Shell to conduct GTL technology demonstration projects in Bintulu

Bintulu

The two projects are an enhanced Shell Gasification Process (SGP) for GTL that could further increase the efficiency of the process through optimised energy integration and the Heavy Paraffin Synthesis (HPS) demonstration project, a pilot scale facility that could help further enhance the performance of Shell's proprietary GTL catalyst through more efficient and effective conversion of feed gas.

“The technology behind GTL has been developed and refined in a journey that has spanned a period of nearly 40 years. Today, that journey continues as Shell begins two new research and development demonstration projects that will help ensure that Shell continues to be at the forefront of GTL technology,” said Dick Benschop, Vice President of Shell Malaysia Gas & Power at the launch ceremony.

The Enhanced SGP for GTL is a technology for the improvement of syngas manufacturing. Integrated with the other elements of Shell’s GTL technology, it could enable GTL project value improvements and help achieve lower CO2 production during the GTL conversion.

The HPS-demonstration facility could demonstrate further improved HPS catalysts and operating procedures. The main lever is catalyst longevity, which could bring lower operating costs through reduced catalyst consumption as well as higher revenues through more efficient and effective conversion of the feed gas.

“Shell has been a leader in the Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) business ever since it designed and developed the world’s first commercial GTL plant in Bintulu in 1993. This launch will further develop Shell MDS Bintulu as a research and development centre for GTL technology for Shell,” added Benschop.

ENQUIRIES:

For further information please contact Shell Malaysia Media Relations, Cindy Lopez at tel: 603 – 2091 3719 mobile: 012 –282 1765, email: cindy.lopez@shell.com

About Shell MDS (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.

The Shell MDS (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (Shell MDS) located in Bintulu was started up in 1993 and was the world’s first commercial GTL plant. It has the capacity to convert approximately three million cubic meters per day of natural gas into some 14,700 barrels per day of cleaner GTL products.

Shell MDS produces a wide range of high quality waxes, specialty chemicals and transport fuels, which are marketed to over 40 countries in Asia, Europe, USA, Africa and Australia. GTL products are virtually free from sulphur and aromatics, and highly biodegradable.

At Shell, health, safety and environmental issues are managed as a critical part of our business activity. Shell MDS is committed to pursue the goal of no harm to people, to protect the environment and to manage Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) matters so that it achieves continuous performance improvement.

Shell MDS outstanding environmental management was recognised when it was awarded the Exceptional Achievement in Environmental Performance in the Prime Minister's Hibiscus Awards 2006/2007 and the Sarawak State Award, an award given to recognise outstanding environmental management by a company in Sarawak state. This was the second time that Shell MDS has been recognised with the Exceptional Achievement in Environmental Performance in the Prime Minister's Hibiscus Awards.

Shell MDS is one of the many Shell companies operating in Malaysia.  Shell has a 117-year history and presence in Malaysia, and is an integrated energy company comprising wholly-owned, joint-venture and public-listed companies.

Shell Malaysia engages in three core business sectors, namely Exploration and Production, Gas and Power and Downstream; and has several global, specialised service support hubs located in the country.

Shell Malaysia employs over 6,000 diverse and talented staff nationwide and is a major investor in Malaysia, having operated in the country for over a century.  The Company also provides material sponsorship and resources in the areas of environmental conservation and social development.

Shell seeks to sustain its long-term presence in Malaysia: pursuing high standards of product quality and service performance; striving to meet the expectations of stakeholders, and contributing to the nation’s economic growth and progress.