SK Chemicals orders first continuous PPS-production plant from Uhde Inventa-Fischer

Тhe plant engineering company Uhde Inventa-Fischer has received an order from SK Chemicals Co., Ltd. of Korea, a world-leading producer of specialty chemicals, to build the first plant for the continuous production of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). The new plant will be integrated into the industrial complex of SK Chemicals Co., Ltd. in Ulsan, Republic of Korea.

Operation of the plant will be based on Uhde Inventa-Fischer’s proprietary process technology, which uses the patented ESPREE® and DISCAGE® reactors. This proven, energy-saving, versatile process has been customer-tailored in close cooperation with SK Chemicals Co., Ltd.. Unlike the conventional batch process, the continuous polymerization process that will be used in the plant does not employ solvents during the production of PPS. In addition, the core equipment will be produced to a high quality standard. For example, only high-quality, highly alloyed steel will be used for their construction.

PPS resin, a very robust engineering plastic, exhibits excellent thermal and chemical resistance, mechanical strength and dimensional stability. It is suited for precision injection moulding and primarily used for parts surrounding vehicle engines as well as electrical components, connectors and sockets. In comparison to conventional production processes for PPS, neither chlorine nor sodium is generated using SK Chemicals’ innovative technology. Both substances can lead to the corrosion of injection moulds and metal parts. In addition, chlorine is released during the combustion of conventionally produced PPS, which can have a harmful effect on the environment.

Uhde Inventa-Fischer is a leading engineering company located in Berlin, Germany, and Domat/Ems, Switzerland. Its scope of services includes the development, engineering and construction of industrial plants for the production of polyester, polyamide and polylactic acid. The company has built and commissioned more than 400 production plants throughout the world. On joining the ThyssenKrupp Uhde group in 2004, the company also became part of the Business Area Industrial Solutions of ThyssenKrupp AG.

Source: Uhde Inventa-Fischer