CSPC Reinitiates Production at China's Cracker No. 2 After Temporary Halt

In early December, China CNOOC and Shell Petrochemicals Co (CSPC), a collaborative venture between CNOOC and Shell, successfully resumed production at the No. 2 cracker within its Huizhou petrochemical complex, following a scheduled maintenance period. The maintenance initiative, which commenced on October 18, was initially anticipated to extend until the end of December. This particular plant boasts a substantial production capacity, capable of yielding 1.2 million tons of ethylene and 620 thousand tons of propylene annually.

A noteworthy milestone in CSPC's operational history occurred in May 2018 when the company commissioned a new cracking unit, denoted as No. 2, at its petrochemical complex situated in Huizhou. This strategic addition significantly augmented the company's ethylene production capabilities at the site, more than doubling its previous capacity. The No. 2 cracking unit is specifically designed to produce 1.2 million tons of ethylene and 620 thousand tons of propylene per annum, contributing to the overall strength and versatility of CSPC's petrochemical operations.

Ethylene and propylene, the primary outputs of the cracking process, serve as crucial raw materials in the production of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), respectively. Polyethylene and polypropylene are integral components in the manufacturing of a wide array of products, playing pivotal roles in industries ranging from packaging to textiles.

The decision to undertake scheduled maintenance at the No. 2 cracker underscores CSPC's commitment to ensuring the reliability and efficiency of its petrochemical operations. The maintenance period, initiated in October and successfully concluded in early December, involved meticulous attention to detail and adherence to industry standards to guarantee the seamless resumption of production.

The Huizhou petrochemical complex, housing the No. 2 cracker, stands as a testament to CSPC's dedication to innovation and operational excellence. The commissioning of the No. 2 cracking unit in 2018 marked a substantial leap forward for CSPC, enhancing its capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the petrochemical industry.

With the resumption of production at the No. 2 cracker, CSPC is poised to continue its significant contributions to the production of ethylene and propylene, essential building blocks for the creation of polyethylene and polypropylene. These polymers, in turn, play a pivotal role in various industrial applications, contributing to the development of essential products that cater to diverse consumer needs.

As the global petrochemical landscape continues to evolve, CSPC's strategic initiatives, including plant expansions and maintenance activities, position the company as a key player in the industry. The successful resumption of production at the No. 2 cracker in Huizhou reaffirms CSPC's resilience and adaptability in navigating the complexities of the petrochemical sector.

In conclusion, CSPC's collaborative venture, China CNOOC and Shell Petrochemicals Co, has demonstrated operational prowess with the seamless resumption of production at the No. 2 cracker in its Huizhou petrochemical complex. The strategic maintenance activities conducted underscore the company's commitment to operational excellence, ensuring the reliability of its production facilities. With ethylene and propylene production at the forefront, CSPC continues to play a crucial role in supplying essential raw materials for the production of polymers that contribute to various industries globally.