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Precise temperature monitoring for efficient amine processes

A model TC96-M miniature multipoint thermocouple from WIKA provides Chevron with real-time data for optimised gas treatment

To make the operation of its amine contactors more efficient and stable, Chevron relied on measurement technology from WIKA. The model TC96-M miniature multipoint thermocouple, developed by WIKA specifically for a refinery in Pascagoula, Mississippi, USA, measures the heat distribution along the column – the heart of the process in which CO₂ and H₂S are removed from the gas stream. In real time and without intrusion into the plant. The acquired data enable targeted control of the reaction zones, reduce energy consumption and increase operational safety.

"Chevron"

“Temperature data tell stories. Our task was to make these stories readable for Chevron and thereby open up a new understanding of efficiency.”

“Our solution combines measurement technology with process understanding – that is true transparency inside the plant.”

Robert Torgerson
Director of Technology and Applications

"Robert Togerson"

Challenge

Process in focus

Gas treatment is one of the most energy-intensive steps in refinery production. In Pascagoula over 350,000 barrels of crude oil are processed daily – any inefficiency in the amine contactor column has an immediate impact on energy consumption, CO₂ emissions and product quality. To ensure stable reaction conditions, temperature profiles must be recorded precisely and monitored continuously.

Lack of transparency

Until now, engineers could only capture individual temperature values from the contactor column. These spot measurements did not allow any conclusions about the actual reaction zone. Whether the absorption had proceeded evenly or energy had been lost remained unclear. Without a complete picture of the heat distribution, precise process control was hardly possible – efficiency potential remained untapped.

Background: The amine column

  • In the amine column, acidic gases such as CO₂ and H₂S are removed from the process gas.
  • The chemical reaction releases heat and creates the “temperature bulge”, the temperature maximum in the column.

  • An even temperature distribution indicates stable absorption.
  • Deviations indicate process disturbances or energy losses.

Solution

Making efficiency visible together

Chevron sought a solution that would capture temperature profiles in the amine column, fully and continuously, without intrusion into the existing plant. Together with WIKA, a system was created that unites precise sensor technology and process understanding. The customised model TC96-M miniature multipoint thermocouple was tuned precisely to pressure, medium and temperature gradients – a solution that could be integrated directly into the ongoing operation.

Innovation in detail

The developed system consists of a 20-metre-long stainless steel tube with 16 type K thermocouples, distributed across 14 measuring points along the column. The system was inserted through an existing nozzle with minimal installation effort and was thus ready for use in no time. The precise signals are transmitted to the process control system (PCS) and visualised there in temperature profiles – a direct view into the interior of the process.

The operating data show the temperature bulge and indicate (1) a sufficient – and possibly too strong – circulation, (2) an impending breakthrough and (3) an obviously insufficient circulation.
Model TC96-M miniature multipoint thermocouple in a contactor column.

Benefits

  • Full process transparency: Precise temperature profile across the entire column.
  • Higher efficiency: Reduced steam consumption by around 1,500 kg per hour.
  • More safety: Real-time data enable early intervention.
  • Sustainability: Lower CO₂ emissions and stable processes in the long term.
  • Low-maintenance: Robust design for long operating periods and low costs.
Model TC96-M miniature multipoint thermocouple

Model TC96-M miniature multipoint thermocouple

The 20-m-long model TC96-M miniature multipoint thermocouple was housed in a specially manufactured crate for transport.

  • Multipoint measurement over lengths of up to 20 m
  • Ungrounded type K thermocouples
  • Robust protective guides for chemically aggressive media
  • Direct integration into process control systems
  • Customer-specific design without plant downtime

“With the comprehensive digital monitoring of SF6 gas in switchgear, we ensure that we detect leakage as quickly as possible and much faster than with classical gas densimeters. This enables us to reduce our SF6 emissions by initiating the repair faster. WIKA is helping us to achieve our goal of reducing SF6 emissions.”

Thomas Wijnhoven
Asset Manager Substations, Elia Group

ThomasWijnhoven_en-co

Find out more about our customer success stories

Visit the Chevron website

Visit the Chevron website
View success story (PDF)

View success story (PDF)
Read more success stories from WIKA customers.

Read more success stories from WIKA customers.

Contact us

Would you like to gain more transparency in your process and improve the stability of your plant, too?
Feel free to contact us and we will be happy to support you.