The Refinery Core Unit for Mongolia’s first oil refinery has completed manufacturing and now stands ready for shipment. The massive Atmospheric Distillation Column will soon begin its journey to Altanshiree soum in Dornogobi aimag. Consequently, the milestone marks significant progress for the long-delayed refinery project.
KCP Limited manufactured the column in Chennai, India. Engineers completed 17 stages of quality inspections and technical testing before approval. Afterward, technicians filled the structure with nitrogen to protect internal components during transit. Therefore, the Refinery Core Unit now meets international safety standards for long-distance transport.
The column stands 58.4 meters tall and measures 3.2 meters in diameter. It weighs approximately 245 tons. Due to its size, logistics teams divided it into four transportable sections.
In mid-February, crews will ship the unit by sea from Mumbai. Subsequently, it will arrive at Tianjin Port in China. From there, heavy-duty trailers will carry the components overland to the refinery site in Mongolia.
Project leaders from Mongol Oil Refinery LLC monitored the production process closely. In December 2025, management and engineers visited the manufacturing facility to review progress. At that time, they confirmed that fabrication advanced according to schedule.
Now that manufacturing has concluded, attention shifts to logistics coordination. Transporting oversized industrial equipment across multiple borders requires careful planning. Therefore, authorities in India, China and Mongolia must coordinate customs clearance and transit permits.
The Atmospheric Distillation Column serves as the central processing unit of the refinery. It separates crude oil into key fractions such as gasoline, diesel and kerosene. As a result, its installation will determine the plant’s operational readiness.
Government officials have identified the refinery as a strategic infrastructure project. Mongolia currently imports most of its refined petroleum products. Consequently, domestic refining capacity could reduce dependency and strengthen energy security.
Industry analysts say the project could also stabilize fuel prices. By refining crude oil domestically, Mongolia may cushion itself from external supply disruptions. Furthermore, the refinery could generate skilled jobs and stimulate regional development in Dornogobi aimag.
However, experts caution that complex equipment installation remains ahead. Engineers must assemble the four sections with precision at the site. In addition, teams must integrate the column into broader processing systems.
Despite logistical challenges, the arrival of the Refinery Core Unit signals tangible advancement. Investors and policymakers have awaited visible construction milestones. Therefore, this shipment represents both technical and symbolic progress.
Looking ahead, Mongol Oil Refinery LLC will oversee installation and commissioning phases. Officials expect additional equipment deliveries in coming months. Ultimately, the Refinery Core Unit will anchor Mongolia’s ambition to achieve greater energy independence.
