Why the W-shaped furnace tubes in the gas furnace of the S&W ethylene process
Thread Content
Dear ethylene experts, in recent years regarding SW ethylene cracking furnace tubes of the U-type and W-type designs, I don’t understand why U-type tubes are generally used in liquid-fueled furnaces while W-type tubes are used in gas-fueled furnaces. I would appreciate your guidance
My simple understanding is that liquids plus tubes can reduce the risk of blockages, making cleaning easier. This structure of the gas W-tube can ensure the continuous flow of gas, right?
A longer residence time in the W shape can increase the degree of cracking. Ethane has a lower tendency to coking compared to other feedstocks, so it can be allowed to stay for a slightly longer time to improve the ethylene yield.