Expander in FCC Unit

FCC Expander

Problem

The FCC Expander operators were experiencing severe vibration due to catalyst fines sticking on the rotating blades resulting in a shutdown every six weeks, on average.

After Therma-Chem Treatment

Figure 1 shows the daily average vibration level of the four vibration probes on the expander for the prior year before using Therma-Chem. Treatment with Turbo-Mor commenced in October 2013 and Figure 2 reflects the first year of treatment. There were no high vibration trips for the next 30 months of operation. This presented a significant saving for the plant.