Maleic Anhydride Reactors for SABIC

A maleic anhydride reactor is a specialized chemical reactor used to produce maleic anhydride (MA), typically through the partial oxidation of hydrocarbons such as n-butane or benzene. The reactor operates at high temperatures, often using vanadium-phosphorus oxide (VPO) catalysts to facilitate the oxidation process. Heat exchangers are incorporated to manage the heat released during the exothermic reaction, ensuring temperature control. These reactors are commonly used in industries that manufacture resins, coatings, and other chemical intermediates.

A maleic anhydride reactor: maximum O.D.=11.4m; weight=780 metric ton; with more than 40,000 pcs of various heat exchanger tubes including ASTM A213 TP310S.

Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) is one of the world’s leading chemical companies, with maleic anhydride (MA) production facilities located at strategic sites. One of SABIC’s major MA production plants is in Jubail Industrial City, one of the largest industrial cities globally, situated on the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia near the Persian Gulf. SABIC operates several plants in Jubail, including facilities dedicated to maleic anhydride production.