Generalizing operation experience of CA-1P granulated ammonia synthesis catalyst for a column daily capacity of 200, 600, and 1360 tons of NH3

Abstract

The 15-year operation experience of the CA-1P granulated ammonia synthesis catalyst is generalized for a column daily capacity of 200, 600, and 1360 tons of ammonia. When prepared by continuous iron melting, with the simultaneous additions of promoters, the CA-1P granulated ammonia synthesis catalyst is more advantageous than ground catalysts (1.5- to 1.7-fold faster reduction at the lower temperature of 360°C and higher activity), and its production prospective was shown. On the basis of the developed technology, the NIAP-08-01 catalyst was prepared to pass through industrial tests in ammonia synthesis columns of various design (tube and multiple-shell) and daily capacity (200, 600, and 1360 tons). Various loading schemes of the CA-1P catalyst were tested, using fine (3–5 and 5–7 mm) fractions up to 40%. No increasing resistance in catalyst layer was observed. Use of the CA-1P catalyst increased column efficiency by 5–10%. Generalized operation experience of the CA-1P (NIAP-08-01) catalyst enabled to recommend it for a column daily capacity of 1360 tons in columns with radial gas flow.