Rafinerija ulja Modrica recently launched a new blending plant in Modrica, northern Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The 13 million (U.S. $14.2 million) blending plant is located at the site of the companys base oil plant. The blending plant was developed during the past two years, the company said in its July 15 news release. With this investment we close a whole technological circle consisting of hydrocracked [API] Group II and Group III base oil production and finished lubricants made in a fully automated blending plant, the company said. Modrica previously announced the blending plant would have 45,000 metric tons per year capacity.
ABB France is the plants principal technology designer and supplier of the blending and filling equipment.
The advantages of the new blending center [compared to the old facility] are numerous, including cutting processing time, more flexible production [processes] and enhanced environmental properties for the products, the company said.
By the end of this year, the blending plant is set to produce up to 11,000 tons of finished products, according to Modrica. Of course, Bosnia is a small market to consume all of our production, and a larger part of it is meant for export.
In 2015 the Modrica refinery plans to produce around 63,000 tons of Group III and Group II base oils. The companys primary products are base oils, finished lubricants and paraffin waxes.
The refinery operates under the trademark Nestro, and its majority holder is NeftegazInKor, fully owned by the Russian joint stock company Zarubezhneft. NeftegazInKor is also majority owner of Banja Luka-based Nestro Petrol, which controls over 85 gasoline stations in the country, and Rafinerija nafte Brod, the only fuel refinery in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the July 10 opening ceremony at the blending center, Rafinerija ulja Modrica unveiled its new product line with a refreshed design, including its Optima-branded finished lubricants. The company produces over 200 types of products, including automotive, industrial and marine lubes.
Rafinerija ulja Modrica is the only refinery in Southeastern Europe capable of producing Group III base oils.