Technical Recommendation: Vanconol® RF-402 Hydrogenation Corrosion Inhibitor — Efficient Protection for Stable Operation
In refinery hydrogenation units, low-temperature corrosion has long been a critical issue affecting long-term stable operation of the equipment. This is particularly evident in the reactor effluent system, fractionator overhead condensing system, air coolers, and piping, where HCl-H₂S-H₂O corrosive media at temperatures below 150°C readily induce uniform corrosion or pitting corrosion. In severe cases, this can result in equipment damage, shutdowns for maintenance, and even threaten safe production.
To address this challenge, Tianjin Hi-Perferal Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. has developed Vanconol® RF-402 corrosion inhibitor — a high-efficiency product specifically designed for hydrogenation service conditions. Its chemical composition is based on a modified alkyl imidazoline corrosion inhibitor, supplemented with specialty surfactants and synergists. Through heteroatoms such as nitrogen in the molecular structure, it forms strong coordination bonds with the metal surface, rapidly adsorbing to form a protective film that effectively isolates corrosive media and significantly retards electrode reaction processes, thereby providing comprehensive protection for metal equipment.
According to product documentation, RF-402 exhibits excellent physical properties: density (d20) of 0.90–1.00 g/cm³, kinematic viscosity ≤6.5 mm²/s, and pour point ≤-10°C, making it suitable for a wide range of low-temperature corrosive environments. Its recommended service temperature range covers acidic media systems below 180°C, including overhead condensing systems, overhead piping, and other corrosion-prone areas of various operating units.
Regarding injection procedures, RF-402 is recommended to be diluted 5–10 times with softened water and continuously injected via metering pump ahead of the fractionator overhead or air cooler. The typical injection concentration is 20–30 ppm, which can be flexibly adjusted based on water quality and corrosion monitoring results. During initial start-up, a pre-filming treatment of 8–10 days is recommended, with injection rates controlled at 20–25 ppm, gradually reduced to approximately 15 ppm after the protective film is established to achieve long-term protection. The recommended monitoring criterion is an iron ion concentration of <3 ppm in the overhead draw-off water sample.
As a company specializing in the R&D and production of refinery process additives, Tianjin Hi-Perferal Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. has successfully applied its “Vanconol” series products in multiple refineries, supported by reliable quality and precise adaptability to service conditions. RF-402 not only effectively extends equipment service life and reduces maintenance frequency, but also enhances the overall operational reliability and economic efficiency of the unit.
In summary, the Vanconol® RF-402 corrosion inhibitor provides a professional solution for low-temperature corrosion control in hydrogenation units, owing to its scientifically sound film-forming mechanism, stable product performance, and flexible operation methodology. It is worthy of promotion and adoption in similar processes.
