Shell awards global services pact to Linde to build ethane cracking units

Technology company The Linde Group announced Monday that it signed an enterprise framework agreement with Shell Global Solutions to build ethane cracking units on a global basis. 

The agreement is for 10 years, with an option to be extended.

The deal covers the licensing, engineering, procurement and construction services, as well as the supply of proprietary equipment of ethane cracking units. 

Linde says the contract is a renewed opportunity to build upon its long-time relationship with Shell. 

"With its outstanding ethylene technology and project execution excellence, Linde is committed in contributing to the expansion of Shell's global petrochemical market," the company said. "To benefit Shell and its partners, Linde intends to deliver major cost savings for ethane cracking units from standardization and repeatability effects."

As a first step in the agreement, Linde was awarded the contract for the licensing and basic engineering design package for a potential world-scale ethane cracker unit. The location was not disclosed.