15-10-2024

UNICAT Catalyst Technologies announces the launch of MagAFS

UNICAT Catalyst Technologies is excited to introduce MagAFS, our latest innovation in Advanced Filtration System (AFS) technology.

Designed to address the critical issue of catalyst bed fouling and pressure drop, MagAFS represents a significant leap forward in filtration efficiency and operational reliability.

We have worked with our customers to understand their hydroprocessing problems and business aims, with a view on improving efficiency and profitability through innovative solutions.

Continued Advancements in AFS
This exciting innovation in MagAFS comes after the recent announcement of a Patent Pending on UNICAT’s AFS Packing Arrangement, which optimizes the packing and flow dynamics to significantly increase particulate filtration capacity.

James Esteban, Sr Technical Manager, commented: “Ongoing investment in our R&D, innovations and Partnerships are at the core of our mission.

“Customers who are not yet leveraging the capabilities of AFS continue to experience shutdowns of their hydrotreating units due to pressure drop. In response we have developed some unique solutions, to tackle these challenges faced.

“We continue to innovate to support our customers in achieving their goals in efficiency and profitability.

Key Features of MagAFS:
1. Advanced Nano-Particle Removal: MagAFS utilizes a patented design and external magnetic field to effectively remove ferromagnetic, paramagnetic, and diamagnetic solids and particles from gas and liquid streams. This ensures the protection of catalyst beds from fouling and deactivation by ultrafine particles.
2. Superior Filtration Efficiency: Unlike conventional magnetic filtration systems that only remove ferromagnetic materials, MagAFS is capable of filtering a wide range of materials including iron sulfides, coke fines, manganese, chromium, silica, and more.
3. Enhanced Operational Life: By maintaining line of sight flow while filtering fines, MagAFS significantly extends the operational life of filtration systems, reducing the need for frequent cartridge replacements and minimizing downtime.
4. Cost Savings: The implementation of MagAFS has demonstrated substantial cost savings in operational expenses. For instance, in a recent application, cartridge replacement intervals were extended from every two days to every two months, resulting in annual savings of >$250,000.
5. Versatile Applications: MagAFS can be retrofitted into existing filtration vessels and is suitable for a variety of applications, including preheat equipment and fixed-bed reactors.
6. Improved Circulating Solvent Systems: MagAFS enhances the efficiency of circulating solvent systems by effectively removing contaminants, leading to cleaner solvents, reduced maintenance, and improved overall system performance.

Proven Performance
Field studies have shown that MagAFS can achieve longer catalyst cycle lengths compared to traditional grading technologies, preserving catalyst activity and preventing pressure drop. This translates to more efficient operations and extended run times.