Burton Introduces Thermal Cracking for Refining Petroleum
At a glance:
- Series: Great Events from History II: Science and Technology Series
- Categories: Science
- Subcategories: Scientists, Chemistry, Chemists, Energy, Fuel, Power Sources
- Curriculum: American History 1901-1950
- Geographical Location: Indiana
- Date: January, 1913
Article abstract: Employing high temperatures and pressures, Burton developed a large-scale chemical cracking process, thus pioneering a method that met the need for more fuel.
Summary of Event
In January, 1913, William Merriam Burton saw the first battery of twelve stills used in the thermal cracking of petroleum products go into operation at Standard Oil of Indiana’s Whiting refinery. Although the process would be quickly modified and more efficient techniques and apparatus would be employed by the early 1920’s, the Burton process started a...
[The entire page is 2463 words long]
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