Catalyst handling

Inert entry operations:

Refineries require catalyst handling operations to be carried out in both oxygen and inert gas atmospheres and our highly specialised equipment allows us to perform both types of operation quickly and effectively.

While entry is initiated to remove the catalyst, the vessels or reactors are continuously purged with nitrogen to avoid the risk of ignition due to pyrophoric deposits on the catalysts and to prevent polythionic acid stress corrosion cracking (PASCC) of the stainless steel reactor internals. Passivation and cleaning within the vessels or reactors can then be completed prior to carrying out any repairs and recharging with new or regenerated catalysts.

As a matter of course, we carefully evaluate each potential inert entry operation to check if safer, more cost-effective alternative methods, like wet / remote / pre-dumping or automated vacuum techniques, might be suitable.

During inert entry our technicians adhere to strict procedures, ensuring exposure times are kept to the minimum.

We also offer Inert Entry Appreciation courses for our customers who wish to gain a better understanding of the process.