Technical Recommendation: Vanconol® RF-402 Hydroprocessing Corrosion Inhibitor – Efficient Protection, Stable Operation
In hydroprocessing units, low-temperature corrosion has long been a critical issue affecting long-term stable operation. Especially in areas such as the reactor effluent system, fractionator overhead condensing system, air coolers, and pipelines, HCl-H₂S-H₂O-type corrosive media readily cause uniform corrosion or pitting corrosion at temperatures below 150°C. In severe cases, this can lead to equipment damage, shutdown for maintenance, and even threaten operational safety.
To address this challenge, Tianjin Hi-Perferal Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. has developed Vanconol® RF-402, a corrosion inhibitor specifically designed for hydroprocessing conditions. Its chemical composition is based on a modified alkylimidazoline corrosion inhibitor, supplemented with specialty surfactants and synergists. The nitrogen and other heteroatoms in the molecules form strong coordination bonds with metal surfaces, rapidly adsorbing and forming a protective film that effectively isolates corrosive media and significantly retards the electrode reaction process, thereby providing comprehensive protection for metal equipment.
According to the 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 various low-temperature corrosive environments. Its recommended operating temperature range covers acidic media systems below 180°C, including the overhead condensing systems and overhead pipelines of various processing units where corrosion is prevalent.
For injection, RF-402 is recommended to be diluted with softened water at a ratio of 5–10 times and continuously injected via a metering pump upstream 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 startup, a pre-film treatment of 8–10 days is recommended, with the injection rate controlled at 20–25 ppm. After the protective film is established, the dosage can be gradually reduced to around 15 ppm for long-term protection. The recommended control target is an iron ion content of less than 3 ppm in the overhead reflux drum water sample.
As a company specializing in the R&D and manufacturing of refining aids, Tianjin Hi-Perferal Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. offers the Vanconol® series of products, which have been successfully applied in multiple refineries due to their reliable quality and precise adaptability to operating 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, Vanconol® RF-402 provides a professional solution for low-temperature corrosion control in hydroprocessing units through its scientific film-forming mechanism, stable product performance, and flexible application methodology. It is recommended for adoption in similar processes.