When crude oil is transported to refinery storage, it also brings in brines of sodium, calcium, and magnesium with it which are not too harsh but becomes extensively harmful when comes in contact with water molecules. The calcium and magnesium brines when come in contact with water, forms corrosive HCl and its respective hydroxide. Hence the crude oil goes through de-saltation process where majority of these brines are removed through chemical treatment, Neutralizing Amines being the foremost of all
To prevent the adverse effects of HCl, desalting process has to be undergone at optimum level, to an extent that not even a trace of salt is left in the furnaces. The more reduction in the amount of salt going into the furnaces, lesser are the chances of corrosive reactions. Diluting the acid with normal water may raise the pH, but is not feasible for many practical reasons.
Neutralizing HCl with a strong base may dilute the system but will add more water to the solution. But if neutralized with organic blend of amines, it will ensure good dilution as well as will have no additional harsh effect on the system.
Blend of Amines for Petrochemicals
