BACKGROUND OF THE CHALLENGE
PETRONAS is seeking for a preventive technology solution that can mitigate fouling at heat exchanger (HEx) in the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) and Condensate Fractionation Unit (CFU) due to solid deposition. The target is to maintain duty output at minimum of 90%.
THE WINNING SOLUTION
Winner: HB Laboratories Sdn Bhd
PETRONAS is proud to announce Tube Inserts for Heat Exchanger Fouling technology (Tube Inserts) by HB Laboratories Sdn Bhd as the winner of Technology Challenge 16 (TC16). HB Laboratories Sdn Bhd is the local agent to its Principal, PETROVAL France.
This is a patented technology where it works by installing mechanical devices (coil string) in each heat exchanger tube to increase the turbulence of velocity hence improving the heat transfer coefficient and reducing the fouling of heat exchangers. The technology can be installed quick, requires no modification of the heat exchangers and no damage to the tubes wall. The mechanical devices moves when liquid flows in the tube hence prevent any fouling build up inside the heat exchangers. Both heat transfer coefficient and fouling are main contributing factors to achieve higher duty performances and prolong the run length duration of the heat exchanger.
PETRONAS congratulates HB Laboratories Sdn Bhd and its Principal, PETROVAL for the achievement and look forward for the pilot deployment of the winning solution at our asset.
Our heartiest gratitude to other technology providers that participated in TC16. We look forward to your participation in the next PETRONAS Technology Challenge.