【Q&A Question 010】2017.01.10
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【Q&A Question 010】January 10, 2017: Why is it necessary to measure the reactor differential pressure? What is its meaning? The reference answers will be visible after responding; points are awarded by identifying the key points. (Unless otherwise specified, all questions and answers are based on hydrogenation units.) ) To understand the conditions of coking, carbon deposition, scaling, and impurity blockage within the catalyst bed, it is necessary to measure the pressure difference at the inlet and outlet of the reactor bed as well as between the upper and lower layers of the bed. This allows for a rational analysis of the reasons, and enables the implementation of measures to control and manage the startup cycle of the device. 2017 Q&A Summary Thread (updates have started) http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1657793-1-1.html 2017 Daily Question Summary Thread (updates have started) http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1657794-1-1.html 2016 Q&A Summary Thread (updates completed) http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1597792-1-1.html Xinchang Cup – 2016 Haichuan Top 10 Selection – Please recommend candidates http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1654112-1-1.html Third Round of Haichuan Outstanding Management Members Selection http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1655902-1-1.html (Source: Haichuan Chemical Industry Forum)
Checking the differential pressure is essential to ensure normal production. An increase in feed volume, changes in the composition of the feed, coking of the catalyst inside the reactor due to water content, or blockages in the liquid collectors at the reactor inlet or outlet, as well as issues with flow at the compressor inlet, can all lead to an increase in pressure drop.
During production, impurities in the raw materials will adsorb onto the catalyst, so it is necessary to monitor the pressure difference. Long-term operation can affect the reaction; shutdown and head dumping are required when the pressure difference reaches 0.3 MP.
Under high pressure differences, the catalyst is subjected to tremendous stress, which can lead to its fragmentation. The structural integrity of the reactor is also put to strain, and large pressure differences at the inlet and outlet of the recycle hydrogen compressor can cause equipment damage, increasing energy consumption
The pressure difference can reflect the quality of catalyst packing, effectively indicating the degree of coking and salination of the catalyst, and providing guidance for catalyst replacement as well as regarding catalyst activity
The reactor differential pressure mainly reflects the condition of the catalyst bed; if this differential pressure increases, there may be a problem with the bed
To facilitate the monitoring of the reactor pressure drop and the degree of coking in the reaction bed, so that appropriate measures can be taken in a timely manner to ensure the long-term operation of the plant
The purpose of measuring the pressure difference in the reactor is to detect the pressure drop of the catalyst inside it; if this pressure difference is too high, it indicates severe coking of the catalyst, which requires either draining the catalyst or replacing it
A large pressure difference indicates issues such as blockages, and maintenance is required
To keep track of the degree of coking, scaling, and blockage in the reactor bed at all times, it is necessary to measure the pressure difference between the reactor inlet and outlet as well as between the upper and lower beds. This allows for proper analysis of the causes, the implementation of appropriate measures, and an understanding of the device’s operating cycle, as well as determining whether catalyst regeneration is required.