Shell's production from Ursa, Mensa and Mars platforms commingles with Amberkjack pipeline volumes to create MARS BLEND crude in the caverns at Loop. Shell Pipeline Company LP serves as operator of both the Mars and Amberjack pipelines as well as the downstream supply and transportation system for purchasers of Mars Blend crude oil.

Shell and it's Trading company, Shell Trading US, provide facilities and services for transporting, storing and delivering Gulf of Mexico crude oil production along the Gulf Coast and Midwest. Shell's infrastructure provides a complete logistical network, for Shell's MARS blend crude. (click to view Mars Blend Crude Properties.)

Reliable Supply

Over 300,000 barrels per day of Mars Blend Crude is handled by Shell Pipeline,primarily from Shell's two major Mars Blend producers, Ursa and Mars. Shell Trading acts as marketer for Mars Blend on both spot and term deals, both from Loop storage and delivered as purchaser designates. Since this volume is produced domestically and transported via pipeline directly to Loop, the supply of Mars Blend to the Gulf Coast is very reliable and not subject to delays and obstacles of marine transport. An extensive pipeline infrastructure provides additional flexibility in operations. (Click to go to Loop's website)

Dedicated Storage

The MARS offshore pipelines transport production to a six million-barrel storage caverns at the Clovelly LOOP facility on the Louisiana Gulf Coast. This assures continuos supply and excellent disbursement flexibility to downstream purchasers. (Click to view Pipeline Logistics)

Broad Refinery Access

Shell Pipeline Company LP provides a dependable gateway to many refineries in the Gulf Coast and Midcontinent refineries, including Chicago, Wood River, and other PADD 2 refineries. These facilities and others can access MARS Blend via five major inland pipeline systems originating at Clovelly LOOP.

Some major features of the pipeline infrastructure include:

• LOCAP connects to Capline's St. James, LA., terminal and the 40-inch Capline pipeline serving the Midcontinent market.
• Dock access is available at the Shell Sugarland terminal, St. James Terminal, and at IMTT.
• Deliveries to refineries at Lake Charles, Port Arthur, Houston and Texas City.
• A delivery point at Fourchon also allows for MARS crude movement to Empire via the Chevron pipeline.