OREANDA-NEWS. On September 27, 2008, one of two Diesel Desulphurization Units will be shut down in Mazeikiu Refinery, reported the press-centre of Mazeikiu Nafta.

Replacement and repairs of all main elements of the Diesel Desulphurization Unit, such as heat exchangers, air coolers, and control systems, are scheduled for performance during the shutdown. Replacement of the reactors is the main activity associated with modernization of this unit.

A new reactor, with capacity of 475 cubic meters, was installed at the end of last summer to replace the old reactor, with capacity of 80 cubic meters. This reactor is one of the two large-sized reactors, transportation of which from Klaipeda port to Mazeikiu Refinery became the focus of the media attention in June, especially due to their weight. Each reactor measures 530 tons.

Connection of the other reactor into the Refinery system is scheduled for spring of the next year.
Having modernized the Diesel Desulphurization Unit, production of sulfur-free diesel fuel will be ensured. This is related to the EU new standards for diesel fuel, which will be effective on January 1, 2009. Starting from that day, only sales of diesel fuel with sulfur compounds up to 10 ppm (10 mg/kg) will be permitted in the EU.

As a result, this product of Mazeikiu Nafta will become more competitive on the European markets, which will enable the Company to improve its supply.

During the performance of the modernization activities at the Diesel Desulphurization Unit, more works will be carried out – maintenance and modernization of the Reforming and Visbreaking Units.

The modernization activities will be completed at the end of October. The works will be performed by AB Mazeikiu Nafta specialists and approximately 900 employees of the Lithuanian and foreign contractor companies.

During the modernization of the Diesel Desulphurization Unit, the refining process will not stop because the other units will not be shut down.

The total cost associated with the investment into modernization of the Diesel Hydrotreatment Unit exceeds LTL 100 million.