Air Products and Chemicals have secured MAN Energy Solutions for an extensive contract involving six air-compressor trains to be deployed in an air separation unit in Darrow, Louisiana.
These components are central to the upcoming Clean Energy Complex, a groundbreaking initiative aiming to manufacture over 750 million standard cubic feet of blue hydrogen daily, targeting transportation and mobility sectors.
This deal exemplifies the ever-growing trend of industrial conglomerates, such as Air Products, pivoting towards more sustainable energy sources, such as hydrogen. Blue hydrogen, derived from natural gas through steam methane reforming, offers a cleaner energy alternative compared to fossil fuels, with CO2 emissions captured and stored to minimize environmental impact.
In this case, the facility aims to capture and permanently store approximately 95% of its CO2 emissions, which equates to over 5 million tons annually. This ambitious target is equivalent to removing over 1 million passenger cars from the road each year.
The air compressor trains provided by MAN Energy are integral to the functioning of the air-separation unit. They will help to separate air into its primary constituents – oxygen and nitrogen – both vital for the production of hydrogen and ammonia.
Each train will be equipped with a single shaft compressor type, RIKT 160-3, and includes two booster air-compressor trains—each with an integrally geared compressor type, RG 63-6. Additionally, two gaseous nitrogen compressor trains—each with an integrally geared compressor type, RG 45-5—will be included. All of the trains will be electrically driven, reinforcing the sustainable approach to this complex.
This installation by MAN Energy Solutions is part of a larger global portfolio. Over 250 air-separation facilities with MAN compressor technology are already in commercial operation globally. This indicates the company’s reputation and expertise in the field, providing reliable and efficient technology for critical industrial processes.
Air Products’ Clean Energy Complex is slated to start commercial operation in 2026. Once operational, it will undoubtedly boost the blue hydrogen supply, especially for Air Products’ customers along the 700+-mile pipeline on the US Gulf Coast, and contribute towards reducing the carbon footprint in the transportation and mobility sectors.
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