Single Vessel Thiol Oxidation and Separation Process
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sulfur removal processes require multiple vessels and increased plot space due to the need for separate steps to oxidize thiol compounds and separate oil and air by-products, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A process that oxidizes thiol compounds within an alkaline stream and separates the oil by-product and excess air in a single vessel using a mixed stream with an oxidation section, a dividing wall, and a separation section equipped with packing elements and scrubbing features, allowing for simultaneous oxidation and separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate vessels are used for oxidation and separation steps, then the oxidation and separation functions can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the plot space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the oxidation section and separation section into a single vessel. The oxidation section converts mercaptans to disulfides, while the separation section simultaneously separates the resulting oil phase from the aqueous phase. This integration eliminates the need for multiple separate vessels, reducing plot space requirements while maintaining both oxidation and separation functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single vessel is designed to perform multiple functions: oxidation of mercaptans to disulfides, separation of oil and aqueous phases, and potential further contact with hydrocarbon for additional disulfide removal. This multi-functional design consolidates what would traditionally require multiple dedicated vessels into one universal apparatus.
2Reliability
If multiple separate vessels are used for oxidation and separation steps, then each step can be optimized independently, but the device complexity and number of vessels increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the oxidation and separation processes into a single integrated vessel with distinct sections. The oxidation section contains catalyst for mercaptan conversion, while the separation section provides phase separation. This combination reduces the number of vessels from multiple to one, simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining process optimization through section-specific design.
3Area of stationary object
If a single vessel is used for both oxidation and separation, then the plot space and device complexity are reduced, but the vessel must perform multiple functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The single vessel is segmented into distinct functional sections: an oxidation section with catalyst for mercaptan conversion, and a separation section for phase separation. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized for its specific function while being contained within a single vessel, managing the complexity through internal division rather than external multiplication of vessels.
Solution Approach 2:
The vessel is designed as a multi-functional unit that performs oxidation, phase separation, and potentially further hydrocarbon contact all within one apparatus. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single vessel, reducing plot space while managing functional complexity through integrated design.
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 process reduces the number of vessels and plot space requirements by enabling the oxidation and separation of thiol compounds and their by-products within a single apparatus, improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The mercaptides in the caustic may be converted in the presence of oxygen to disulfides in an oxidizer
Implementation Method 2
all sections comprise one or more packing elements
Implementation Method 3
the spent air passes through mesh, and then through an extended disengaging space, which functions as the vent tank
Data Source
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AI summary
One exemplary embodiment can be a process for oxidizing one or more thiol compounds from an alkaline stream. The process may include passing a mixed stream having the alkaline stream to a vessel having an oxidation section, a separation section and a vent gas section. Often, the oxidation section includes a body containing one or more packing elements. The process can further include passing an oxidized alkaline stream to the separation section containing a first chamber and a second chamber. Usually, the first chamber contains a coated mesh and packing. The two sections further form a neck contains a packing, a distributor, and a mesh.