of engineering and study to the award of an EPC contract



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Optimising plant turnarounds Shaun Dyke PetroQuantum BV

 

2004 / Q4

An outline of the various steps that need to be taken to improve turnaround performance, specifically addressing key activities, controls, timeframes and the management of risk that constitute turnaround best practice



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Saving hydrocarbon vapour loss Dhilipkannan Natarajan Indian Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd

 

2004 / Q4

A description of modifying pressure control strategies to avoid n-hexane solvent loss in a process unit’s intermediate storage vessels. A new control philosophy was implemented to improve the existing split-range pressure control strategy



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Troubleshooting against process plant downtime.

Eike Drewes, Prognost Systems GmbH
Uwe Seifert, OMV Deutschland GmbH

2003 / Q1

To clarify failure mechanisms and determine the measures necessary for trouble free operation it is essential to combine the available experiences of all the participants and compare them with the collected data.
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Dynamic simulation of a demethaniser column.

M Sadrameli, M Sahkeri, J Towfighi, Chemical Engineering Department, Modares University.

2003 / Q2

An implicity approach-based method for calculating distillation column dynamics has been used to model time-dependent effects of independent disturbances with a demethaniser column.  Startup and shutdown sequences can be tested in this way.
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Amine filtration in natural gas processing operations.

John Hampton, Filtration Technolgoy Corporation
Guy Weismantel, Weismantel International

2003 / Q2

A review of improvements in filtration and separation techniques for reducing processing costs and avoiding corrosion problems in the removal of H2S, CO2 and other impurities, while also producing high quality gas.
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Removal of chloride compounds

Peter V Broadhurst, Synetix

2003 / Q2

A review of the use of chloride guard beds to treat liquid phase and gas phase streams to prevent operational problems from hard-to-detect organic chlorides, while at the same time avoiding side reactions and high partial pressures.
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Burning sulphur compounds, with byproduct recovery.

Olavo C Leite, Thermica Technologies

2003 / Q2

Improved methods are required to recover elemental sulphur from a gas stream containing H2S and thereby reduce SO2 emissions.  For refining, natural processing and coal gasification, the sulphur recovery unit is the primary area of concern.
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State of the art gas treating

Mahin Rameshni, Parsons Energy and Chemicals

2003 / Q3

A close examination of natural gas preconditioning and final conditioning processes, including the associated chemical, physical and hybrid solvents involved. The author also looks at the various Claus tailgas-treating technologies


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Improvements to tailgas treatment process

Jean-Pierre Ballaguet and Cécile Barrère-Tricca IFP
Christian Streicher Prosernat

2003 / Q3

A review of configurations in tailgas treating to achieve 99.9% sulphur recovery with smaller reactors – the result of advances in gas/liquid contactor and desalter technologies, enabling longer run lengths and more effective catalyst performance


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Tackling fouling in vinyl monomer manufacture

Deborah A Foster Allen R Syrinek J Paul Street Frederic Hisbergues
Ondeo Nalco Energy Services

2003 / Q3

Conventional and new approaches to the control of fouling in vinyl monomer processes are discussed in this article, which describes the fouling characteristics of three vinyl monomer processes: acrylic acid, vinyl acetate and vinyl chloride


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Catalytic oxidation of nitrogen containing VOC Vadim O Strots Grigori A Bunimovich Yuri S Matros, Matros Technologies Inc

 

2003 / Q3

An outline of the treatment of gas streams containing VOCs, focusing on the kinetics and process design aspects needed to achieve over 98% VOC destruction efficiency and less than 15% of nitrogen oxidation converted to nitrogen oxides 



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Causes and remedies in caustic tower fouling

Marilyn W Blaschke, Baker Petrolite

2003 / Q3

A review of diagnostic tests that are used for identifying the causes of caustic system fouling. The author also looks at methods of monitoring the onset of fouling and some of the ways by which the problem can be minimised


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Turnaround performance optimisation Paul R Hayes Fluor Corporation
David K Clark BP Amoco Chemical Company

 

2003 / Q4

Complex problems involving capital and maintenance work at a large olefins plant were overcome by using a system-based work concept to integrate these activities. A case study describes how this was accomplished


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Creating value from stranded natural gas Waldemar Liebner Martin Rothaemel Jens Wagner, Lurgi Oel-Gas-Chemie GmbH

 

2003 / Q4

Recent developments in methanol-to-propylene conversion are based on a simple fixed-bed reactor system and common processing elements, providing an economic route to dedicated propylene independent of petroleum-based processes


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Microchannel technology for gas-to-liquids conversion

Terry Mazanec Velocys Inc

2003 / Q4

MPT technology has the potential to reduce costs in a variety of natural gas upgrading processes, including steam reforming, FT synthesis and methanol synthesis, and in chemical processes of many types




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Laboratory simulation of naphtha processing

Avelino Corma Canos, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia

2005 / Catalysis

A number of naphtha simulation options are available. The four scenarios that form the basis of these simulations can lead to the best options for cracking less conventional streams such as LSR and FCC naphtha, while also producing propylene




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Catalyst modelling improvements

Greg Jackson Pavilion Technologies Inc
Jim Wambaugh CRI Catalyst Company

2005 / Catalysis

Reducing the time to analyse catalyst and reactor performance is crucial to petrochemical profitability. Use of a real-time catalyst performance modelling system can maximise catalyst life while also reducing costly laboratory analysis



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Advances in hydrogen plant catalyst Peter V Broadhurst Johnson Matthey Catalysts

 

2004 / Catalysis

Catalysts have a significant impact on steam-reforming plant rate and reliability. Catalyst selection depends on feedstocks, operating conditions and reformer design. Important criteria include activity, shape and size of the catalyst


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Optimised hydrogen production Jürgen Bezler Süd-Chemie AG, Catalytic Technologies

 

2004 / Catalysis

This article describes advances in steam-reforming catalysts for meeting the increased demand for hydrogen in refinery operations. Retrofit options such as installation of a pre-reformer are also discussed



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Optimised high-quality BTX production

Thi Chang, Technical Editor, Houston, TX, USA

2003 / Catalysis

Transalkylation catalysts are able to convert heavy aromatics into high-quality petrochemicals at lower recycle rates and with increased run lengths without the need for a solvent-extraction unit.
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Technology for propylene boosting in steamcrackers.

Heinz V Boelt, Stephan Glanz, Linde

2003 / Catalysis

Integration of steamcracker C4/C5 components with a fixed-bed fluid catalytic-cracking reactor employing a shape-selective heterogeneous zeolytic ZSM-5 catalyst.
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Adding value to pyrolysis gasoline.

C Baumler, Sued Chemie AG, Catalytic Technologies, Munich, Germany

2003 / Catalysis

A two-step reaction process for upgrading low-value aromatics to high-value steamcracker feedstock uses optimised catalyst formulations in each reactor.
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Spent caustic treatment by wet air oxydation

Tomonobu Uchida, Nippon Petrochemicals Co Ltd
Dinesh Udpa, Toyo USA
Masaaki Sakurai, Toyo Engineering Corporation

1999 / Q2

The authors describe how the search for a safe process to treat spent caustic waste from ethylene plants has been tackled, and the benefits that resulted from designing two stand-alone wet air oxydation units at plants in the USA.
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Human factors engineering in petrochemical projects: Part II

Martin E J van Uden and Harrie J T Rensink, Shell Int.

1999 / Q2

Among the subjects in this second article on the place of human factors in project planning, the project business is analaysed - discussing how ergonomic principles should be integrated - and the framework of a warranted quality system, including management monitoring tools and system auditing.
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Petrochemical building blocks from heavy oils.

Warren S Letzsch, Stone & Webster Engineering.

1999 / Q3

An outline of the progress made on some alternative processes for making propylene and other petrochemical building blocks from heavier feedstocks.
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Catalysts for cost effective hydrogen production.

Leif Storgaard and Hans Christian Nielsen, Haldor Topsoe A/S

1999 / Q3

Processes now used in the new generation of hydrogen plants make a wide choice of catalysts necessary in order to meet the requirements of particular systems.  This article describes the capabilities of some of these catalysts.
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Performance of specialty amines in gas processing.

Dieter Plaumann, Erik Stewart, Randy Kuroda, The Dow Chemical Company.

1999 / Q3

A detailed description of successful gas treating applications carried out at three plants that had widely differing processing and treating requirements.
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Olefin oligomerisation with homogeneous catalysis

Helene Olivier-Bourbigou, Jean-Alain Chodorge, Philippe Travers, IFP

1999 / Q4

Although homogeneous catalysis is not as widely used in hydrocarbon processing as heterogeneous catalysis there are industrial applications where the former, in liquid phase, has many advantages, including relatively high selectivity and product purity, low investment and mild operating conditions.
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Simulating coke formation in gas quenchers

M Sadrameli, H Ebadi, J Towfighi, Tarbiat Modarres University.
A Sharifi, Arak Petrochemical Complex

1999 / Q4

A major requirement in ethylene production is the ability to predect exchanger parameters, particularly coke thickness inside exchanger tubes.  This article presents the results of a computer simulation of a naphtha pyrolysis quench cooler, or transfer line exchanger (TLX), at Arak Petrochemical Complex, Iran.
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The vinylchloride monomer process

Ingolf Mielke, Hoechst AG

1996 / Q4

The growing demand for polyvinylchloride (PVC) and its raw material vinychloride monomer (VCM) means expansion of capacity in the coming years.  New plants will need to have low capital and operating costs and be aware of environmental issues.
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Petrochemical industry in the former Soviet Union

Mikhail G Rudin, Raytheon Engineers and Constructors Inc.

1996 / Q4

The petrochemical industry in the Soviet Union started in the mid 1930s.  Until then, production had been based on coal coke processing and on feed of alimentary origin.  This article reviews its history and the current situation.
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Deep catalytic cracking

Lark E Chapin and Warren S Letzsch, Stone & Webster Engineering Corporation

1997 / Q1

Deep catalytic cracking was developed by the Research Institute of Petroleum Processing (RIPP), Beijing, and employs the Institute's propietary FCC catalyst.  High yields of propylene, butylenes and amylenes are obtained, which serve as feedstocks for the RFG blendstocks, alkylate and oxygenates.
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Minimising investment with dynamic simulation

Gerbert van der Wal, Claus-Peter Haelsig, David Schulte, Fluor Daniel

1997 / Q1

Dynamic simulation, if successfully applied, can minimise the investment for new and revamp designs.  The authors address these benefits as applied to the refining industry.
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Gas chromatography and the modern laboratory

Michael King, CDTech (Catalytic Distillation Technologies)

1997 / Q1

Gas chromatology continues to be the most significant analytical tool used in the petrochemical and refining industries, but downsizing has meant the loss of some of the most experienced people who could pass on their knowledge to those having to deal with increasingly sophisticated equipment.
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New direct route from butane to 1,4-butanediol

Andrea Ochs, Lurgi AG

1997 / Q1

A joint development programme by BP Chemicals and Lurgi has introduced a new technology, Geminox, for production of 1,4-butanediol (BDO) using butane as the feedstock.  It combines existing technologies of the two companies and offers a 40 per cent economic saving over other technologies.
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Purification of olefinic streams for polymerisation units

D J Artrip, K Flick, R Meissner, H Wanjek, BASF AG

1997 / Q2

Improved PE/PP-polymerisation technology requires more feedstocks free of poisoning components.  Most of these can be removed catalytically.  A system of noble metal and copper catalysts makes it possible to take out components like acetylenes, dienes, As and S compounds, oxygen, CO and hydrogen.
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Propylene production frombutenes and ethylene

J A Chodorge, J Cosyns, D Commereuc, B Torck, Institut Francais de Petrole (IFP)

1997 / Q2

Naphtha cracker operators are looking for ways to increase propylene/ethylene production ratios without substantial ethylene production losses.  Metathesis of 2-butene with ethylene to increase propylene capacity may be the most cost effective solution while maintaining operating independence.
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Selective olefins recovery

Richard Barchas, Stone & Webster Engineering Corporation

1997 / Q2

To reduce the cost of recovering olefins, Stone & Webster and BP Chemicals have jointly developed a chemical absorption technology, commercially ready for recovering light olefins from vents from ethylene oxide and synthetic ethanol units, and from streams located within olefin plants.
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High performance catalyst for liquid phase EB technology

Frederick Narsolis, Guy Woodle, Gregory Gajda, UOP
Dinesh Gandhi, ABB Lummus Global Inc

1997 / Q3

The EBZ-500 catalyst has raised catalyst performance, achieving not only greater purity in the ethylbenzene produced and, consequently, in styrene monomer, but also in extended reactor runs and favourable investment costs.
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Reforming exchanger system in large-scale methanol plants

Robert V Schneider III and Girish Joshi, The M W Kellogg Co

1997 / Q3

By eliminating a tubular fired furnace, the Kellogg Reforming Exchanger System (KRES), used in the production of methanol, is proving to be profitable and energy efficient against conventional steam reforming.
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Contaminant purification with selective alumina adsorbents

Karl Lin, Alcoa Industrial Chemicals

1997 / Q3

Removal of trace contaminants in feed and intermediate streams associated with polyethylene and polypropylene processes is essential for trouble-free operations.  This article reviews these contaminants, together with the use of molecular sieves and aluminas in purification of various process streams.
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Amine unit cost element

Mike Zacher, BP Oil
Ed Wagner, Chevron
Duke Tunnel, Alternate Source
Bruce Kennedy, Petro-Canada
Lon Stern, Shell Oil
Bruce Scott, BSI

1997 / Q3

Two surveys were organised by the Amine Best Practices Group in order to build a database to compare the operating efficiency of different amine units.  This article reports the findings of the latest survey, which focused on the question of operating costs and some of the design features affecting them.
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Converting natural gas into liquid fuels

Mark A Agee, Syntroleum Corporation

1997 / Q3

A technology has been developed for converting uneconomically remote, sub-quality natural gas into synthetic liquid fuels, at plant capital costs low enough for its recovery to be financially worthwhile, based on current oil prices.
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Effects of feed compositions on acetylene hydrogenation catalyst

K James Sasaki, Phillips Petroleum Company

1997 / Q4

The preferred method of removing acetylene from ethylene and propylene in olefin polymerisation catalysts is by selective hydrogenation, and modern methods involve palladium catalysts.  An experiment to learn more about the acetylene removal process under different feed conditions is described here.

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Selective hydrogenation catalysts for olefin yields

Frank Mey, Hans-Dieter Neubauer, Rainer Schubert, KataLeuna GmbH Catalysts

1997 / Q4

Advanced Leuna-Catalysts for selective hydrogenation of acetylene, MAPD and C4-cuts have proved an appropriate tool for maximising olefin yields.  A new generation of ring-shaped catalysts for gas phase selective hydrogenation of acetylene and MAPD can increase converter capacity up to 140 per cent.

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Novel temperature controlled reactor technology

Steven T Arakawa, Robert C Mulvaney, Donald E Felch, UOP

1997 / Q4

Tubular reactors, used in many processes, have been limited in capacity and scope by practical and economic constraints.  A new technology to overcome many of these shortcomings has been developed.  This article addresses its advantages for both endothermic and exothermic reaction systems.

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Solvent recovery enhancers

Ray Colston, Glitsch Technology Corporation

1997 / Q4

High demand for teraphthalic acid (TPA) has raised interest in processes that improve performance and economics for both new and existing plants.  This article focusses on one section of the TPA plant - the solvent recovery system - and discusses a configuration applicable to existing and grassroots plants

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LNG plant operator training

Alex K C Tang and Grant Stephenson, Honeywell Hi-Spec Solutions

1997 / Q4

Advances in computer technology have made it possible for dynamic process simulation to be used in a wide range of applications.  This article describes the Trainer system and its use as a training simulator for LNG plant operators.

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Ethylene revamps using Advanced Recovery System

John Reid and Ken Bush, Stone & Webster Engineering Corporation

1998 / Q1

Advanced Recovery System technology has been widely adapted, with some 4 million tons a year of new ethylene capacity committed to it and 6 million tons of revamp capacity operating or being prepared.  This article examines results to date and highlights revamp projects in progress.
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Relative economics of mixed C4 processing routes

Stacia M Edwards, Stephen J Stanley, Margaret M Shreehan, ABB Lummus Global

1998 / Q1

Ethylene producers are seeking ways to upgrade the mixed C4 stream from ethylene plants to improve operating economics.  Various technologies have been commercialised, including butadiene extraction, MTBE, and several others that can be combined to produce or recover various C4 products.
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Two-chain characteristics of bimodal polymers

Jouni Takakarhu, Borealis Polymers Oy

1998 / Q1

The basis of Borstar polyethylene technology, which offers bimodal PE grades for many applications requiring combined strength and processability, is a proprietary catalyst and loop-gas phase reactor process, described in this article.
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Production of high purity MIBK

Stephan Wilde and Dieter Sommer, Edeleanu GmbH

1998 / Q2

Methyl-isobutyl-ketone (MIBK) is a widely used solvent in the medium pressure boiling range.  Over 30 years, the single-stage MIBK process, using acetone as a feedstock, has been developed to a state-of-the-art technology.  This article examines the process.
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Economic advancements in propane dehydrogenation

J H Gregor, J M Andersen, T D Foley, UOP

1998 / Q2

Developments of the Oleflex process for conversion of light paraffins into propylene has culminated in a second-generation C3 complex, commissioned last year, and units of 350 000 tonnes/year capacity are on the drawing board.
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Process for ultra-purification of paraxylene

Oskar Fischer and Bernhard J Jans, Sulzer Chemtech Ltd

1998 / Q2

A new crystallisation process for paraxylene, which is a parent material for PET, is based on Sulzer Chemtech's heat pump crystalliser technology, and features two crystallisers and a refrigeration plant.  Energy consumption and investment costs are claimed to be lower than with conventional systems.
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Improving para-xylene production economics

Robert A Lentz, UOP LLC
Douglas S Hubbel, Raytheon Engineers & Constructors

1998 / Q3

The authors describe how an alliance of three companies has brought together leading technologies from the para-xylene industry for the design, revamp or reconfiguration of para-xylene production facilities for increased profitability.
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Human factors engineering projects: Part I

Harrie J T Rensink and Martin E J van Uden, Shell Nederland Raffinaderij/Shell Nederland Chemie BV

1998 / Q3

Integrating a human factors engineering strategy in the early phases of preparations for a new project has been shown to produce significant financial and work-related benefits, not least in reduced capital expenditure.
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Gas phase polyethylene: process developments

David Newton, Jean-Claude Chinh, Michael Godfrey, John Steedman, BP Chemicals.

1998 / Q4

Since its discovery in 1933 the history of polyethylene (PE) has been one of continuous development in areas such as products, process and catalysis.  These developments continue today as new product applications are sought in an ever-growing marketplace.
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Integrating technologies for para-xylene production

Christian Dupraz, IFP Industrial Division
Maria D Farnos, Mobil Technology Company

1998 / Q4

Some of the new technologies associated with para-xylene production are discussed in this article, particularly developments that have overcome previous limitations to productive capacity.
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Improved process integration through hydrogen recovery

Petru Bozga, Emil Olanescu, Dinu Timpoc, SC Fibrex SA
Renzo Coletti, Gaetano Iaquaniello, Francesco Vinci, Kinetics Technology Int SpA

1998 / Q4

The authors describe the upgrading of a purge gas stream from an acetylene production unit to pure hydrogen and carbon dioxide.  Both products were routed back into the main process in the chemical complex, achieving a better process integration and reducing the amount of wastes generated.
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Upgrading kerosene to normal paraffins

Anne McPhee, UOP

2000 / Q1

A global shortage of n-paraffins, and the consequent rise in prices, presents an opportunity to refiners and petrochemical producers to add value to their kerosene by diversifying into normal paraffins, says the author.  The technology for doing so is illustrated by operating data.

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Monomer recovery in polyolefin plants

Marc L Jacobs, Douglas E Gottschlich, Richard W Baker, Membrane Technology & Research Inc (MTR)

2000 / Q1

This article outlines the application in polyolefin plants of a membrane based process, VaporSep, for separating and recovering hydrocarbons from nitrogen - in particular, the treatment of resin degassing vent streams.

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Economics of a world class methanol plant

Toshiyuki Mii and Kunio Hirotani, Toyo Engineering Corporation (TEC)

2000 / Q2

The authors describe the thinking and practical aspects behind building a 10000 tonnes/day methanol plant, employing the proven technologies already in use in commercial scale production.

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Simulation of the firebox of thermal cracking furnaces

M Sadrameli, Tarbiat Modares University

H A Zahmatkesh, Amirkabir Petrochemical Company

2000 / Q2

This article deals with the simulation of thermal cracking furnaces of olefin plants, in particular those of the Tabriz plant in Iran.

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For low cost chemicals and flexible power

John Griffiths and Nathan East, Jacobs Engineering UK Ltd

Gijs van Lammeren, UOP NV


2000 / Q3

Description of a means of using low-grade feedstock to supply both a competitively priced synthetic chemical and low cost and reliable peaking electricity, without the need to develop any new processes or equipment.

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The gas/ethylene plant: concept and integration

Greg E Ameringer, GECONCEPT Technology

2000 / Q3

A process has been developed to combine the cryogenic natural gas liquid plant, NGL fractionation plant and the ethylene plant into a single plant, with substantial savings in energy and an improved ethylene profit margin.

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Post reactor technology in phthalic anhydride plants

Hans-Jurgen Eberle Consortium fur Elektrochemische Industrie GmbH

Josef Breimair, Wacker  Chemie GmbH

Helmuth Domes and Thomas Gutermuth, Lurgi Oel Gas Chemie GmbH

2000 / Q3

The authors describe a post reactor process, downstream from the main reactor, for eliminating detrimental byproducts from the catalytic PA reactor.

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Fluidised bed propanne dehydrogenation

Roberto Trotta and Domenico Sanfilippo, Snamprogetti SpA

2001 / Q1

The authors foresee propane dehydrogenation playing a major part in meeting a shortage in the supply of propylene.  Fluidised bed dehydrogenation (FDB) offers an opportunity to make propylene supply independent of that of ethylene.

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Expanding the properties of polypropylene

Anton de Vries, Montell Technology - Europe

2001 / Q1

The author sees the future for polypropylene expanding as new materials, some of which are described here, rejuvenate existing applications and create new opportunities based on competition between materials and product differentiation.

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Richard H Nielsen, SRI Consulting

2001 / Q1

A review of the ways in which expanding plant capacity by means of revamps proves to be significantly less costly than building a grassroots plant which has an equivalent capacity.

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A reformer model for a petrochemicals complex

Hyun Chul Kim and Hae Sup Yoon, Samsung General Chemicals

Lee Turpin, Ajay Lakshmanan, Nam Soo Park, Aspen Technology

2001 / Q2

A recently built petrochemical complex has been working on a programme to predict the yield patterns for a variety of feeds and operations, using case studies to determine how actual performance compares with the plant's potential.

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Developing a process for the new century Developing a process for the new century

J Mark Houdek, Charles L Hemler, Rusty M Pittman, Larry L Upson, UOP LLC

2001 / Q2

With petrochemical product values and environmental pressures adding new demands to FCC technology and operations, a process has been developed which has been producing particularly high yields of light olefins and aromatics.

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Simulation of styrene monomer reactors

M Sadrameli and A Irankhah, Tarbiat Modares University

E Nateghi, Tabriz Petrochemical Plant

2001 / Q2

Agreement between the simulated and the experimental results in an exercise involving three reactors at a petrochemical plant established the accuracy of the proposed model and the simulation programme.
   

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Working with an extractive distillation process

 Gerd Emmrich, Helmut Gehrke, Uwe Ranke, Krupp Uhde GmbH

2001 / Q3

A cost comparison between progressive extractive distillation of aromatics versus a more conventional technology has shown there can be considerable savings in operating costs during the production of high purity benezene.

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Cost eeffective hydrogen from refinery offgases

Sanjiv Ratan and Paul Wentink, Technip Benelux

2001 / Q3

Efficient utilisation of refinery offgases can prove to be attractive for hydrogen production by employing hybrid or integrated systems.  But attention must be given to specific operational requirements to achieve flexibility and reliability.

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Metathesis: refinery and ethylene plant applications

Ronald M Venner and Stephen I Kantorowicz, ABB Lummus Global

2001 / Q3

With the demand for propylene now exceeding that for C4S, the authors see the integration of the metathesis process in FCC units and steam crackers as a low capital cost way of increasing propylene production and reducing the C4s product.

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Technology for redcucing para-xylene costs

Scott Ramsey, ExxonMobil Chemical

2001 / Q3

Recently introduced technologies are offering para-xylene producers the option of lowering production costs by reducing feedstock requirements and, says the author, enabling para-xylene production increases without hardware modifications.

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Catalysed revamp of older ethylbenzene plants

Sam E Knipling, Partec Resources Inc

2001 / Q4

There are options that operators of older plants should consider for maintaining high yields and quality while still avoiding byproduct generation and the capital cost of a new unit.

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A cost effective methanol to propylene route

Hans-dieter Holtmann and Martin Rothaemel, Lurgi Oel Gas Chemie GmbH

2001 / Q4

A detailed review of a proprietary technology that reduces methanol production costs wherever low cost natural gas is available.  With rising oil prices, low cost methanol is seen as a profitable feedstock for conventional petrochemical processes.

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Simulation of furnace run length

J Towfighi, M Sadramel, A Niaei, Chemical Engineering Department, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran

2001 / Q4

Decoking means a loss in production capacity, so assessment of coke formation is vital, along with the need to predict a furnace's run time.  This article describes a simulation network for the prediction of radical reactions and firebox calculations.

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Improved operating margins with ethylene recovery

T R Tomlinson, Costain Oil, Gas & Process Ltd

2002 / Q2

An overview of ethylene recovery and processing, outlining low temperature/cryogenic processes for recovery of ethylene from refinery offgases and from polyethylene plants offgas streams, and the purification of recovered ethylene.

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Implenting non-linear model predictive control

Tim Wilmarth, Chevron Phillips Chemical Co

Rik Wuyts, John Crosby, Randy Wagler, Honeywell Hi-Spec Solutions
Jeff Renfro, John Goodman, Dot Products

2002 / Q2

An account of the thinking that went into a project for optimising the controls on a polyethylene production line and the benefits that resulted, including higher plant capacity, reduced transition times and improved product quality control.

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Column design using mass transfer rate simulation

Ralph H Weiland and John C Dingman, Optimized Gas Treating Inc

2002 / Q2

This article looks at examples of commercial columns used in CO2 removal and selective H2S treating, comparing performance test data to demonstrate benefits of modelling actual column internals using mass transfer rate process simulation.

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Improved steam cracker furnace efficiency

Joel Magnan, Kubota Metal Corporation

Kaoru Hamada and Kenji Otsubo, Kubota Corporation

Elizabeth Sohn, Technip USA Corporation

2002 / Q3

A description of the use of high heat transfer mixing element radiant tubes for reducing coking rates and increasing run lengths, and for improving thermal efficiency.  Such tubes are proving to be more beneficial than finned tubes.

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Improving hydrogen plant performance: Part I

P V Broadhurst and P E J Abbott, Synetix

2002 / Q3

A reliable and cost effective asset management strategy can increase hydrogen plant throughout as well as optimise operating conditions and energy efficiency.  This article looks at the way current operations may be optimised.

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Submerged quench incineration

Olavo C Leite, Thermica Technologies

2002 / Q3

Severe regulatory pressures in the processing industry require more effective measures to destroy pollutants beyond ordinary water treatment methods.

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Improving hydrogen plant performance: Part II

P V Broadhurst and P E J Abbott, Synetix

2002 / Q4

Optimisation of operating conditions requires an in-depth study of the hydrogen plant, say the authors.  They consider the optimisation of catalyst and absorbent to maximise hydrogen output beyond the capabilities of operations strategies.

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Choosing a selectiv hydrogenation system

Ronald G McClung and Steve Novalany, Engelhard Corporation

2002 / Q4

Data has shown the effectiveness of palladium catalyst for the removal of diolefins and acetylenes in steam cracking as well as catalytic cracking operations.  In the interpretation of pilot plant test results, however, caution should be used.

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Recovering energy and acid from hydrocarbons

Olavo C Leite, Thermica Technologies

2002 / Q4

How fully automated thermal oxidiser units containing energy and byproduct recovery systems are able to resolve operational concerns over organic wastes, and can be the most economic way to dispose of chlorinated hydrocarbon residues.

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Advances in naphtha steam cracking

Tony Pavone, SRI Consulting

2006 / Q1

A review of technology developments being incorporated in state-of-the-art naphtha steam crackers.  Incremental upgrades to improve safety, environmental performance, manufacturing excellence and profitability to existing steam crackers are discussed.

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Measuring volumetric flow

Keven Conrad, Endress & Hauser Inc

Joel Clancy, CEESI Iowa High Flow Test Facility

2006 / Q1

The extended application of Coriolis meters for measuring natural gas minimises the uncertainties associated with volumetric flow measurement.  Installation requirements and overall cost can also be simplified and reduced.

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Refinery CO2 challenges: part II

Joris Mertens, KBC Process Technology Ltd

2006 / Q2

CO2 emissions and hydrogen production costs in hydrogen plants.  Understanding how the impact of unit configuration, operation conditions, feed type, fuel costs and other cost factors set the cost of hydrogen production.

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Applying ultra-low-NOx burners

Simon Barendregt, Iek Risseeuw and Frank Waterreus, Technip Benelux

2006 / Q2

Application of computational fluid dynamics in the design of a high-flux ethylene furnace equipped with ultra-low NOx vortex burners.  The fundamental kinetics mechanisms that are important in NOx formation under combustion are described.        

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Catalytic cracking process enhances production of olefins

 Dalip Soni and M Rama Rao, Lummus Technology

G Saidulu, D Bhattacharyya and V K Satheesh, Indian Oil Corporation

2009 / Q4

 A FCC technology and catalyst formulation selectively crack a wide range of feeds, including residue, to yield high quantities of light olefins.

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FCC gasoline and C4 streams for BTX production

 Joseph Gentry and Weihua Jin, GTC Technology

2009 / Q4

An extractive distillation process provides direct recovery of aromatics from FCC gasoline to rebalance refinery production towards higher levels of petrochemicals.

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Separation in ethylene plants

Lee Siang Hua and Yang Quan, Sulzer Chemtech

2010 / Q4

Separation technology is not complex, but separators deliver a range of benefits in ethylene cracking.

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Natural gas fuels the integration of refining and petrochemicals

Tanmay Taraphdar, Praveen Yadav and M K E Prasad, Technip KT India

2012 / Q3

Maximising the use of natural gas in a refinery-petrochemicals complex offers higher margins and lower carbon emissions
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