Maximum Single Train Ethylene Capacity

In its introduction the paper will cover the historical trends in ethylene plant capacity increases and discuss the economic incentives for the larger capacity units. It will then evaluate the current day maximum single train capacity. To do so the paper will cover equipment size limitations based on vendor provided data and in house data for both demonstrated capacity values and design-criteria limited, projected capacity values. It will also examine the impact of modifying process conditions on these equipment limitations. The paper will then consider other factors including construction and equipment erection limitations and will also address pre-commissioning concerns associated with large equipment and large piping systems. Flare limitations systems will also be addressed. Using all of the above considerations the paper will provide an assessment of the maximum single train ethylene capacity for both gas and liquid feeds.