In June 2021, LUVA secured the bid for a significant chemical plant project in Ukraine, encompassing a 40,000 MTPA 93% acid and nicotinic acid facility. Situated in eastern Ukraine, the construction site is primed for an 18-month timeline with a total investment of US$12 million, with solid sulfur as the primary construction material. LUVA is spearheading the project, overseeing basic and detailed design, equipment procurement, installation, commissioning, and on-site training.
As of June 9, 2022, significant milestones have been achieved. The basic design phase is complete, and detailed design is nearing finalization. Core equipment production is underway, and key components have entered the production phase.
The sulfuric acid production process relies on a sulfur-based methodology employing the “3+2” two-rotation and two-absorption acid production process. This encompasses sulfur melting, conversion, dry absorption, and waste heat recovery units. LUVA is producing core equipment internally, while other essential equipment and catalysts are sourced from top-tier domestic manufacturers.
The sulfur dioxide (SO2) conversion rate exceeds 99.8%, with additional measures such as a blower installed behind the drying tower to enhance heat recovery and reduce cooling water consumption, thus yielding economic benefits. Automated control is facilitated through a Siemens S7 series PLC system, complemented by redundant control mechanisms and a central control room equipped with a corresponding host computer. Through the Siemens HMI human-machine interface, operators can efficiently monitor and operate the entire facility, ensuring its smooth and reliable operation.
The device efficiently manages acid-making tail gas, which undergoes absorption by an alkali solution, yielding a by-product of 15% to 20% sodium sulfite solution. This approach minimizes the environmental impact of external tail gas emissions, aligning with local regulatory requirements.
The project incorporates optimized design principles across various facets, including sulfur melting, conversion, absorption, waste heat recovery, and exhaust gas treatment. By selecting top-tier equipment and adhering to stringent environmental standards, LUVA lays a robust foundation for efficient and environmentally friendly production in the future.
