The repair of the critical transfer line in the Ammonia Unit 3 of
Shiraz Petrochemical – one of Iran’s largest and oldest producers – was
completed using local expertise and materials, at a cost of less than 200
billion rials (around $3.5 million), according to a company statement cited by NIPNA.
Transfer lines in ammonia and methanol units are vital components,
responsible for carrying high-temperature reformed gas. With design
temperatures reaching 765°C and pressures of up to 30 bar, these lines operate
under extreme conditions. The inner lining consists of dual refractory layers
to prevent heat damage. Any failure in the lining can lead to overheating,
explosion risks, and extended production halts.
Overcoming Complex Technical Challenges
The repaired unit had suffered persistent shell temperature surges since
commissioning, despite multiple cooling fans. During a gas supply disruption
last winter, the company seized the opportunity to initiate emergency repairs.
Instead of replacing the entire transfer line, engineers chose to rebuild the
horizontal section under the reformer, applying innovative methods based on
internal technical knowledge.
“This creative and high-risk intervention proved successful and
prevented long downtime, showcasing the resilience of our petrochemical
industry in the face of logistical and financial constraints,” the company
said.
Strategic and Economic Impact
The accomplishment not only restored operations to full capacity but
also set a new precedent for cost-effective maintenance of high-risk equipment.
“This achievement demonstrates the power of indigenous innovation and technical
self-reliance,” the statement added, positioning Shiraz Petrochemical as a
national model in operational resilience.
Liquid ammonia, the main output of the repaired unit, is a strategic
input for nitrogen-based fertilizers, making the repair critical to Iran’s food
security and agricultural productivity.
A Milestone for Iran’s Petrochemical Industry
Industry officials hailed the project as a historic benchmark in the
maintenance of core petrochemical infrastructure. The company credited the
success to the dedication and expertise of its engineering and operational
teams, calling the achievement “an inspiration for future generations of
Iranian industrial professionals.”
Amid continued economic pressure and sanctions, Iran’s petrochemical
companies are increasingly turning to local innovation and talent to sustain
output and avoid dependence on imported parts and technologies.