TMF fabricated a replacement for Tower 1D-101, addressing critical corrosion issues with upgraded materials and precision welding for extended service life.
TMF fabricated a replacement for Tower 1D-101, addressing critical corrosion issues with upgraded materials and precision welding for extended service life.
Phillips 66
Rodeo, CA
Apr. 2014 – Feb. 2015
When Phillips 66 planned to replace its aging Unicracker Prefractionator Tower 1D-101, the company turned to Thompson Metal Fab for the fabrication of the new vessel. Originally built with substandard corrosion resistance, the tower had experienced internal pitting and temporary repairs since 2009. TMF fabricated a replacement vessel 126 feet long, with diameters ranging from 10 feet 6 inches to 17 feet, using clad plate (carbon steel exterior and 317 stainless interior) and weld overlays at all joint zones. The tower was manufactured in three sections and assembled in-house. For final acceptance, the vessel underwent a hydrostatic leak test with 120,000 gallons of water. Once complete, the 200-ton vessel was rolled out of TMF’s shop and directly onto a barge via the facility’s riverfront launch area. The project illustrates TMF’s capability in pressure vessel fabrication and delivery of critical refinery components.
TMF fabricated and hydrotested a replacement tower to address corrosion issues.
