AMMONIA-SYNTHESIS LOOP VARIABLES INVESTIGATED BY STEADY-STATE SIMULATION

A steady-state model of an ammonia synthesis loop containing two parallel quench-type converters is developed. The system modeled includes converters, compressors, separator, purge and recycle and the model is used to determine the effects of synthesis loop variables upon ammonia production. Model simulation indicates that low purge rates lead to increased production, however, inefficient converter operation may prohibit operation in this region due to certain process constraints. A low H2/N2 ratio also results in increased production. The optimal ratio, however, is primarily dependent on synthesis compressor power costs. © 1979.