(32f) Compact Heat Exchange Reactors for Plant Improvements

Many chemical processes are operating in reactors that are a compromise between productivity and control of the reaction. Consequently the reaction rate can be limited by the mixing or heat transfer capability of the reactor, rather than the actual reaction kinetics. This compromise results in equipment that is larger than it needs to be and also has decreased operating efficiency. Heat transfer limitation particularly results in work-around solutions such as using an excess of solvent as a heat sink, or having multiple reaction stages with inter-cooling. Equipment for enhanced heat transfer is available in the form of compact heat exchange reactors which are used to improve chemical processes using the philosophy of Process Intensification. Techniques used for identifying when compact heat exchange reactors can be applied to chemical processes will be presented, along with examples of potential and actual applications.