Record-breaking modernization in the Lithuanian Refinery
On Saturday, AB Mažeikiu Nafta launched the modernisation of its diesel desulphurisation installation unit. The reactor, replaced by a five times larger unit, and other necessary components, was installed in just three weeks by the company’s employees and 900 external workers.
AB Mažeikių nafta modernized the installation to ensure production stability and a continued supply of low-sulphur diesel that meets EU standards. The new standards will be enforced on January 1st, 2009, allowing only low-sulphur diesel (no more than 10 ppm or 10 mg/kg) onto the markets in the Baltic republics.
Following the works, Mažeikiu will offer supreme quality diesel to strengthen its competitive offering. The installation was thoroughly modernized during the downtime – all key components including heat exchangers, air coolers and control systems were replaced or refurbished. The key project of the modernization was the replacement of the reactor. The new 475 m3 reactor replaced the old 80 m3 unit. The value of the modernization was 111 m lit.
- All works were carried out without interruption to major processes, in just three weeks. Our main goal was to ensure top quality work within the shortest possible downtime. We achieved this by professionally planning and preparing the entire modernization process – said Marek Mroczkowski, General Manager of AB Mazeikiu Nafta.
During the diesel desulphurization modernization, the refinery also refurbished several other installations, such as reforming the ovens and the visbreaker. The modernization works were carried out by employees of ‘’Mazeikiu Nafta” plus around 900 additional Lithuanian workers (85%) and foreign subcontractors.
