Baker Hughes has successfully delivered advanced Masoneilan™ valve systems to India’s first two residual hydrocrackers in operation, marking a significant contribution to the nation’s refining capabilities. These cutting-edge hydrocrackers, located at the HPCL Visakhapatnam Refinery and IOCL Panipat Refinery and Petrochemical Complex, are among the most advanced in the world. Their role is to convert previously unusable heavy materials into valuable hydrocarbons, utilizing Chevron Lummus Global’s process technology.
The Masoneilan 74000 Series Heavy Oil Process valves, specially designed for critical applications, are key components in these operations. They are used in the severe service high-pressure and low-pressure letdown processes, which are crucial for maintaining safe and efficient hydrocracking performance. Due to their importance, the plants run two valves in parallel, with one serving as a backup.
In addition to the 74000 Series valves, Baker Hughes also supplied 71000 Series valves for low pressure drop balancing, as well as the 78400 Series LincolnLog™ and 21000 Series single port valves for smaller bore and purge applications. This sophisticated valve technology was developed in collaboration with the licensor to ensure optimal performance, with some systems specifically built around the patented valve designs.
Notably, the 74000 Series valves feature ceramic trim, an uncommon but highly effective design for handling the extreme conditions of the hydrocracking process. The valves offer a “plug-and-play” solution for easy on-site installation in India. Baker Hughes’ contribution to both projects, with a total valve supply valued at over USD 10.3M, highlights the company’s critical role in advancing refinery technology in India.