Chemicals

Cost-effective solutions to capital project needs

Our experience encompasses a broad range of chemical products, with an emphasis on the production of basic and specialty chemicals. Clients rely on Valdes’ experience when applying new or unique technologies or manufacturing assets, and when expanding, consolidating, or upgrading existing processes or unit operations. Our team consistently delivers innovative and cost-effective solutions to help you achieve your business objectives.

CHEMICALS PROJECT EXPERIENCE

• Additives

• Adhesives

• Catalysts

• Feedstocks

• Fuels/Biofuels

• Lubricants

• Organic & Inorganic Chemicals

• Petrochemicals

• Pigments/Coatings

• Polymers

• Specialty & Fine Chemicals

Case Study

Polykettle Replacement

A resins manufacturer had three polykettle (PK) reactors that required replacement due to old age and increasingly costly maintenance. In addition to the replacement of the PK reactors, new reflux condensers for each reactor were needed. Lastly, existing chilled condensers needed to be relocated to the building roof to improve safe access for inspection and cleaning.

Olefins Unit Debottlenecking Portfolio

A client required engineering to debottleneck the olefins unit at an existing ethylene plant and intended to implement the upgrades during the next scheduled turnaround. The challenge for Valdes was to fast-track detail engineering and complete construction packages for the break-in project, while allowing sufficient time for safe and reliable execution. This olefins expansion consisted of over 30 unit improvements (individual scope items), which were identified to increase the ethylene production rate by 55 MM lbs./yr. (1.35B lbs./yr.).

Polyethylene (HDPE) Extruder/Mixer Replacement

One of the largest petrochemical facilities in the Midwest was having difficulties meeting demand for their plastic fuel tank (PFT) resin business due to reliability issues. They needed to convert a production line to high density polyethylene (HDPE) and wanted to replace the existing equipment and systems, while utilizing the existing structure.

Batch Production Facility – Detail Engineering

A titanium producer wanted to revamp their existing continuous facility to build a batch production facility based on their existing pilot plant technology. The client wanted to reuse some of the existing equipment from their continuous process for this new process and integrate the new batch production system with the balance of the existing plant and equipment with the least amount of rework and impact possible. The process also utilized high temperature liquid and gaseous sodium which means the piping design including pipe supports was very important for a successful project.