A U.S.-based chemical manufacturer owned a complete KOCH-designed solvent recovery and distillation system that was never commissioned. Originally built for Dimethylformamide (DMF) recovery, the plant remained idle for more than ten years.
Phoenix Equipment acquired the asset and identified an African fuel-processing company that could adapt the system for a waste-product distillation project. Phoenix then managed the sale, removal, transportation, and export, successfully relocating the complete system from the United States to Africa.
The Challenge
The seller owned a complete distillation system designed for DMF purification and recovery. Although never used, the system remained in excellent condition and featured high-quality process equipment, including a 36-inch diameter distillation column and Hastelloy C276 heat exchangers.
The challenge was finding a buyer that could recognize the value of the equipment and adapt it for a different application while managing the complexities of removing and relocating the system.
The Opportunity
Phoenix recognized that the system's design and metallurgy made it suitable for a wide range of solvent recovery and distillation applications beyond DMF service.
Through its global network, Phoenix identified an African company in the fuel sector developing a waste-product recovery project. After reviewing the equipment and conducting an on-site inspection, the buyer determined the system could be adapted to meet its processing requirements at a significantly lower cost than purchasing new equipment.
Phoenix Equipment's Solution
Phoenix handled every phase of the transaction, including acquiring the system from the U.S. chemical company, marketing it globally, coordinating inspections, and negotiating the sale.
By acting as both buyer and seller, Phoenix simplified the process for all parties and ensured the equipment was successfully matched with a qualified end user.
Heavy Lift and Removal Execution
Removing the complete skid-mounted system without damage was critical to the project's success.
Phoenix developed a detailed lifting plan utilizing a 250-ton main crane and a tailing crane. The system was carefully disconnected, lowered, loaded onto trucks, and prepared for shipment while preserving the integrity of the equipment, piping, and skid structure.
Transportation and Export Logistics
After removal, Phoenix coordinated transportation from the seller's facility to the export port and managed all logistics required for international shipment.
Services included heavy-haul trucking, export preparation, port coordination, and ocean freight. Phoenix served as the single point of contact throughout the project, ensuring a smooth transition from seller to buyer.
Results
For the Seller
- Recovered value from an idled asset for more than ten years
- Eliminated storage obligations
- Freed facility space
For the Buyer
- Acquired quality equipment at a fraction of replacement cost
- Avoided long fabrication lead times
- Accelerated project development
For the Project
- Successful relocation from the U.S. to Africa
- Safe removal with no equipment damage
- Productive reuse of a long-idle industrial asset
Conclusion
This project highlights Phoenix Equipment's ability to create value by connecting underutilized assets with qualified buyers worldwide. Through equipment acquisition, global marketing, heavy-lift execution, and international logistics, Phoenix transformed a dormant distillation system into a productive asset supporting a new fuel-industry project in Africa.
If you need help with a chemical plant or equipment sale, purchase or relocation project, we would be happy to discuss your next project and see how Phoenix can best assist you.Speak to one of our team members todayto learn more about our variety of different services and solutions.