Our Plant
Seadrift’s facility was designed specifically for the production of petroleum needle coke. The plant is nearly self-sufficient, requiring only feedstock supplies and fresh water to run continuously. Inside, our advanced equipment and process technologies can adapt to a wide variety of raw materials and process variables – while consistently delivering a high-quality product for customers.
Strategically located on the mid-Texas coast, we enjoy ready access to efficient shipping routes, a well-educated workforce and other Gulf refineries for feedstock supply.
Our Process
In our advanced facility, we produce petroleum needle coke through a multi-step process, which we continuously monitor, sample and test.
Coking
Decant oil feed is preheated, separated by fractionation and reheated to temperatures hot enough to induce an endothermic reaction and form green coke.
Drying
Superheated gases pass through the green coke in a drying drum. This reduces volatile matter and hardens the coke.
Removal and Calcining
High-pressure water removes or “cuts” the coke from the drum. The green coke then undergoes a calcining process: it is fed through a rotary kiln at temperatures in excess of 1100°C (2000°F), which controls coke density and burns off any remaining volatiles in the coke.
Cooling, Storage and Shipping
The newly formed needle coke is cooled and conveyed to a storage silo. The final product can then be shipped by rail, truck or barge.