Ethylene refining involves the production and processing of ethylene. Ethylene is an important basic raw material for organic chemicals and is mainly used in the production of polyethylene, ethylene-propylene rubber, polyvinyl chloride, etc.1 In the refining process, ethylene is usually produced using the tube furnace steam cracking process, which is the method currently used for about 98% of the world’s ethylene production. In addition, there are other ethylene production technologies such as coal (methanol) to olefin.
The core equipment used in the ethylene refining process includes steam crackers, separation towers, coolers, compressors and storage tanks. Steam crackers are used to break down ethane into ethylene and other by-products at high temperatures and pressures; separation towers are used to separate ethylene and other olefins from the gas mixture; coolers are used to cool and collect the ethylene; compressors are used to compress the ethylene gas into a liquid state; and tanks are used to safely store the ethylene.
Ethylene refining is a complex and delicate process that requires highly specialized equipment and technical support. At the same time, due to the flammable and explosive nature of ethylene, the entire production process must adhere to strict safety regulations to ensure the safety of people and the environment.
In recent years, ethylene production capacity has continued to grow globally as technology advances and costs decrease. Especially in China, ethylene production capacity has accounted for more than 50% of Asia and has become the world’s largest ethylene producer. In the future, with the development and application of new technologies, the ethylene refining industry is expected to achieve more efficient and environmentally friendly production.
It should be noted that ethylene refining involves a number of fields and complex processes, so in actual operation it is necessary to strictly comply with relevant industry standards and norms to ensure safe and stable production. At the same time, the application and development of ethylene also need to continue to explore and innovation to meet the growing market demand and promote the development of related industries.