One Question per Day, October 10, 2015
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What is the method of heating at the inlet of the Claus reactor in each unit? Based on the actual operational experience of this device, could we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the high-temperature mixing valve method and the superheated steam heating method?
First rotation for high-temperature mixing, second rotation for heat exchange with the outlet of the first rotation. Mixing valves are relatively simple and flexible, but the lifespan of their valve cores is an issue; our mixing valves seem to have improved a bit over the past few years. I have never used steam heating, so I’m not qualified to comment.
The process gas at the inlet of the Klaus reactor is heated online using a heater, a steam heater, or a mixing heating valve – the heating method varying depending on the process
Both the check valve and steam have been used. Small devices often use combined valves, with a simple process flow. However, the participation valve tends to fail over time, having a significant impact on the reactor. Moreover, the participation valve has an impact on the conversion rate. Steam heating is generally used in larger installations, typically with medium-pressure saturated steam, and there are restrictions on the temperature at the reactor inlet. However, there have also been those that have involved superheated steam. Heat exchangers need to be added, which takes up space. Energy consumption might be a bit higher
The use of a mixing valve in the secondary reactor may result in high levels of organic sulfur in the exhaust gases.
What type of high-temperature bypass valve? Diamond glass and internally cooled high-temperature mixing valves significantly extend their service life. However, the former is more expensive.
Has there been an assessment? The secondary reactor conversion rate is slightly reduced due to the mixing valve; can the hydrogenation reactor fully compensate for this?
It is said that perhaps the low reaction temperature of current low-temperature hydrogenation catalysts results in a less effective hydrolysis of organic sulfur compared to before
The mixing valve has been used. Because the device is small, it works okay; perhaps due to the short operating time, it does have an impact on the conversion rate
What is the impact on the conversion rate? How was it evaluated? What is the scale of the installation, and what type is the high-temperature mixing valve? What is the usage cycle?
Our primary and secondary reactors both use mixing valves, which works fine, but the mixing valves wear out quite quickly. I’ve never used superheated steam, so it’s hard to say