ExxonMobil: invests in Singapore plant for lubricants; expands Shanghai tech centre​​​

US chemicals firm ExxonMobil is looking towards Asia for its expansions. It is expanding its Singapore refinery to support the production of the company’s EHC Group II base stocks, which it says will strengthen the global supply of these products and enhance the Singapore facility’s competitiveness. Construction is expected to begin during the second quarter of 2017 with completion anticipated in 2019.

The firm says its EHC product line has been designed to maximise the performance of all major automotive engine oil grades and to enhance the performance of finished lubricants used in multiple industries.

“Our new investment in Group II base stocks will enable our customers to blend lubricants that satisfy more stringent specifications, help reduce emissions, and improve fuel economy and low-temperature performance,” said Ted Walko, global basestock and specialties marketing manager. “This project, combined with the company’s construction of a hydrocracker unit currently under way in Rotterdam, demonstrates ExxonMobil’s commitment to delivering value to our customers through industry-leading, globally consistent base stock quality and supply reliability.”

The expansion project represents the latest in a series of recent ExxonMobil investments in base stock production, including a previous expansion of capacity at the Singapore refinery in 2014, a recently commissioned project at the company’s major integrated facility in Baytown, Texas, and introduction of Group II base stocks into European markets ahead of the anticipated completion of the new Rotterdam hydrocracker unit in 2018.

Work is also ongoing on a previously announced cogeneration project at the Singapore refinery, expected to be completed by the end of 2017, which will improve the facility’s energy efficiency and reduce emissions.

Meanwhile in China, ExxonMobil says it is constructing a multi-million dollar expansion of its Shanghai Technology Centre. The expansion includes a new R&D facility to support customer collaboration and growth.

“Asia, and in particular China, represents a strategic growth region for us,” said Cindy Shulman, vice president of plastics and resins, ExxonMobil Chemical Company. “Having dedicated facilities where we can collaborate with our customers on the next generation of affordable, safe and sustainable performance applications is essential to creating innovations for packaging, automobiles, building and construction, and consumer goods that enhance people’s lives everywhere.”

Opened in 2011, the Shanghai Technology Centre is a 27,000-sq m, full-service customer support centre. It houses analytical and testing laboratory equipment, commercial-scale product processing equipment for blown film extrusion, injection moulding, profile extrusion and compounding, as well as tyre testing capabilities. A seven-layer cast film line is being added soon.

The centre also supports ExxonMobil’s lubricants business through a combination of technical services, applications expertise, collaborative programs, training and marketing support.

The new facility, expected to be completed in early 2018, will include a large, multi-functional auditorium, training rooms and multiple meeting areas. The auditorium will also have its own dedicated reception area showcasing ExxonMobil’s technology capabilities and leadership.

(PRA)