Modeling and Optimization of Ethane Steam Cracking Process in An Industrial Tubular Reactor with Improved Reaction Scheme

Ethane steam cracking process in an industrial reactor was investigated.An one-demsional(1D)steady-state model was developed firstly by using an improved molecular reaction scheme and was then simulated in Aspen Plus.A comparison of model results with industrial data and previously reported results showed that the model can predict the process kinetics more accurately.In addition,the validated model was used to study the effects of different process variables,including coil outlet temperature(COT),steam-to-ethane ratio and residence time on ethane conversion,ethylene selectivity,products yields,and coking rate.Finally,steady-state optimization was conducted to the operation of industrial reactor.The COT and steam-to-ethane ratio were taken as decision variables to maximize the annual operational profit.