#United States #Pasadena #Electric Heater #Lummus Technology #SRT-e™

Lummus Technology Achieves Milestone in Electric Heating Technology

On April 3, 2025, Lummus Technology announced a significant breakthrough at its research and development center in Pasadena, Texas, with the successful startup of its SRT-e™ commercial demonstration unit. This milestone not only validates the operational capabilities of its innovative electric heater design but also paves the way for integrating sustainable technologies into petrochemical manufacturing processes.

A Leap Toward Sustainable Petrochemical Solutions

Lummus Technology, renowned for its forward-thinking process technologies and energy solutions, is now focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the petrochemical field. During the launch, Rutger Theunissen, the Chief Business Officer for Services and Supplies at Lummus, emphasized that this new technology will contribute to reducing emissions significantly. The SRT-e™ heater employs electricity as its heat source, marking a shift from traditional fossil fuel-based energy systems.

The SRT-e™ technology employs a modular design, capable of supporting various feedstocks such as waste plastic pyrolysis oil and bio-based materials. This versatility not only helps industrial customers transition to greener alternatives but also maintains high safety and performance standards associated with Lummus' existing heater technologies. The deployment of such innovative technology allows petrochemical facilities to expand their capacities or replace aging systems while minimizing their environmental footprint.

Features of the SRT-e™ Technology

The key innovation of the SRT-e™ technology lies in its unit cell design, which is distinct in the market and allows for scalable deployment. This means that as companies grow and their energy needs evolve, they can seamlessly integrate more of these units into their operations without the need for extensive reconfiguration or retrofitting.

The system ensures consistent heat distribution, enhancing process control which is crucial for maintaining thorough and even heating of materials. Moreover, the innovation reduces the necessity for large spare heaters, optimizing operational efficiency and reliability, especially during periods of plant turnaround cycles, when demand for heating might fluctuate significantly.

Building on a Proven Legacy

Lummus Technology brings over 80 years of industry experience to the table, with its Short Residence Time (SRT®) technology already being deployed in hundreds of global units. This foundation provides a solid base for the latest SRT-e™ technology, enabling customers to trust in tried and tested systems while also embracing innovation.

As Lummus moves forward, the company remains committed to its mission of developing solutions that contribute to a sustainable future. The achievement of this demonstration unit is not merely a milestone for Lummus Technology—it's a step forward for the entire petrochemical industry as it navigates its transition to greener, more sustainable operations.

Looking Ahead

The successful startup of the SRT-e™ electric heater demonstration unit signals a promising future not only for Lummus Technology but also for the global shift towards more environmentally responsible industrial practices. With an unwavering focus on clean fuels, renewables, and sustainable energy solutions, Lummus continues to lead the charge, driving down emissions while enhancing operational performance for its customers. For more information about their initiatives and technologies, visit Lummus Technology's website.