Abstract: Aromatics extraction unit is one ofan important part in the aromatics complex, which uses sulfolane solvent to separate aromatics from non-aromatics. In daily production, it is found thatthe pressure difference of stripper oftenfluctuates abnormally, which seriously affects the process stability of extraction unit and the production continuity of aromatics complex. By studying the typical phenomenon of pressure difference fluctuation of stripper, the abnormal causes were analyzed from the aspects of temperature, pressure and feed composition, and the corresponding optimization measures and emergency disposal methods were put forward, such as increasing the operating pressure and feed temperature, reducing the content of light components in feed. After a series of optimizationand adjustment, the abnormal fluctuation phenomenon of the pressure difference of the stripper had not appeared again,the product quality had also been kept at a good level, and the process stability and production efficiency of the stripper have been improved. The reliable suggestions were put forwardfor the safety and economy of long term and high load operation of maintenance equipment.

Key words: aromatics extraction, stripper, pressure difference fluctuation, optimization