News Post
ExxonMobil plans Rotterdam hydrocracker expansion
US-based ExxonMobil has decided to expand its Rotterdam refinery's hydrocracker unit, allowing it to upgrade heavier by-products into cleaner, higher-value finished products, including EHCTM Group II base stocks and ultra-low sulphur diesel.
The expansion of the Rotterdam refinery, which is operated by Esso Nederland, is aimed at meeting the product's demand across the globe.
Under the new plan, the company will use ExxonMobil's hydrocracking technology to become first refinery to produce EHC Group II base stocks in Europe.
"This project will allow us to offer a global EHC Group II base stocks product offering to meet current and future customer needs."
Group II base stocks are known for their higher performance, which is beneficial in many lubricant and process oil applications. Base stocks are used to produce high-quality lubricating oils and greases.
The project has received the approval of environmental impact assessment, and the site-permitting process is currently being finalised.
With permits expected in early 2016, construction is scheduled to begin in 2016, and unit start-up is targeted for 2018.
ExxonMobil refining and supply company president Jerry Wascom said: "This investment demonstrates ExxonMobil's long-term view and disciplined investment approach.
"Despite a challenging industry environment, we are committed to our long-term strategy of investing in projects in advantaged locations where we can continue to increase competitiveness and profitability."
The Rotterdam refinery manufacturers low-sulphur petroleum products and chemical feedstocks. After the expansion, the hydrocracking process will produce both high-quality base stocks and ultra-low sulphur diesel.
ExxonMobil's EHC product line expects to produce a broad range of finished lubricants.
ExxonMobil fuels and lubricants wholesale and specialties vice-president Loic Vivier said: "This investment underscores our commitment to provide high-quality base stocks in Europe and follows previously announced expansions at ExxonMobil's Baytown, Texas and Jurong Singapore refineries this past year.
"Combined with ExxonMobil's existing manufacturing capabilities, this project will enable us to offer a global EHC Group II base stocks product offering to meet current and future customer needs."
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