FAQ
General questions
We specialize in the development and construction of tailor-made special plants and pilot plants for various applications in the chemical industry. Our range of services includes concept development, detailed planning, electrical engineering, construction, automation, testing, transportation and on-site commissioning. We can build most unit operations, provided they can be miniaturized. Find out more about our systems.
A laboratory plant or pilot plant is used to research, develop and test new or existing chemical processes before they are implemented on a large scale. Another application is the variation of parameters in existing processes, e.g. temperature, pressure or catalyst, which cannot be carried out in production plants, e.g. due to the very high material costs. This enables efficient and safe production in the chemical industry.
Inquiries and Offers
Yes, our offers are fixed prices within the agreed scope of services.
Due to our dependence on upstream suppliers, it is not possible to make a general statement here. The effort required to prepare a quotation is often quite high and the duration therefore also depends on the volume. We can prepare most quotations within 2 to 8 weeks. Spare parts quotations usually take 1-4 days.
AP-SmartPlant involves systems for which we have a planning basis. As a rule, we can create an RI flow diagram together with the customer based on a few basic requirements. This is agreed with the customer together with the most important process parameters and serves as the basis for preparing the quotation.
As a rule, we prepare quotations free of charge. However, for very complex special systems or those where the scope of services has not yet been fully clarified, preliminary planning is usually necessary for a fee. As part of this preliminary planning, we create the system concept and determine the required components. Depending on the level of detail, either a cost estimate or a binding quotation is then prepared.
Due to the time and effort involved in preparing quotations, we only take part in tenders at the special request of the customer. Please contact us in individual cases.
Project Process
We work closely with our customers from the concept phase through to commissioning. Regular contact and open communication are the basis on which we are able to meet all customer requirements.
The duration depends on various factors, including the complexity of the system, approval procedures and individual customer requirements. If the technical concept is clear, we can typically deliver the systems within 6 – 12 months of the order. For more detailed information, please refer to the project planning.
The safety of our systems is our top priority. Our customized plants are planned and manufactured in accordance with the highest safety standards. AP-Miniplant is certified for pressure equipment and all our systems are supplied with CE certification. On request, our systems can also be delivered explosion-proof in accordance with the ATEX directive and GMP-ready.
We pursue a multi-level safety concept in automation. This includes a warning level without intervention in the process, an alarm level, usually with limiting measures, a software shutdown level with safe shutdown of the process and a hardware shutdown level, which generally switches the process to zero energy.
A design review is carried out for each system and a risk analysis is performed.
On request, we can participate in or organize a HAZOP for the customer. At least one system operator should always be present at a HAZOP.
Service
Yes, we also offer upgrades and modifications for existing systems to adapt them to changing requirements, new technologies or improved efficiency standards. Please contact us on a case-by-case basis.
Yes, training usually takes place on the system during commissioning. A detailed manual is supplied with the system.
It also contains instructions on the proper maintenance and servicing of the systems to ensure safe and efficient use. We also supply you with compatible spare and wear parts for regular maintenance.