The construction of the Coke Drum Integrity Project (CDIP) by Ledcor Projects Inc. commenced in March 2022. The CDIP project involves the comprehensive replacement of eight coke drums at the U1 Upgrader, along with substantial structural reinforcements such as adding over 6,000 pieces of 1-inch plates. In operation since 1967, these coke drums are responsible for the production of 134,000 barrels of synthetic crude oil per day.
Now in its second year, the project scope involves piping upgrades, installing power and control cabling, and completing the structural reinforcements. In 2025, Suncor Base Plant will undergo one of its longest outages, with over 1,000 workers using one of the world’s largest cranes to replace eight coke drums, the entire fourth deck, and the Derrick structure over ninety days. This scale of coke drum replacement is unprecedented in North America.
The Coke Drum Integrity Project is progressing as planned, with a target completion date of September 2025. This project underscores the commitment to enhancing facility capabilities while ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.