Scaled Up Pulsed Deposition Technology: Carburization Resistant Ablation Coatings for Ethylene Pyrolysis Coils

Abstract

ABSTRACTProducts derived from ethylene have and will continue to replace metallic materials traditionally used for transportation, building materials, and products we use in our everyday lives. As the demand continues to increase, a more suitable material for the outlet coils of ethylene pyrolysis heaters will have to be identified. In this study, we discuss utilization of scaled up pulsed deposition technology to deposit adherent carburization resistant coatings on the inner diameter of ethylene pyrolysis tubing with the intent of extending tube life. Ablation target material selection was based primarily on elevated temperature properties and the ability of the coating to prevent transformation of the inherent protective chromium oxide surface film to metal carbides while in service. The near optimal settings of the processing parameters for pulsed laser deposition of ceramic SiC on heat resistant tubing traditionally used for ethylene service were investigated using a semi quantitative controlled random search methodology. Minimization of the objective function which was based on width, thickness and coverage of the thin film resulted in an optimal deposition time of 4.3 minutes and surface finish of 272 nm.