Ion Exchange Package
Heat stable salts (HSS) are formed in amine systems as a result of trace compounds produced during normal refining activities entering the amine system along with the acid gasses (H2S and/or CO2). These trace compounds react with the amine to form a salt which cannot be regenerated (released from the amine) by the use of heat in the Regenerator. If allowed to continuously build up, the salts cause the following problems:
• Loss of acid gas absorption capacity
• A change in the vapor liquid equilibrium in the top of the absorber
• Foaming
• Corrosion
• Amine system instability
• Large amine losses
• Increased amine replacement and make-up
Removing and controlling the level of HSS not only maintains the necessary molarity to maintain system capacity and capability, but also reduces corrosion and related operating instability. The corrosion problems common in amine systems are often directly related to the level of HSS in the amine solution.