On the hazards of methanol in acidic gas streams and treatment measures
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This post was last edited by liaifeng on 2018-8-18 at 10:03. Friends in the coal chemical industry often encounter such situations: acidic gases contain methanol. What are the main hazards this poses for sulfur recovery? Do any of you have good experiences to share regarding adjustments (handling)?
Methanol present in the acidic gas stream, when it enters the sulfur recovery system, can cause pressure fluctuations in the system. The existing air supply to the combustion furnace is insufficient, which leads to a decrease in the conversion rate of hydrogen sulfide; this can even result in blackening of the liquid sulfur. Subsequently, this affects the activity of the Claus catalyst and the hydrodesulfurization catalysts in the subsequent systems.
For the problems caused by the upstream section, it is recommended that they be resolved by the upstream units; of course, it is also possible to resolve them using the sulfur processing units. Acidic gas contains methanol, and the solution to this issue is relatively simple: methanol is soluble in water, so washing with water can resolve the problem of methanol in acidic gas. However, it is important to ensure that addressing the methanol issue does not lead to new problems related to water.
You’re welcome; feel free to communicate more if you encounter any problems.