Hydropyrolysis (HyPy) Rig
In Partnership with The University of Nottingham
Strata Technology has successfully completed and commissioned the first HyPy Rig in partnership with The University of Nottingham.
Hydropyrolysis is an analytical pyrolysis technique developed at The University of Nottingham by Professor Colin Snape and collaborators that, compared to normal pyrolysis procedures, gives rise to much higher yields of hydrocarbons with much better structural preservation. These attributes have enabled the technique to be applied to solve a number of problems in petroleum exploration where conventional analysis fails.
The University of Nottingham sought to develop their research unit and approached Strata Technology because of its expertise to design and safely engineer research equipment.
User Safety
Due to the hazards of working with such techniques (5 NLM of pure H2 with a reactor pressure of 150 barG) Strata employed a detailed Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) analysis during the initial design stage. Electrical Safety, ATEX and EMC safety concepts helped define a robust alarm system that trips the system if it strays beyond design parameters.
Phased Approach
Strata Technology adopted its unique phased approached when working with The University of Nottingham to develop the HyPy unit. As part of the design phase Strata used solid modelling techniques, which were an indispensible aid when communicating with Professor Snape and his team. This ensured that they were kept firmly in the driving seat throughout the development life-cycle.
Professor Colin Snape:“The role of Strata in the development of the technique has been crucial in not only producing a high quality compact rig that is easy to operate for the non-specialist but in doing the development so quickly.
This will contribute enormously to HyPy being adopted worldwide as the technique of choice for solving a number of analytical problems at a pace that could not have been envisaged two years ago. It's been a very good project, delivered in cost and on time. ”
Today, the HyPy Rig has been designed and built as a stand-alone piece of laboratory equipment for sale around the world. Currently, Strata Technology has orders for a further three HyPy Rigs. For technical details and current applications of the HyPy Rig or to get a quote, please contact us…
Our rig has just been confirmed as one of the 3 finalists for The Enigineer magazine's Technology + Innovation Awards 2008 - Business Support of University Award. We shall be attending the Awards ceremony on the evening of 3rd October 2008 at The Royal Society, and will be keeping our fingers crossed. more…
