Acetylene

Published September 1966

This report covers the processes for production of acetylene from hydrocarbons. It does not cover the production of calcium carbide or the generation of acetylene from calcium carbide. For this reason, the industry status section does not include information on calcium carbide plants. However, a draft copy of the tabulation of calcium carbide manufacturing plants is available on request.

Many commercial processes are described in the literature. It was considered to be impossible to evaluate each of these commercial processes in detail. Instead, this study tries to identify the major variables in each major class of processes and to indicate the area of applicability of each.

The major classes of processes are presented, followed by a comparison of the processes. Some generalized cost curves are provided to enable the user to make a preliminary estimate of various processes.

Information on recent developments in arc process technology is in- adequate to permit more than a preliminary consideration of the subject. If more information becomes available, this might form the basis for a supplemental study.

Other PEP Related Reports:

• Acetylene 16A