TOGLIATTIAZOT COMPLETES UPGRADE OF LARGEST AMMONIA STORAGE TANK IN RUSSIA

OJSC Togliattiazot (ToAZ), the largest ammonia producer in Russia, has completed an overhaul of its unique facility - isothermal liquid ammonia storage tank. The 30,000 tons tank has passed industrial safety examination and cooldown procedures, and has been successfully put into operation.

Decision to perform full repairs was made following a comprehensive checkup of the facility that reaches about 50 meters in height and covers an area of 6,000 square meters.

The most important task was to replace the tank’s insulation coating. Within a short time, the tank was perimeter-coated with unique heat-insulation glass foam and aluminum coating assembly was completed. Shut-off valves and safety devices of the tank were also fully renewed. Foundation was reinforced; overall painting of the tank shell and all other metalwork was carried out.

The use of state-of-the-art insulation materials is to almost completely eliminate ammonia evaporation.

Victor Kazachkov, Deputy CEO for business operations of

CJSC Corporation Togliattiazot, commented: “ToAZ modernization program envisages upgrading of the key production facilities with the aim of improving efficiency and safety. The overhaul of the largest ammonia storage tank will reduce production losses thus cutting energy consumption and ensure safe storage of ammonia”.

Currently two isothermal ammonia storage tanks with a total capacity of 60,000 tons are installed at the plant. The tanks are designed for ammonia storage at a temperature of -31 or -32 C˚. The overhaul of the second tank is scheduled for 2016.