15 naphtha fed steam cracker in Japan operating at reduced rates in August

22-Sep-08

Operating rates at Japan's 15 naphtha-fed steam crackers has averaged 94.1% in August. This rate is lower than the average of 97.3% recorded in July and 95.2% in August last year. Deteriorating sales of ethylene in the month have compelled several producers to scale back operating rates this month. Mitsui Chemicals reduced operating rates at its 600,000 tpa of ethylene and 331,000 tpa of propylene plant at Chiba by 10-20% this month. Sanyo Petrochemical has cut back run rates at 470,000 tpa ethylene and 300,000 tpa propylene plant at Mizushima to 95%