University of MinnesotaWind to Ammonia Pilot Plant

Presented by:Michael Reese, Director - Renewable Energy ProgramWest Central Research and Outreach CenterMorris, Minnesota

Presented at:REFUEL Kickoff MeetingAugust 17, 2017Denver, Colorado

University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center

NH3 Pilot Plant

1.65 MW Vestas V82

Wind Turbine

101 kW solar PV

Renewable Hydrogen and Ammonia Pilot PlantHydrogen Storage Tanks

Nitrogen Storage Tank

Hydrogen, Nitrogen, and Ammonia Production Buildings

12.5 kV to 480 V TransformerAmmonia Product Storage

(3000 Gallons)

Safety Equipment & Shower Building

Ammonia Pump and Loadout

Ammonia (NH3) Process Flow

Compressor

N2 H2

NH3 to Storage250 psi-15°F

7.35 lb/h

Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers

S-1

930°F

820°F

180°F

Electric Heater

-15°F1500 psi

Chiller

Condenser

Separator

NH3Reactor

Incoming gas

Process gasses are heated

Process gasses & NH3 are cooled

Recycle gas (N2 & H2)

50°F2000 psi

800°F

-5°F1500 psi

Gas (N2 & H2)

Gas (N2 ,H2 & NH3)

Ammonia Reactor Skid

SafetySuggestions / Insights:

• HAZOP review of designs and equipment• Hydrogen and ammonia safety training for staff (annual)• Set and follow Standard Operating Procedures (review and update as

needed)• Safety meetings prior to startup, service, repair, etc. (e.g. catalyst)• Inspect and maintain safety equipment• Calibrate, inspect, and maintain sensors and alarms• Replace equipment, piping, tanks, etc.• Meet with local fire and emergency responders• Review all incidents (no matter how small)• There will be leaks and multiple detection methods will be necessary • Do not become complacent and make safety a high priority each day!

TroubleshootingLessons Learned:

1. Viton does not work under high temperatures and pressures with mixed hydrogen, nitrogen, and anhydrous ammonia

2. Buna works for solenoid and flow control valves

3. Neoprene works for use as o-ring material

TroubleshootingLessons Learn:

4. High temp sealants did not work on reactor plugs – plugs needed to be welded and re-stamped

5. Poly-carbonate glass can not be used

Troubleshooting

6. Ammonia is corrosive and hard on compressors

Lessons Learn:

7. Other issues – Flow meter and sensor accuracy under extreme conditions

8. We continue to learn more each day and welcome questions!

Contact Information:Michael Reese, Director- Renewable EnergyWest Central Research & Outreach CenterPhone: (320) 589-1711Web: http://renewables.morris.umn.edureesem@umn.edu

University of Minnesota Collaborators:Alon McCormick, Professor*Ed Cussler, Professor*Joel Tallaksen, Scientist, WCROCEric Buchanan, Scientist, WCROCCory Marquart, Assistant Scientist, WCROC

*Dept. of Chemical Engineering and Material Science

Past funding provided by:• MN Corn Research & Promotion Council• U of MN IREE• U of MN MnDRIVE• MN Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund • State of Minnesota