Improving Efficiency and Reliability of Fuel Oil Gasification at GNFC Ammonia Plant

摘要

Fuel oil gasification on Texaco's(now GE Energy)HP partial oxidation technology is being operated in Ammonia plant at Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertiliser Co(GNFC)since 1981 utilising residual oils mainly from nearby Gujarat Refinery.Gasifiers are operated to meet the H/CO/CO2 requirements for manufacturing Ammonia,Methanol,Acetic Acid,Formic Acid,TDI,Urea and other fertilisers.Fuel oil gasification with soot extraction unit is a complex operation and continuity in operation is a big challenge.Getting operational experience over a period,establishing confidence of operation in such technology and with adequate absorption of technicality,significant changes and modifications are made targeting the improvement in on-stream factor.Besides reliability,importance is also given to safety and environment.This paper summarises the operating experience explaining process optimisation/ monitoring,operational challenges,steps to enhance reliability as well as resource conservation.Brief narration is made on progressive developments on Quench ring modification,change of horizontal to vertical decanter for effective soot extraction and metal removal,installation of additional third gasifier train incorporating recent technological developments,modifications and changes made for advanced instrument system,change in feedstock to low sulphur fuel oil,modifications to improve upon environment and safety,etc.