Other

Bryan H Sonnier

Houman Michael Shammai

Rama Rao Alapati

Apparatus and method for continuous analysis and/or modification of the vapor pressure characteristics of a hydrocarbon stream includes: liquid/gas separation chamber; constant flow liquid influent means; liquid level sensing means; temperature control means; constant pressure gaseous effluent means; liquid effluent means having a flow rate responsive to liquid level sensing means; and influent and effluent flow metering means. Means for sensing composition of gaseous effluent, and manifold means responsive to said composition for variable blending of differing liquid hydrocarbon streams, may also be provided. Influent may be heated or cooled prior to entering the separation chamber. In the preferred embodiment, liquid influent rate is substantially constant. Temperature and pressure, which pressure may be made sub-atmospheric by vacuum means, are selected and maintained. In the separation chamber, components of the liquid influent having vapor pressures above the selected temperature and pressure of the separation chamber are volatized. Diffusion and mixing means in the chamber enhance rapid volatilization. Separated gas is flowed from the chamber and its composition analyzed by chromatography means. Effluent liquid is flowed from the chamber at a rate which maintains a constant liquid level in the chamber. By measurement and/or control of blending of influent streams, pressure, and/or temperature of the separation chamber responsive to vapor characteristics of liquid effluent, a stream of liquid hydrocarbons may be continuously analyzed and a liquid effluent having desired vapor pressure characteristics continuously produced and/or verified.

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Lafayette, LA, United States of America

Bryan H Sonnier