Shell in unplanned shut down of compressor at Dutch Pernis refinery

LONDON, Dec (Shanghai: 600875.SS - news) 18 (Reuters) - A compressor feeding a catalytic cracker at Shell (LSE: RDSB.L - news) 's 404,000 barrel per day (bpd) Pernis refinery went into an unplanned shutdown this week, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The issue, which forced the shutdown on Dec. 17, could impact gasoline production at the refinery, traders said, if it forces the refinery's cracker to slow down or shut down production.

Shell declined to comment on the specifics, but a spokeswoman said that "following an upset in one of our units at Pernis, we are currently flaring."

"We don't give estimates of how long it could take to safely bring the affected unit back on line, but we are working hard to get the unit back in operation as soon as possible."

Trading sources said Shell was planning to restart the unit imminently. (Reporting by Libby George; Editing by Mark Potter)