01-03-2012

Siemens to supply first pre-engineered integrally geared air compressors to China

Siemens Energy will supply together with its Chinese joint venture SITHCO (Siemens Industrial Turbomachinery Huludao Co. Ltd.) the first two large size, pre-engineered integrally geared compressors for an air separation plant to China. Purchaser is Hangzhou Hangyang Co. Ltd, a company specialized on technology, energy, petrochemical and industrial markets worldwide with a unique portfolio of products, services and solutions, providing large, medium and small size Air Separation Units as well as petrochemical equipment. The new air separation unit will supply gas for a nonferrous metal smelting plant in the city of Fangchenggang in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous region in Southern China. The plant will go online begin of 2013.

The Siemens scope of supply encompasses two STC-GC compressors, each with three stages, including gear type coupling, lube oil unit, inlet expansion joint and other auxiliary systems. SITHCO as local Chinese supplier will be responsible for gas coolers, gas/oil/water piping and for the supervision of erection and commissioning on site. The inlet volume flow of the pre-engineered compressors is about 200,000 m3 air per hour. In the air separation process the compressor efficiency is of utmost importance.

The extension of the STC-GC compressor series covers the 120,000-400,000 m3/h capacities at a pressure ratio of 6.5 with 3 impeller stages and adjustable inlet guide vanes for compressor control. Pre-engineering of compressor components allows reducing lead time and costs. The use of well proven components ensures highest plant reliability and availability.

"We are very proud about the first order for our new standardized integrally geared compressor," said Ralf Kannefass, head of the Turbo Equipment business segment in the Siemens Energy Oil & Gas Division. "Based on our proven integrally geared turbo compressors, these units are specifically designed as main air compressors for air separation plants featuring low capital expenditure combined with outstanding efficiency performance."