Once the new plant is operational, the production capacity of synthetic base oils at the Flanders-based facility will double to as much as 120,000 tons. This will help the American chemical giant answer the worldwide increase in demand for synthetic basic oils. These are not only used in lubricants, fats and liquids, but also as essential components of applications in various industries, from automotive to cosmetics.
We see demand increasing both for existing and new applications. Our base oils are used, among other things, in internal combustion engines, as they reduce friction, which in turn reduces consumption. But they also end up in innovative applications such as electric and hybrid cars and wind turbines.
The Beringen site, which started operating under the wings of Chevron Phillips Chemical in 2011, has been producing synthetic base oils since 1991. “The new investment will create around 20 direct jobs at the plant,” says plant manager Patrick Wijnen. “Indirectly, however, the new plant will create hundreds of jobs.”
“What’s more,” Wijnen adds. “Chevron Phillips Chemical operates a similar site in Baytown, in the US state of Texas, but still chose Beringen for the construction of this new plant. That speaks volumes of the trust and local anchorage in Flanders.”
The decision was made for several reasons. Wijnen: “After more than 30 years, our site in Flanders enjoys a strong reputation, particularly in terms of safety. In addition, our installations are very reliable, and synergies will soon be possible with the new plant. Moreover, Flanders has a great advantage due to its central location in Europe.”
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