Project Overview
The client approached UIG with concerns about unexpected shutdowns of their entire plant due to trips from their existing Air Separation Unit (ASU) and subsequent loss of oxygen supply. The ASU, which supplies over 2000 standard tons per day (sTPD) of oxygen, did not include a backup supply in its scope, making logistics for a backup challenging. This situation necessitated a solution to ensure continuous oxygen supply and prevent operational disruptions.
At A Glance
- Client Concern: Unexpected shutdowns of the entire plant due to ASU trips
- Issue: Loss of oxygen supply causing operational disruptions
- ASU Capacity: Supplies over 2000 standard tons per day (sTPD) of oxygen
- Initial Setup: No backup supply included, challenging logistics for backup
- Necessity: Implementing a solution to ensure continuous oxygen supply and prevent plant shutdowns
The Client’s Challenge
The customer needed large quantities of oxygen at a pressure nearing the critical level, making liquid storage a challenge. To mitigate over 90% of the trips experienced, they required more than 24 hours of storage supply—a significant volume given their usage rates. They were frustrated with the “lease to never own” model imposed by major gas suppliers.
The UIG Solution
Traditional backup supply for ASUs involves storing large quantities at low pressure, then pumping the liquid to a higher pressure tank for interim storage before vaporizing and delivering it to the customer. With the client’s pressure requirements nearing critical levels, UIG had to craft a custom solution to meet their needs. We designed a unique system to quickly handle the high flow rates required. Our flexible and transparent commercial process allowed the customer to own the system while UIG provided the engineering and technology expertise to ensure their success.