1362668872241Russian producers in 2015 increased the amount of polyethylene (HDPE) by 11% compared with the 2014. However, there have been major structural changes in the product mix, which will have consequences, and in 2016, according to the Annual Review “Polyethylene in Russia – 2016”.

Last year, Russian producers managed to increase production volumes of high-density polyethylene to 904 ths. Tons. The main increase in production figures provided Stavrolen which reopened in April 2015 after a long forced stop in February 2014. In addition, a serious adjusted assortment of HDPE, and this factor will have an impact on the performance in 2016.

Existing capacity for the production of HDPE redundant, and with the expectations of a further reduction in demand, questions about the optimization of production and import substitution Russian manufacturers are becoming more relevant.

Russia’s largest producer of polyethylene – Kazanorgsintez – last year increased the production capacity of black HDPE pipe (PE100 grade) at 30%. Taking into account the installation of new equipment, the total capacity for the production of polyethylene (PE) has reached 240 th. Tons per year. At the same time, the company in February 2016 to fully abandon the production of natural HDPE – brand PE2NT11-285D. This grade of PE used in the manufacture of tubes, and in the production of films, and was particularly in demand in the summer.

Stavrolen resumed production of polyethylene at the beginning of April 2015. At the same time, the company abandoned the production of HDPE pipe (class PE80). Stavropol power producer allows to produce about 80 thousand. Tonnes of colored PE pipe. All the efforts of companies focused on the film and blow molding grade HDPE.

Nizhnekamskneftekhim in the past year significantly increased the proportion of linear polyethylene (LDL) in the total output, total output exceeded 46 thousand. Tonnes. In 2016 this process (reduction in the production of HDPE in favor LDL) will continue, while the company has repeatedly stated plans to increase the volume of production of LDL to 100 thous. Tons per year. Most important, this factor will be felt in the summer – the period of high seasonal demand and scheduled stops on the prevention of several industries.

“Gazprom Salavat neftekhim” is also fortunate enough to find its niche in the Russian market. Bashkir enterprises has focused on the production of HDPE pipe, as well as in conjunction with one of the compounds manufacturers started manufacturing polyethylene composition for coating steel pipes of large diameter, thereby reducing the dependence on external suppliers of this type of PE. Although the company does not leave attempts to gain a foothold in the segment of film and HDPE blow.