One of TCE’s significant endeavours during this period involved the execution of the Madras Fertiliser project for Madras Fertilisers Limited (MFL), located in Manali, near Madras. Situated adjacent to the Madras Refinery, a collaboration between the National Iranian Oil Company of Iran, AMOCO of the USA, and the Indian Government, this project aimed to produce urea from naphtha sourced from the refinery and NPK with phosphoric acid imported from Mexico. TCE took charge of the detailed engineering of the Ammonia and Urea plants, procuring indigenous equipment, and providing on-site supervision.

In response to project requirements, TCE established an office in Madras in 1968 to facilitate seamless communication with the CHEMICO site office and MFL. Adhering to governmental directives, TCE prioritised indigenisation and import substitution to the maximum feasible extent. TCE successfully navigated this challenge and gained expertise in designing chemical process vessels, columns, towers, tanks, etc., conforming to American Standards and CHEMICO specifications. The project was completed to the satisfaction of CHEMICO, enabling them to commission and hand over the plant to the client as per the contracted date in 1972.

A source of pride for TCE, the MFL plant has operated continuously for over two decades without any breakdown or disruption. It remains esteemed as one of the premier fertiliser plants in the country, showcasing TCE’s commitment to excellence in engineering and project management.