Post by Evonik Oxeno

Have you ever wondered what happens when a petrochemical plant goes offline for revision? While the machines may be dormant, a symphony of collaboration and expertise is at play, ensuring that we are prepared for what lies ahead. Every 5 to 7 years, petrochemical plants must be shut down and put through their paces. And since such work is associated with high effort and costs, it is only undertaken if you are sure that you will continue to operate the plants for a long time.  “This revision underscores our belief in the resilience of the petrochemical industry in Europe and our commitment to shaping its future. Together, we are not just maintaining systems; we are building a strong, interconnected network dedicated to success. We are a reliable partner and solution provider in the transformation process of the petrochemical industry.”, says Markus Winterberg, Head of Production & Technology at Oxeno. Over several weeks, our dedicated shutdown team at Evonik Oxeno Antwerp has embarked on a significant plant revision, focusing on future-proofing especially our MTBE and butadiene plant. During this comprehensive turnaround, we accurately inspected our equipment, calibrated safety valves, and maintained safety-related systems. From catalyst replacements to compressor overhauls, our team was on a mission. As shutdown manager Oxana Siegel puts it, “It’s like an anthill. There’s a buzz of activity, but everyone knows their role, working towards a common goal.” In a difficult economic landscape, we’re investing in our infrastructure. As this is our commitment, we proactively investigated our plants beforehand. This approach allowed us to identify key bottlenecks early in the process, enabling us to adapt our plans and work more efficiently. Of course, no plan is perfect. Unexpected challenges arose, but our strong communication and flexibility turned potential setbacks into solutions. Here’s to every person who played a role in this vital revision! Thank you for your commitment and expertise!💪✨ Markus Winterberg, Oxana Siegel #teamOXENO #Petrochemicals #Chemistry4Future #turnaround