Analysis Options for Ethylene Production (Click on the title to view the complete article)

Ethylene and its derivatives are in high demand and low natural gas costs in the US are driving expansion and grass roots facilities
• There are a variety of options and factors to consider when developing a plan for control and efficient operation
– Most effective combustion control scheme - TDL or zirconia ? Combination of both ?
– Fuel gas BTU and composition are important
– Location of the combustion analyzer is very important
– Radiant and convection section measurements are possible
– Remote extractive installation is an option to consider
– Environmental concerns such as flare combustion efficiency / steam assist require fast speed of response and speciation
– Total Cost of Ownership needs to be evaluated for each installation

Paramagnetic Oxygen Measurement

Oxygen is unique. It is strongly attracted into a magnetic field. It is described as being “ paramagnetic ”.

Performance

• Fast response

• Exceptional linearity and repeatability

• High stability & accuracy

Economics

• Long operational life

• Extractive sample system required

• Simple validation / calibration

Combustion Control: O2 Measurement Detecting air rich conditions using  Zirconium oxide (zirconia) based techniques

Performance

• Fast response

• Unaffected by background gases

• Sample at hot / wet conditions

Economics

• Very acceptable operational life

• Low maintenance requirements

• Simple validation / calibration

 TDL (Tuneable Diode Laser) Provides:

Performance

• Fast response

• In-situ measurement at process conditions

• Temperature and moisture measurement possible

Economics

• Long operational life

• Low maintenance requirements

• Inferred validation

Tuneable Filter Spectroscopy Technology Provides

Performance

• Fast response

• C1-C5 speciation

Economics

• Long operational life

• No utilities needed – no carrier gases :