Traditional open coke pits and exposed handling systems continue to pose serious environmental and operational challenges for refiners. As a result, the industry is actively seeking solutions that reduce emissions and community impact—without compromising reliability or efficiency. Through an exclusive collaboration, Lummus Technology and ART-Envi Services now offer a fully enclosed coke handling solution designed to address these concerns. The integrated approach not only reduces emissions but also enhances safety and supports more sustainable refinery operations.
Integrating Advanced Coking and Handling Technologies
The partnership combines the proven delayed coking expertise of Chevron Lummus Global with ART-Envi’s patented Environmental Coke Handling Operation (ECHO) system. Together, these technologies provide a cleaner alternative to conventional open coke pits and pad-based handling methods. Consequently, refiners can better meet tightening environmental regulations and rising community expectations.
Fully Enclosed System Minimises Emissions
Unlike traditional systems, the ECHO solution ensures that coke remains fully contained throughout the handling process—from the delayed coker drum to dewatering and final transfer.
The design delivers multiple operational and environmental benefits:
*Significantly reduces fugitive dust emissions
*Eliminates odours and spillage
*Minimises operator exposure
*Prevents evaporative water loss
In addition, the system removes the need for open pits, exposed conveyors, and large coke stockpiles, thereby reducing the facility’s overall environmental footprint.
Flexible Design for Diverse Refinery Needs
The modular design of the enclosed system allows refiners to adapt it to various plant layouts and coke characteristics. Even facilities with space constraints can integrate the solution effectively, ensuring seamless adoption without major operational disruptions.
Driving Innovation Through Collaboration
The partnership formalises years of technical collaboration between Lummus and ART-Envi. More importantly, it reflects a shared commitment to delivering innovative solutions that help refiners achieve environmental goals while maintaining operational excellence. Chevron USA Inc. and Lummus Technology jointly own Chevron Lummus Global, a leading licensor of delayed coking technology worldwide. Meanwhile, ART-Envi’s ECHO system has already been deployed in multiple refinery projects globally, transforming traditional coke handling into a closed, environmentally controlled process.
Supporting Sustainable Refining Practices
As environmental regulations tighten and sustainability expectations grow, enclosed coke handling systems are emerging as a critical solution. As per the press release, by combining proven coking technology with advanced environmental controls, refiners can significantly reduce emissions while ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operations.
