SRU REACTION FURNACE
The reaction furnace is the heart of the SRU, initiating the conversion of H2S and other
sulfur-bearing compounds to elemental sulfur. The feed stream to the reaction furnace is an
acid gas containing large quantities of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) that is typically burned with
enough air to oxidize one-third (1/3) of the H2S to sulfur dioxide (SO2). The reaction is
highly exothermic and is typically controlled to a temperature between 2200-2700°F (1200-1500°C).
Downstream of the combustion zone, the unburned, remaining two-thirds (2/3) portion of H2S reacts
endothermically with SO2 formed in the combustion zone to produce elemental sulfur vapor.
The sulfur vapor is condensed to molten sulfur product downstream of the reaction furnace.
