To increase capacity, a new processing line will be installed within the existing structure of the refinery, which means the pumps and pipework have to fit within a confined footprint. Sulzer’s design expertise was used to create the most efficient layout of the equipment.

Made to order

The creation of the pumps started with the hydraulic design, which is dictated by the requirements of the new processing line. The mechanical layout of the process was constrained by the limited footprint as well as the existing infrastructure and it determined the orientation of the pumps. The restricted space available for the new equipment also meant that the layout of the pipework needed to be carefully planned to ensure the pumps retain their design efficiency once they have been commissioned.

Sulzer’s engineering team in India supported the technical discussions with the engineering procurement and construction (EPC) team to enable the refinery to achieve their processing aims. Utilizing its extensive product range and flexibility in design, Sulzer was able to offer the most cost-effective and reliable solution for this application.

One additional aspect of this project was the lack of utilities provided by the refinery. Normally, the pump manufacturer is expected to supply equipment based on the understanding that the refinery provides connections to utilities, such as cooling circuits. V Anand, Tendering Lead for Sulzer India, explains: “In this case, due to the nature of this project, we had to deliver a solution that did not require a connection to a cooling circuit. Our designers were able to incorporate an internal recirculation line to provide the necessary seal cooling.”

Class-leading efficiency

Sulzer’s technical expertise in supporting the project has also helped to deliver industry leading level of efficiency, which is a very important aspect for an installation that will be supplying sustainable fuel to the aviation sector. Combining excellent hydraulic efficiency with market-leading electrical efficiency, Sulzer sets the benchmark and keeps running costs to a minimum.

The pumps will cover a range of applications with the largest BB2 pump powered by a 550 kW motor. Around this point on the power spectrum, a single point advantage in efficiency can save an operator around USD 250’000 per year in addition to the reduction in CO2 emissions. In total, 11 OH2 and BB2 API 610 pumps have been ordered through the EPC contractor.

Sulzer also offers excellent support throughout the service life of all its equipment. Several facilities are located throughout the Asia region, ensuring that the refinery is well-supported, both during the contract and the subsequent years.