Production of synthetic liquids from coal: 1980 to 2000. Preliminary study of potential impediments. Final report. [1 to 3 MMBPD by 2000

Abstract

It appears that resources will be adequate for the 1 MMBPD scenario. Potential impediments for the 3 MMBPD scenario were identified in the following areas: engineering manpower, manual labor, certain materials and equipment, and plant permits and licenses. The 3 MMBPD coal liquids scenario will tax the supply of chemical engineers for process and project work. Chemical engineers working in this area must be increased by one-third by 1985. Pipefitters, pipefitters-welders, boilermakers, boilermaker-welders and electricians will be in short supply. In certain regions of the country, 30 to 80 percent of the available manpower in some of these trades will be required by the 3 MMBPD coal liquids program. The availability of 34 categories of material and equipment was assessed in order to identify potential impediments. The following categories appear to be potentially critical for the 3 MMBPD program: draglines, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, centrifugal compressors, and alloy and stainless steel valves. The 3 MMBPD scenario would utilize about 3 percent of the national chromium consumption. Since almost all of the supply is imported, security of this supply could cause concern. It is the consensus of the major energy-related manufacturers that they can satisfy the requirements for the coal liquids program if sufficient lead-time is provided for material and equipment orders. Similarly, licensing and permits, water supplies, coal supplies and capital requirements will require careful planning and long lead-times for the 3 MMBPD scenario.