Forchem plans to increase throughput at its Rauma, Finland, tall oil distillation plant by 5 to 10 percent through the installation of new software.
The project, which will be executed by engineering firm Neste Jacobs, is due to be completed by the summer of 2016.
The project stems from a performance analysis carried out by Neste Jacobs in spring of this year, the companies said Monday. It showed high potential for production optimization using the firms proprietary Napcon controller software package. The technology is designed to improve the energy efficiency of production by providing a more optimal and automated operation of the production process.
Neste Jacbos has proven their expertise to us in tall oil processing technology and engineering, and are now combining that expertise with high-level automation technology, Forchem CEO Risto Nasi said in a news release.
According to its website, Forchems tall oil fatty acids and distilled tall oil products can be used as raw materials in various applications such as metalworking fluids, oil field chemicals, soaps, cleaners and alkyd resins. Tall oil fatty acids are also used in industrial applications such as lubricants for belt conveyors, escalators and tracks.
Porvoo, Finland-based Neste Jacobs provides technology, engineering and project services for industries in the fields of oil and gas, petrochemicals, chemicals, biorefining, biochemical, biopharma and industrial infrastructure.