RLNG Conversion at IFFCO-Phulpur

摘要

IFFCO-Phulpur unit,the world's largest naphtha based urea complex and consuming one full naphtha rake daily,has been performing consistently well since inception.There has been a steep rise of about six to seven times in the cost of indigenous liquid hydrocarbons,namely,naphtha in the last one decade.As a result,fertiliser subsidy has been mounting heavily.The Ministry of Fertilisers and Chemicals (GOI)brought changes in the fertiliser policy and implemented group based concession scheme in phased manner with effect from April 2003.One of the guidelines provided under new policy was to use the most efficient feedstock and state-of-the-art technology to improve efficiency parameters.Against the backdrop,IFFCO-Phulpur unit responded timely and pursued the programme of switching over from costly feedstock of naphtha to liquefied natural gas (RLNG).Phulpur unit has been the first unit to achieve the milestone and completed all the required modifications by July 2006.After the conversion of all liquid feedstock to liquefied natural gas,the complex is now running smoothly with operational flexibility even in case of gas shortage up to 40%.It is expected that there shall be saving in Government subsidy to the tune of Rs 658 crore per year due to conversion of Phulpur unit to liquefied natural gas.The paper covers all the aspects pertaining to planning,execution,problems faced and the benefits achieved as a result of the liquefied natural gas (RLNG)conversion job.