UNICAT catalysts, process tech boost KSA petchem efficiency

UNICAT Catalyst Technologies, LLC's catalysts, process technologies, and filtration systems aim to advance Saudi Arabia's petrochemical and hydrogen sectors, supporting Vision 2030 through improved efficiency, cost savings, and reduced carbon emissions, Eugenio Macaluso and Yaqoob Kamal tell OGN

- ABDULAZIZ KHATTAK

Cutting-edge technologies, such as Polycat and Magcat®, are transforming the global petrochemical landscape and hold immense potential for the Kingdom's energy sector. By addressing key challenges such as catalyst longevity, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction, these innovations align seamlessly with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives.

From oligomerisation to hydrogen production, UNICAT's solutions are positioned to drive operational excellence and sustainability in the region's high-stakes energy market, say Eugenio Macaluso, Executive Vice President of Sales, and Yaqoob Kamal, VP of Sales (MEA), in an exclusive interview with OGN energy magazine.

Below are excerpts from the interview:

After UNICAT’s Polycat II Advanced catalyst’s success in North American refineries, how do you envision this technology benefiting Saudi Arabia’s petrochemical industry in terms of efficiency and sustainability?

UNICAT’s Polycat II Advanced oligomerisation catalyst is operational in over five catalytic polymerisation units worldwide. Case studies have proven the operational benefits of Polycat.

In a recent case study outlined on the UNICAT website, a North American Refinery saw seen substantial savings on catalyst costs and changeout using Polycat.

Assuming an average maintenance cost of $80,000 per reload, and disposal cost of $15,000 per load, our North American customer is saving, at least, $570,000 per year on maintenance and disposal alone. With an additional catalyst cost savings of $2.5 million per year that results in a total saving of $2.97 million per year. Polycat presents a strategic opportunity for Saudi Arabia’s petrochemical industry by enhancing both operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.