IMI supplies valves to world’s first net-zero carbon emissions ethylene cracker

IMI has won the contract to supply an innovative package of transfer line and decoke valves for the world’s first net-zero carbon emissions ethylene cracker located in Canada.

The project overview

Consisting of 15 36” IMI Z&J double disc through conduit (DDTC) gate valves, the package is notable for integrating the company’s patented erosion protection device, the IMI Z&J Beluga Hump, into each component’s decoke valve inlet nozzle. This solves a potential erosion issue affecting transfer line and decoking valves, which need to operate without error in the extremely hazardous environment inside the ethylene unit.

Expert insights on the project

“This project is the first of its kind, so it is undoubtedly very exciting to help turn the world’s first net-zero carbon emissions ethylene cracker into a reality,” says Sascha Ternes, Application Manager at IMI. “Transfer line and decoking valves are some of the most critical components within the complete ethylene unit and will be integral in ensuring the new plant is a success. We are fully confident this component package, including our patented erosion protection device, will live up to our reputation as a leading manufacturer of severe service valves.”

IMI Z&J’s role in the project

IMI Z&J DDTC valves are engineered, designed, and built to robust fail-safe designs, tailor-made and fabricated to customer specifications in materials suited to demanding operating conditions. This step-by-step approach and fostering of productive working relationships proved vital to the company’s contract win, as Mr. Ternes explains.

“We have worked closely with the end user’s global technology team as well as the EPC’s engineering team to ensure our valve solutions will offer leading performance levels within the net-zero ethylene plant environment.

“Building trust and demonstrating expertise is key to ensuring exciting projects such as these reach their full potential. To that end, we are also pleased that the Beluga Hump is set to further enhance operational efficiency for existing ethylene cracker units elsewhere in Canada and in the USA.”