Containerised System for Catalytic Ammonia Synthesis
Overview
This containerised test facility is used to investigate catalytic ammonia synthesis from nitrogen and hydrogen under dynamic operating conditions, based on a novel, energy-efficient reactor concept.
Design Parameters
- Design temperature: 550 °C
- Design pressure: 100 bar(g)
Reactor and Process Features
- Reactor: Fixed‑bed reactor with innovative flow distribution
- Inner diameter: approx. 160 mm
- Height: approx. 1,400 mm
- Operating modes:
- Single‑pass operation or
- Circulation mode
- Product separation:
- Continuous separation of liquid ammonia from the process stream
- Process analytics:
- Online mass spectrometer
Automation and Control
- Process control system: Siemens S7‑1500
System Design
The system is designed for transient (dynamic) operation and can be operated directly with fluctuating renewable energy sources. This makes it possible to investigate a dynamic Haber–Bosch process under realistic conditions.
The system is designed to match the hydrogen production rate of a 15 kW electrolyser.
The required nitrogen is obtained from ambient air via a PSA unit (pressure swing adsorption).
All installed components are ATEX-compliant and meet the requirements for safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres.
The system is fully autonomous and features an integrated cooling water system as well as an exhaust gas system with continuous monitoring. It is designed for unattended 24/7 operation.
The compact containerised design enables rapid commissioning after installation, as well as safe and continuous operation under real operating conditions.
