As the main program agenda continues to take shape, the workshops below are confirmed and provide an early look at the depth and quality of technical content to be expected. These in-depth sessions look at specific topics, with attendee numbers capped to aid interaction and facilitate learning.

 Axens’ workshop covers the fundamentals, catalyst selection, operational challenges, and troubleshooting of Sulfur Recovery Units (SRU) and Tail Gas Treatment Units (TGTU).It presents Axens' advanced Claus process catalysts, including alumina and titania for SRUs, and CoMo/NiMo-based catalysts for TGTUs, designed to optimize sulfur recovery efficiency.

Practical guidance on start-up, shutdown, catalyst handling, and troubleshooting is provided to ensure reliable and efficient operation.

The workshop includes case studies and best practices to address common operational issues and maximize plant uptime.Overall, it equips participants with essential knowledge to improve plant performance and sulfur recovery.

 

Presented by BASF, this session covers the fundamentals, operating principles, and common challenges of amine-based Acid Gas Removal Units (AGRUs) used across upstream, midstream, and downstream gas processing facilities.

It provides a practical overview of solvent chemistry, mass transfer, and key equipment interactions that influence system performance and reliability. Key operational issues such as solvent degradation and foaming, corrosion, heat-stable salt buildup, hydraulic limitations, and capacity constraints are addressed.

Practical guidance on monitoring, troubleshooting, and early warning indicators is provided to support root-cause identification and help prevent unplanned downtime.

Real-world case studies and facilitated discussions highlight lessons learned, mitigation strategies, and best practices.

Overall, the session equips participants with essential knowledge to improve AGRU performance, enhance plant reliability, and support environmental compliance.

        

This session, facilitated by IPCO, with input from ASRL, covers the fundamentals of sulphur solidification and the drivers behind rising global sulphur production, including stricter fuel specifications and increased sulphur recovery from hydrocarbon processing.

It provides an overview of liquid sulphur recovery via the Claus process and the challenges associated with sulphur handling, storage, and transportation. Key solidification technologies, including pastillation and granulation, are reviewed alongside quality, operational, and cost considerations.

The session addresses SUDIC standards and how modern forming technologies are designed to meet these requirements. Operational best practices are discussed from upstream liquid sulphur storage, filtration, and recirculation through downstream solid sulphur handling and loading.

Comparisons of pastilled and granulated sulphur properties, moisture levels, and suitability for transport and end use are supported by examples of facilities worldwide producing sulphur and sulphur-based fertilizers.

Presented by Worley Comprimo, this interactive session places participants in a simulated control-room environment to experience the commissioning, start-up, and shutdown of a Claus Sulfur Recovery Unit (SRU) and Tail Gas Treating Unit (TGTU).

Using a realistic plant simulation, attendees will work through normal and abnormal operating scenarios while maintaining thermal reactor integrity, catalyst safety, and SO₂ emissions within permitted limits.

The session explores why start-ups and shutdowns are often considered the highest-risk phases of SRU and TGTU operation, addressing challenges such as rapid thermal reactor temperature changes, combustion air control, and abnormal process responses that can lead to refractory damage or catalyst incidents.

Participants will examine practical mitigation strategies, operating cues, and procedural controls that help reduce risk during these critical phases.Hands-on exercises using the Immerse Operator Training Simulator allow participants to repeatedly practice these infrequent but high-consequence operations in a safe environment that mirrors real DCS interface and plant operation.

Facilitated discussion and knowledge sharing, supported by Comprimo specialists, reinforce best practices and build operator confidence for real-world commissioning and abnormal operations. 

Access to these workshops are only available to registered MEScon delegates. Register today and book your place on one of the workshops.