Biofuel production: Process automation for greenfield plants in Singapore and Rotterdam

Metso will deliver comprehensive automation and safety solutions for two greenfield plants being built by Neste Oil Corporation in Singapore and in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

The Metso DNA automation systems for both locations include control room stations and equipment, redundant process control stations, integrated HIMA safety systems , as well as field equipment maintenance stations. Metso Automation will be working closely with Neste Oil and Technip Italy , the main contractor for both sites. Construction has already started in Singapore and the plant is scheduled to be operating by the end of 2010. The Rotterdam plant will be finalized during 2011. Production capacity of the both plants will be 800,000 t/a of Nextbl Renewable Diesel.

Metso says the new automation systems will incorporate many features in operator interface, diagnostics, and system interfaces jointly developed by Neste Oil and Metso during these two projects. Engineered to meet exacting requirements for safety and quality, Metso DNA provides an intuitive and user-friendly control environment for operating personnel.

This is the next of a growing list of projects between the two companies. Metso reports it is currently delivering a similar automation solution for Neste’s second renewable diesel plant, the Porvoo refinery in Finland, which will begin operation in 2009. Metso also delivered an extensive automation system for sulfur-free Diesel production to the Porvoo refinery in 2007.

Neste Oil is a refining and marketing company that concentrates on low-emission, high-quality vehicle fuels. The company’s strategy is based on growing both its oil refining and premium-quality renewable diesel businesses. Neste Oil’s Nexbtl Renewable Diesel is an advanced fuel based on renewable raw materials that performs more efficiently and has a lower level of environmental impact than fossil diesel. Neste says this fuel has a 40-60% lower level of greenhouse gas emissions over its entire lifecycle compared to fossil diesel.

—Edited by Peter Welander, process industries editor, PWelander@cfemedia.com , Process & Advanced Control Monthly Register here and scroll down to select your choice of free eNewsletters .

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