This paper describes a systematic approach that is used to diagnose and mitigate corrosion problems in hydroprocessing unit reactor effluent air cooler systems. The methodology is based on an extensive evaluation of hydroprocessing water wash best practices and addresses both design and operational issues by using state-of-the-art process engineering and corrosion prediction models. The goal is to develop cost-effective and robust solutions to reliability problems in reactor effluent air coolers and associated piping. The paper provides examples where this knowledge and methodology have been applied effectively to a variety of hydroprocessing units around the world.
Keywords: ammonium bisulfide, NH4HS, water wash, reactor effluent air cooler, REAC, hydroprocessing unit, best practices, reliability, risk