Slovnaft Installs New LDPE4 Production Technology
- Investment exceeded EUR 300 million, including reconstruction of steam cracker and logistics infrastructure.
- Annual LDPE production capacity will increase by 40,000 tons to 220,000 tons.
- Technology testing and start-up will run until the end of November, with commercial production starting early 2016.
- Construction was carried out by Maire Tecnimont Group and its subsidiaries.
Investment and Construction
Slovnaft has completed the installation of technology in its new LDPE4 production facility, investing over EUR 300 million. This investment includes the reconstruction of a steam cracker, construction of logistics infrastructure, and other technological advancements. The construction was carried out by Maire Tecnimont Group and its subsidiaries.
Production Capacity and Efficiency
The new LDPE4 unit will increase Slovnaft's annual low-density polyethylene production capacity by 40,000 tons, reaching a total of 220,000 tons. The unit is designed to produce higher quality polyethylene with minimal emissions, greater operational security, and lower energy consumption. This new facility will replace all previous polyethylene production operations at Slovnaft.
Market Expansion
Most of the increased production will be sold in foreign markets, including neighboring countries like the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, and Austria, as well as demanding Western European markets such as Germany, France, and Italy. The new production unit is expected to enhance Slovnaft's competitiveness and enable further market expansion.
Timeline and Future Plans
Following the completion of construction, technology testing, start-up, and guarantee tests will continue until the end of November. Commercial production is scheduled to begin at the start of 2016. The LDPE4 unit will produce plastic granulate, which customers will further process into end products used in various industries, including food and agricultural wrapping, toys, insulation, medical and hygiene aids, construction, and motor vehicle manufacturing.
Financial Backing
The investment in the new production unit was financed through a combination of Slovnaft's own capital, loans from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Eximbanka, and commercial loans.