Afton Chemical breaks ground on new Singapore chemical additives plant

Afton Chemical will expand its global supply network with the addition of a new chemical additive manufacturing facility on Jurong Island, Singapore, the company announced on Thursday. 

Designed and located to support the growth of the Asia-Pacific and Middle East markets, the plant will start to produce components in January 2016 to support the next generation of additive solutions.

Construction will begin after a June 25 groundbreaking ceremony on Jurong Island. The site was selected after an extensive analysis focused on local infrastructure, market access, economics, safety, and logistics.

“Afton Chemical has been a key player in the lubricant and fuel additive industry for more than 90 years,” said Rob Shama, president of Afton. “We have a strong commitment to Asia’s fast-growing economy, and this plant means we can improve service levels to all of our customers in the region and security of supply to all customers worldwide.” 

Shama added that existing plant operations in other regions will remain fully operational to supply the growing demand for Afton’s unique solutions.

“In recent years, we’ve intensified our focus on this important region, and our strategy to meet its needs,” said Damian Barnes, vice president for Afton's supply business. “Since 2008, we’ve opened two new sales offices, four local warehouses, and expanded our R&D facilities. And we’ll continue to explore opportunities to better serve the region."

Foster Wheeler Singapore will manage the engineering and construction. To support Afton’s engine oil business, the first operational unit will produce detergents for commercial use in 2016. 

Construction and startup of additional units to produce dispersants and anti-wear components will follow with full operation expected within the next five years. When completed, the plant will operate around the clock. There is also the opportunity to expand the plant further based on future market conditions, according to company officials.

“In addition to improved supply flexibility, this plant provides opportunities for ‘first intent products’ – products made in Asia-Pacific for Asia-Pacific,” Shama said. “That’s a positive investment for Afton and shows our intention to expand our ‘Passion for Solutions’ in this important region.”