Metso automation and flow control technology to replace systems at Porvoo refinery

Neste Oil will replace its existing systems with Metso's automation and flow control technology at the Porvoo refinery sulphur plant in Finland.

'Reliable automation enables us to minimise sulphur emissions from the refinery. New systems and field devices provide operators and the maintenance staff not only with more information, but also information that is more processed,' says Ari Aitolahti, automation development manager, Neste Oil.

Metso's delivery to the sulphur plant includes a Metso DNA automation system, an information management system with history tools, operator work stations with monitors, a safety system, connections to Neste Oil's existing systems, automated on-off and ESD valves equipped with intelligent valve controllers, as well as control valves. Metso is also responsible for the project engineering, installation and commissioning of the automation system, as well as staff training.

The equipment will be delivered and handed over in 2015. The orders are included in the first and second quarter orders 2014 received by Metso's Automation segment. The values of the orders are not disclosed.

Metso's technologies are used at Neste Oil's plants in Finland, Rotterdam and Singapore. In February, the company announced an order for automation and valve technology for the new refinery unit under construction at Neste Oil's Porvoo refinery.

The Porvoo refinery is one of Europe's most advanced and versatile refineries. The refining capacity of crude oil at this highly automated, modern production facility is about 10.5 million tonnes per year. Neste Oil was the first to launch sulphur-free gasoline and sulphur-free new diesel on the Finnish market. Sulphur-free traffic fuels decrease unpleasant odours, as well as environmental and health hazards caused by exhaust gases. Being sulphur-free has also enabled the introduction of motor technology with lower fuel consumption.