Root Cause Analysis and Engineering Measures for Furnace Tube Blockage in Ethylene Pyrolysis Furnaces

Hui Wang, Yingyan Fan, Jiawei Wang

Abstract: This study investigates the underlying causes of furnace tube blockage in pyrolysis furnaces within ethylene production facilities. Combining macroscopic and microscopic analyses, including SEM and EBSD techniques, the research identifies feedstock aromaticity, cracking temperature, and alloy composition as key contributors to coke formation. The presence of carbon-rich deposits and corrosion-related elements confirms the catalytic and structural vulnerabilities of furnace tubes. Mitigation strategies such as optimizing feedstock composition, introducing coking inhibitors like DMDS, and enhancing furnace design are proposed. These interventions aim to extend equipment lifespan and ensure consistent production efficiency.

Keywords: pyrolysis furnace, coke formation, ethylene production, tube blockage, furnace optimization