Material of construction for reactor (SS 304 or SS 316)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the suitability of SS304 versus SS316 stainless steel for a reactor handling 200 kg/hr of 97% sulphuric acid, 2000 kg/hr of 98% methanol, and 3500 kg/hr of free fatty acids at 75°C and 450 kPa. Initial preference for SS304 is reconsidered due to the corrosive properties of methanol, prompting a deeper analysis of both materials. Participants emphasize the importance of evaluating the corrosive characteristics, cost, and conducting a life cycle analysis to make an informed decision.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of corrosion resistance in materials, specifically for SS304 and SS316.
  • Knowledge of chemical process engineering principles, particularly in reactor design.
  • Familiarity with the properties of sulphuric acid and methanol at high concentrations.
  • Experience with life cycle analysis methodologies for material selection.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the corrosion resistance of SS304 and SS316 in high-concentration methanol environments.
  • Conduct a cost analysis comparing SS304 and SS316 for reactor construction.
  • Study life cycle analysis techniques applicable to chemical reactors.
  • Examine the corrosion handbook for detailed insights on sulphuric acid and methanol interactions with stainless steel.
USEFUL FOR

Chemical engineers, materials scientists, and project managers involved in reactor design and material selection for corrosive environments.

princessme
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Would SS304 or SS316 be a better choice for a reactor containing 200 kg/hr sulphuric acid (97%), 2000 kg/hr methanol (98%) and 3500 kg/hr free fatty acids mixture? My initial choice was SS304 since the sulphuric acid amount was little, but upon reading more on methanol, I'm considering about 316 right now. Any suggestions on this?

The reaction is carried out at 75 C and 450 kPa.
 
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Have you looked at the corrosive properties of the two steels? Then you should consider the cost of each material, and a life cycle analysis of the reactor. That should get you started, maybe some more knowledgeable folks can chime in here too.
 
Maylis said:
Have you looked at the corrosive properties of the two steels? Then you should consider the cost of each material, and a life cycle analysis of the reactor. That should get you started, maybe some more knowledgeable folks can chime in here too.
Yeah I went through the corrosion handbook for sulphuric acid, but since it's only in a very small amount, I don't think it'll affect much. My concern is on methanol, but I couldn't find much info on corrosion for methanol at high concentration and temperature.