Enterprise Products expands propylene pipeline system in US

Enterprise Products Partners LP on July 9, 2015 announced a series of projects to convert and expand segments of its petrochemicals pipeline network designed to increase throughput capacity for polymer grade propylene (PGP) and enhance system flexibility and reliability.
 
First, Enterprise Products will convert its 149-mile North Dean pipeline from refinery grade propylene (RGP) service to PGP service. The conversion is scheduled for completion in January, 2017. Originating at Enterprise’s Mont Belvieu, Texas complex, the converted pipeline will serve petrochemical facilities as far south as Seadrift, Texas in Calhoun County. Construction of a 33-mile lateral pipeline, new metering stations and additional pumping capacity will accommodate the additional volumes and increase total PGP delivery capacity to more than 150,000 barrels per day.
 
Second, Enterprise Products will convert the 263-mile, bi-directional Lou-Tex pipeline, which currently transports chemical grade propylene (CGP) between Sorrento, Louisiana and Mont Belvieu, to PGP service. The conversion is scheduled for completion in 2020.
 
Third, Enterprise Products will construction a new 65-mile, 10-inch diameter pipeline, which will transport RGP between Sorrento and Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. The new pipeline is scheduled for completion in early 2017. Rail receipt facilities at Mont Belvieu are also being expanded to give Enterprise the capability to unload up to 100 RGP rail cars per day.
 
Enterprise’s PGP infrastructure at Mont Belvieu currently consists of six propane/propylene fractionators. Following completion of the new PDH plant, which is scheduled for September of 2016, Enterprise will have the capability to produce 8 billion pounds of PGP at its Mont Belvieu complex. In addition, a portion of Enterprise’s salt dome storage capacity in Mont Belvieu is dedicated to PGP service.
 
RGP is a mixture of propane and propylene that is fractionated into PGP. PGP is used as a feedstock in the production of various consumer products, including packaging film, fibres for carpets and upholstery, and moulded plastics parts for appliances and automotive, houseware and medical products.