Reactor Solvent Circulation for Faster Polymer Fouling Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for cleaning oligomerization reactors of ethylene are inefficient, leading to prolonged reactor downtime, increased cleaning costs, and reduced production due to the accumulation of polymer fouling.
Innovation Solution
A reactor cleaning method involving the pressurization of a washing solvent container to 5 kg/cm2·g to 40 kg/cm2·g, supplying the washing solvent stream to the lower or side portions of the reactor, and circulating the solvent while maintaining the reactor temperature between 115° C. and 200° C.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional washing methods are used to clean polymer accumulation in the reactor, then the reactor can be cleaned, but the washing rate is low and downtime is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the washing solvent circulation temperature (maintaining reactor temperature between 115-200°C) and pressure (5-40 kg/cm²·g) to enhance the washing rate. By controlling these parameters, the polymer accumulation is removed more efficiently, improving productivity while reducing the time the reactor remains non-operational.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional washing methods are used, then cleaning can be performed, but cleaning costs increase due to prolonged downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous circulation of the washing solvent between the washing solvent container and the reactor. This continuous action ensures that the washing process operates efficiently without interruption, improving cleaning efficiency while minimizing the total time required for the cleaning operation, thereby reducing associated costs.
3Productivity
If polymer accumulation is not removed, then the reactor can continue operating, but reaction stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary cleaning action by circulating the washing solvent to remove polymer accumulation before it significantly impacts reaction stability. This preventive maintenance approach allows the reactor to return to stable operation more quickly, maintaining both productivity and reliability by addressing fouling before it causes major performance degradation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method significantly improves the washing rate of the reactor, reduces downtime, lowers cleaning costs, and enhances reaction stability by effectively removing polymer accumulations.
Implementation Method 1
circulating a washing solvent stream between the washing solvent container and the reactor
Implementation Method 2
pressurizing a washing solvent container to 5 kg/cm2·g to 40 kg/cm2·g using pressurized gas
Implementation Method 3
maintaining a temperature of the reactor at 115° C. to 200° C.
Data Source
AI summary
A reactor cleaning method includes pressurizing a washing solvent container to 5 kg/cm2·g to 40 kg/cm2·g using pressurized gas; supplying a washing solvent stream from the washing solvent container to one or more of a lower portion or a side portion of the reactor to fill an inside of the reactor; and circulating the washing solvent stream between the washing solvent container and the reactor while maintaining a temperature of the reactor at 115° C. to 200° C.