Citation:
G.-Y. Gao, M. Wang, C. Ramshaw, X.-G. Li, H. Yeung, Optimal operation of tubular
reactors for naphtha cracking by numerical simulation, Asia-Pacific Journal of
Chemical Engineering, 2009, volume 4, issue 6, pp885-892
Abstract:
Process gas temperature profile and steam-to-hydrocarbon ratio in the feed have
important impact on product yields and coking rate in tubular reactors for
naphtha cracking. This study is to evaluate these effects quantitatively based
on numerical simulation. Steady-state operation of the tubular reactor in an
industrial thermal cracking furnace was first simulated in HYSYS with a
molecular reaction scheme. Various case studies then investigate the influence
of process gas temperature profile and inlet steam-to-hydrocarbon ratio so that
the ethylene/propylene product yields and coking rate can be evaluated. Finally,
steady-state optimization was applied to the operation of this industrial
furnace. The optimal process temperature profile and the optimal inlet steam-to-
naphtha ratio were found to maximize the operation profit. This study will
provide significant guidance to process engineers in the ethylene industry.
