ExxonMobil to start 48,000 bpd expansion of Singapore refinery

Global oil major ExxonMobil on Tuesday (2 April) said it has made a final investment decision on a multi-billion dollar expansion of its integrated manufacturing complex in Singapore to convert fuel oil and other bottom-of-the-barrel crude products into higher-value lube base stocks and distillates.

The expansion project is part of the company’s plan to further enhance the competitiveness of the Singapore facility, which includes the world’s only steam cracker capable of cracking crude oil.

It will add the capacity to increase production of cleaner fuels with lower-sulphur content by 48,000 barrels per day, including ExxonMobil Marine fuels to enable customers to meet the International Maritime Organization’s 0.50% sulphur requirement.

The project, which leverages proprietary technologies, integration and scale, will significantly increase site downstream and chemical earnings potential.
Engineering, procurement and construction activities have begun, and startup is anticipated in 2023.

“The demand for high-quality fuels and lubricants will increase as the global economy expands,” said Bryan Milton, president of ExxonMobil Fuels & Lubricants Company.

“By using a combination of proprietary catalyst and process technologies, we will increase the site’s competitiveness and help meet growing demand for high-performance lubricants and cleaner fuels.”

Engineering, procurement and construction contracts have been awarded to Técnicas Reunidas for the new process units, and Wood Group for interconnecting pipelines and supporting infrastructure facilities.

As part of the project, ExxonMobil is working on a long-term commercial agreement with Linde to upgrade residue from the site to hydrogen and synthesis gas.

Photo credit: ExxonMobil
Published: 3 April, 2019