Frontier Refining – Fluidized Catalytic Cracking Unit (FCCU) Turnaround

In October 2008, Frontier Refining Company in El Dorado, Kansas, awarded Matrix Service the contract to execute a revamp and turnaround on their 40,000 barrel per day fluid catalytic cracking unit (FCCU) in the fall of 2009. On-site, preturnaround phase work began in April 2009, and all work was completed by November 2009.

The scope of work included replacement of (6) cyclone pairs, new top head and shell extension assembly regenerator, air grid, WGS components, new expansion joint, and reactor stripper section, piping, structural installation, and maintenance work. Matrix Service provided the engineering and fabrication for new components, piping, and structural steel, as well as project management and rigging engineering.

The turnaround phase began in October with a workforce of approximately 350 people utilizing two shifts per day, seven days per week, for about one month. Matrix Service provided the heavy lift cranes, rigging and lift plans, refractory, scaffolding, insulation, painting, and several smaller specialty services. The project was completed on schedule and within budget.