Alkylation

Detect alkylation unit problems before they escalate into HSE incidents.

Alkylation, the conversion of isobutene and alkenes (primarily propene and butane) into a gasoline component, requires precise control of the catalyst, Sulfuric Acid Alkylation Unit (SAAU or Hydrofluoric Acid Alkylation Unit(HFAU.

Fluid catalytic cracking is a critical conversion process dependent on accurate flow rate and pressure control for the production of the desired gasoline octane rating, alkene gases, and other products. Process equipment constructed of durable material for corrosive conditions are paramount to ensuring safety and environmental criteria are met.

Emerson control valve technologies deliver the precision accuracy and reliability that ensures safe and optimal performance of the alkylation unit.

In an alkylation unit, tight process control is required to maintain temperature, acid strength and isobutane concentration. If the temperature drops too low, sulfuric acid will become viscous and will inhibit the complete mixing of acids and olefins. If the temperature is too high, compounds other than isoheptane and isooctane will be formed, decreasing the overall alkylate quality.

The design and superior performance of Monel® constructed Fisher^TM control valves equipped with ENVIRO-SEAL™ packing systems for alkylation unit applications help prevent the accidental leakage of hydrofluoric or sulfuric acid, while providing the precision control required too maintain temperature, acid stregth and desired isobutane concentration.