Careers Multiple HVTS® Applications at Saudi NGL Recovery Plant
This case study examines three HVTS® application projects conducted on a stripper column at an NGL recovery plant between 2015 and 2024. The projects showcase the evolution of corrosion protection strategies and the long-term performance of HVTS cladding in a highly corrosive environment.
The initial application in 2015 covered 140 m² of internal surfaces from trays 6–18. In 2020, after a positive performance assessment, additional coverage was extended to trays 1–6. By 2024, nine years after the initial application, the results demonstrated the effectiveness and durability of the HVTS cladding solution.
T24-30423
Background
The stripper column processes highly corrosive feedstock that causes significant corrosion and metal loss to the internal vessel surfaces. Traditional protective methods proved inadequate for the aggressive service conditions, leading the facility to implement HVTS cladding as a long-term solution.
Project Timeline and Scope
2015 – Initial HVTS Application
Scope: 140 m² of HVTS cladding at 500 μm nominal thickness.
Coverage: Vessel wall, tray rings, downcomers, and supports from tray 6 to tray 18.
2020 – Inspection and Expansion
Inspection Findings:
100% of the 2015 cladding remained in perfect condition after 5 years in service.
Expanded Scope:
- 103 m² of new HVTS cladding application (trays 1–6).
- Removal of 14 m² of existing cladding for unrelated weld repairs.
- Reapplication on mechanically repaired surfaces.
2020 Application (After 4 Years)
- Excellent condition with no repair requirements.
- No signs of deterioration on pressure boundary shell regions.
2024 Inspection and Maintenance
Inspection Findings:
- 2020 application (4 years in service): Excellent condition.
- 2015 application (9 years in service): Excellent condition.
Results and Performance Analysis
Long-Term Performance
2015 Application (After 9 Years):
- Maintained in excellent condition.
- No signs of deterioration on pressure boundary shell regions.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
- Maintenance Requirements: Minimal (limited to tray rings and downcomers).
- Downtime Reduction: Extended time between major repairs provides significant operational benefits.
- Asset Life Extension: Ensures long-term protection of critical equipment from aggressive corrosion.
Conclusion
The series of HVTS applications at the NGL recovery plant demonstrates the effectiveness of this technology for corrosion protection in highly aggressive environments. The excellent performance of the cladding after nine years of service validates the initial investment and confirms that HVTS solutions provide reliable, long-term protection for critical process equipment.
This case study highlights the importance of proper surface preparation, quality control, and regular inspection in achieving optimal results. As demonstrated by the minimal maintenance requirements in 2024, properly applied HVTS cladding can significantly extend equipment life and reduce maintenance costs in corrosive environments.
HVTS® cladding delivered nine years of proven protection, reduced downtime, and extended the life of a critical NGL stripper column. That’s Asset Vitality.
“Our work on this stripper column was about giving the client confidence in the long-term reliability of their most critical equipment. By proving that HVTS cladding can deliver nine years of protection with only minimal touch-ups, we’ve shown that this is not a short-term fix, but a strategy for sustained performance. That’s the kind of certainty that allows our clients to plan turnarounds smarter, reduce maintenance costs, and keep production targets on track.”
Dennis Snijders, Sr. Director – Middle East, IGS
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