naphthenic acids in lube plants

[25362]

I'm speaking of corrosion by naphthenic acidity in furfural lube extraction plants. Can anybody tell me what procedures, other than upgrading metallurgy in the solvent recovery circuit on the extract side, and trying to reduce the TAN values of the VGOs treated,is recommended ? Russian type crudes have this acidity in ther VGOs sometimes with TAN values higher than 0.6 mg KOH/g.

Are any filming inhibitors or neutralizers been used ?

Thanks for your attention.

 

[Keithbowers]

The licensors of this process have full familiarity with this type of corrosion. Furfural extraction is used in the manufacture of high quality naphthenic lubes, and naphthenic acid corrosion conditions can be expected at high enough temperatures. Alloy cladding and solid alloy internals in those sections is imperative

Neutralizing the acid is very difficult without also causing the furfural to decompose.

Shell, Exxon, Bechtel, Edeleanu, IFP all should be able to assist you. Bechtel Houston Mgr of Lube Technology Bob Earhart,(713 235 5400), may be able to assist you easily

 

[25362]

Keithbowers, thanks a lot. Until now I was convinced that naphthenic acidity appears also, and sometimes more so, with paraffinic mix-base crudes. I'll follow your advice.