Conversion of butanol to octanol at Jilin Petrochemical Fertilizer Plant

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On April 10, reporters learned from Jilin Petrochemical Fertilizer Plant that while focusing on strict pandemic prevention and control measures, the plant kept an eye on market demands, continuously optimized its production processes, and adjusted its product portfolio in a timely manner. On March 31, the first successful conversion of the plant’s capacity to produce octanol was achieved. At present, the product quality is stable and meets standards, with an expected monthly revenue of over 4 million yuan. Converting butanol into octanol involves adding a condensation unit while keeping the original production chain unchanged. The unit has been out of operation for 10 years; whether it can be brought back into use successfully, and whether the yield of octenal can meet the required standards after it is operational, are key factors for a successful shift in production. Faced with numerous challenges such as tight deadlines, heavy workload, limited staffing, and outdated equipment, Jihua Fertilizer Factory overcame these obstacles and made every effort to ensure the orderly progress of the transition from producing butanol to octanol. Adding positions without increasing headcount; training to impart intelligence. The additional condensation reaction units resulting from the shift to producing octanol not only lengthened the existing process chain but also led to a shortage of personnel. 10 years ago, there was a dedicated person assigned to monitor the condensation process; today, due to the impact of the pandemic, the number of staff remaining on site is very limited, so it is not practical to assign another person to oversee this task. The number of people is limited, but the capacity for intellect is unlimited. Adhering to the principle of \"learn what you do,\" the factory promptly incorporated knowledge related to process changes, key operating procedures, and accident handling into its training programs. Team leaders in the workshops took the lead in giving lectures, technical staff provided systematic explanations, and party member cadres conducted one-on-one guidance, with training being carried out through a \"grid\" system. Currently, 4 employees have been upgraded from \"single-task capable\" to \"multi-task capable\", providing the most crucial human resource support for the production shift.