OxyChem Restarts Caustic Soda and VCM Production in the United States
- 15-Feb-2024 3:49 PM
- Journalist: Timothy Greene
American OxyChem, a subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OxyChem), a prominent global player in the petrochemicals industry, has resumed its caustic soda and VCM (vinyl chloride monomer) production at its facility in Ingleside, Texas, USA, following a scheduled maintenance shutdown. This production facility boasts an impressive capacity, capable of producing 605 thousand tons of chlorine, 678 thousand tons of caustic soda, and 1.085 million tons of VCM annually. The plant had been temporarily closed for repairs since November of the previous year.
Notably, OxyChem, a subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum Corporation, faced a setback in its operations prior to the maintenance shutdown. In September 2021, the company was compelled to suspend ethylene production at its Ingleside plant, located in Texas, USA, due to a technical malfunction. This occurrence was a notable event within the industry and had significant implications for OxyChem's overall operations.
OxyChem, operating under the umbrella of Occidental Petroleum Corporation, is a major player in the manufacturing of chlor-alkali and vinyl products. These products include chlorine, caustic soda, hydrochloric acid, ethylene dichloride (EDC), vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The company operates production facilities across various locations, including Houston, Texas; Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana; Ingleside, Texas; Corpus Christi, Texas; as well as plants in Alabama, Tennessee, New Jersey, and New York. These facilities collectively contribute to OxyChem's significant presence in the petrochemicals market.
The resumption of caustic soda and VCM production at the Ingleside plant represents a crucial milestone for OxyChem and Occidental Petroleum Corporation. The successful completion of scheduled maintenance activities underscores the company's commitment to ensuring the reliability and efficiency of its operations. Additionally, the restart of production signifies a return to normalcy and an opportunity to meet market demand for these essential petrochemical products.
The Ingleside facility's impressive production capacity positions OxyChem as a key supplier in the global petrochemicals market. With the capability to produce significant volumes of chlorine, caustic soda, and VCM, the company plays a vital role in supporting various industries that rely on these essential chemicals. From manufacturing to construction, these products serve as fundamental building blocks in countless applications, highlighting their importance within the broader economy.
Looking ahead, OxyChem remains focused on driving innovation, sustainability, and growth across its operations. By leveraging its technical expertise, industry-leading capabilities, and strategic investments, the company aims to strengthen its position as a global leader in the petrochemicals sector. Additionally, OxyChem continues to prioritize environmental stewardship and safety, ensuring that its operations adhere to the highest standards of sustainability and regulatory compliance.