MHI Compressor International Corp. (MCO-I), a designer and manufacturer of API centrifugal compressors and steam turbines, will deliver compressor train equipment for Chevron Phillips Chemical’s new propylene unit at its Cedar Bayou plant in Baytown, Texas.
The contract scope encompasses the supply of an API 612 steam turbine driving an API 617 heat pump compressor and all associated compressor train auxiliary equipment for Chevron Phillips Chemical’s propylene fractionator, or C3 splitter unit. The asset will convert a refinery grade mixture of propylene and propane into a high purity propylene product.
MCO-I’s compressor train manufacturing, assembly, testing, and packaging will be performed by its Hiroshima, Japan, and Pearland, Texas, facilities.
Chevron Phillips Chemical announced plans to expand its propylene business with a final investment decision for a new C3 splitter unit in December 2021. Site construction activities began in January 2022. The unit’s expected capacity is 1 billion lbs./year with targeted start up in 2023.
S&B Engineers and Constructors was awarded the engineering and construction contract to engineer, procure, and build Chevron Phillips Chemical’s new C3 splitter unit.
“With global propylene demand on the rise, this project reinforces Chevron Phillips Chemical’s commitment to expand to meet our customers’ needs and remain a leading propylene supplier,” said Justine Smith, senior vice president of petrochemicals at Chevron Phillips Chemical. “The new unit will provide additional flexibility and production to meet anticipated demand from the company’s growing customer base, while establishing room for future growth.”
