Ethylene furnace analyzer sampling - improving control

This article discusses the fact that for many years within ethylene plants, analysis of cracked gas has been a key function in the control loop. There has been significant improvement in gas chromatograph performance, the introduction of high-speed process mass spectrometers and enhanced distributed control systems. The sampler design however, has remained unchanged. By improving the sampler heat exchanger and temperature control system to minimize fluctuations in composition, significant improvements can be made in the overall furnace control scheme. An updated and improved pyrolisis gas sampler design fulfills the needs of modern control systems and can lead to substantial feedback.