Downstream
Cat fines
In order for crude oil to be used as fuel, it must first be processed in special refining processes. One example of such a process is distillation with catalysts. In the subsequent separation of the cat fines which are used, GEA centrifuges perform an excellent service and offer our customers tremendous cost benefits.
Benefits of our centrifuges
- Superior particle removal: Centrifugal separators efficiently remove cat fines, ensuring cleaner fuel and preventing engine wear.
- Enhanced fuel quality: By eliminating abrasive particles, the separators contribute to higher fuel quality and better combustion performance.
- Increased equipment longevity: Effective removal of cat fines reduces wear and tear on fuel injection systems and engine components, extending their service life.
- Cost savings: Preventing engine damage and reducing maintenance requirements lead to significant cost savings.
- Operational reliability: Continuous and efficient removal of cat fines ensures the reliable operation of fuel systems.
- Environmental compliance: Cleaner fuel combustion results in lower emissions, helping to meet environmental regulations.
The impact of cat fines on engine systems
Cat fines are microscopic particles of spent catalyst that can be present in fuel oils, particularly in residual fuels like heavy fuel oil (HFO). These fines are a by-product of the refining process and are typically composed of aluminum and silicon oxides. Cat fines are highly abrasive and can cause significant wear and damage to fuel injection systems and engine components if not properly removed.
Problems associated with cat fines
- Engine damage: Abrasive cat fines can cause severe wear on fuel pumps, injectors, and cylinder liners, leading to costly repairs and downtime.
- Fuel contamination: Presence of cat fines in fuel can lead to poor combustion and reduced engine efficiency.
- Environmental impact: Inefficient combustion due to contaminated fuel can result in higher emissions of pollutants.
- Operational risks: High levels of cat fines increase the risk of engine failure and operational disruptions.
Boosting treatment efficiency through centrifugal technology
How centrifugal separators help in better treating cat fines
Centrifugal separators utilize the principle of centrifugal force to effectively remove cat fines from fuel oils. When contaminated fuel is introduced into the centrifuge, the high-speed rotation generates a powerful centrifugal force that drives the denser cat fines to the periphery, allowing the cleaned fuel to be collected from the center. This process achieves precise and efficient removal of cat fines, ensuring cleaner fuel and protecting engine components.
Additionally, centrifugal separators can operate continuously, providing consistent and reliable removal of cat fines. They are adaptable to varying fuel compositions and contamination levels, making them suitable for diverse applications within the refining and marine industries. Engineered for durability, these separators require minimal maintenance and are designed to withstand harsh operational conditions, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. By ensuring cleaner fuel, centrifugal separators also help minimize emissions and contribute to environmental sustainabilityProducts & Technologies
Showing 0 of 0
Downloads
GEA Insights
A new recipe for indulgence
What if your favorite chocolate didn’t require cocoa beans and your coffee was locally produced? As climate disruption, price hikes and ethical concerns hit two of our most beloved indulgences, scientists are reimagining how we produce them – using microbes, not monocultures. The goal: preserve the flavor and properties of coffee and chocolate while minimizing carbon emissions and improving food resilience.
Fueling the circular economy in shipping
Ports now compete not just on logistics, but on sustainability. At Greece’s Piraeus port, an advanced processing and recovery facility recycles ship waste oil into fuel. Equipped with GEA’s high-performance centrifuges, it sets a new benchmark for state-of-the-art, environmentally responsible port operations.
Closing the loop: key lessons for breweries from OeTTINGER
The 2022 CO2 shortage forced breweries to review their dependency on global supply chains. Many were forced to close, unable to carbonate their products. At its breweries in Germany, OeTTINGER GETRÄNKE is turning its own CO2 into a powerful lever for independence and sustainability – with the help of CO2 recovery technology from GEA.
