Richard B Hopewell

Title: The Innovative Journey of Richard B. Hopewell

Introduction

Richard B. Hopewell is a notable inventor based in Medfield, Massachusetts, whose innovative contributions have led to the granting of five patents. His work primarily focuses on advancements in the recovery and separation of hydrocarbon compounds, showcasing his expertise in chemical engineering and process design.

Latest Patents

Hopewell's latest patents reflect significant technological advancements in hydrocarbon recovery. One of his notable inventions is a system and process for the recovery of propylene and ethylene from refinery offgases. This innovative process involves withdrawing, cooling, and recovering an overhead vapor stream from a single distillation column. It intricately combines the management of temperature regimes and the recycling of bottoms product streams to enhance recovery efficiency.

Another remarkable invention from Hopewell is a method for single column distillative separation employing bottom additives. This method is designed for the efficient separation of hydrocarbon feed streams, such as carbon dioxide-containing streams. By introducing a feed stream into a cryogenic distillation column and utilizing a recycled C4+ bottom additive, this process results in a vapor product stream enriched in lighter hydrocarbons, showcasing his adeptness in enhancing separation processes.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Richard B. Hopewell has been associated with reputable companies that emphasize innovation in chemical processes. He has worked with Koch Process Systems, Inc. and Chart Industries, Inc., where he honed his skills and contributed to various groundbreaking projects. His experience at these companies has equipped him with practical insights that fuel his inventive pursuits.

Collaborations

Collaboration has been a key aspect of Hopewell's career. Notable coworkers include John V. O'Brien and Arthur S. Holmes, with whom he has worked on various projects that reflect their collective expertise in process engineering. These partnerships have likely contributed to the refinement of his innovative ideas and the successful execution of his inventions.

Conclusion

Richard B. Hopewell's journey as an inventor is marked by a commitment to advancing the field of hydrocarbon recovery and separation. With five patents to his name and a robust career in reputable organizations, his contributions continue to influence the industry. As technology evolves, Hopewell's innovations stand as testaments to the importance of creativity and collaboration in engineering and science.