Refineries are seeking to reduce their energy consumption and minimize their environmental impact without compromising the safety or continuity of their operations. In this context, GEA introduced a new generation of decanter centrifuges designed to optimize the treatment of oily wastewater and promote more efficient refining operations.
In addition to crude oil processing, the management of byproducts and waste streams has become one of the industry’s main challenges. Among these, hydrocarbon-containing wastewater generated during upstream, midstream, and downstream stages stands out; its treatment allows for resource recovery and reduces the environmental burden.
Technology to recover water and reduce energy consumption
GEA developed the petroMaster CF series, a line of decanter centrifuges designed for demanding applications within refineries. These units efficiently separate water, oil, and solids to facilitate the reuse of treated water in various industrial processes.
One of the main advances corresponds to the Varipond C system, which maintains stable separation results while reducing energy consumption by around 30% compared to conventional centripetal pumps.
Likewise, the incorporation of a nitrogen inerting system certified according to ATEX regulations increases operational safety during operation in potentially explosive environments.
Project in South America demonstrates the application of the technology
The company supplied and commissioned two petroMaster CF 5000 units at a South American refinery, the project represents the first implementation of the Varipond C system combined with nitrogen inerting in accordance with ATEX requirements.
The solution integrates technology developed at GEA’s centers of competence in Germany with the adaptation made by the regional team in South America to comply with local regulations for safety, explosion protection and control systems.
This strategy made it possible to offer a solution tailored to the needs of the facility while reducing the logistics costs associated with transport and contributing to reducing the carbon footprint of the project.
Digitization to improve equipment availability
The installed systems also incorporate IoT connectivity capabilities that allow continuous monitoring of equipment status and facilitate remote support.
Real-time monitoring facilitates preventive maintenance and helps increase the availability of centrifuges during operation, reducing potential interruptions to the production process.
GEA strengthens its presence in the regional market
With this project and other recently obtained contracts, GEA continues to expand its presence in the oil and gas sector in South America through separation solutions focused on improving energy efficiency, optimizing water management and supporting the sustainability of refining operations.
Source: Hydrocarbonprocessing
Photo: Shutterstock
