Atlantic Methanol History Page

HOME | CONTACT US

ATLANTIC METHANOL PRODUCTION COMPANY HISTORY

Previously, approximately 100 million cubic feet per day of natural gas was being flared as a result of condensate and gas liquids production in the coastal waters of the region. Our two original primary owners, Samedan Oil Corporation and CMS Energy, concluded that methanol production was the best approach to monetize this natural gas as well as increase the recovery of the gas liquids products.

Taking note of the tight time line in the following milestones, it is clear that the project was on a fast track for completion. Yet, throughout the effort, attention to detail and adherence to the structured plan helped to assure success.

	March 1997, Samedan began the feasibility study, CMS joined the project and a development agreement was signed in September 1997.
	In October 1997, the owners hired one commercial and one technical consultant. While in-house expertise was limited to these two people, their input combined with that of Mustang Engineering was effective and significant while moving through the various project stages.
	In March 1998, the manufacturing and marketing agreement was signed with the Government in EG, securing the gas position and creating the right to build a methanol facility and market the project.
	In May 1998, notice to proceed was given to the EPC contractor, United Contractors, at that time a Raytheon Company.
	In October 1999, the site manager was hired. Other operating and maintenance personnel were hired soon afterwards, and the input and review process was immediately implemented to bridge the operating input gap.
	In February 2000, the maintenance management system was purchased and personnel quickly began populating that system. This would be the heart of the site reliability effort.
	By June 2000, the first set of standard operating procedures was completed. All operating procedures were required to be in writing and under a document control process.
	By July 2000, key operating and maintenance personnel were mobilized to the island. This move allowed considerable input into the inspection and equipment design and installation processes.
	By September 2000, the plant financial system was purchased, which would eventually integrate with the maintenance management system. Personnel immediately began populating this system.
	By December 2000, pre-commissioning and commissioning activity began on a system-by-system basis. Startup lasted 40 days and culminated with commercial production in late April 2001.