Sampling; How does it work – what are we looking for?

Since its inception in 2012, TCM has focused on providing technology developers with good and flexible opportunities to test their technology. The facility is equipped with many measurement points, allowing TCM to easily assist with analysis at different stages of the capture process.

Accuracy

The TCM team works with technology suppliers to draw up a plan for how the test campaign will be carried out. Details are incredibly important in such a campaign, and this is where TCM’s 12+ years of experience comes in handy. The TCM team is familiar with the CO₂ capture process and facility and knows what it takes to meet the client’s needs. We assess what is feasible and what should be emphasized. Nothing is arbitrary and the plant can be run with the wishes of the campaign in mind. We have two different flue gas sources and can mix the CO₂ content in different ways to meet the customer’s requirements. The plant can be ramped up and down and is very flexible. This makes testing at TCM unique. We refer to our previous article where we described a little about the solvent.

Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM). Photo: Styrk Fjærtoft.

TCM personnel

TCM’s personnel are in daily contact with those running the test campaign, and the technology developer usually has its own personnel on site. High accuracy is important, so TCM employs dedicated people, each responsible for their own test campaign. The people involved work closely together, and everything from daily checks of the equipment to important analyses in the laboratory are part of the job. If necessary, TCM will also adapt the way it organizes the test campaigns. The personnel ensure that safety, HSE, confidentiality, etc. are well taken care of. This may be based on how we see the technology working in the facility. This also includes any emissions to air, where TCM has very strict emission criteria.

Daily activities for a CO₂ capture technologist

CO₂ capture technologists are typically responsible for the preparation, execution, and reporting of a test campaign. Their daily activities include but are not limited to the following:

Continuously monitor the CO₂ capture process, including parameters like temperature, pressure, flow rates, and CO₂ concentration. Perform data analysis to identify trends or areas for improvement. Work with engineers, scientists, and technicians to ensure smooth operation of the test campaign. Participate in daily meetings to discuss test progress and any issues encountered. Provide regular updates to project managers and external partners on the test status. supervise routine maintenance on equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure continuous operation. Ensure that all instruments, analyzers, and other measurement devices are calibrated for accurate data collection.

Manage the inventory of consumables, spare parts, and chemicals needed for the test campaign. Conduct routine safety inspections to ensure all equipment and procedures comply with safety regulations. Identify and address issues or anomalies, such as equipment malfunctions or performance deviations. Take regular gas stream samples and analyze them to determine CO₂ capture efficiency and other key performance indicators. Prepare daily reports summarizing test results, operational issues, and any corrective actions taken.

These responsibilities ensure the efficient and safe operation of the test campaign, providing valuable data for the development and optimization of the CO₂ capture technologies.

Focus on knowledge sharing

TCM encourages everyone who comes to the Technology Centre to share their experiences of testing at the facility. Everyone who comes to us for testing is required to report back weekly on their testing experience. At the end of the test campaign, a separate workshop is organized for those involved and TCM owners are given the opportunity to participate in this learning. Everyone is also encouraged to present papers at international conferences. To date, TCM has presented over 60 different scientific papers. Sharing the knowledge from the Technology Centre is important. Knowledge will help make CO₂ capture technology more efficient and save industry players from uncertainty and unnecessary costs.