US Patent:
20040255980, Dec 23, 2004
Inventors:
Spencer Bruce - Algonquin IL, US
James Carpenter - Lambertville NJ, US
Jeanine Hurry - North Wales PA, US
Joseph Povernick - Philadelphia PA, US
Frank Robertson - Pearland TX, US
Robert Schwartz - Parkland PA, US
Richard Wu - Fort Washington PA, US
International Classification:
B08B009/00
Abstract:
This invention relates to a process for cleaning reactors. The process utilizes a solvent fed from multiple pressure sources to clean reactors of residual polymers. The reactors are equipped with agitators and stationary nozzles aimed at the agitator blades. The agitator is rotated during cleaning. The process may also utilize heated aqueous base to clean heat exchangers in external loops. In one aspect, a mixture of at least one organic solvent and aqueous base are utilized to clean certain reactors.