Overview of a NOx Wash of the Cryogenic Section of An Ethylene Plant

Recent industry experience has reinforced the potential hazard associated with NOx in the cryogenic section of an ethylene plant.  This paper provides an overview of a recent NOx wash performed by Saudi Yanbu Petrochemical Company (Yanpet), a SABIC Affiliate.  The paper discusses the justification for doing the wash, the work planning process / considerations, an overview of the wash procedure, the wash results, and overall learning.  The wash provided plant data to support our management plan to mitigate the NOx hazard.