Intelligent WIKA Solutions for Sulfur Recovery Units (SRU) in Oil Refining and Petrochemicals

The primary objective of Sulfur Recovery Units is to safely and efficiently convert toxic hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) into elemental sulfur while complying with strict emission regulations. In conditions of high temperatures, aggressive environments, and complex processes, reliable monitoring is not just a requirement – it is a guarantee of stable and safe operations.

Source: WIKA

WIKA offers a comprehensive approach to temperature measurement and monitoring in SRUs, which significantly enhances:

• Environmental safety
• Operational efficiency
• Equipment lifespan
• Compliance with industry and international standards

Key WIKA Solutions for SRU:

• TC83 Calitum®️ – thermocouple for extreme temperatures (up to 1700 °C) with an internal monocrystalline sapphire protective tube
• TC82 – high-temperature thermocouple with purge option
• TC95-S Multipoint – multipoint temperature monitoring system
• Refractory Detection System (RDS) – system for monitoring refractory lining integrity

As part of a major gas processing project, one of our a leading oil refinery customer faced a serious challenge:

• 90% of their Claus units were enclosed with weather shields, making traditional temperature monitoring of the reactor’s refractory lining ineffective.
• This hindered timely detection of refractory damage, increasing the risk of overheating, reactor shell damage, and unplanned shutdowns.

To address this issue, WIKA implemented the Refractory Detection System (RDS) based on the TCC linear sensor housed in a 316SS stainless steel casing. This solution enabled:

• Continuous temperature monitoring along the entire shielded surface
• Division of the shell into independent measurement zones
• Detection of maximum temperatures in each zone, despite the presence of weather shields

This case demonstrates that WIKA technology enables early detection of hot spots in critical zones, helps prevent failures, and allows for proactive maintenance without compromising productivity. With WIKA, customers receive more than just equipment, they receive a complete solution backed by decades of experience, engineering expertise, and local support.