The project consisted of catalyst change-outs for a 3-bed Hydrodesulfurisation (HDS) reactor and a 4-bed platformer, including their respective regeneration vessels. Each reactor was unloaded under inert conditions by the CR3 Catalyst Handling teams.
The HDS unit was unloaded under inert conditions using a hybrid approach of gravity discharge and vacuuming, after which the catalyst was screened for reclamation. The unloading of the platformer reactor required the team to work in very tight, confined spaces as they removed the transfer pipes and cover decks before the catalyst removal could begin. In total, over 400 tonnes of catalyst was unloaded.
The reloading process for each reactor was conducted under atmospheric conditions, with CR3 being supported by a specialised technical partner experienced in dense loading techniques. This collaborative effort ensured the uniform and even loading of the catalyst, guaranteeing optimal performance. Due to the efficiency of our catalyst handling processes, the unloading and reloading were completed well within the given schedule.
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