ExxonMobil slated for multi-billion dollar expansion of Singapore integrated complex

US multinational oil and gas corporation, ExxonMobil, is investing 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.

Read: ExxonMobil acquires Singapore petchem plant Jurong Aromatics

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. The project, which leverages proprietary technologies, integration and scale, will significantly increase site downstream and chemical earnings potential. Construction to begin in second half of 2019, and startupis anticipated in 2023.

The investment will add 20,000 barrels per day of ExxonMobil Group II base stocks capacity, which includes EHCTM 50 and EHCTM 120 grades, in addition to a new high-viscosity Group II base stock to meet increasing demand in the Asia-Pacific region. As well, the expansion will add the capacity to increase production of cleaner fuels with lower-sulfur content by 48,000 barrels per day, including high-quality ExxonMobil Marine fuels to enable customers to meet the International Maritime Organisation’s 0.50% sulfur requirement.

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.