Quantum Q-1 Polyethylene Project

Fluor performed engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) for this grassroots nominal 480-million-pound-per-year gas phase polyethylene unit.

Client's Challenge

Quantum contracted Fluor to provide EPC services for a new polyethylene unit. The work was performed under an alliance agreement between Quantum and Fluor that began in 1988.

Fluor's Solution

Unique aspects of this project included the relocation of an eight-silo structure and development of a railcar loading facility.

A modularization strategy was used. The reactor was manufactured by Belleli in Taranto, Italy and shipped overseas. The reactor weighed 290 tons and was the final and heaviest lift on the project. Additional heavy and large lifts included the 200-ton purge bin over 200 feet in the air and the setting of 14 modules.

Conclusion

The Q-1 polyethylene project was completed in 1996. Throughout the project duration, the workforce achieved significant safety milestones and was awarded Fluor's prestigious ZERO Incidents award.