28-10-2016

ExxonMobil to expand Rotterdam hydrocracker to produce higher-value products

ExxonMobil will expand the hydrocracker unit at its Rotterdam refinery to upgrade heavier byproducts into cleaner, higher-value finished products,  including EHCTM Group II base stocks and ultra-low sulfur diesel, to meet growing global market demand.

The refinery, operated by Esso Nederland BV, will use ExxonMobil’s proprietary hydrocracking technology and be the first to produce EHC Group II base stocks in Europe. Base stocks are the primary ingredients used in the production of high-quality lubricating oils and greases. Group II base stocks are higher in performance, resulting in advantages in many lubricant and process oil applications.
 
“This investment demonstrates ExxonMobil’s long-term view and disciplined investment approach,” said Jerry Wascom, president of ExxonMobil Refining & Supply Company. “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.”
 
ExxonMobil’s Rotterdam refinery, one of the most energy efficient in Europe, plays a key role in the region and marketplace as a manufacturer  of low-sulfur petroleum products and chemical feedstocks. Following the expansion, the hydrocracking process will use proprietary catalysts applied in a unique refinery process configuration to efficiently produce both high-quality base stocks and ultra-low sulfur diesel.

The base stocks that will be produced at Rotterdam are designed to help  lubricant blenders achieve greater formulation flexibility and simplify  global qualification testing. ExxonMobil’s EHC product line will enable  customers to cost-effectively blend a broad range of finished lubricants  to meet evolving industry requirements.
 
“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,” said Loic Vivier, vice president of Wholesale & Specialties for  ExxonMobil Fuels & Lubricants. “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.”
 
The Rotterdam hydrocracker project, coupled with the refinery’s  advantageous location in an integrated petrochemical cluster, will  strengthen the refinery’s position as a leader in the global refining  industry.
 
The project’s environmental impact assessment has been approved and the  site-permitting process is being finalized. Permits are expected in  early 2016. Pending receipt of permits, construction is scheduled to  begin in 2016 and unit startup is targeted for 2018.