Valero resumes work on refinery expansion project in Texas

The $1.4 billion project had been postponed by the San Antonio-based independent refiner due to recessionary conditions. The project is likely to be completed and ready for production in 2012.

The $2.2 billion conversion project at Total Port Arthur refinery is nearing completion and the first of its units is going through initial start-up. The Motiva Enterprises Port Arthur refinery expansion, valued at about $7.5 billion, is entering its busiest phase with the final delivery of its modules, heaters and pressure vessels. The new unit will be built on 13 acres of refinery property.

The new unit will be capable of producing fuel-grade products from heavy crude oil at a rate of 50,000 barrels per day when it's completed. . The prefabricated modules, complete with pipe racks and wiring, will be delivered later and some of the module construction work hasn't been bid yet. Completion and delivery of equipment will determine when the refinery will begin awarding contracts to build the expansion.

Site preparation work is being undertaken by Bo-Mac Contractors, Conex International, Richard Design Services, GP Industrial Contractors and Newtron.