Hydrogen Gas Drying System for Midland Refineries, Iraq
Delivered one of the world’s largest hydrogen gas drying systems—35,500 Nm³/Hr—in the heart of Iraq, overcoming geopolitical, logistical, and workforce challenges with precision execution and international safety standards.
Client: STC S.A.L.
End User: Midland Refineries
Capacity: 35,500 Nm³/Hr H₂ Gas Dryer
Location: Iraq
Year of Commissioning: 2016
Overview:
Midland Refineries—one of Iraq’s largest and most strategically significant refineries—sought a hydrogen gas drying system that could operate at massive scale while meeting global safety, quality, and operational standards. The demand was clear: deliver a system with 35,500 Nm³/Hr capacity, maintain zero compromise on quality, and do it in one of the world’s most complex operating environments.
Key Challenges:
Unmatched Scale: This project was among the largest hydrogen gas drying installations in the world at the time. Engineering tolerance had to be razor-sharp.
Geopolitical Risks: Iraq’s unstable geopolitical climate meant that logistics, on-ground work, and security protocols required meticulous planning.
Workforce Limitations: The lack of skilled local contractors necessitated the import of both manpower and specialized capabilities.
Security-Centric Operations: Engineer safety was non-negotiable. Daily transport had to be managed via ambulances to minimize risk from volatile zones.
Solution & Execution:
Nuberg GPD turned the complexity of the project into an opportunity to demonstrate its technical leadership and operational grit. Rather than depend on uncertain local resources, Nuberg deployed its own dedicated internal team with specialized engineers and project leaders. The team operated under strict international engineering standards and safety protocols. The execution was structured, pre-engineered, and tightly monitored. The coordination extended beyond equipment and civil work—it involved daily movement planning, risk mitigation strategies, and redundant quality checks.
Impact:
The hydrogen gas dryer was commissioned on time and within specifications, meeting Midland Refineries’ safety and quality benchmarks. The project not only elevated Nuberg GPD’s reputation in large-scale gas systems but also proved its ability to deliver results in hostile environments—where most companies hesitate to even step in.

