Steam Cracking Coil Carburization Modeling for Lifetime Prediction

The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a carburization model before the coil reaches critical degradation. The model predicts future carburization depth and mechanical property degradation, enabling proactive maintenance scheduling that prevents catastrophic failure while maximizing coil utilization. The model is determined in advance using reference data and can be used to plan replacement timing optimally.

The patent replaces physical examination of coil carburization with a computational model. Instead of mechanically inspecting or destructively testing the coils to assess carburization depth and mechanical properties, the system uses a mathematical model that calculates these parameters based on operating conditions and time, substituting mechanical inspection with computational prediction.

The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring actual coil operating conditions (temperature, pressure, gas composition) and comparing them against the carburization model predictions. This feedback loop allows the system to adjust replacement timing based on actual coil degradation rates rather than following a rigid schedule, optimizing the balance between safety and minimizing downtime.

The patent applies parameter changes by using the carburization model to dynamically determine replacement timing based on predicted mechanical property degradation. Instead of using fixed time intervals, the system calculates optimal replacement points based on when the model predicts mechanical properties will fall below acceptable thresholds, allowing flexible adjustment of the replacement parameter (time) based on actual coil performance and conditions.

The patent applies copying by creating a virtual model of the coil's carburization state through mathematical calculation rather than physical measurement. The carburization model computes the depth and distribution of carburization based on operating parameters, creating a digital copy of the coil's internal state without physically touching or damaging the actual coil, thus preserving its integrity while achieving measurement objectives.

The patent replaces mechanical or physical examination methods with a computational approach. Instead of using techniques that physically probe or section the coil to measure carburization depth, the system substitutes these mechanical methods with mathematical modeling that predicts carburization based on thermodynamic and kinetic principles, eliminating the need for destructive physical measurement.