Bilfinger Secures Contract for Mitsubishi Chemical U.K. Polymer Expansion
- 14-May-2025 4:30 PM
- Journalist: William Faulkner
Bilfinger SE’s U.K. operations have been awarded a major contract by Mitsubishi Chemical U.K. Ltd. for the expansion of its polymer production facility at Saltend Chemical Park in East Yorkshire. The project represents a significant opportunity for regional economic growth and job creation, while reinforcing Bilfinger’s expertise in intelligent construction and sustainable execution.
The expansion includes the construction of a new production line adjacent to Mitsubishi’s existing plant, which manufactures Soarnol, a high-performance ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) polymer. Soarnol is used in diverse industrial applications, such as automotive components, packaging materials and consumer goods.
Under the contract, Bilfinger will provide comprehensive services, including the installation of thousands of tonnes of structural steel, the fabrication of several kilometers of piping, new electrical, instrumentation and control (EI&C) infrastructure, and the integration of complex equipment with heavy lifting requirements. The project follows a collaborative planning phase involving both Bilfinger and Mitsubishi Chemical to ensure risk mitigation and project success.
The work will be executed by Bilfinger UK’s Automation and Projects business unit, part of Bilfinger Engineering & Maintenance UK. Activities are scheduled to commence immediately.
Bilfinger has maintained a longstanding relationship with Mitsubishi Chemical at Saltend Chemical Park, having delivered maintenance and turnaround services for over two decades. This familiarity with the site and its operations enhances Bilfinger’s ability to deliver efficiently and safely. The company continues to implement best practices at the site through its Bilfinger Maintenance Solutions (BMS) and Bilfinger Turnaround Solutions (BTS), which aim to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and minimize downtime.
“Securing this significant award and being part of this project is a testament to our team’s expertise and commitment to delivering excellence,” said Darren Clement, vice president of engineering, automation and projects at Bilfinger Engineering & Maintenance UK. “Our long-standing experience at the Mitsubishi site and our reputation for quality have positioned us well for this opportunity. We’re proud to continue supporting Mitsubishi Chemical and contributing to the success of Saltend Chemical Park.”
The project will create approximately 250 on-site jobs during its execution, with careful planning in place to minimize disruption to existing operations. Aligned with Bilfinger’s sustainability goals, the expansion will emphasize efficient, intelligent construction techniques that deliver long-term value.
Upon completion, Bilfinger aims to continue its support of Mitsubishi Chemical through ongoing maintenance and future enhancements, further cementing its role as a trusted partner in the chemical industry.