Ineos contracts Amarinth for flare knock-out pumps 04 March 2014

Ineos has taken delivery of two API 610 OH2 pumps from specialist centrifugal pumps manufacturer Amarinth for the flare knock-out system at its onshore refinery at Grangemouth, Scotland.

The pumps, with Plan 53B seal support systems, are for the mercaptan oxidation (Merox) process and will be used to remove condensate that collects in the flare knock-out drums during the refining process.

They had to be ultra reliable, because they will only be operated infrequently, sometimes being dormant for weeks, but would then having to start when the trigger level in the knock-out drums is reached.

Also, since Grangemouth is beside the sea, they have to be resistant to the often hostile Scottish elements.

Oliver Brigginshaw, managing director of Amarinth, says his team designed the pumps to withstand temperatures of -20C, and that paint is to offshore standards to survive the coastal saline environment.

He also says that, due to the expected low usage, special oilers have been incorporated so that any water in the bearing oil can be easily identified and removed.

To ensure reliable operation on-demand, Amarinth worked with Ineos to develop a maintenance schedule that minimises the risk of damage caused during periods of inactivity – particularly around preventing the seal faces sticking.

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Amarinth Ltd
Ineos Chemicals Grangemouth Ltd

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