The following simplified flowscheme shows locations where the Olgone process can be deployed in a typical fractionation and recovery section of an aromatics complex.
Unlike traditional clay treating processes, the Olgone process uses a proprietary catalyst that achieves cycles up to 6 times that of clay. The catalyst is regenerable and can be reused multiple times, meaning solid waste generation is significantly reduced. When the Olgone catalyst is used by itself, all solid waste can be eliminated. Spent clay typically represents 25-60% of the total solid waste generated in a modern aromatics complex. Our unparalleled Olgone process has reduced clay waste in one of ExxonMobil’s facilities by 85% per year.
The long cycles of treaters operating the Olgone process can translate into substantial cost savings. Fewer change-outs result in significantly lower clay costs. In some cases the longer cycle length provided by the Olgone process can allow a facility limited by clay treatment capacity to avoid installing additional clay treaters. In grassroots applications, treater vessels can be smaller, thereby reducing capital costs.
