Avantium, a pioneer in the emerging renewable and sustainable chemicals industry, is building a new plant that will support the transition to bio-based plastics to replace ones that rely on fossil-based raw materials. Located in Delfzijl, The Netherlands, the facility will use a novel technology that converts plant sugars into a next-generation plastic material called polyethylene furanoate (PEF). PEF is a new recyclable and plant-based plastic material that offers the potentially powerful combination of positive environmental and performance features that can be used in packaging, textiles, films and other sectors. The first piling works at Avantium’s new site started in April 2022, and construction should be complete in 2024, enabling commercial launch of PEF products from 2024 onwards.
Broad scope of supply, for flexible bioplastics production
To support this project, ABB has been chosen as the main electrical contractor (MEC) by Worley and Avantium. The ABB scope of supply includes:
- Electrical design, including system dimensioning and network analysis
- eHouses, which offer advantages over fixed concrete substation buildings making them highly flexible to handle future scale-ups and configurations
- Frequency converters, batteries, low and medium voltage switchgears
- Distribution transformers, placed outside the eHouses
- Commissioning of the delivered equipment
The eHouse solution allows assembly and most of the testing to be carried out directly in the production factory, thus substantially reducing the time for on-site installation and commissioning. In addition, ABB’s eHouses also reduce risks of cost overruns, execution problems and delays to the schedule. “ABB’s demonstrated know-how of advanced electrical systems, the broad portfolio of high-quality, field-proven ABB electrical products, and deep experience and a successful track record with containerized solutions, were important factors to choose ABB for this project,” said Hans-Jochem de Kleijn, project manager FDCA Flagship-Project Mondego–Renewable Polymers at Avantium.
Proactive consulting approach makes Worley’s work easier
During the early phase of this project, ABB supported Worley with a proactive consulting approach that helped to achieve technical improvements and to reduce risks. This will finally contribute to granting Avantium with a high-quality, reliable power distribution system to run its renewable bioplastic plant. “Based on the positive experience gained on this project, Worley and ABB are extending the relationship to cooperate more closely on other greenfield projects,” said Rob Doove, business development manager at ABB.