Petrobras and Tenenge advance in the construction of a new unit at RNEST

The Abreu e Lima Refinery (RNEST), located in Pernambuco, is about to gain a strategic boost in its processing capacity with the construction of the Naphtha Hydrotreatment Unit (UHDT-N), also known as U-34. The project, led by Tenenge — the industrial engineering and construction company of Odebrecht Engenharia e Construção — marks a new phase in Petrobras’ infrastructure expansion in the Northeast region of Brazil.

The new industrial plant is part of RNEST’s “Train 2” and will be responsible for treating the naphtha produced at the refinery, using technology licensed by UOP, a global reference in refining processes.

The scope of the contract signed between Petrobras and Tenenge, resulting from a bidding process, includes full project management; inspection of components supplied by the client; procurement of materials and equipment; civil works and electromechanical assembly; testing, conditioning, and preservation; pre-operation, startup, and assisted operation; as well as engineering services to complement existing designs.

The units already have part of the infrastructure installed, with equipment and components stored or partially assembled. Tenenge will be responsible for integrating these assets and supplying and installing the remaining elements.

Technical challenges and solutions

Project execution requires strict safety protocols. The construction will demand detailed technical inspections and the assembly of critical systems such as the F-34001 furnace and dynamic and static equipment, ensuring system integrity and full operational functionality, in addition to reusing existing structures such as scaffolding and piping.

The project follows the client’s technical and environmental guidelines, including standards specific to quality, safety, environment, and health (QHSE). Waste management, emissions control, and efficient water use are priorities during execution. Completion of the UHDT-N construction will represent an important economic boost for the region, generating approximately 1,500 direct and indirect jobs, as well as driving activity in the local supply chain.

The initiative reinforces RNEST’s role as one of the pillars of Brazil’s refining capacity and contributes to the country’s energy security.