Linde plc (Guildford, U.K.) has successfully started up two new air separation units (ASUs) to supply gaseous oxygen and nitrogen to Wanhua Chemical Group, the world’s largest producer of isocyanate (MDI).
The new plants join two existing ASUs, also built and operated by Linde, to support phase I and II of Wanhua Chemical’s integrated chemical site and production center in Yantai, China. Linde’s advanced technology and operational expertise will enable all four ASUs to run at a greater scale and achieve synergies through improved energy efficiency and operational flexibility, resulting in higher reliability and lower venting of the plants.
“The safe and timely start-up of these ASUs is the latest milestone in our long-standing global partnership with Wanhua Chemical Group, spanning Asia and Europe,” said Will Li, Head of Greater China, Linde. “We look forward to growing our partnership from strength to strength as Wanhua Chemical continues to expand its footprint across the world.”
“As the leading supplier to all three of our production sites across the world, Linde has displayed a proven track record of safety and reliability, and a commitment to our mutual success,” said Mr Liao Zengtai, Chairman of the Board, Wanhua Chemical. “The latest successful start-up is yet another strong validation of our decision to select Linde as our industrial gas partner for global growth.”