Description
The Automated Flocculation Titrimeter (AFT) is a highly automated, computerized instrument designed to directly acquire oil stability and compatibility parameters. Utilizing the ASTM D6703 test method for Automated Heithaus Titrimetry, the AFT operates as a closed system with precisely controlled temperatures between 20-100°C, crucial for accurate determination of Heithaus compatibility parameters.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Accurate Flocculation Point Detection: The flocculation point is determined spectroscopically, with results analyzed by the data acquisition system, virtually eliminating operator error.
- Rapid and Precise Asphaltene Concentration Calculation: The software calculates asphaltene concentration much faster and more accurately than traditional methods.
- Expanded Heithaus Methodology: Multiple titration schemes have been developed, allowing the software to predict the proximity to coke formation during heavy oil distillation.
Advantages for Refiners:
- Increased Yields: The expanded AFT methodology enables refiners to recover additional distillate without the fear of fouling, potentially increasing yields by 1-2%.
- Coking Tendency Prediction: Prevents fouling of the process, reducing energy use and downtime due to cleaning vessels after fouling.
Applications:
- Compatibility Prediction (P Index): Predicts which oils and petroleum residua or asphalts can be mixed without causing phase separation. This is valuable for ensuring compatible asphalt blends in highway and roofing applications, preventing early failure.
- Coking Index (US Patent 6,773,921): Provides a quantitative measure of the proximity to coking during visbreaking, distillation, transfer, and storage of heavy oil, allowing for optimized heavy oil processing.
- Solubility Parameter Calculation: Determines the solubility parameter at which asphaltenes begin to precipitate and the solubility parameter of the whole oil.