Oxidation of external tube surfaces is responsible for metal loss at around 0.25 mm/yr, which limits tube life.
Oxidation of external tube surfaces is responsible for metal loss at around 0.25 mm/yr, which limits tube life. Scale growth produces an insulating layer that restricts conductive heat transfer to the process fluid and eventually limits production. Moreover, severe scaling also prevents accurate onstream monitoring of tube skin temperatures, using infrared (IR) thermography.
The application of proprietary high-emissivity ceramic coatingsa stopped oxidation in an aromatics plant. The units are no longer limited and are running at design capacity or above. Payback from the investment was within 6 mos.
Oxidation and scale growth of radiant tubes
Following a detailed root cause analysis, it w
Log in to view this article.
Not Yet A Subscriber? Here are Your Options.
1) Start a FREE TRIAL SUBSCRIPTION and gain access to all articles in the current issue of Hydrocarbon Processing magazine.
2) SUBSCRIBE to Hydrocarbon Processing magazine in print or digital format and gain ACCESS to the current issue as well as to 3 articles from the HP archives per month. $409 for an annual subscription*.
3) Start a FULL ACCESS PLAN SUBSCRIPTION and regain ACCESS to this article, the current issue, all past issues in the HP Archive, the HP Process Handbooks, HP Market Data, and more. $1,995 for an annual subscription. For information about group rates or multi-year terms, contact email Peter Ramsay or call +44 20 3409 2240*.
*Access will be granted the next business day.