Withstanding Corrosive Attack Of Dissolved Hydrofluoric Acid In HF-Catalyzed Alkylation

A Tranter MAXCHANGER Mini-Welded Plate Heat Exchanger made completely of Monel 400 alloy, can withstand the corrosive attack of caustic and traces of HF as a caustic heater in HF-catalyzed alkylation.

Challenge

Reduce frequency of downtime resulting from failure of both heat exchanger channels in caustic solution heater.
Improve safety for nearby personnel and equipment.
Reduce steam consumption, conserve space.

Solution

A Tranter MAXCHANGER Mini-Welded Plate Heat Exchanger with Monel 400 alloy plates to replace the existing 10-ft-long (3-m) carbon steel shell & tube exchanger.

Results

Saved space–length only one-third the length of the original shell and tube heat exchanger.
Reduced size and weight also reduced the materials cost of the high alloy exchanger.
Corrosion and leakage problems ceased.

Case History on Tranter MAXCHANGER Mini-Welded Plate Heat Exchanger lengthening service life as a caustic solution heater in HF-catalyzed alkylation Download The PDF