Business Details
Emergency
services
Global Catalyst Handling Solutions with Unmatched Safety & Expertise
Cat Tech has been a global leader in catalyst handling for over 45 years, specializing in safe, productive, and cost-effective solutions for the refining, chemical, and petrochemical industries. Our commitment to innovation and safety is reflected in our proprietary technologies, including the JE Loader and CATnap passivation system, which set industry standards. With operations in 97+ countries and six global hubs, we combine local expertise with international resources to deliver tailored services.Our team of seasoned professionals brings decades of collective experience, ensuring projects are executed with precision and adherence to the highest safety protocols. We pride ourselves on maintaining one of the best safety records in the industry while continuously advancing methodologies to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.
Services
Dense Loading
Tubular Reactor Services
Catalyst Passivation
Reformer Tube Loading
DP Testing
Inert Entry
Turnkey Mechanical Services
Catalyst Unloading
Renewables Handling
Highlights and features
- 45+ years pioneering catalyst handling innovations and safety protocols
- Proprietary technologies like JE Loader and CATnap passivation system
- Global reach with localized execution across 97+ countries
- CE-certified life support equipment for hazardous environments
- Industry-best safety record with dedicated confined space expertise
Associations and certifications
- CE
What people say
Excellent leadership
Knowledge and enthusiasm
Safe manner
Zero safety incident
Smooth loading
Services
Dense Loading
Our dense loading technology maximizes reactor efficiency by uniformly distributing catalysts at controlled densities. This method increases processing capacity while preventing hot spots and differential pressure issues. With loading rates up to 25m/hour and proprietary JE Loader equipment, we ensure precise, damage-free operations for petroleum and petrochemical clients globally.
Catalyst Passivation
The patented CATnap process eliminates hazards during catalyst unloading by chemically suppressing pyrophoric reactions. This innovation allows safe air-entry unloading, reduces shutdown time by days, and maintains catalyst regenerability. Applied in over 350 units worldwide, it removes the need for inert atmospheres and wet dumping procedures.
Tubular Reactor Services
Our CATcap system provides unmatched uniformity in tubular reactor loading through automated DP capture and climate-controlled processes. Capable of handling reactors with 10,000+ tubes, this technology ensures consistent density while minimizing downtime. Specialized tools address fish tape, multi-zone, and template loading requirements across industrial sectors.
Inert Entry
Using CE-approved Sentry 4 life support systems, we enable safe entry into nitrogen environments through patented breathing apparatus technology. Our specialists follow standardized operating procedures for confined space operations, maintaining safety in IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health) conditions during reactor maintenance.
Renewables Handling
We adapt traditional catalyst methods for renewable energy applications, managing agglomerated catalysts from biomass feedstocks. Our global teams support conversion of existing units to renewable processing, offering specialized change-out procedures that address increased guard bed requirements and frequent catalyst replacement needs.
People
Karl Thew
CEO
Catalyst industry leader with 35+ years experience. Invented tubular loading technology, expanded Cat Tech to 6 continents, and developed CE-certified life support systems. Holds multiple patents and drives global safety standards.
Richard Baxter
Chief Operating Officer
20-year catalyst specialist with expertise in dense loading technology. Oversees global operations and technical training programs. Holds MSc in Business and serves as master trainer for specialized loading techniques.
Gareth Leathers
Finance Director
Chartered accountant with 18 years in industrial finance. Former CFO in steel sector, brings strategic growth expertise. Holds CIMA certification and manages financial operations across Cat Tech's international divisions.
Bryan Shoemaker Snr
International Sales Manager
45-year industry veteran with operational experience across 5 continents. Former VP roles at major energy firms. Leads global sales strategy and business development initiatives for Cat Tech's international markets.
Travis Mcgee
US Operations Manager
18-year safety and inspection expert with API certifications. Manages North American operations, focusing on OSHA VPP compliance. Former regional safety coordinator with multiple industry safety award recognitions.
Questions
What catalyst handling services does Cat Tech specialize in?
We offer dense loading, tubular reactor services, catalyst passivation, reformer tube loading, DP testing, and inert entry solutions for industrial clients worldwide.
How does Cat Tech ensure safety during catalyst handling?
Our CE-certified Sentry 4 Life Support System, patented passivation technology, and rigorous safety protocols maintain our industry-leading safety record in hazardous environments.
Can Cat Tech handle emergency catalyst projects?
Yes, our global logistics network enables rapid deployment for emergency response projects, with equipment designed for quick international transport.
What industries does Cat Tech serve?
We primarily support refining, petrochemical, chemical processing, and renewable energy sectors with specialized catalyst handling solutions.
How does Cat Tech address environmental concerns?
Our services reduce emissions through efficient catalyst management, passivation technology that eliminates wastewater, and renewable feedstock handling expertise.
