Chevron Phillips Chemical

A new wave of innovation is surging through the petrochemical industry, with companies like Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem) pioneering advancements that echo far beyond conventional production metrics. As the ethylene production space evolves, the imperative for enhanced operational efficiency and reliability becomes increasingly pronounced.
CPChem’s leaders have recognized and embraced this evolution, steering it on a trajectory that combines innovation and operational excellence.

“Our linchpin in this venture is the E-Series^® catalysts, a hallmark of our commitment to not only advancing ethylene production but setting a benchmark in increased productivity and reliability,” says Venki Chandrashekar, VP of research and technology.

The E-Series^® catalysts represent a significant stride in addressing the inherent challenges of ethylene production, particularly in managing the variability of carbon monoxide (CO) levels in reactor feeds. Their innovative design, lending a stabilizing hand during the startup phase, represents more than a technological breakthrough; it’s a leap toward smoother, safer, and more efficient operations.

Stepping beyond production, CPChem showcases a profound understanding of client needs, making a notable mark as a reactor designer tailored to client specifications. Its expertise extends to monitoring client processes and offering troubleshooting support, a testament to its holistic service approach.

Operational challenges surrounding CO levels in reactor feeds have historically been a stumbling block, especially with previous acetylene hydrogenation catalysts. The E-Series^® catalysts turn the tide by improving reliability even in low CO environments, which are common in ethane, feed ethylene crackers. Clients using E-Series^® catalysts navigate these operational waters at any CO level, even with fewer than 100 parts in the feed, maintaining admirable feed rates and on-spec production. This innovation buoys clients amid CO swings, providing seamless operations despite variations.

When unexpected upsets call for plant turndowns, CPChem stands by clients, supplying accurate kinetic models to navigate these scenarios. This support is invaluable, especially for clients lacking the resources to independently develop these models. With extensive experience operating and monitoring about 85 crackers, it is well-positioned to assist clients during these critical operational junctures.

Another arena where CPChem lends its expertise is in turnarounds, a common industry practice occurring every four to six years. Through meticulous planning and consultation, clients are better positioned to schedule catalyst change-outs and other essential maintenance activities during these periods.

Continuous troubleshooting and monitoring of reactors underscore the aftercare service, ensuring smooth operations while quantifying the value saved using the company’s catalysts and technical assistance.

CPChem transcends the traditional roles of catalyst producer and licensor, with a significant edge stemming from its hands-on operations of numerous ethylene crackers worldwide. A team of dedicated scientists enriches this operational insight, constantly refining the catalysts, not solely for client benefit but for the company’s operations. This synergy between operations and research and development amplifies the value delivered to customers, a value proposition embodied in the E-Series^® catalysts.

On a broader spectrum, CPChem is working to address sustainability, aligning its objectives with the global themes of decarbonization and circularity in plastics and petrochemicals. CPChem stands as both a producer and a licensor, offering catalysts that help enable quality product processes and stable operations. This distinct position as a significant operator, coupled with the ability to transfer knowledge to customers, manifests in fewer operational upsets, higher product quality, and lower emissions for clients. The company is allocating resources and energy to evolve catalyst technology to meet not just current industry requisites but emerging future trends as well.

A major ethylene producer since the 1950s, CPChem is at a juncture where its operational prowess intersects groundbreaking catalyst technology. With numerous ethylene crackers operational and more underway, its expansive footprint spans nearly 30 manufacturing facilities across six countries and two dedicated research and technology centers.

The E-Series^® catalysts embody a significant leap beyond its acetylene converters, with higher selectivity, improved stable operations without runaways, longer cycle run lengths, and extended overall catalyst life. CPChem’s dual role as an ethylene producer and a catalyst supplier furnishes a rare vantage point, enabling a nuanced understanding of reactor operations, which, in turn, translates to tailored solutions for customers.