Here is an update from Lube Report on Shell's GTL plant in Qatar:
http://www.imakenews.com/lng/e_article001681514.cfm?x=bgCRnjw,bd28TMM
An interesting quote from the article:
"Asked what distinguishes GTL from Group III and other high quality base oils, Wedlock said, “It’s hard to answer today before the product is in use, but the technology is different. GTL starts with very high viscosity feed and downgrades it to make base oils. Volumes will be significant, so the market will not be short on high quality Group III.” Wedlock declined to address cost, but added, “I don’t think we’ll see massive overhangs of GTL.”
GTL quality can be adjusted by changing yield, the same as with mineral Group IIIs, Wedlock noted. “But there’s no point in quality give-away. You need a fit-for-purpose base oil.”
Tom NJ
http://www.imakenews.com/lng/e_article001681514.cfm?x=bgCRnjw,bd28TMM
An interesting quote from the article:
"Asked what distinguishes GTL from Group III and other high quality base oils, Wedlock said, “It’s hard to answer today before the product is in use, but the technology is different. GTL starts with very high viscosity feed and downgrades it to make base oils. Volumes will be significant, so the market will not be short on high quality Group III.” Wedlock declined to address cost, but added, “I don’t think we’ll see massive overhangs of GTL.”
GTL quality can be adjusted by changing yield, the same as with mineral Group IIIs, Wedlock noted. “But there’s no point in quality give-away. You need a fit-for-purpose base oil.”
Tom NJ