Bechtel taps EnerMech for pre-commissioning gig on Woodside’s LNG project

EnerMech has secured a new contract from Bechtel to perform chemical cleaning services for Woodside Energy’s Pluto Train 2 LNG project in Karratha, Western Australia. Bechtel is responsible for the full EPCC scope of the development, which expands the existing Pluto LNG facility as part of the wider Scarborough energy project targeting first LNG in 2026. The work reinforces EnerMech’s 12-year partnership with Bechtel and strengthens its position in the Australian LNG sector. EnerMech will clean key process units—most notably the acid gas removal unit (AGRU) and the heated water system—using project-specific methodologies to ensure compliance with technical and environmental requirements. The company will supply supervision, skilled personnel, chemicals, test instruments, tools, equipment, spare parts, consumables, demineralized water, and will manage waste handling and disposal via licensed service providers. EnerMech leaders highlighted the project’s strategic importance and the opportunity to demonstrate the company’s established LNG expertise, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and “right-first time” execution. Mobilization is expected to begin this month, with planning already underway to align with Bechtel’s construction schedule. Pluto Train 2 will add approximately 5 million tons per year of LNG processing capacity. Its parent development, the Scarborough project, includes installation of a floating production unit (FPU), up to 13 wells drilled over the field’s life, and a 430 km subsea pipeline connecting offshore facilities to Pluto LNG. Scarborough is set to create around 3,000 construction jobs and about 600 ongoing operational roles, supporting Australia’s long-term LNG supply. Higher demand for U.S.-made chemical cleaning equipment (pumps, instruments, filtration units). Potential procurement of U.S. specialty chemicals used in LNG pre-commissioning. Increased need for U.S. fabrication of valves, piping components, and process-system parts for similar LNG developments. More opportunities for U.S. engineering and technical service providers supporting global LNG projects. Strengthening of U.S. supply chains tied to Bechtel, which often sources equipment and materials from U.S. manufacturers.