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PLANT DESIGN
FOR
AMMONIA PRODUCTION
(CAPACITY: 200 TPD)
A PROJECT REPORT
SUBMITTED TOWARDS PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF DEGREE OF
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
IN
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
Project Guide
Asst. Prof. Ashutosh
(H.O.D of Chemical Engg.
Neeraj Kumar
Sandeep Kumar
Yash Batra
(Final B.Tech. Chemical Engg.)
Submitted By
Mishra
Deptt.)
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to convey our deepest gratitude to Asst. Prof. Ashutosh Mishra, who guided us
through this project. His keen interest, motivation and advice helped us immensely in
successfully completing this project. We would also like to thank him for allowing us to avail
all the facilities of the Department necessary for this project.
We also wish to express our gratefulness towards all the faculty members for their guidance
throughout the project.
Lastly, we cant forget the contribution of the Lab Attendants in giving wings to our efforts.
Neeraj Kumar
Sandeep Kumar
Yash Batra
(Final B.Tech. Chemical Engg.)
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CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the project entitled PLANT DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURE OF
AMMONIA (GAS BASED) submitted by Neeraj Kumar, Sandeep Kumar and Yash Batra to
the Department of Chemical Engineering, Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology for
Handicapped, Kanpur, as the final year undergraduate project is a bonafide piece of work
carried out by them under my guidance and supervision.
This work has not been submitted either in part or full in any other university for any purpose
whatsoever.
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ABSTRACT
Sincere efforts have been made to cover as comprehensively as possible the various aspects
of the stated problem. The report begins with an introduction of ammonia and its importance
as regards an Indian viewpoint. It gives a list of various properties and uses of ammonia,
which have been prepared after an extensive literature survey.
The report then describes the various processes that are available for its manufacture and
then deals with the basic raw materials required for the ammonia manufacture i.e natural gas.
It then covers the important aspects of process selection and the selected process is described
in detail along with the relevant equations and flow diagrams.
After this, report incorporates a detailed material and energy balance of the process selected
and also gives a list of the sizing of the equipment in the flow diagram according to the
capacity. This is followed by a detailed chemical and mechanical design of some important
equipment.
The report then gives some information on aspects such as PI & Control, safety, storage &
handling, utilities, plant location & layout, pollution control, etc.
Finally, the report deals with the most important aspect of the economic viability and techno
economic feasibility of the plant in the Indian environment.
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INDEX
Introduction
Physical Properties
Chemical Properties
Flow Sheet
Material Balance
Energy Balance
Process Design
CO2 Absorber
Ammonia Converter
CO2 Stripping Column
Process Utility
Catalyst Used
Plant Safety
Hazard Identification
Effluent treatment
Storage handling and Transportation
Site Selection and Plant Layout
Cost Estimation
Conclusion
Bibliography
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Introduction
Ammonia is a chemical consisting of one atom of nitrogen and three atoms of hydrogen. It is
designated in chemical notation as NH3.
Ammonia is extremely soluble in water and is frequently used as a water solution called aqua
ammonia. Ammonia chemically combines with water to form ammonium hydroxide.
Household ammonia is a diluted water solution containing 5 to 10 percent ammonia. On the
other hand, anhydrous ammonia is essentially pure (over 99 percent) ammonia. "Anhydrous"
is a Greek word meaning "without water;" therefore, anhydrous ammonia is the ammonia
without water.
Refrigerant grade anhydrous ammonia is a clear, colourless liquid or gas, free from visible
impurities. It is at least 99.95 percent pure ammonia. Water cannot have a content above 33
parts per million (ppm) and oil cannot have a content above 2 ppm. Preserving the purity of
the ammonia is essential to ensure proper function of the refrigeration system.
Physical Properties
Anhydrous ammonia is a clear liquid that boils at a temperature of -28F. In refrigeration
systems, the liquid is stored in closed containers under pressure. When the pressure is
released, the liquid evaporates rapidly, generally forming an invisible vapour or gas. The
rapid evaporation causes the temperature of the liquid to drop until it reaches the normal
boiling point of -28F, a similar effect occurs when water evaporates off the skin, thus
cooling it. This is why ammonia is used in refrigeration systems.
Liquid anhydrous ammonia weighs less than water. About eight gallons of ammonia weighs
the same as five gallon of water
Liquid and gas ammonia expand and contract with changes in pressure and temperature. For
example, if liquid anhydrous ammonia is in a partially filled, closed container it is heated
from 0F to 68F, the volume of the liquid will increase by about 10 percent. If the tank is 90
percent full at 0F, it will become 99 percent full at 68F. At the same time, the pressure in
the container will increase from 16 pounds per square inch (psi) to 110 psi.
Liquid ammonia will expand by 850 times when evaporating:
Anhydrous ammonia gas is considerably lighter than air and will rise in dry air. However,
because of ammonias tremendous affinity for water, it reacts immediately with the humidity
in the air and may remain close to the ground.
The odour threshold for ammonia is between 5 - 50 parts per million (ppm) of air. The
permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 50 ppm averaged over an 8 hour shift. It is recommended
that if an employee can smell it they ought to back off and determine if they need to be using
respiratory protection.
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Chemical Properties
Ammonia, especially in the presence of moisture, reacts with and corrodes copper, zinc, and
many alloys. Only iron, steel, certain rubbers and plastics, and specific nonferrous alloys
resistant to ammonia should be used for fabrications of anhydrous ammonia containers,
fittings, and piping.
Ammonia will combine with mercury to form a fulminate which is an unstable explosive
compound.
Anhydrous ammonia is classified by the Department of Transportation as non-flammable.
However, ammonia vapour in high concentrations (16 to 25 percent by weight in air) will
burn. It is unlikely that such concentrations will occur except in confined spaces or in the
proximity of large spills. The fire hazard from ammonia is increased by the presence of oil or
other combustible substances.
Anhydrous ammonia is an alkali.
Summary of properties:
Boiling Point
-28F
5.69 pounds
5.15 pounds
0.619
0.588
16-25%
Ignition temperature
1204F
Vapour pressure at 0F
16 psi
110 psi
198 psi
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Ammonia Latent heat of fusion (1,013 bar, at triple point) : 331.37 kJ/kg
Ammonia Liquid Density (1.013 bar at boiling point) : 682 kg/m3 (250 K : 669 kg/m3)
(300 K : 600 kg/m3) (400 K : 346 kg/m3)
Ammonia Liquid Specific Heat Capacity (cp) (250 K : 4.52 kJ/kg.K) (300 K : 4.75
kJ/kg.K) (400 K : 6.91 kJ/kg.K)
Ammonia Liquid/gas equivalent (1.013 bar and 15oC (59oF)) : 947 vol/vol
Ammonia Liquid Dynamic Viscosity (250K : 245 106 Ns/m2) (300K : 141 106 Ns/m2)
(400K : 38 106 Ns/m2)
Ammonia Liquid Thermal Conductivity (250 K : 592 106 kW/m.K) (300 K : 477 106
kW/m.K) (400 K : 207 106 kW/m.K)
Ammonia Latent heat of vaporization (1.013 bar at boiling point) : 1371.2 kJ/kg
Ammonia Critical point - Critical temperature : 132.4oC - Critical pressure : 112.8 bar
Ammonia Gas Density (1.013 bar and 15oC (59oF)) : 0.73 kg/m3
Ammonia Gas Compressibility Factor (Z) (the ratio of the actual volume of the gas to
the volume determined according to the perfect gas law) (1.013 bar and 15oC (59oF)) :
0.9929
Ammonia Gas Specific Gravity (air = 1) (1.013 bar and 21oC (70oF)) : 0.597
Ammonia Gas Specific volume (1.013 bar and 21oC (70oF)) : 1.411 m3/kg
Ammonia Gas Specific Heat Capacity at constant pressure (cp) (1.013 bar and 15oC
(59oF)) : 0.037 kJ/(mol.K)
Ammonia Gas Specific Heat Capacity at constant volume (cv) (1.013 bar and 15oC
(59oF)) : 0.028 kJ/(mol.K)
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Ammonia Gas Ratio of Specific Heats (Gamma: cp/cv) (1.013 bar and 15oC (59oF)) :
1.309623
Ammonia Gas Dynamic Viscosity (1.013 bar and 0oC (32oF)) : 0.000098 Poise
Ammonia Gas Thermal conductivity (1.013 bar and 0oC (32oF)) : 22.19 mW/(m.K)
Ammonia Gas Solubility in water (1.013 bar and 0oC (32oF)) : 862 vol/vol
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Desulphuriser
Steam
Natural gas
Primary Reformer
Secondary Reformer
Shift convertor
CO2
Air
Ammonia convertor
Compressor
Ammonia product
Methanator
Separator
PGR
Purge gas
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MATERIAL BALANCE
Component
Vol %
CH4
89.96
C2H6
4.09
C3H8
2.3
i-C4H10
0.46
n-C4H10
0.6
i-C5H12
0.2
n-C5H12
0.2
CO2
0.35
N2
1.84
PRIMARY REFORMER:
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CO + 3H2
H = +ve
CO + H2O
CO2 + H2
H = -ve
0.337
xCO2
0.051
xH2O
0.489
xCO
0.087
xCH4
0.0357
SECONDARY REFORMER:
. (1)
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CO + 3H2
H = +ve
CH4 + O2
CO + 2H2
H = -ve
H2 + O2
H2O
H = -ve
CO+ O2
CO2
H = -ve
(2)
0.365
xCO2
0.055
xN2
0.1446
xCO
0.0735
xCH4
0.0012
xinert
0.0007
xsteam
0.36
(0.0735+0.055+0.0012) F3
F3 = 1.339 F2 = 1.689F1
(3)
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CO2 + H2
0.418
xCO2
0.108
xN2
0.145
xCO
0.02
xCH4
0.0012
xinert
0.0007
xsteam
0.3
Balancing carbon:
0.1297 F3 = (0.02+.108+.0012) F4
F4 = 1.004F3 = 1.689F1
. (4)
CO2 + H2
0.436
xCO2
0.126
xN2
0.145
xCO
0.002
xCH4
0.0012
xinert
0.0012
xsteam
0.289
Balancing carbon,
We get .
F5 = F4 = 1.689F1
.. (5)
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CONDENSER:
Outlet from LTSC goes to condenser, where steam gets condensed out and rest of the gases
go to CO2 absorber section.
At inlet of condenser:
xH2
0.436
0.736F1
xCO2
0.126
0.213 F1
xN2
0.145
0.245 F1
xCO
0.002
0.003 F1
xCH4
0.0012
0.0012 F1
xinert
0.0012
0.0012 F1
xsteam
0.289
0.488 F1
SYNTHESIS LOOP:
Fci
Make up gas, M
Recycle comp
Fco
Convertor
Separator
NH3
P.G.R
Recycle gas, R
Purge gas, Pg
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Component
Purge ( Pg)
Recycle (R)
At convertor inlet,
(Fci)
H2
0.721
0.618
0.645
N2
0.0898
0.205
0.215
NH3
0.0955
0.0257
0.019
Inerts
0.0932
0.151
0.1199
Pg(xinert)Pg
.. (6)
Also at separator,
Fco = Pg + R + 136.2
.. (7)
At recycle point,
Fci = M+ R
.. (8)
Taking 14% conversion per pass for the reactor at 200 atm pressure and 500C,
Fco = Fci (xN2)Fci0.86 + Fci (xH2)Fci0.86 + Fci (xNH3)Fci + Fci (xN2)Fci0.28 + Fci (xinert)Fci
On solving,
Fco = 0.9387Fci
. (9)
Also at recycle,
R(xNH3)R = Fci(xNH3)Fci
Fci = 1.35R
.. (10)
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Stream
2136.12
747.64
Fci
2883.76
Pg
434.18
Fco
2706.98
Mole
fraction
Flow rate
(Mol/s)
H2
0.737
552.88
N2
0.249
186.54
CH4
0.007
5.15
0.004
0.003
2.25
Inert
(CO, CO2, & Ar)
Steam
Inlet flow rate for methanator can be calculated using inlet composition for methanator and
balancing flow rate of nitrogen (as nitrogen remains unaffected in methanator).
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Components
Mole
fraction
Flow rate
(Mol/s)
H2
0.745
562.54
N2
0.247
186.54
CH4
0.002
1.51
Inert
0.001
0.75
CO
0.004
3.02
CO2
0.001
0.75
CO2 ABSORBER:
In CO2 absorber, only Carbon dioxide is absorbed and rest of the gases remain unaffected.
Inlet and outlet compositions for CO2 absorber,
Components
Inlet mole
fraction
Outlet
mole
fraction
Outlet
flow rate
(Mol/s)
H2
0.687
0.745
562.54
N2
0.228
0.247
186.54
CH4
0.002
0.002
1.51
Inert
0.004
0.001
0.75
CO
0.078
0.004
3.02
CO2
0.001
0.001
0.75
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Fa =
818.98 mol/s
xH2
0.436
0.736F1
xCO2
0.126
0.213 F1
xN2
0.145
0.245 F1
xCO
0.002
0.003 F1
xCH4
0.0012
0.0012 F1
xinert
0.0012
0.0012 F1
xsteam
0.289
0.488 F1
ENERGY BALANCE
PRIMARY REFORMER:
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CH4 + H2O
CO + 3H2
CO + H2O
CO2 + H2
H298 = - 41 kJ/mol
xi Cpi
298
H1073 = H298 +
Thus ,
Heat required by first reaction : Flow rate of methane (H1073 )1
=
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1.78
3.94
SECONDARY REFORMER:
Air added in secondary reformer = 327.95 mol/s
This is pre-heated to 800C before being fed to secondary reformer.
Heat required for heating air from 30C to 800C = 7106 J/s
Again natural gas is used for heating purpose,
Amount of natural gas required : (7106) / (3.94107) = 0.178 m3/s
CH4 + H2O
CO + 3H2
H = +ve
H2 + O2
H2O
H = - ve
CO+ O2
CO2
H = - ve
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Effluent from secondary reformer is cooled to 693 K before being fed to HTSC. This heat is
utilized for producing steam at 373 K and 1 atm.
H
CpT s
Steam produced:
H = heat recovered = (F .x .Cp.(1151-693) ) = 2.22107 J/s
4.067 107 J/kmol
Steam produced = 0.547 kmol/s
CO2 + H2
H = -ve
H
CpT s
= 269.33 mol/s
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CO2 + H2
H = -ve
CONDENSER:
Exit stream from LTSC contains steam which is an unwanted load on absorber. In condenser,
steam is condensed at 373 K ( this is inlet temperature of absorber).
Exit gases ( other than steam) are also cooled from 483 to 373 K through a heat exchanger
H = (F .x .Cp.(483-373))
METHANATOR:
Inlet temperature : 623 K
After absorber, gases are heated from 373 K to 623 K .
Heat required = (F .x .Cp.(623-373))
H
s
= 133 mol/s
CH4 + H2O
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PROCESS DESIGNCO
ABSORBER
Gas out
PROPERTIES
Gas density g = 0.487 kg/m3
Liquid density l = 934.4 kg/m3`
Gas viscosity g= 0.0175 cP
Gas in
0.1
0.2
0.002
0.25
0.004
0.3
0.008
0.35
0.016
0.4
0.03
0.45
0.052
0.48
0.08
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0.49
0.09
From Graph
(Lin/Gin)min = 0.217
(Lin/Gin)actual = 1.50.217= 0.3255
Lin
= 0.325755.19
= 266.578 mol/s
Top Section
Lt = Ls (1+Xt)
= 266.578 mol/s
Bottom Section
Lb = 266.578(1+Xb)
= 361.4798 mol/s
(as Xb = 0.356 , from graph)
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Hg = 0.017D1.24Z0.33Scg0.5/(Lf1f2f3)0.5
= parameter for a given packing = 75
D = column diameter
Scg = Schmidt no for gas phase =2.1778
L = liquid rate = 6.2 kg/m2s
f1 = (l/w) = 0.8243
f2 = (l/w) =1.0885
f3 = (w/l) = 1.0611
Substituting we get
Hg = 0.822Z0.33
dy
y y
0.001
NOG =
- ln[(1-yb)/(1-yt))
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y*
1/(y-y*)
.001
1000
.01
0.0005
105.283
.02
.001
52.63
.03
.0015
35.08
.04
.0025
26.26
.05
.004
21.74
.06
.006
18.5
.07
.009
16.4
.08
.0125
14.8
.084
.0145
14.38
NOG = 4.78
Z = 3.93Z0.33 + 0.0021Z0.15
By iterations,
Z = 7.70 m
Height of bed in absorber = 7.7 m
Pressure drop = 1540 N/m2
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AMMONIA CONVERTOR
Let fraction of feed goes to first bed and rest of 1- fraction mixes with effluent from 1st
bed as quench gas to maintain temperature of gas at 500C.
Also it is assumed that conversion in first bed is from 0 to 8 % , whereas in second converter
conversion of 14 % is achieved.
Heat liberated after first bed = F 0.08 0.215 2 46 103
=1582.4 F
H2
(0.6450.92) F
0.5934 F
N2
(0.2150.92) F
0.1972 F
(20.2150.08+0.02 ) F =
0.0544 F
NH3
Inert
0.12 F
Total = 0.9656 F
Mole fraction
Cp (J/mol-K )
H2
0.614
29.572
N2
0.205
31.258
NH3
0.056
50.431
Inert
0.1242
20.796
Cp = 30.66 J/mol-K
0.9656 F Cp T = 1582.4 F
T = 53C
(T1)out = 480+53 = 533C
0.9656 F Cp806 +(1- ) F Cp626 = F(0.9656 +1- ) Cp753
= 0.71
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N2
NH3
Inert
0.12 F
= 0.12 F
0.623
N2
0.208
NH3
0.045
Inert
0.0123
Heat liberated
= 2706.98 mol/s
Cp
= 30.5 J/mol-K
2706.98 30.5 T
= 4162.54103
T = 50.4 0C
Final Temp = 530.4 0C
Heat Exchanger
0.71F(753-626)
= 2706.98(803.5-T)
812.87- T
= (0.712883.76127)/2706.98
= 707.44 K
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(5.280.2152883.760.71)/(678.4)
3.375 m3
(5.280.2050.97522883.76)/(646.85)
4.695 m3
3.375 m3
4.695 m3
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CO2 + steam
Steam
X1 =
kmol CO2
kmol steam
Y1=0
Kmol MEA
Equilibrium data:
X
0.001
0.003167
0.002
0.006347
0.05
0.17713
0.1
0.403061
0.15
0.701183
0.2
1.112676
0.25
1.717391
0.3
2.693182
0.35
4.532787
0.356
4.869114
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kmol CO2
kmol steam
Minimum Gs = Ls(X2-X1)/(Y2-Y1)
= 266.578*(.356-.001)/(1.1-0)
= 86 mol steam/sec
for 1.5 times minimum, steam flow rate = 126.2 mole/sec
therefore Y2 = 1.1
also, x1 = 0.001, y1 = 0
x2 = 0.356, y2 = 1.1
we make a y-x plot to determine total number of stages which are found to be 4.8
TOWER DIAMETER
L
G
G
L
= 0.045
= 0.0744*t + 0.01173
= 0.0304*t + 0.015
reference: Page 169 Mass transfer operations by R E Treybal
let t = 0.75 m
= 0.06753
= 0.0378
CF = [0.06753 log
1
0.04 0.2
0.0378](
)
0.556
0.02
0.04
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= 0.1339
L G 0.5
)
G
V F = CF
= 4.1554 m/s
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PROCESS UTILITY
Feed Gas Compression:
Reforming:
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CO Shift:
CO2 Removal:
CO2 absorber
MEA regenerator
Flash column
MEA filter
MEA make up filter
Activated carbon filter
Deaerator feed heater
Lean MEA cooler
Rich/lean exchanger
Syngas trim cooler
Semi-lean pump
MEA make up pump
MEA filter pump
Condensate pump
Process condensate pump
Lean solution pump
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Methanator exchanger
Methanator start-up heater
Syngas cooler
Adsorber regeneration heater
Methanator
Syngas adsorber
Ammonia Synthesis:
NH3 absorber
NH3 still
NH3 absorber feed water cooler
NH3 solution interchanger
NH3 still condenser
Purge gas H2 recovery unit
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Refrigeration:
Refrigeration condenser
Refrigeration compressor
Refrigeration receiver
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CATALYST USED
1.
Desulphurization
Supported cobalt-molybdenum (Comox) or nickel-molybdenum (Nimox) catalyst is
used for hydrogenation of organic sulphur compounds in hydrocarbon feedstock to
H2S which is then removed.
H2S is absorbed in a ZnO bed.
Temperature:
350-400 oC
Pressure:
40 Kg/cm2
Catalyst name:
ZnO
Bulk density:
1.05-1.15 Kg/lit
95
R2O3
Fe2O3 + Al2O3
Special features:
Low attrition loss.
Gains strength in use.
High H2S absorption efficiency.
2.
Primary reformer
Temperature:
700-800 oC
Pressure:
30-40 Kg/cm2
Catalyst name:
Bulk density:
.05-1.15 Kg/lit
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18
CaO
18
Al2O3 74
Special features:
Highly pure and refractory.
Al2O3 supports high activity and stability and long life
3.
Secondary reformer
Temperature:
950 oC
Pressure:
30-40 Kg/cm2
Catalyst name:
Bulk density:
1.1-1.2 Kg/lit
12
CaO
12
Al2O3 76
Special features:
4.
340-450 oC
Pressure:
30-40 Kg/cm2
Catalyst name:
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Bulk density:
1.0-1.1 Kg/lit
0.015
Special features:
Extremely low Sulphur content with very low desulphurization time
High and stable activity and strength
5.
200-250 oC
Pressure:
30-40 Kg/cm2
Catalyst name:
Bulk density:
1.25-1.3 Kg/lit
25
ZnO
25
Al2O3
35
Fe2O3 + TiO2 5
Special features:
High and stable activity and strength
High resistance to poisons and steam condensation
6.
Methanation
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Temperature:
300-400 oC
Pressure:
30-40 Kg/cm2
Catalyst name:
Bulk density:
1.25-1.3 Kg/lit
20
R2O3
80
Special features:
Excellent thermal and mechanical stability
High activity and long life.
7.
Ammonia synthesis
Temperature:
400-500 oC
Pressure:
Catalyst name:
Bulk density:
2.1-2.3 Kg/lit
91
Al2O3
CaO
MgO
K2O
SiO2
0.5
Special features:
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8.
Catalyst poisoning:
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PLANT SAFETY
Historical data show that the major accidents in ammonia plants are explosions and fires. In
addition there is also a potential of toxic hazard due to the handling and storage of liquid
ammonia.
The following credible major hazards events are identified in an ammonia production plant:
1. Fire/explosion hazard due to leaks from the hydrocarbon feed system.
2. Fire/explosion hazard due to leaks of synthesis gas in the CO removal/synthesis gas
compression areas (75% hydrogen).
3. Toxic hazard from the release of liquid ammonia from the synthesis loop.
In ammonia storage the release of liquid ammonia (by sabotage) is a credible major hazard
event.
The toxic hazard of a potential large release of liquid ammonia (ie. from a storage tank) may
be much more serious for the local population. An emergency plan for this event, covering
the operators and the local population must be maintained.
HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION
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Human health:
Ammonia is toxic by inhalation, corrosive to all parts of the body and liquid splashes
can cause severe cold burns.
Skin Contact:
Liquid ammonia splashes may produce severe cold burns to skin. Vapour in presence
of moisture is an irritant to the skin.
Eye Contact:
Liquid ammonia splashes may cause permanent damage to eyes with the full effects
not being apparent for several days. Vapours can cause irritation and watering of eyes
and at high concentrations can cause severe damage.
Ingestion:
Will immediately cause severe corrosion and damage to the gastro-intestinal tract.
Inhalation:
Ammonia odour threshold 5-25ppm. Concentrations in the range 50-100ppm may
cause slight irritation following prolonged exposure. Immediate eye, nose and throat
irritation may occur with ammonia levels between 400-700ppm with symptoms of
slight upper respiratory tract irritation persisting beyond the period of exposure. At
higher concentrations, above 1000ppm, severe eye and upper respiratory tract
irritation can develop following a short period of exposure. Exposure to ammonia in
excess of 2000ppm for even short periods may result in severe lung damage and could
be fatal. Fluid build up on the lung (pulmonary dema) may occur up to 48 hours
after exposure and could prove fatal. Exposure to concentrations grossly in excess of
the occupational exposure limit may lead to permanent respiratory impairment.
Long term effects:
No evidence of adverse effects at exposure below occupational exposure limits.
Environment:
Free (non-ionised) ammonia in surface water is toxic to aquatic life, however the
ammonium ion which predominates in most waters is not toxic. In the event of water
contamination with ammonia, ammonium salts which may be formed will not present
a toxic hazard. Increases in pH above 7.5 leads to an increased level of non-ionised
ammonia.
Studies in fish have shown that repeated exposures produce adverse effects on growth
rate at concentrations greater than 0.0024mg/l.
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Other:
Fire, heating and explosion
Flammable but difficult to ignite in open air. In enclosed space ammonia air mixtures
may be flammable/explosive.
Danger of tank or cylinder bursting when heated.
Large leaks of liquid ammonia may produce a dense cloud, restricting visibility.
FIRST-AID MEASURES
Speed is essential. Remove affected person from further exposure. Give immediate
first aid and obtain medical attention.
Skin Contact
Drench with large quantities of water. In case of frost bite (freeze burns) clothing may
adhere to the skin. Defrost with care using comfortable warm water. Remove clothing
and wash affected parts. Obtain immediate medical attention.
Eye Contact
Immediately irrigate the eyes with eyewash solution or clean water for at least 10
minutes. Continue irrigation until medical attention can be obtained. Hold eyelids
open during flushing.
Ingestion
Do not induce vomiting. If the person is conscious, wash out mouth with water and
give 2 or 3 glasses of water to drink. Obtain immediate medical attention.
Inhalation
Move the injured person to fresh air at once. Keep the patient warm and at rest.
Administer oxygen if competent person is available. Apply artificial respiration, if
breathing has stopped or shows sign of failing. Obtain immediate medical attention.
Further medical advice
Keep under medical review for possibility of rapid or delayed tracheal, bronchial and
pulmonary edema. Progressive ocular damage may arise.
FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
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Ammonia vapour and liquid spills are difficult to ignite, particularly in the open air. In an
enclosed space, mixtures of ammonia and air within the limits (16-27%), might cause
explosion if ignited. Cold, dense cloud of ammonia may impair visibility.
Attempt to isolate source of leak.
Use foam, dry powder or CO2.
Use water sprays to cool fire-exposed containers and structures, to disperse vapours
and to protect personnel. Do not spray water into liquid ammonia.
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.
Those dealing with major releases should wear full protective clothing including
respiratory protection.
Evacuate the area down-wind of the release, if it is safe to do so. If not, then stay
indoors, close all windows and switch off any extraction fans or electrical fires.
Isolate source of leak as quickly as possible by trained personnel.
Ventilate area of spill or leak to disperse vapours.
Remove ignition sources.
Consider covering with foam to reduce evaporation.
Contain spillages if possible.
Use water sprays to combat gas clouds. Do not apply water directly into large
ammonia spills.
Take care to avoid the contamination of watercourses.
Inform appropriate authority in case of accidental contamination of watercourses or
drains.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Storage:
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Component
TLV-TWA (8hr)
TLV-STEL (15min)
NH3
25
35
NO2
SO2
H2S
10
15
CO
50
400
CO2
5000
30000
The figures are subject to updating and may vary between countries.
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EFFLUENT TREATMENT
EMISSIONS TO AIR
From steam reforming plants with a fired primary reformer emissions to air come from the
following sources:
Flue-gas from the primary reformer
Vent gas from CO2 removal
Breathing gas from oil buffers (seals/compressors)
Fugitive emissions (from flanges, stuffing boxes etc.)
Purge and flash gases from the synthesis section (usually added to the primary
reformer fuel)
Non-continuous emissions (venting and flaring)
The SO2 emission comes from the sulphur in the fuel gas and can be calculated by a
simple mass balance.
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EMISSIONS TO WATER
Pollution problems related to water, during normal operation, may occur due to process
condensates or due to scrubbing of waste gases containing ammonia.
Process condensate is found primarily in the condensation section prior to the CO 2 removal,
in the order of 1m3 per ton NH3 produced. Without treatment this condensate can contain up
to 1kg of ammonia and 1kg methanol per m3. More than 95% of the dissolved gases can be
recovered by stripping with process steam and are recycled to the process. The stripped
condensate can be re-used as boiler feed water make-up after treatment by ion exchange.
Total recycle is obtained in this way. In some cases the process condensate is used for feedgas saturation and thus recycled to the process.
Usually the ammonia absorbed from purge and flash gases is recovered in a closed loop so
that no aqueous ammonia emissions occur. Emissions to water from the production plant
during normal operation can thus be fully avoided.
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SOLID WASTES
The ammonia processes do not normally produce solid wastes. Spent catalysts and sieves
have to be removed and valuable metals are recovered from them.
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Emissions to Air
An extractive gas sampling system for continuous gas monitoring will typically comprise:
A coarse filter (heated if necessary) which may be in the stack or duct or outside.
A heated line to convey the sample gas from the stack but this may not be necessary if
probe dilution is used.
A cooler may be used to reduce moisture.
A further drier installed before the analyser.
A pump, situated before or after the analyser, as appropriate, to pull the gas from the
stack or duct.
A fine filter may be put immediately before the analyser.
A description of available methods for monitoring emissions is given:
ONLINE METHODS
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Chemiluminescence:
These instruments use the property of fluorescence, which can take place with some
chemical reactions. By selecting two gases to react under carefully controlled
conditions, the chemiluminescence can be measured to determine the concentration of
reacting gases.
NOx measurement makes use of the reaction:
NO + O3 -> NO2 + O2 + kv
The sample gas is passed through a catalytic converter to change any nitrogen dioxide
to nitric oxide and is then reduced in pressure and reacted with ozone. The
chemiluminescence (kv) is measured by a photomultiplier tube after passing through
an appropriate band pass filter.
MANUAL METHODS
Sulphur dioxide:
Standard methods rely on the solubility and acidic nature of the gas. An oxidizing
agent is generally used to convert the SO 2 to SO3. National standard methods include
the use of hydrogen peroxide solution as the oxidizing agent with titration against
standard alkali or gravimetric analysis using barium chloride and hydrochloric acid to
precipitate the sulphate. An alternative to this uses a sample collected in hydrogen
peroxide solution and titration against barium perchlorate with thorin as indicator. A
method which draws the filtered gas through a standard solution of iodine in
potassium iodide is also used. The unreacted iodine is determined by titration with
sodium thiosulphate and the SO2 calculated from the amount of iodine used to oxidise
the SO2.
All the methods have errors associated with the interferences and the user should be
knowledgeable about the method and its suitability.
Oxides of nitrogen
The instrumental methods given under online methods are preferred.
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These gases are generally measured by solution absorption into liquid reagents
specific for each gas.
Emissions to Water:
Whilst emissions to water are likely to be intermittent and of a low level, it is likely that any
site operating an ammonia plant will have at least one overall consent for emissions to water
and a requirement for plant monitoring. Typical monitoring methods may rely on flow
proportioned sample collection or high frequency spot sampling and flow measurement. In
either case the samples obtained may be analyzed as follows:
Ammonia/Ammoniacal N :
The spectrophotometric method for ammonia relies on
the reaction in which monochloramine is reacted with phenol to form an indophenol
blue compound. This method is particularly suitable for the determination of ammonia
in cooling waters derived from saline sources (dock, estuarine or sea water) and may
be used in continuous flow colorimetry.
Ion selective electrodes can also be used and are suitable for saline applications as
well as pure water.
Note that free ammonia exists in equilibrium with NH4+ as follows:
NH4+ + H2O is in equilibrium with NH3 + H3O+
and that the equilibrium depends on pH. The above method determines the NH4+
ammonia. Free ammonia is particularly toxic to fish and should an incident occur, it
may be more important to relate the NH4+ result to free ammonia. Any suitable pH
determination may be used and the free ammonia estimated as given in Hampson B
L, J Cons Int Explor, Mer, 1977,37. 11 and Whitfield M, J Mar Biol. Ass UK,
1974,54, 562.
Manual laboratory based methods may be used for spot checks using Kjeldahl
methods for the determination of organic and ammoniacal nitrogen in a mineralized
sample.
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Methanol:
The spectrophotometric method for methanol relies on the oxidation
reactions of potassium permanganate under acid conditions to give formaldehyde. The
formaldehyde is reacted with acetylacetone in the presence of excess ammonium salt,
to form diacetyldihydrolutidine. The method may be used in continuous flow
colorimetry or gas chromatography.
Achievable Emission Levels for New Plants :
The following emission levels can be achieved for new ammonia plants. These levels
relate to steady-state production, not accounting for peaks which can occur during the
unsteady transient conditions of start-up and shut-down and during emergencies.
Emissions to air
NOx (as NO2 at 3% O2)
ppmv
mg/Nm3
kg/t of product
75
150
0.45
Emissions to water
NH3 or NH4 (as N)
0.1kg/t of product
Waste material
Spent catalysts etc.
<0.2kg/t of product
In new reforming plants the total energy consumption should not exceed 32.5 GJ
(HHV)/t and process condensate recycle should be a pre-requisite.
The costs of pollution control measures in the fertilizer industry are difficult to generalize as
they depend on a number of factors such as:
The emission target or standard to be met
The type of process, the degree of integration with other processes on site, production
volumes, type of raw materials being used etc.
whether the plant is new so that the design can be optimised with respect to pollution
abatement, or whether the plant is an existing one requiring revamping or end-of-pipe
pollution abatement equipment
Generally, it is more economical to incorporate the pollution abatement system at the process
design stage rather than revamping or adding-on equipment at later stage.
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pool of unskilled labour availability locally and labour suitable for training to operate the
plant. Skilled tradesmen will be needed for plant maintenance. Local trade union customs and
restrictive practices will have to be considered when assessing the availability and suitability
of the local labour for recruitment and training.
Availability of Utilities (Services):
Chemical processes invariably require large quantities of water for cooling and general
process use, and the plant must be located near a source of water of suitable quality. Process
water may be drawn from a river, from wells, or purchased from a local authority. At some
sites, the cooling water required can be taken from a river or lake, or from the sea; at other
locations cooling towers will be needed.
Electrical power will be needed at all sites. Electrochemical processes that require large
quantities of power; need to be located close to a cheap source of power. A competitively
priced fuel must be available on site for steam and power generation.
Environmental Impact and Effluent Disposal:
All industrial processes produce waste products, and full consideration must be given to the
difficulties and cost of their disposal. The disposal of toxic and harmful effluents will be
covered by local regulations, and the appropriate authorities must be consulted during the
initial site survey to determine he standards that must be met. An environmental impact
assessment should be made for each new project or major modification or addition or an
existing process.
Local Community Considerations:
The proposed plant must be fit in with and be acceptable to the local community. Full
consideration must be given to the safe location of the plant so that it does not impose a
significant additional risk to the community. On a new site, the local community must be able
to provide adequate facilities for the plant personnel: schools, banks, housing, and
recreational and cultural facilities.
Availability of Land:
Sufficient suitable land must be available for the proposed plant and for future expansion.
The land should ideally be flat, well drained and have suitable load-bearing characteristics. A
full site evaluation would be made to determine the need for piling or other special
foundations.
Climate:
Adverse climatic conditions at a site will increase costs. Abnormally low temperatures will
require the provision of additional insulation and special heating for equipment and pipe runs.
Stronger structures will be needed at locations subject to high winds (cyclone/hurricane) or
earthquakes.
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Availability of Land:
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The area being an industrial area, the procurement of land should not be a problem.
Political considerations:
As Andhra Pradesh is a Industrially Oriented state, so there are no problems. Infact the state
encourages setup of industries and gives some special exemptions like lower taxes, etc.
PLANT LAYOUT
The economic construction and operation of a process unit will depend on how well the plant
equipment specified on the process flow sheet and laid out. The principal factors to be
considered are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Costs:
The cost of construction can be minimized by adopting a layout that gives shortest run of
connecting pipes between equipment, and adopting the least amount of structural steel work.
However, this will not necessarily be the best arrangement for operation and maintenance.
Process Requirement:
All the required equipment have to be placed properly within process. Even the installation of
the auxiliaries should be done in such a way that it will occupy the least space.
Operation:
Equipment that needs to have frequent operation should be located convenient to the control
room. Valves, sample points, and instruments should be located at convenient position and
height. Sufficient working space and headroom must be provided to allow easy access to
equipment.
Maintenance:
Heat exchangers need to be sited so that the tube bundles can be easily withdrawn for
cleaning and tube replacement. Vessels that require frequent replacement of catalyst or
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packing should be located on the outside of buildings. Equipment that requires dismantling
for maintenance, such as compressors and large pumps, should be placed under cover.
Safety:
Blast walls may be needed to isolate potentially hazardous equipment, and confine the effects
of an explosion. At least two escape routes for operator must be provided from each level in
the process building.
Plant Expansion:
Equipment should be located so that it can be conveniently tied in with any future expansion
of the process. Space should be left on pipe alleys for future needs, service pipes oversized to
allow for future requirements.
PLANT LAYOUT
Main Sections:
A complex chemical plant is divided into sections to limit the capital at risk, some of these
areas should be located in areas where there is no fire risk. Care should be taken to give
enough vacant space so as to avoid a chain reaction during the times of fire ao any other
emergencies.
Pipe Bridges:
Equipments can be under pipe bridges but avoid large inventories of flammable materials or
say pumps, moving liquids above atmospheric temperature. Enough bends should be given
for the lines carrying hot liquids, otherwise thermal expansion may damage the lines.
Loading and Off-loading:
Locate the loading and offloading facilities at the terminal parts of the plant so that regular
traffic through the plant is minimized. Road tanker loading or offloading should be classified
as danger areas and should be located at the periphery of the plant. These facilities should be
so located that they are close to the railway terminal.
Plant Roads:
Plant roads should give access to plants and should be arranged so that vehicles do not pass
through process areas. Dead end roads should be avoided while access from any point to any
part of the plant should be from two directions. Hazardous areas should not overlap the plant
limits.
Administrative Block:
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This can be located at any place, but preferably at a place away from the plant. Normally it is
kept at an enclosure slightly away from the production units. It should house the offices and
rooms meant for conferences and emergency meetings. A refreshment room can also be
provided in the building.
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8
12
5
4
PLANT LAYOUT
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Administrative Block
Fire & Safety Department
Plant Utilities
Emergency Water
Packaging Plant
Process Plant
Expansion
Laboratory
Store
Stray Yard
Canteen
Storage Vessels
Workshops
Connecting Roads
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COST ESTIMATION
$ 20(200/273.9)0.53 million
$ 16.9298 million
356
420
Cost of ammonia plant of capacity 200 TPD in 2004 = 19.973 million dollar
i.e., Fixed Capital Cost (FCI)
= Rs. 918775150
b) Installation cost :
Range: (35 45% of PEC)
Assume 35% of PEC
Installation cost = Rs 64314260.5
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Indirect cost:
Expenses which are not directly involved with material and labour of actual installation or
complete facility
a) Engineering and supervision:
Range: (5-30% of DC)
Assume 25%
= Rs 175026666.1
c) Contingency:
Range: (8-20% of DC)
Assume 12%
= Rs 84012799.72
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WC = Rs 171386111.4
b) Local taxes:
Range: (3-4% of TPC)
Assume 3%
= Rs 32134895.9
c) Insurances:
Range: (0.4-1% of FCI)
Assume 0.7%
= Rs 7498142.4
d)Rent:
Range: (8-12% of FCI)
Assume 10%
= Rs 107116319.6
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Direct production:
a) Raw material:
Range: (10-50% 0f TPC)
Assume 40%
= Rs 676975140.1
d) Utilities:
Range: (10-20% of TPC)
Assume 15%
= Rs 253865677.5
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e) Maintenance:
Range: (2-10% of FCI)
Assume 8%
= Rs 86693055.7
g) Laboratory charges:
Range: (10-20% of OL)
Assume 12%
= Rs 30463881.3
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Thus, Manufacture cost = Direct production cost + Fixed charges + Plant overhead costs.
Manufacturing cost = 1915121967
General expenses:
a) Administration cost:
Range: (40-60% of OL)
Assume 50%
= Rs 126932838.8
d) Financing ( Interest):
Range: ( 0-10 % Of TCI)
Assuming 5 % of TCI
= Rs 62127465.4
Therefore general expenses (GE) = Rs 578321009.7
Total production cost:
Total production cost = MC + GE
= Rs 2493442977
Gross earnings and rate of return:
The plant is working for say 340 days a year
Selling price of ammonia =Rs. 40 /kg
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CONCLUSION
The cost analysis shows that Ammonia is such a product whose costs are highly
variable depending on the costs of the raw materials, especially hydrogen.
The heat in the plant is integrated through a network of heat exchangers so that minimum
amount of steam is to be produced.
The product costing showed a rate of return of 12.75% which means that ammonia plant of
given capacity is profitable to operate.
The product quality depends on the maintenance of appropriate temperature & pressure
conditions in the reactors.
Various PID controllers in DDCS mode are used at different stages.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Peters, Max S. and Timmerhaus, Klaus D., Plant Design & Economics, 4th edition,
McGraw Hill, Inc. (1980)
2. Wilbrant, Frank C. & Dryden, Charles E., Chemical Engineering Plant Design, 4th
edition, McGraw Hill, Inc. (1980)
3. Coulson, J. M. & Richardson, J. F., Chemical Engineering, Volume 6
4. Perry, J.H., Chemical Engineers Handbook, 7th edition, McGraw Hill, Inc. (1985)
5. Brownell, L.E. and Young, E.H., Process Equipment Design, 1st edition, Wiley, Prentice
Hall (1962)
6. McCabe, Warren L., Smith, Julian C., and Harriot, Peter, Unit Operations of
Chemical Engineering, 5th edition, Pergamon Press (1983)
7. Strelzoff Samuel L., Technology and manufacture of ammonia, Wiley
Interscience Publications.
8. Treybal R .E. Mass Transfer Operations, III Edition, McGraw Hill, Inc (1981)
8. IFFCO KALOL Ammonia plant manual.
9. Rase Howard F., Chemical Reactor Design for Process Plant, Wiley Interscience
Publications. (1977)
9. McKetta, John J. and Cunninghum, William A., Encyclopedia of Chemical
Processing & Design, Revised edition, Marcel Deker Inc.(1984)
10. www.chemical-engineering-design.com