The invention relates to a process for modifying tanker ships. More specifically,
the invention is directed to a process for modifying a non-methanol-carrying tanker
to carry a methanol cargo destined for a methanol to olefin reaction system. The
process includes providing a tanker having one or more holds that previously stored
a non-methanol material. The process includes one or more of the following steps:
(1) cleaning the holds of the crude/naphtha-carrying tanker to remove residual
deposits, wherein the holds previously stored a non-methanol material; (2) providing
a fire suppression system specially designed to prevent methanol fires; and (3)
replacing methanol intolerant pump seals and flange gaskets in the tanker with
methanol resistant seals and gaskets.
