HEA has completed many studies and projects for the relocation of deactivated process units for reuse in the original service or for modification to other services. Our staff members have provided the critical process, materials, cost, and schedule information that clarified the logic for making the right decisions when these opportunities arose. In those cases when relocation projects were carried out, HEA associates provided technical support and managed the relocation and reassembly in the field.

Areas typically evaluated include review of the metallurgical condition of key equipment and the development and management of procedures to properly dismantle, cut, and reassemble vessels and reactors. Key high cost and/or long delivery items such as pumps and compressors, fired heaters, and special exchangers also are examined for process fit and condition for the proposed new location and service. Unusual site and other requirements are evaluated as well. Upon completion of a scope estimate for changes and other relocation activities, HEA can develop capital cost estimates and project schedules suitable for assessing the likely overall economics of proceeding with reuse. This result can then be compared with the cost and schedule of installing a new facility for the proposed service.

Recent evaluations include:

• Review of the feasibility and economics of utilizing 3 alternate existing reformers with new catalyst and under modern operating conditions, compared with the option of erecting an all-new installation.

• Relocation of east coast USA refinery process unit to another refinery site.

• Relocation of mid-west USA alkylation unit to another refinery site.

This page was last updated November 14, 2003