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Happy May Day 2024! Safety first. Let’s give praise and support to the achievements made in China’s chemical engineering technology and equipment. **********************【Ten Years of Progress in Chemical Engineering Equipment】A continuously updated summary post is available; feel free to join the discussions at https://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-3576046-1-1.html (Source: Haichuan Chemical Industry Forum) ***************** According to reports from China Petroleum Network (Special correspondent: Zhou Hao; Correspondent: Zhang Manling), as of the end of April 2024, the first set of domestically produced high-pressure multi-point flexible thermocouples used by North China Petrochemical Company has been operating steadily in the residue hydrogenation unit for half a year. Their sealing performance and accuracy levels meet the required standards, indicating that the company has achieved partial success in the use of domestically produced high-pressure thermocouples. The reactor in the residue hydrogenation unit that employs the CLG fixed-bed desulfurization process experiences both axial and radial temperature gradients. Since the reactor is a high-temperature and high-pressure vessel, it is not suitable to have too many openings; therefore, high-pressure multi-point flexible thermocouples need to be installed as part of the system. Previously, all thermocouples were imported brands, resulting in long procurement cycles and high prices for spare parts. Huabei Petrochemical began implementing a plan to replace thermocouples with domestic ones in 2023. The company’s technical staff communicated with several domestic thermocouple manufacturers. Considering the actual conditions in the reactor – an operating pressure of up to 20 megapascals, the presence of hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen gas, and a temperature of 410 degrees Celsius – they discussed in detail with the manufacturers the design and material of the sleeves. Rigorous pressure testing was carried out to ensure that the product quality met the required standards. In October 2023, during the maintenance period for the catalyst replacement in the residue unit, the company purchased a domestic high-pressure multi-point flexible thermocouple and replaced it; its price was only 50% of that of imported products. After the unit was put into operation, inspections showed that the thermocouples were operating stably, meeting the design requirements. The successful domestic production of high-pressure thermocouples has not only saved the company costs related to equipment, but it has also provided valuable experience for the domestic use and maintenance of the company’s instrumentation equipment.