Silane Deposit Inhibitor Coating for Steam Generator Anti-Coking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing organic deposits in thermal recovery systems, such as steam generators and evaporators, are either hazardous, ineffective, or require time-consuming mechanical cleaning, leading to reduced system efficiency and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning composition comprising an alkoxylated polymer, an alkoxy alcohol, and an aromatic solvent is used to contact the affected surfaces, effectively removing or inhibiting organic deposits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chemical treatment programs are used to minimize deposits in evaporators, then deposit formation is reduced, but deposits still occur over time requiring cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-treating the heat transfer surfaces with a silane-based coating before organic deposits can form. This preventive coating creates a barrier that reduces the tendency of organics to adhere to surfaces, thereby extending the time between cleanings while maintaining reliable deposit resistance throughout operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The silane coating acts as an intermediary layer between the heat transfer surface and organic deposits. This intermediate barrier prevents direct contact and adhesion between organics and the metal surface, effectively reducing deposit formation without requiring frequent mechanical cleaning interventions.
2Ease of manufacture
If mechanical cleaning is performed to remove tenacious deposits, then cleaning effectiveness is achieved, but production time is lost and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By applying the silane coating in advance, the patent prevents tenacious deposit formation that would require mechanical cleaning. The preliminary protective action maintains cleaning effectiveness over extended periods while avoiding production interruptions associated with mechanical cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical cleaning systems with a chemical coating approach. Instead of using mechanical means to remove deposits, a silane-based chemical coating is applied to create a non-stick surface, substituting mechanical intervention with a chemical preventive measure that maintains productivity.
3Ease of operation
If conventional cleaning chemistries are used to remove deposits, then some cleaning is achieved, but hazardous conditions are created for equipment and personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The silane coating serves as an intermediary protective layer that prevents direct interaction between cleaning chemistries and equipment surfaces. This intermediary barrier enables the use of milder, safer cleaning agents that are less hazardous to personnel and equipment while still achieving effective cleaning when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the cleaning system by introducing silane-based coatings with specific functional groups that provide cleaning and protective capabilities. This parameter change allows for the use of less hazardous cleaning chemistries while maintaining or improving cleaning effectiveness, thereby reducing safety hazards.
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
The cleaning composition provides quicker and safer cleaning, reducing the need for mechanical cleaning and maintaining system efficiency by preventing organic deposition.
Implementation Method 1
hydrolytically stable silane deposit inhibitor
Implementation Method 2
silane deposit inhibitor...forming a protective coating
Implementation Method 3
contacting a cleaning composition with a surface...effectively removing or inhibiting organic deposits
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention generally relates to methods for removing an organic deposit or for inhibiting deposition of deposit-forming comprising contacting a cleaning composition or an anti-coking composition with a surface. The surface can have an organic deposit or be susceptible to forming an organic deposit and the surface can be in contact with a liquid containing organics. The liquid can be produced from a thermal recovery system, and the surface can be an internal surface of a piece of steam-generating or vapor-generating equipment.