PyroCon™: Revolutionizing Quenching in Chemical Recycling

Introduction

Chemical recycling is a cornerstone of the circular economy, offering a path to transform plastic and bio-waste into valuable raw materials. However, one persistent challenge in pyrolysis the process at the heart of chemical recycling is effective quenching. Traditional quenching systems often struggle with fouling and inefficient cooling, which can compromise product quality and plant profitability. Sulzer’s PyroCon™ quenching technology is changing the game, delivering a breakthrough solution that maximizes returns and drives operational excellence.

The Challenge: Fouling and Inefficiency in Traditional Quenching

In many chemical recycling plants, operators rely on conventional quenching systems to rapidly cool pyrolysis gases. Over time, these systems are prone to severe fouling, where solids accumulate and disrupt the process. This leads to:

• Frequent downtime for cleaning and maintenance

• Unstable operation and fluctuating product quality

• Increased operational costs and lost revenue

Moreover, traditional designs often lack integrated heat recovery, resulting in wasted energy and higher utility bills.

The PyroCon™ Solution: Advanced Quenching Technology

PyroCon™ is Sulzer’s answer to these industry pain points. Engineered specifically for chemical recycling and pyrolysis, PyroCon™ offers:

• Fouling-Resistant Design: Prevents the build-up of solids, ensuring continuous, reliable operation and minimizing maintenance needs.

• Integrated Heat Recovery: Optimizes energy efficiency by capturing and reusing heat from the quenching process.

• Precise Process Control: Enables rapid, controlled cooling to protect product quality and maximize monomer yields.

  
  

This innovative approach not only solves the fouling problem but also delivers measurable gains in plant performance and profitability.

Key Benefits of PyroCon™ in Chemical Recycling

• Reduced Downtime: Continuous operation with minimal disruptions, thanks to anti-fouling engineering.

• Higher Product Yields: Rapid quenching preserves valuable monomers and prevents unwanted degradation.

• Lower CAPEX: The protected design allows the use of standard steel grades, reducing equipment costs.

• Energy Savings: Integrated heat recovery cuts utility bills and supports sustainability goals.

• Versatility: PyroCon™ excels in general pyrolysis and is particularly effective for polystyrene (PS) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) depolymerization.

  
  

Real-World Impact

Since its introduction, PyroCon™ has enabled chemical recycling facilities to operate more efficiently and profitably. Plants equipped with PyroCon™ report:

• Significantly less downtime due to fouling

• Consistently high-quality pyrolysis oil and monomer recovery

• Lower maintenance costs and improved energy efficiency

  
  

Why Choose PyroCon™ for Your Plant?

Sulzer’s expertise in vapor-liquid distribution, thermal separation, and process engineering ensures that PyroCon™ is tailored to meet the specific needs of modern recycling operations. With a modular, compact design and proven field performance, PyroCon™ is the smart choice for operators aiming to maximize returns and drive profitability in chemical recycling.

Ready to transform your chemical recycling process? Contact Sulzer Chemtech to discover how PyroCon™ can revolutionize your plant’s performance.