Testing in pilot plants

In pilot units it is usually possible to recycle gases allowing the use of real feeds and materials relevant for industrial units. These tests often result in further data which may confirm previous test data necessary for the thermodynamic calculations.

Some of the pilot units are constructed for back-up of commercial processes by means of trouble shooting and test of new feeds and operating parameters based on input from customers.

Catalyst development

Catalyst development and scaling up of processes for industrial production is also a focus area when working with pilot units. Topsoe uses the Catalyst Technology facilities where semiindustrial equipment is used for trial productions.

Catalysts for automotive applications are tested in the automotive laboratory. Here tests are carried out on light and heavy duty motors in fully equipped test stands.

On-site testing

Pilot units for new processes are often placed on potential customers' sites. This enables pilot units to operate on real feeds, giving Topsoe the opportunity to receive feedback and customer requirements in the development phase. It is even more essential to run pilot tests for customers dealing with units downstream coal based gasifiers.