Interlocking safety systems for Ethylene cracker plant

Safety interlocking devices from Netherlocks B.V. have been successfully installed at the Shell Eastern Petroleum (SEPL) Ethylene Cracker Complex in Pular Ular, Singapore. The main applications for the 1600 interlocks are for the decoking process, and on isolation valves for PSVs (pressure safety valves).

Netherlocks' interlocks use a linear key transfer system to ensure that processes can only be carried out in the correct order, ensuring each part has been safely completed before the next is started. Safely completing the previous step in the process sequence will release a unique key that then unlocks the next step; only when a mistake is made will the operator be prevented from proceeding by a key that doesn't fit or a valve locked in position.

This simple principle can be propagated to more complex procedures, but in every case it physically ensures that safety protocols and work orders are followed exactly, leaving no scope for human error.