Key Precautions for Oil Refining Cooling and Slagging

Key Precautions for Oil Refining Cooling and Slagging

I. Critical Requirements for the Cooling Phase

Temperature Control

The equipment (e.g., cracking furnace, distillation kettle) must be cooled to a safe temperature (typically ≤60°C, or room temperature for some processes) to prevent residual oil and gas from reaching their flash point and causing flash explosions. Natural cooling requires more than 10 hours, while equipment with an air cooling system can be cooled down in 5–6 hours.

Gas Purge

After cooling, the furnace must be purged with an inert gas such as nitrogen to remove residual oil and gas, preventing explosion when the slag is discharged and oil and gas come into contact with air, while also improving oil yield.

Cooling Rate

Avoid rapid temperature drops to prevent equipment deformation or damage due to thermal expansion and contraction. The flow rate and temperature gradient of the cooling system must be controlled.

II. Safety Points for Slagging Operation

Personal Protection and Positioning

Operators must wear high-temperature protective clothing, safety goggles, dust masks, and non-slip shoes. During slagging, stand away from the slag outlet and never face it directly to avoid injury from splashing high-temperature slag.

Equipment Inspection and Venting

Before opening the slag outlet, loosen some bolts to leave a gap for venting. Confirm no residual pressure or flammable gas leakage before fully removing the bolts and discharging slag.

Slag Handling

Slag must be completely cooled and solidified before transportation to prevent liquid slag from flowing out and causing fire or scalding. The work area must be well-ventilated to reduce the concentration of dust and harmful gases.

Emergency Preparedness

Fire-fighting facilities such as fire extinguishers and emergency showers must be available on-site. In case of leakage or flash explosion, immediately initiate the emergency response procedure.