Coker Main Fractionator

The coker main fractionator is one of the most severe distillation services in a refinery. The heavy material processed in the high-temperature environment is very prone to coking. In addition, the drum switches, resulting in drastic load changes to the fractionator, increase the likelihood of damage to the tower internals. The top section of the fractionator is also prone to the corrosion and salt deposition that are observed in other refinery fractionators.  Koch-Glitsch provides robust, high-performance internals and separation equipment specifically engineered to withstand these extreme conditions while ensuring efficient, long-term operation.

Most coker main fractionators are initially designed with conventional valve or sieve trays. However, there are many cases where an expansion in capacity requires the use of either high-capacity trays or structured/grid packings. PROVALVE® trays or SUPERFRAC® trays can provide improved capacity and fouling resistance. The significant pressure drop savings obtained with FLEXIPAC® structured packing and FLEXIGRID® severe service grid packing can also provide an increase in gas oil yield by allowing a lower coke drum pressure. 

FLEXIGRID® packing is more frequently used in the wash section for towers that require a higher quality heavy coker gas oil (HCGO) and operate at very high vapor velocities. FLEXIGRID® packing provides better efficiency than spray chambers, thus allowing better de-entrainment of coke fines and improved fractionation of the tail of the HCGO product. FLEXIGRID® style 2 packing is recommended due to its superior fouling resistance and higher capacity. 

The HCGO pumparound is usually the capacity bottleneck of the coker fractionator. The potential for fouling in this section remains very high. When high-capacity trays can no longer provide the desired capacity, FLEXIGRID® style 2 packing can be installed in the HCGO pumparound section.

Key Offerings

• Anti-Fouling Solutions: Specialized internals and materials reduce fouling issues for improved operational reliability and extended equipment lifespan.
• High-Performance Trays and Packing: Designed to manage heavy hydrocarbon streams, these products provide superior separation efficiency and durability in coker environments.
• Custom Column Internals: Tailored designs optimize vapor-liquid distribution, promoting efficient separation and reducing fouling risks.

Benefits for Coker Fractionator Operators

• Enhanced separation efficiency and product recovery
• Lower maintenance costs due to anti-fouling designs
• Dependable performance under extreme conditions
• Increased throughput and operational stability

Koch-Glitsch’s expertise in coker main fractionators enables refiners to achieve peak performance, ensuring reliable operations and maximizing yield. With our commitment to reliability and performance, we provide solutions that empower refineries to meet the growing demand for refined products.