Isomerization of n-butane and R600A separation technology

Product manufacturing process description

After the raw material enters the unit, it is divided into the E-106 heat exchange with the recombination, and then enters through the upper part of the light component column (T-101). Light components, mainly C3 and some isobutane, are separated from the top of the light component removal column (T-101). The light components are cooled by E-102 condensation to 40℃ and enter the reflux tank of the light component column (V-101). The light components at the bottom of the tank enter the backflow pump (P-102A/B) and return all the way to the top of the backflow tower as the top of the column, and send out the device all the way. E-101 serves as the bottom reboiler of the light component column, and the heat source is steam.

Prevailing operating conditions

FAQ

1. What is the purpose of the n-butane isomerization process?

Answer: It converts straight-chain n-butane into branched-chain isobutane, which is the primary component of the R600a refrigerant.

2. What is the key function of the R600a separation unit?

Answer: This unit isolates and purifies the produced isobutane (R600a) from the isomerization reactor effluent, removing unreacted n-butane, light gases, and other impurities.

3. What is the main feedstock for producing R600a via isomerization?

Answer: The primary feedstock is n-butane, typically sourced from natural gas liquids (NGL) or refinery streams.

4. Why is high-purity isobutane (R600a) important?

Answer: High purity R600a is essential for meeting refrigerant specifications, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and safety in refrigeration systems.

5. What are critical control points in the isomerization reactor?

Answer: Precise control of temperature, pressure, catalyst activity, and residence time is crucial for maximizing isobutane yield and selectivity.

6. How are unreacted n-butane and light ends typically handled?

Answer: Unreacted n-butane is usually recycled back to the isomerization reactor feed, while light ends (like propane) are separated and sent to other units or fuel gas.

7. What safety considerations are paramount in R600a separation?

Answer: Strict adherence to protocols for handling flammable hydrocarbons (n-butane, isobutane), proper equipment design for pressure containment, leak detection, ventilation, and preventing ignition sources are critical due to the highly flammable nature of these compounds.