KINGSPORT The Holston Army Ammunition Plant made many improvements over the past year to modernize the site and make it more environmentally-friendly.
Claire Powell, Director of Communications at BAE Systems, stated that the company has been committed to improving technology since 2006. Powell said that $1 billion has already been invested in technology, safety, and production enhancements.
In 2021, a natural-gas fired steam plant was created. The facility used a coal-fired boiler steam plant for 80 years. It was last used on October 4, 2021.
Powell stated that this more eco-friendly plant will increase efficiency and site capacity and is part of an ongoing sustainability strategy to reduce air pollution.
The final design for a flashing oven and a static detonation chamber has been completed at the site. Powell said that the environmental permits will determine the timeline for these two open-burning alternatives. The furnace is expected complete in 2024, and the detonation chamber will be completed in 2026.
In the summer of 2021, the chemical processing facility at the site underwent several upgrades that improved the acetic acids refining capabilities.
The plant is also on schedule to complete the Weak Acetic Acid Recovery Process Project, which will include a building as well as a tank-farm. The project is expected to be completed by the summer 2023.
The site continues to complete modernization projects to support the RDX expansion that began in 2017. Some existing projects are expected to be completed by 2022. New projects will be started in 2022.
Powell stated that the transformation of the site helps to improve the community.
Powell stated that the strategic site transformation offers exciting enhancements for both the local community, and warfighter. Powell said that many projects are in the final stages. With the support of BAE Systems, Holston Army Ammunition Plant is able to provide reliable and high-quality products to our warfighters while also developing new technology that will make the environment cleaner.