European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Construction Begins on Westfalen France Air Separation Plant

At a glance
  • Westfalen is investing 30 million euros in the new production site.
  • The plant will be completed in June 2010.
  • It will produce 50 million cubic meters of nitrogen, 30 million cubic meters of oxygen, and 1.2 million cubic meters of argon.
  • About 30 companies from France, Italy, and Germany are involved in the construction.

Foundation Stone Laid

The foundation stone for an air separation plant in Le Creusot, Burgundy, France, was laid on a 30,000 square meter site. The project is spearheaded by Westfalen France S.à.r.l., a subsidiary of Westfalen AG. This new plant is located near their existing cylinder bottling plant in Torcy, operational since 2007.

Investment and Construction

Westfalen is investing approximately 30 million euros in the new production site. The construction involves around 30 companies from France, Italy, and Germany. The plant will feature a 63-meter high cold box, which will be a prominent structure in the area.

Production Capacity

Upon completion in June 2010, the plant will produce about 50 million cubic meters of nitrogen, 30 million cubic meters of oxygen, and 1.2 million cubic meters of argon annually. A significant portion of these gases will supply the neighboring Industeel plant, a subsidiary of Arcelor-Mittal, the world's largest steelmaker. Additionally, the food industry will also be a key customer.

Job Creation

The new plant will create up to ten skilled jobs initially, contributing to the local economy and workforce development.