SM1 Modernization Project, ChevronPhillips Chemical, St. James

Chevron Phillips' SM1 project was a culmination of successes generated through focus and purpose prior to the project going to the field, which in turn supported Performance Contractor Inc.'s ability to achieve all predetermined goals of execution.

The most notable accomplishment of the SM1 project was the ability of Performance Contractors to expend 550,000 direct manhours and incur no OSHA recordable injuries.

The construction phase of the SM1 project took place within the existing, operating styrene facility at the plant. Performance expended 375,000 direct manhours during this phase, which was highlighted by the installation of 600 tons of structural steel, 2,133 spools of fabricated pipe and the placement of the 914-ton recycle column.

Clear communication between Performance and ChevronPhillips' plant operation was a constant activity throughout this phase of the project. The existing styrene monomer unit had no plant shutdowns as a result of construction activities during the 16-month schedule.

Performance Contractors had peak manpower of 300 during construction, combined with 75 subcontractors, which made the overall site extremely congested.

The recycle column constituted the highest level of challenge for Performance Contractors and the SM1 project. ChevronPhillips' project management made the decision to have the column fabricated in India prior to awarding the general contract to Performance.

Upon award of the contract, the contractor was responsible for the shipment of the column from India to the plant site, offloading and transporting into the facility, and erection. Trips to visually inspect work in India was hindered due to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Performance management, along with the transportation and crane subcontractor, met in Amsterdam with the Indian fabricator to review work progress and shipment plans. The column is 256 ft. tall and 28 ft. in diameter.