Calumet is the largest producer of sustainable aviation fuel in North America. Topsoe’s HydroFlex technology supports the company’s growth.
- Calumet produces sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel (RD) from its Great Falls refinery in Montana, USA
- Topsoe’s HydroFlex technology was used to revamp the existing refinery unit to produce renewable jet and diesel.
- The production capacity of the Great Falls plant is about 15,000 barrels per day, and it produces a mixture of renewable jet and diesel based on waste oils and other low-value feedstocks.
The demand for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) is rapidly growing, with IATA – the International Aviation Transport Association – estimating 120 billion gallons of SAF per year is needed for the airline sector to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. This compares to the estimated 75 million gallons of SAF being produced in 2022.
Topsoe, a global front-runner in the field of carbon emission reduction technologies, is fully committed to making a significant contribution towards a future free from carbon emissions. This commitment extends to sectors that cannot directly leverage electrification, such as aviation.
Topsoe’s HydroFlex technology is a key component in the operations of Calumet’s Great Falls refinery in Montana, which is currently producing both Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Renewable Diesel (RD). Serving the Canadian and US West Coast markets, Calumet is at the forefront of providing low emission fuels.
“It’s great to see the successful production of sustainable aviation fuel by Calumet,” Henrik Rasmussen, Managing Director, The Americas, Topsoe, said. “Actual production of SAF is crucial for decarbonizing aviation, and demand for SAF will only grow in the next many years. We’re excited to be working with the Calumet team on this very successful revamp to make renewable fuels.”
Bruce Fleming, CEO Montana Renewables and EVP Corporate Development, said: “The production of renewable jet is another step toward our company’s strategic goal to help decarbonize the airline industry. It has been a good collaboration between the Calumet and the Topsoe Team, and we are presently planning an expansion and a further increase to our SAF yield.”
Understanding Renewable Fuels
Derived from renewable resources, renewable fuels are low-carbon alternatives that mirror the chemical properties of conventional petroleum diesel or jet fuel. Their utilization results in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, yet their performance is on par with their traditional counterparts. Engine modifications or infrastructural adjustments are not required when these fuels are used as drop-in replacements. The production of these eco-friendly fuels harnesses waste, animal fats, and used cooking oils, along with organic materials like soybean oils.
Understanding HydroFlex: What Exactly Is It?
HydroFlex, a groundbreaking solution, enables customers to transform lower-value feedstocks into high-demand, renewable jet and diesel fuels. These fuels meet all international standards, thus ensuring their global acceptability. The unique layout of the HydroFlex process not only reduces the capital expenditure (CAPEX), but also lowers the energy consumption during operation, leading to a significant reduction in the Carbon Index (CI).
Topsoe’s HydroFlex is versatile and can be implemented in both new grassroots units and existing systems for revamps, co-processing, or stand-alone applications. Owing to its success and efficiency, HydroFlex has ascended to the position of the most acclaimed renewable fuel technology worldwide.
About Calumet
Boasting a rich history spanning a century, Calumet consistently delivers superior products and services to a global clientele. The company is renowned for its manufacturing, formulation, and market distribution of a wide array of specialty branded products, catering to a diverse range of both consumer-facing and industrial sectors.
With its headquarters nestled in Indianapolis, Indiana, Calumet is powered by a robust team of nearly 1,500 dedicated professionals. These individuals operate from over 10 facilities scattered across North America, including 10 specialty product manufacturing and production sites. The reach of Calumet’s product suite is vast, spanning over 90 countries and serving close to 3,000 customers worldwide.
Calumet takes great pride in its ability to meet the unique product needs of its customers, delivering solutions that not only sustain but enhance the quality of essential life products. The company’s contributions aim to foster a brighter future for forthcoming generations. Calumet’s vision extends beyond mere business objectives, as it is committed to shaping a safer, healthier, and more interconnected world. Learn more at https://calumet.com/
About Topsoe
Established in 1940, Topsoe has carved a niche for itself as a premier global provider of decarbonization technology, catalysts, and services, all aimed at facilitating the energy transition.
The company’s mission is to combat climate change by supporting partners and customers in reaching their decarbonization and emission-reduction goals. This includes those operating in notoriously difficult sectors to decarbonize, such as aviation, shipping, and raw material production. With its diverse portfolio, ranging from carbon-reducing chemicals to renewable fuels and the upcycling of plastics, Topsoe is uniquely equipped to steer humanity toward a sustainable future.
With its headquarters in Denmark, Topsoe boasts a robust global presence, employing over 2,400 professionals dedicated to serving customers worldwide. For more information, visit www.topsoe.com.