KBR and Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Ltd. (MHPS) have agreed to work together to enable use of the pitch generated from KBR’s solvent de-asphalting (SDA) technology, ROSE®, for steam and power generation. The solution will be offered by KBR as AiGSSM (Asphaltene integrated Generation System).
MHPS’ technology has three reference units in operation.
The SDA pitch-fired plant boilers developed by MHPS will incorporate burners that allow the heated high viscosity SDA pitch to be combusted as liquid without installing an additional system. The boilers utilize high temperature corrosion countermeasures, mainly in the combustion area, to prevent corrosion caused by the high concentrations of sulfur and heavy metals. Further, to reduce the environmental load, the nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulfur oxide (SOx), and particulate matter in the exhaust gas is removed and recovered utilizing MHPS’ leading-edge Air Quality Control System (AQCS) incorporating the flue gas desulfurization (FGD) system.
Demand for light petroleum products has risen in recent years in response to tighter regulations for low sulfur fuel in ships. As a result, refineries have been exploring the use of SDA and other residue cracking systems to convert heavy oil to light oil. However, the effective utilization of SDA pitch, a byproduct with limited use applications, has been an issue.
MHPS, in together with KBR, will support an expanded range of fuels to generate electricity through the widespread use of SDA pitch-fired plants.
“We are excited to offer this combined solution to our clients to include electricity generation through SDA pitch-fired boilers,” said Doug Kelly, KBR President, Technology Solutions. “Our combined solution with MHPS will enhance the economic efficiency of plants and provide a new, environmentally friendly option for power generation.”
