Search by topic : Refining Gas and Petrochemicals
Title Author Edition
Process and catalysis factors to maximise propylene output

Takuya Amano, Jack Wilcox and Carel Pouwels, Albemarle Corporation

Takakazu Matsuura, Taiyo Oil Co

2012 / Q3

Catalyst selection and process design enable a new RFCC unit to maximise propylene production from a range of feeds
More

Challenges and opportunities of 10 ppm sulphur gasoline: part 1

Delphone Largeteau, Jay Ross, Marc Laborde and Larry Wisdom, Axens

2012 / Q3

Prospect of a worldwide standard for ULSG and the challenges of increased heavy crude supplies demand careful considerationa and selection of refinery configuration
More

Minimise corrosion while maximising distillate

Brandon Payne, GE Water & Process Technologies

2012 / Q3

Reducing atmospheric fractionator overhead temperatures to maximise middle distillate production requires a full understanding of resulting corrosion mechanisms
More

Reliable design of sour water strippers

Nathan Hatcher and Ralph Weiland, Optimized Gas Treating

2012 / Q3

A simulation model aims to raise confidence in the reliability of sour water stripper design
More

Monitoring and treatment to maximise light cycle oil

Greg Savage, Nalco

2012 / Q3

Fouling control, simulation software and tower scanning can improve operations and reliability when maximising middle distillate and propylene production
More

Monitoring and diagnostics for reciprocating compressors

Jost-A Anderhub, Prognost Systems

2012 / Q3

A guide to the purpose and terminology of monitoring systems than ensure effective operation of reciprocating compressors
More

Catalyst stripper improves FCC unit performance

Rama Rao Mari and Dalip Soni, Lummus Technology, a CB&I Company

2012 / Q3

Stripper internals with improved mass transfer characteristics improve the performance of an FCC unit
More

Gasifying coke to produce hydrogen in refineries

Tek Sutikno and Kevin Turini, Fluor Enterprises

2012 / Q3

Coke gasification to produce hydrogen for hydroprocessing is more capital intensive than steam methan reforming, but not so vulnerable to natural gas price variations
More

High-quality products from heavy sour crudes

Maria Aldescu, KBC Advanced Technologies

2012 / Q3

Application of current and emerging technologies will determine the potential of poor-quality crudes as sources of high-quality products
More

Removing fines from gas scrubbing liquids

Barry Perlmutter, BHS- Filtration

2012 / Q3

Think cake candle filter technology can be applied to a range of refining and gas processing applications to remove fines from circulating scrubbing liquids
More

Challenges and opportunities of 10 ppm sulphur gasoline: part 2

Delphine Largeteau, Jay Ross, Marc Laborde and Larry Wisdom, Axens

2012 / Q4

Economic evaluation of processing options for ultra-low sulphur gasoline compares severe pretreatment with a combination of pre- and post-treat solutions
More

Dynamic simulation: a tool for engineering problems

Dipanjan Bhattacharya, Haribabu Chittibabu, Jesse Mumm and Jaleel Valappil, Bechtel

2012 / Q4

Dynamic simulation can be used to solve engineering problems that require an in-depth understanding of transient processes
More

Exploiting opportunities with challenging crudes

India Nagi-Hanspal, Mahesh Subramaniyam, Parag Shah, Sergio Moretti and James Noland, DorfKetal Chemicals

2012 / Q4

Chemical treatment techniques solve many of the processing problems encountered in refining opportunity crudes
More

Valuable liquids from refinery gases

Zaheer Malik and John Slack, Linde Process Plants

2012 / Q4

With appropriate treatment schemes, refinery off-gases can be valuable sources of olefins and hydrogen
More

Thermal Oxidiser waste heat recovery

Ryan Tate, Zeeco Inc

2012 / Q4

Capturing the heat energy used for waste gas destruction enables processing plants to enhance their efficiency and minimise operating costs.
More

Simulating and monitoring H2 plant operations

Gene Yeh, Saudi Aramco

Prabhas Mandal, Abdulali Siddiqui and Fahad Alhemidda, Saudi Aramco Riyah Refinery

2012 / Q4

A computer program was developed to enable a refinery to monitor its hydrogen production daily to foresee potential operating problems.
More

RFCC units set new standard for propylene production

Patrick Walker and Raymond Peterman, UOP LLC, a Honeywell Company

2012 / Q4

RFCC units are being commissioned and operated to convert hydrotreated and straight-run resid to high levels of propylene
More

Value of monitoring exchanger networks

Laura Copeland, Nalco Company

2012 / Q4

A rigorous exchanger simulation model can be used to calculate the true cost of fouling in crude preheat networks
More

FCC catalysts and additives for cost and emissions control

Kenneth Hindle and Maria Luisa Sargenti, Grace Catalysts Technologies

Juan Vargas, Coryton Refinery

2012 / Q4

A rare earth-free catalyst enabled a refinery to reduce its FCC catalyst costs and a non-platinum combustion promoter helped control NOx emissions
More

Stripping sour water: the effect of heat stable salts

Ralph Weiland and Nathan Hatcher, Optimized Gas Treating Inc

2012 / Q4

Mass transfer rate-based simulation models sour water stripping and assesses the distribution of ammonia in conventional amine treating systems
More

Production of biolubricant base stock

Shalini Gupta, Rajeev Kumar, Sudha Tyagi and Peddy V C Rao, Bharat Petroleum Corporation

2012 / Q4

Using microwave technology in biolubricants production enhances product yields and reduces reaction time.
More

Mitigation of heat exchanger fouling

Bruce Wright, Baker Hughes Incorporated

Todd Hochheiser, Valero Energy Corporation

2012 / Q4

Detailed analysis of potential contributors identifies the root cause of fouling in naphtha hydrotreater feed-effluent exchangers
More

Innovations in wastewater treatment

Darren Gurney, Linde Gases Division

2012 / Q4

Industrial gases provide a wide range of options for treating wastewater from petrochemical processes
More

Optimising sweep gas flow in a flare header

Satish Mathur, Bechtel India

2012 / Q4

How to calculate the minimum flow of flare header sweep gas needed to maintain safe conditions
More

Tackling the gasoline/middle distillate imbalance

Marielle Gagniere, Annick Pucci and Emilie Rousseau, Axens

2013 / Q2

An oligomerisation technology can produce a significant increase in middle distillate production
More

Strategies to control sediment and coke in a hydrocracker

Marco Respini, Silvia Ekres and Bruce Wright, Baker Hughes

Robert Zajdlik, Slovnaft

2013 / Q2

Fouling control techniques enabled an ebullated-bed resid hydrocracker to operate at high severity while the rate of fouling of critical areas was controlled
More

Simulation of bitumen upgrading processes

Anton Alvarez-Majmutov and Jinwen Chen, CanmetENERGY, Natural Resources Canada

Mugurel Munteanu, WorleyParsons

2013 / Q2

Two bitumen upgrading processes currently used in the Canadian oil sands industry were investigated using modelling and simulation techniques
More

Insulating tank terminals

Peter Boon, Pentair Thermal Management

2013 / Q2

Energy-efficient tank insulation systems result in lower energy costs, less maintenance, and a prolonged lifespan of contents and equipment
More

Understanding thermal oxidisers

Peter Pickard and Kevin McQuigg, Zeeco

2013 / Q2

Dealing with common misconceptions on the design of vapour and liquid waste thermal oxidiser systems
More

Diagnostic tools and control parameters for refinery heaters

Yahya Aktas, Hakan Oguz, Guray Aksu, Dogus Uzun and Muammer Sever, Tupras Izmir Refinery

2013 / Q2

To optimise or manage furnace operation more effectively and safely, engineers and operators need to understand and control the entire process.
More

Minimising the cost of hydrogen production

Lorena Mosca, Palma Contaldo, Menica Antonelli and Paola Volpi, Tecnimont KT

2013 / Q2

Feed and fuel costs or the demand for export steam drive the choice of plant architecture and operating parameters in SMR hydrogen production
More

HCN emissions in fluid catalytic cracking

Xunhua Mo, Bart De Graaf and Paul Diddams, Johnson Matthey

2013 / Q2

Increased attention to refinery emissions of hydrogen cyanide requires detailed understanding of its formation and conversion in the FCC regenerator
More

Oil/water separation technologies

Berthold Otzisk, Kurita Europe

2013 / Q2

Where stable emulsions cannot be removed mechanically, the application of demulsifiers, coagulants and flocculants accelerates the separation process
More

Customised tower design

Darius Remesat and Michael Krela, Koch-Glitsch Canada

2013 / Q2

To save project costs, the distillation towers for a new refinery were designed to meet process design objectives using best available technology
More

Sour water strippers: design and operation

Norman Lieberman, Process Improvement Engineering

2013 / Q2

Simpler, more cost-effective sour water stripper designs can outperform more generally accepted designs in the refining industry
More

Online cleaning: a mindshift for improving operational excellence

Marcello Ferrara and Justin Weatherford, ITW

2013 / Q2

A patented method of chemical cleaning can reduce downtime arising from severe fouling in process units
More

Lessons learned from MPC revamp of two naphtha crackers

Vanessa Conz, Suzana Fuchs and Priscila Macedo Moura, Braskem

Mark Darby, CMiD Solutions

Doug Nicholson, IPCOS (UK)

2013 / Q2

A project overview includes changes made at the regulatory and advanced control level, and results obtained.  Techniques and tools used in the project are highlighted
More

Energy-efficient vacuum systems

C Chandra, Sekhara Reddy and S V Naidu, Andhra University

G P Rangaiah, National University of Singapore

2013 / Q2

Case analysis of the techniques available to reduce energy consumption in vacuum systems reveals the potential for cost savings
More

Towards a zero gasoline production refinery: part 1

Blasis Stamateris, Foster Wheeler

2013 / Q3

Integrating products from the steam cracker, aromatics complex and FCC unit to produce petrochemicals without gasoline may offer more attractive margins
More

Refinery power failures: causes, costs and solutions

Patrick J Christensen, William H Graf and Thmas W Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2013 / Q3

Power outages typically lead to damaging costs for refiners.  Strategies are needed to minimise them.
More

Combating green oil formation in a CCR reformer

Osman Kubilay Karan, Mehmet Asim Ay, Koray kahraman, Tupras Kirikkale Refinery
Arnaud Selmen, Axens Technology & Technical Services

2013 / Q3

The addition of a chloride adsorber guard bed solved a refiner's issues with contamination affecting a CCR reformer's rich gas compressor
More

Role of fired heater safety systems

Nikki Bishop and David Sheppard, Emerson Process Management

2013 / Q3

A fully automated burner management system operating as a SIS burner control can meet minimum safety targets, improve system availability and lower costs
More

Manufacturing execution systems for the refining industry

Marty Moran, AspenTech

2013 / Q3

Real-time data and decision support tools provide access to plant information to enable a timely response to production issues
More

Advances in engineering and design technologies

Simon Bennett, Aveva

2013 / Q3

3D technology is moving out of the design office to transform the entire asset lifecycle
More

A novel approach to cleaning furnace coils

Rupali Sahu, Shyam Kishore Choudhary, Ugrasen Yadav and M K E Prasad, Technip KT India

2013 / Q3

A modified pigging operation aims to greatly reduce the time required for coke removal from furnace coils
More

Extending gasification runtime with antifoulant

Berthold Otzisk, Kurita Europe

2013 / Q3

When fouling is observed in the syngas cooler, an antifoulant programme can provide a gasification unit with an extended runtime.
More

Improving reliability and efficiency in centrifugal pumps

Geoff Lewis, DuPont

2013 / Q3

Conversion of metal pump wear parts to advanced composite materials can lead to substantial annual cost savings
More

Oil sands-derived feed processing

Max Ovchinnikov, Josiane Ginestra, Dorian Rauschning, Bill Gillespie and Kevin Carlson, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies.

2013 / Q3

Processing crudes derived from oil sands requires a good understanding of the facility, and of the sources and processing requirements of the available crudes.
More

Predicting catalyst liftime

S Reza Seif Mohaddecy, Sepdhr Sadighi, RIPI

2013 / Q3

A simulation model compares accurately with actual operating data to provide reliable predictions of catalyst lifetime in naptha reforming
More

Additives provide flexibility for FCC units and delayed cokers

Alan Kramer and Raul Arriaga, Albemarle Corporation

2013 / Q3

A proprietary additivie applied to a novel coker process increases the liquid yield from delayed coking
More

Preventing ingress of HCN into amine systems

Ralph Weiland, Nathan Hatcher and Clayton Jones, Optimized Gas Treating Inc

2013 / Q3

Simulation studies provide guidelines on how to avoid contamination of refinery amine systems by hydrogen cyanide
More

Optimised hydrogen production by steam reforming: part 2

Kedar Patwardhan, Sanke Rajyalakshmi and P Balaramakrishna, Larsen & Toubro

2013 / Q3

Emerging technologies for hydrogen production from steam reforming are modelled.
More

Corrosion control with high-acid crudes

India Naghi-Hanspal, Mahesh Subramaniyam and Parag Shah, Dorf Ketal Chemicals

2013 / Q3

Appropriate corrosion control strategies help refineries to profit from discounted high-acid crudes
More

Chemical analysis in amine system operations

Scott Waite, Arthur Cummings and Glen Smith, MPR Services 

2013 / Q3

The array of contaminants that can disrupt the operation of alkanolamine systems needs to be precisely characterised and analysed. This digital version of the article includes the extensive table providing a 'reconciliation of analytical methods and their reports' referenced in the print edition.
More

HS-FCC for propylene: concept to commercial operation

Nicolas Lambert, Axens

Iwao Ogasawara, JX Nippon Oil & Energy

Ibraham Abba, Saudi Aramco

Halim Redhwi, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals

Chris Santner, Technip Stone & Webster Process Technology

2014 / Q1

A FCC process provides a high light olefin yield from a wide variety of feedstocks utilising high severity reaction conditions and a novel down flow reaction system
More

Optimising distillation column product quality

Jose Bird and Darryl Seillier, Valero Energy Corporation

2014 / Q1

Process simulation and random sampling were used to optimise product targets for a propylene splitter unit
More

Extending the treatment of highly sour gases: cryogenic distillation

Francois Lallemand, Gauthier Perdu and Laurent Normand, Prosernat

Claire Weiss, Total

Julia Magne-Drisch and Sebastien Gonnard, IFP Energies nouvelles

2014 / Q1

Cryogenic bulk removal of H2S or CO2 offers an economic advantage when the separated acid gases from super sour gas are re-injected
More

Optimising hydrogen sulphide scavenging

Giacinto Grande and Alessandra Berra, Chimec

2014 / Q1

Selecting the right hydrogen sulphide scavenger is important, but appropriate treatment setup and tailored monitoring procedures are key to avoiding off-specs
More

Overcoming high productivity in process condensate

Tapas Kanti Samaddar and Gregory M Lilburne, The Bahrain Petroleum Company BSC(c)

Calum McIntosh and Mileta Babovic, Johnson Matthey

2014 / Q1

Analysis of design and operations enabled a refiner to eliminate contaminants from hydrogen plant process condensate by installing a high pressure stripper
More

Mercury treatment options for natural gas plants

Satyam Mishra, UOP, a Honeywell Company

2014 / Q1

Removing mercury as close as it practicable to the front end of a natural gas processing system is the best choice
More

Role of FCC catalyst in refinery profitability

Ivan Chavdarov, Dicho Stratiev, Ivelina Shishkova and Rosen Dinkov, Lukoil Neftohim Burgas JSC

Vladimir Jegorov, Grace Catalysts Technologies

Peko Petkov, University 'Prof Dr Assen Zlatarov' Burgas

2014 / Q1

By switching to a rare earth-free FCC catalyst, a refiner raised its output of premium grade gasoline and increased its operating margin
More

Field experience with a Claus furnace checker wall

Jeffrey Bolebruch, Blash Precision Ceramics

Mossaed Y Al-Awwad, Saudi Aramco

Meng-Hung Chen, CPC Corporation

2014 / Q1

A new design of Claus furnace checker wall delivers improved mechanical performance and process flow characteristics
More

Characterising and tracking contaminants in opportunity crudes

Robert Ohmes, KBC Advanced Technologies

2014 / Q1

The specific properties of contaminants in opportunity crudes affect the selection of crude slates for existing facilities and the design of revamps and new units
More

New process arrangements for upgrading heavy oils and residua

Sepehr Sadighi, Reza Seif Mohaddecy and Kamal Masoudian, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

2014 / Q1

Simulation studies reveal increased gasoline and diesel production from extra-heavy oil by means of RFCC and hydrocracking units with a mild hydrogenation process
More

Increasing conversion and run length in a visbreaker

Matteo Virzi, ISAB

Marco Respini, Baker Hughes

2014 / Q1

Combining anticoke/antifoulant treatments with monitoring technology enabled a refinery to keep its visbreaker unit at the best process severity for any feed
More

Troubleshooting refinery equipment with multiphase CFD modelling

Grant Niccum and Steve White, Process Consulting Services

2014 / Q1

Computational fluid dynamics is a useful and increasingly practical tool for improving the design of and increasing the understanding of common process equipment
More

High-fidelity operator training simulators

Martin Sneesby, APESS

2014 / Q1

Integrating a high-fidelity simulation model with a real plant control system requires some finessing to produce a true high-fidelity operator training simulator
More

What your transmitter may not be telling you

Eric Moore, Swagelok Capital Projects Company

Sam Johnson, Swagelok

2014 / Q1

If you value accurate process measurements and specify a premium transmitter, your instrument loop requires the same level of attention
More

Reformer monitoring via in-tube temperature measurement

Oliver J Smith IV, Air Products and Chemicals Inc

Bill Cotton, Johnson Matthey

2014 / Q2

A temperature monitoring technology applied to steam reformers in synthesis gas plants provides protection against over-firing plus detailed catalyst monitoring.
More

Revamping the hydrogen generation unit

K V Patwardhan, V D Dhumal, P Balaramakrishna, R&D Centre, L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering, India

2014 / Q2

Hydrogen plants can be modified for higher production by employing innovative process schemes
More

Enhance processing with capacity control of reciprocating compressors

Klaus Stachel and Markus Wenisch, Hoerbiger Compression Technology

2014 / Q2

Improvements to refinery, petrochemical and gas processing are available from the full-range stepless capacity control of reciprocating compressors
More

Removing salts and contaminants in glycol regeneration

Barry A Perlmutter, BHS-Sonthofen Inc

Christian Gassen, BHS-Sonthofen GmbH

2014 / Q2

A new process combining candle filters and pressure plate filters enables more glycol to be safely recovered from natural gas than by conventional methods
More

Accurate prediction of tower relief

Harry Z Ha, Abdulla Harji and Jonathan Webber, Fluor Canada Ltd

2014 / Q2

A comparison of conventional and dynamic simulation methods applied to a project to debottleneck a deisobutaniser
More

Myth of high cutpoint in dry vacuum units

Scott Golden, Tony Barletta and Steve White, Process Consulting Services

2014 / Q2

Accurate measures of true boiling point cutpoints are essential to correctly evaluate vacuum unit performance
More

Coordinating a complex automation project

Igor Sepic and Boris Zezelj, INA Rijeka Refining, Croatia

2014 / Q2

Installing an integrated control system in support of a major refinery upgrade meant coordinating the work of multiple EPC contractors
More

Dynamics of operation for flare systems

Yahya Aktas and Ozge Ozarik, Tupras Izmir Refinery

2014 / Q2

Detailed studies of problems with flaring performance led a refinery to define and implement a scheme for optimum flare performance
More

Air pre-heater improves energy efficiency

Bart Van Den Berg, HeatMatrix

2014 / Q2

A corrosion resistant air pre-heater enables valuable heat recovery from corrosive and fouling refinery flue gas streams
More

Maximising the use of process energy

Sunik Kumar, Shrikant Nanoti and M O Garg, CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum

2014 / Q2

Integrating a flash drum in an atmospheric and crude distilation unit offers the potential for savings and capacity enhancement
More

Real time online energy management

Mohammad Ershaid, KNPC Mina Al-Ahmadi Refinery

Carlos Ruiz, Diego Ruiz and Nicolas Visuara, Soteica Visual MESA

Dhanasekar Periyasami, EBS

2014 / Q2

Creating a model of a refinery energy system validated with real time data increased energy efficiency and reduced total energy costs
More

Advanced solutions for efficient crude blending

Gregory Shahnovsky, Tal Cohen and Ronny McMurray, Modcon-Systems Ltd

2014 / Q2

The use of nuclear magnetic resonance based process analysers supports the production of blends at lowest cost
More

Performance of waxy crudes as FCC feeds

Erick Gamas, Cliff Avery, Gerbrand Mesu and David De Villiers, Albemarle Corporation

Alan Yahev, Newfield Exploration Company

2014 / Q2

Advantages and challenges: determining the optimal blending ratios with waxy crude and VGO combinations
More

Predicting severity, viscosity and yields in fuel oil visbreaking

Sepehr Sadighi and Reza Seif Mohaddecy, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

2014 / Q2

Neuro-fuzzy technique is used to predict product properties in a commercial visbreaker
More

Recovering tungsten from spent hydrocracking catalysts

Jean-Pierre Dufour and Sophie Comte, Valdi

2014 / Q2

When catalyst is no longer serviceable for hydrotreating, it takes a metallurgical route to supply tungsten for steelmakers
More

Tail gas catalyst performance: part 1

Michael Huffmaster, Consultant

Fernando Maldonado, Criterion Catalysts

2014 / Q3

The first part of  two-part account of time and temperature effects on tail gas catalyst performance provides a background to reaction modelling and pilot studies
More

Selective control for a total reflux column

Niyazi Bozkurt, Tupras Kirikkale Refinery

2014 / Q3

Operating problems with a de-ethaniser column led to the development of a new strategy for an advanced process control system
More

Quality control in biofuels production

Berthold Otzisk, Kurita Europe

2014 / Q3

Additives such as emulsion breakers and antioxidants can help to improve the product quality of biofuels and hence their profitability
More

Revamping advanced prodcess control

Stefano Lodolo, Aspen Technology

Oleg Vedernikov, Isab

2014 / Q3

A programme to update a refiner's APC systems employed a novel approach to the way new controllers are developed and existing controllers are maintained
More

Design developments for construction projects

Simon Bennett, AVEVA Solutions

2014 / Q3

Software products enable the principles of lean manufacturing to be applied to refinery construction projects
More

Overcoming corrosion in heat exchangers

Dragon Hao, Sandvik Materials Technology

2014 / Q3

Duplex stainless steels are countering traditional materials' failure to cope with corrosion risks aggravated by the declining quality of crude oil
More

Meeting production targets for ultra low sulphur transportation fuels

Bob Leliveld, Ablemarle

2014 / Q3

Increasingly stringent sulphur regulations and diesel price premiums are prompting refiners to draw a broad process envelope for yield, quality and economic assessment
More

Improving a compressor protection regime

Ben Austin, Prognost Systems Inc

2014 / Q3

Analysis of the build-up to the fracture of a compressor crosshead led a refiner to revise its approach to performance monitoring
More

Meeting tighter NOx emissions rules

Stephen Harrison, Naresh Suchak and Frank Fitch, Linde Gases

2014 / Q3

A low temperature oxidation technology uses ozone to remove very low levels of nitrogen oxide from refinery gases
More

Cloud point and hydrotreating relationships

Brian Watkins and Meredith Lansdown, ART

2014 / Q3

There is a complex interaction between dewaxing and hydrotreating in ultra low sulphur diesel applications
More

Failure analysis of burner piping

Hyunjin Yoon, SK Innovation

2014 / Q3

Investigation of the causes of a severe refinery fire leads to recommendations for burner piping design to prevent such incidents
More

Microbiological causes of corrosion

Jaya Rawat, Neha Sharma and Apoorve Khandelwal, Bharat Petroleum Corporate R&D Center

2014 / Q3

Many of the most serious problems with corrosion of refinery equipment have a microbiological basis
More

Albert's crude oil reserves

Mike Priaro, Consultant

2014 / Q3

Recovery factors achieved by improved recovery techniques indicate that crude oil reserves in Alberta's bitumen sands are the largest on earth
More

Avoiding compressor system downtime

Amit Saxena, Dresser-Rand

2014 / Q3

Developments in anti-surge technology make it possible to maximise process efficiency and optimise compressor function
More

Tail gas catalyst performance: part 2

Michael Huffmaster, Consultant

Fernando Maldonado, Criterion Catalysts

2014 / Q4

The second part of a two-part account of time and temperature effects on tail gas catalyst performance gives a background to reaction modelling and pilot plant studies.
More

Predicting future FCC operations via analytics

Patrick J Christensen, Touseef Habib, Thomas B Garrett and Thomas W Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2014 / Q4

Data analysis enables a company to take advantage of patent information to unveil underlining development trends for formulating technology strategies for future markets
More

Predicting reactive heavy oil process operation

Glen A Hay, Herbert Loria and Marco A Satyro, Virtual Materials Group, Inc

Hideki Nagata, Fuji Oil Company Ltd

2014 / Q4

Characterisation of feed and product yields through component structures for better understanding and prediction of operations
More

Integrated hydrogen management

Sasa Polovina, Danijela Harmina and Ana Granic Sarac, INA Rijeka refinery

2014 / Q4

Redesigning an existing hydrogen system leads to an integrated, reliable and flexible supply
More

Structured packing in a CO2 absorber

Ralph Weiland and Nathan Hatcher, Optimized Gas Treating, Inc

2014 / Q4

Solvent regeneration is the biggest energy consumer in an amine treating unit but efforts to minimise energy consumption should be made cautiously
More

Reflux in a gas dehydration plant

Sajad Mirian and Hossein Anisi, Nitel Pars Co (Fateh Group)

Xiang Yu, Hengye Chemical Co

Sepehr Sadighi, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

2014 / Q4

Gas dehydration by adsorbent processes may lead to the damaging regeneration reflux phenomenon during adsorbent regeneration
More

Override control of fuel gas

Rainer Scheuring, Cologne University of Applied Sciences

Albrecht Minges and Simon Griesbaum, MiRO Mineraloelraffinerie Oberrhein

Michael Brodkorb, Honeywell Process Solutions

2014 / Q4

When natural gas was to be added to a refinery's fuel gas system, detailed dynamic simulation of the new system ensured stable operation and a shorter start-up period
More

'Snakes and ladders' for maximising propylene

Bart de Graaf, Mehdi Allahverdi, Martin Evans and Paul Diddams, Johnson Matthey Process Technologies

2014 / Q4

Changes in process conditions in tandem with ZSM-5 additives widen the potential for petrochemicals production from the FCC unit
More

Troubleshooting a C3 splitter tower Part 1: evaluation

Henry Z Kister, Fluor

Brian Clancy-Jundt and Randy Miller, PetroLogistics

2014 / Q4

Distillation trays are prone to channelling and multi-pass maldistribution in large diameter towers. Multichordal gamma scanning is key for solving such problems
More

Overcoming tight emulsion problems

Hernando Salgado, Cartagena Refinery, Ecopetrol

Luis Marino, Ramgus SA - Pall Corp

Rosangela Pacheco, Barrancabermeja Refinery, Ecopetrol

2014 / Q4

A refiner's trials of a membrane coalescence mechanism were scaled up to plant level and delivered significant product recovery from tight aqueous emulsions
More

Enhancing bottoms cracking and process flexibility

Yee-Young Cher, Rosann Schiller and Jeff Koebel, Grace Catalysts Technologies

2014 / Q4

Catalyst designed with advanced zeolite stabilisation technology provides selective conversion of heavy FCC feed molecules
More

Preventing emissions in coke removal

Artur Krueger, Bernd Lankers and Josef Wadle, TriPlan AG

2014 / Q4

A closed, automated coke removal system aims for gains in environmental, economic and safety performance
More

Troubleshooting steam ejectors

Norman Lieberman, Process Improvement Engineering

2014 / Q4

Some causes and practical solutions concerning problems with refinery steam vacuum ejectors
More

Asphalt quality prediction and control

Zak Friedman, Petrocontrol

2014 / Q4

With knowledge of heavy vacuum gasoil cut-point and asphalt density, asphalt quality can be inferred
More

Determining safety distance in process design

Renato Benintendi, Angela Deisy Rodriguez Guio and Samuel Marsh, Amec Foster Wheeler

2015 / Q1

Safety distance determination is a key design issue that may have a dramatic impact on a refinery construction project
More

Troubleshooting a C3 splitter tower Part 2: root cause and solution

Henry Z Kister, Fluor

Brian Clancy-Jundt and Randy Miller, PetroLogistics

2015 / Q1

Distillation trays are prone to channelling and multi-pass maldistribution in large diameter towers.  Multichordal gamma scanning is used for solving such problems
More

Optimisation of a diesel hydrotreating unit

Jose Bird, Valero Energy Corporation

2015 / Q1

A model based on operating data is used to meet sulphur product specifications at lower DHT reactor temperatures with longer catalyst life
More

Monitoring and controlling emissions in Europe

Stephen Harrison, Linde Gas

2015 / Q1

Implementing the EU's Industrial Emissions Directive calls for quality and consistency in technologies for monitoring and controlling emissions
More

High sulphur recovery with ease of operation

Michael Heisel, ITS Reaktortechnik

Frank Bela and Jorge Pena Lopez, Worley Parsons

Aurelio Sagardi-Rivera and Miguel Rendon-Sagardi, Pemex

2015 / Q1

A process performing sulphur recovery and tail gas treatment in two catalytic reactor units exceeded guaranteed recovery limits from start-up
More

Safe removal of polymeric desposits

Marcello Ferrara, Taeyong Kim and Cristina Ferrara, ITW Technologies

2015 / Q1

Damaging polymeric fouling of internals can be cleaned in situ by safe chemical treatments
More

Hydrotreating challenges and opportunities with tight oil

Bob Leliveld and Hiroshi Toshima, Albemarle Catalysts

2015 / Q1

Tight oil's contaminant and cold flow challenges require appropriate catalyst treatment systems
More

Reducing reactor turnaround time

Josef Felser and George Karl, Bayernoil Refinery GmbH

Ian Baxter and Gary Welch, CatTech International Ltd

2015 / Q1

A refinery uses catalyst passivation technology for safer and more efficient turnarounds
More

Monetise off-gases for low cost ammonia

V K Arora, Kinetics Process Improvements

2015 / Q1

Cheaper ethane supplies present an opportunity for ammonia production using cracker off-gases
More

Business value of hydrocarbon production accounting

Luis Rodriguez, ANCAP

2015 / Q1

The gains that a refiner made by implementing an enterprise-wide hydrocarbon accounting system were both financial and cultural
More

Interface measurement for product quality

Ingemar Serneby, Emerson Process Management

2015 / Q1

Refinery product quality often depends on how products separate.  Accurate gathering of data about the interface levels within vessels is therefore crucial.
More

Zeolite membranes for xylenes separation

Rakan Bilaus, Saudi Aramco

2015 / Q1

Zeolite membrane separation in p-xylene production exhibits low energy demand, low capital cost and compact unit size
More

Catalyst testing for hydrocracking and hydrotreating

Jochen Berg, Tilman Sauer, Christopher Federsel, Sascha Vukojevic, Philipp Hauck, Florian Huber and Alfred Haas, hte GmbH

2015 / Q1

High throughput experimentation techniques enable performance testing of commercial catalysts with real feedstocks such as deasphalted oil
More

Dynamic simulation of process controls

Sepehr Sadighi and S Reza Seif Mohaddecy, RIPI

2015 / Q1

Simulation of a catalytic naphtha reformer confirmed the accurate performance of control instrumentation
More

Revamping crude and vacuum units to process bitumen

Tek Sutikno, Fluor Enterprises

2015 / Q2

Revamping crude and vacuum units to process dilbit can involve extensive equipment replacement as well as major changes to the crude preheating scheme.
More

Tube alloy degradation in a steam cracking furnace

Glen A Hay and Ghoncheh Rasouli, Virtual Materials Group Inc

Toshiharu Morishita and Jinichiro Usami, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation

2015 / Q2

Understanding catalytic coke growth mechanisms to better predict and optimise furnace service times with tube alloy degradation
More

Overcoming the effects of ammonia in heat exchangers

Marcelo Senatore, Sandvik Materials Technology

2015 / Q2

Forensic testing revealed the mechanism of under-deposit corrosion in exchanger tubes, a problem solved by replacement with hyper-duplex steel
More

Enhancing energy efficiency in the CDU

Osman Kubilay Karan and Cansu Iner, Tupras Kirikkale Refinery

2015 / Q2

Revisiting your crude distillation unit may expose hidden potential for major energy savings
More

Improving energy efficiency in furnaces

Steve Chernack, Morgan Advanced Materials

2015 / Q2

Developments in refractory materials and design can contribute to reduced heat waste and higher energy savings
More

Heat recovery from corrosive flue gas

Bart Van Den Berg, HeatMatrix

2015 / Q2

For improvements to energy efficiency in the petrochemical industry, waste heat recovery from corrosive flue gas is the most cost effective source to exploit
More

Optimisation of energy consumption

Farbod Rikhtegar, PPG Consultatnt EngineerIng

Sepehr Sadighi, RIPI

2015 / Q2

The true values of fuel, power and steam costs are needed for reliable estimation of energy saving projects
More

Best practice in energy efficiency

Ron Beck, AspenTech

2015 / Q2

Energy management software tools provide solutions for energy savings from design through operation
More

Advanced process control in FCC and hydrocracking units

Grzegorz Oleszczuk and Marta Dylewska, Honeywell Advanced Solutions

2015 / Q2

Implementation of advanced process control of two major units produced significant savings with short payback times
More

Increasing distillate production at least capital cost

Joe Musumeci, Steven W Stupin, Brandon Olson and Carlos Wendler, Ascent Engineering

2015 / Q2

Investing in improvements to the atmospheric crude unit can deliver increased distillate yields with short payback times
More

Advances in processing high naphthenic acid crudes

Parag Shah, Mahesh Subramaniyam, James Ondyak, James Noland and India Nagi-Hanspal, Dorf Ketal

2015 / Q2

High naphthenic acid crudes are cheaper and calcium removal aids and corrosion protection methods allow refiners to increase margins with better crude treatment
More

Seven rules of sedimentation in hydrocracking

Scott Sayles, Robert Ohmes and Rick Manner, KBC Advanced Technologies

2015 / Q2

Guidelines to mitigate sedimentation fouling in heavy sour crude processing together with case studies illustrating how the improvements are captured
More

Catalytic strategies to meet gasoline sulphur limits

Patrick Gripka, Opinder Bhan, Wes Whitecotton and James Esteban, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies

2015 / Q2

Stricter regulations reducing average gasoline sulphur content will require further reduction of FCC gasoline sulphur
More

Reducing vacuum tower pressure

Norman Lieberman, Process Improvement Engineering

2015 / Q2

To create a better vacuum the vapour load to the ejector has to be reduced
More

Managing fouling in refinery networks

Simon Pugh and Edward Ishiyama, IHS Energy

2015 / Q3

Modelling heat exchanger and other networks enables the use of dynamic fouling models in performance assessment and predictive studies
More

Dealing with depleting sour gas reserves: Part 1

Marco Van Son and Shashank Gujale, Jacobs Comprimo Sulfur Solutions

2015 / Q3

Depletion of sour gas production in western Canada means that gas plants will have to evaluate their sulphur recovery units for future turndown operation
More

Optimising preflash for light tight oil processing

Soun Ho Lee, GTC Technology

2015 / Q3

For a crude unit handling light tight oil feedstock, a semi-preflash column can deliver significant advantages in energy saving, capacity gain and revamp economics.
More

Splitting distributed control for a refinery expansion

Peter Helmersson and Sven Winberg, Preem AB

2015 / Q3

A refiner's expansion plan required a second distributed control system, achieved by splitting the original system without a shutdown.
More

Cyber security in the refining world

Eric Knapp, Honeywell Process Solutions

2015 / Q3

Protection of industrial control assets requires ongoing risk assessment, well-defined security policies and an aggressive overall strategy
More

Countering marine corrosion in instrumentation tube

Andreas Furukrona, Sandvik Materials Technology

2015 / Q3

How super-duplex instrumentation tube overcame severe marine atmospheres at a coastal site
More

Energy savings from electric capacity control

Klaus Stachel, Hoerbiger

2015 / Q3

Updated stepless capacity control of reciprocating compressors saved energy and improved process stability at a petrochemicals site
More

Revamp of a reciprocating compressor unit

Andreas Hahn, Neuman & Esser

2015 / Q3

A step-by-step guide to the revamp of a reciprocating compressor unit to meet increased hydrogen throughput.
More

Advanced turbomachinery controls improve ethylene plant yield

Medhat Zaghloul, Compressor Controls Corp

2015 / Q3

Advanced integrated turbomachinery controls can significantly alleviate the suction pressure dip of a cracked gas compressor, leading to considerable yield improvements
More

Mixing in large crude tanks

Janakiramulu Adepu, Rahul C Patil, Ajay Gupta and Asit Kumar Das, Reliance Technology Group

Pravin Potdar, jisna Raghavan and Kannan Srinivasan, Central Technical Services, Reliance Industries Ltd

2015 / Q3

Computational fluid dynamics was used to analyse the performance of side entry mixers in large crude tanks
More

Improved feedstocks for ethane crackers

Ron Key, Linde Process Plants

2015 / Q3

Cryogenic recovery technology enables wet shale gas to become a valuable source of liquids for petrochemicals production
More

Controlling the dew point of natural gas

Tek Sutikno, Fluor Enterprises

2015 / Q3

Meeting water and hydrocarbon dew point specifications for natural gas without acid gas components
More

Testing and experience in FCC catalyst selection

Carel Pouwels, Albemarle Catalysts Company

Ken Bruno, Albemarle Corporation

2015 / Q3

Resolving differences between test results and unit experience in FCC catalyst selection
More

Implementing real time optimisation technology

Hamid Ganji, Saeid Shokri, Mahdi Ahmadi Marvast, Sorood Zahedi Abghari and Behrouz Nonahal, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

2015 / Q3

Modelling implementation of real time optimisation and its potential for increased profitability in refining processes
More

Analytics to identify FCC trends

Patrick Christensen, Thomas Garrett, Ahly Rattanakhambay, Wiliam Vukovich and Thomas Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2015 / Q4

Quantitative analysis can help reveal insights and opportunities behind marketing and patenting activities
More

Minimising gasoline specification give-away

David Seiver, Valero

2015 / Q4

Minimising the difference between a measured physical property and a critical specification for gasoline can have a significant impact on refinery profitability
More

Risk analysis of wired vs wireless communication

Gary Hawkins, Emerson Process Management

Ed Marszal, Kenexis Consulting Corporation

2015 / Q4

Wired or wireless?  The tools and methods of risk analysis can be applied to these communication systems for objective evaluation
More

Enhanced heat transfer for improved throughput and energy consumption

Tom Higley, Calgavin

2015 / Q4

Customised revamps of heat exchangers optimise energy use and reduce costs in revamps
More

Corrosion and fouling control in process equipment

Berthold Otzisk and Michael Urschey, Kurita Europe

2015 / Q4

Effective chemical treatment programmes can help to prevent plant damage and financial losses arising from corrosion and fouling
More

Treatment programme overcomes high TAN problems

Sanjay Dwivedy and Ralph Navarrete, Baker Hughes

2015 / Q4

Processing high TAN crude with low sulphur shale oil presented challenging corrosion problems for a refiner
More

Corrosion and fouling: challenges and solutions

Mahesh Subramaniyam, India Nagi-Hanspal, Parag Shah, James Ondyak and James Noland, Dorf Ketal

2015 / Q4

Fouling and corrosion in refineries are complex issues that require appropriate chemistry and a holistic approach
More

Fired capital equipment: key plant components

Carl Rentschler, Harald Ranke and Goutam Shahani, Linde Engineering North America

2015 / Q4

Fired capital equipment is an often neglected asset associated with plant operations
More

Overcoming clean fuels challenges

George Anderson, Albemarle

2015 / Q4

Improvements in FCC pretreat catalyst systems enable refiners to meet ultra-low sulphur gasoline regulations and increase diesel output
More

Reducing capital cost risk

Ron Beck, AspenTech

2015 / Q4

Understanding the full scope of projects and acting upon the right engineering choices reduces capital risk
More

Dealing with depleting sour gas reserves Part 2

Marco Van Son and Shashank Gujale, Jacobs Comprimo Sulphur Solutions

2015 / Q4

Gas plants in western Canada will have to evaluate their sulphur recovery units for future turndown operation as sour gas production falls
More

Optimising natural gas value

Will Shimer, Honeywell UOP

Randy Miller, Honeywell Process Solutions

2015 / Q4

Financial and operating performance in gas processing depends on full integration of automation and process technologies
More

Foaming in fractionation columns

Mark Pilling, Sulzer Chemtech USA

2015 / Q4

By understanding the foaming process and its roof causes, steps can be taken to eliminate or minimise the formation of foaming
More

How ZSM-5 works on FCC gasoline composition

Bart De Graaf, Mehdi Allahverdi, Martin Evans and Paul Diddams, Johnson Matthey Process Technologies

2015 / Q4

A study of the effct of matrix versus zeolite in the base catalyst on the composition of light and heavy gasoline fractions
More

Performance testing of naphtha reforming catalysts

Marius Kirchmann, Alfred Haas, Christoph Hauber and Sascha Vukojevic, hte GmbH

2015 / Q4

High throughput screening of naphtha reforming catalyst under commercially relevant conditions
More

Integration of planning processes

M D Pawde and K Vinod, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd

2015 / Q4

A group was established to integrate management processes across all areas of refinery activity to identify opportunities for increasing product values and margin
More

The outlook for transport fuels: Part 1

Gautam Kalghatgi, Saudi Aramco

Chris Gosling and Mary Jo Wier, UOP

2016 / Q1

As demand evolves, as specifications change, and as new fuel opportunities arise, what are the implications for refiners up to mid-century?
More

Tube rupture in a natural gas heater

Harry Z Ha and Patrick Stang, Fluor Canada Ltd

2016 / Q1

Dynamic simulation supports the use of a pressure safety valve over a rupture disk in the event of a tube rupture
More

Improving heat transfer in reboilers and condensers

Norman Lieberman, Process Improvement Engineering

2016 / Q1

Guidelines and experience on how to deal with a loss of condensing or reboiling capacity
More

The challenges of crude blending

Thomas Garrett, Ahly Rattanakhambay, Neal Robbins, Matthew Wunder and Thomas Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2016 / Q1

Declining crude prices encourage more spot purchases that save costs, but mixing different grades can create headaches for refiners
More

Monitoring and simulation resolves overhead corrosion

Philip Thornthwaite, Nalco Champion

Jake Davies, Permasense

2016 / Q1

Online corrosion monitoring in tandem with simulation modelling identified the root cause of corrosion in a crude unit overhead
More

Mitigating iron foulants in refinery processes

Umakant Joshi and Austin Schneider, Crystaphase

2016 / Q1

Purification systems are designed to remove iron based particles without detriment to a catalyst bed's permeability
More

Removing contaminants from crude oil

Jamie McDaniels and Wole Olowu, Athlon Solutions LLC

2016 / Q1

Natural and introduced contaminants limit crude desalting effectiveness, increasing fouling and corrosion risks in downstream units
More

Integrating wastewater reuse with seawater desalination

William Celenza and John Herring, KBR

2016 / Q1

The ability to turn wastewater and seawater into high quality process water is key to the expansion of downstream oil and gas in water short areas
More

Dealing with column fouling

Mark Pilling, Sulzer Chemtech USA

2016 / Q1

An understanding of process basics and fouling mechanisms enables increased run length in problem columns
More

Designing a divided wall column

Sasa Polovina, Srecko Herceg and Ana Granic Sarac, INA

2016 / Q1

A refiner plans the application of divided wall column technology for greater energy efficiency in the distillation of multi-component reformate
More

A refinery's journey to energy efficiency

Zafer Karatas and Sena Turkoglu, Tupras Batman Refinery

2016 / Q1

Identifying a series of areas for improvement transformed the energy performance of a refinery with a 60-year old history
More

Energy savings in a coker's water system

Wang Zhigang, Jia Yin, Lixiao Chang and Song Kang, Sinopec Luoyang Company

2016 / Q1

Revamping a delayed coking unit's water system enabled significant energy savings
More

Energy conservation in a crude unit

Yoshinori Kanno, JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation

Guiqing Xu, Softard Industries

Ian Baxter, Cat Tech International

2016 / Q1

Online cleaning of a CDU/VDU heat exchanger network saved on time, energy and environmental impact
More

The impact of tower internals on column performance

Michael Schultes, Raschig GmbH

2016 / Q1

Full scale testing and analysis of operation demonstrate the importance of tower internals on the performance of mass transfer packings
More

The outlook for transport fuels: Part 2

Gautam Kalghatgi, Saudi Aramco

Chris Gosling and Mary Jo Wier, UOP

2016 / Q2

As demand evolves, as specifications change, and as new fuel opportunities arise, what are the implications for refiners up to mid-century?
More

Energy saving chemical treatments in the crude distillation unit

Andrea Fina, Chimec

2016 / Q2

Chemical treatments allied to real-time energy monitoring deliver significant savings in CDU operations
More

The challenges of crude blending

Thomas Garrett, Patrick Christensen, William Vokovich and Thomas Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2016 / Q2

The second part of a two-part article details the importance of crude selection and blending strategies to prosper in a low cost yet volatile market.
More

Loss into gain in high capacity trays Part 1: excursion

Henry Kister, Fluor

Neasan O'Shea (ret'd) and Dan Cronin, Phillips 66 Whitegate refinery

2016 / Q2

Systematic troubleshooting diagnosed and solved two complex and independent problems that limited the capacity of an atmospheric crude distillation tower
More

Improved stripper efficiency raises upgrader production

Mike Goulding and Fred Zhang, Suncor

Michael Krela, Koch-Glitsch

2016 / Q2

Revamping a heavy oil upgrader's steam stripping tower increased tray efficiency and achieved record throughput
More

Enhancing fractionator efficiency

Soun Ho Lee, GTC Technology

2016 / Q2

Properly designed vapour and liquid distribution devices enable more effective distillation column efficiency
More

Increased margin from updated internals and catalyst

Fawzi Al-Somali, Saudi Aramco Shell Refinery Co

Edwin Maas, Shell Global Solutions International BV

Theo Visser, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies

2016 / Q2

A low cost hydrocracker revamp delivered extra value to a refinery by increasing diesel yield, cycle length and safety
More

How dynamic pressure can affect vacuum column readings

Grant Niccum and Steve White, Process Consulting Services

2016 / Q2

Computational fluid dynamics confirmed field measurements to explain a vacuum unit's poor quality HVGO and was used to redesign the tower internals
More

Energy savings in preheat trains with preflash

Chris Bealing, Juan Gomez-Prado and jim Sheldon, KBC Process Technology

2016 / Q2

An eastern European refinery combined pinch technology and process simulation to achieve the most cost effective energy savings
More

Addressing corrosion challenges in refineries

Kjell Wold, Emerson Process Management

2016 / Q2

Integrated corrosion management enables full control of refinery assets and opportunity crude processing without increased corrosion threats
More

Integrating capital work into turnarounds

Gordon Lawrence, Asset Performance Networks

2016 / Q2

If a turnaround is to be successful, project work must be well integrated with the turnaround's scope of work
More

Retooling APC for improved results

Randy Conley, Total Port Arthur refinery

Zak Friedman, Petrocontrol

2016 / Q2

Raising refinery-wide awareness of the role of advanced process control delivers maximum benefit from a reinvigorated APC
More

Removing contaminant fines from process water

Barry Perlmutter, BHS-Sonthofen

2016 / Q2

Careful analysis and a creative approach are required for the optimum application of filtration technology
More

Maximising propylene in the FCC unit

Michael Lutz, Harald Zeman, Thomas Krenn, Alexander Mittelmayr and Ignacio Beltran, OMV

Emmanuel Smaragdis, Matthias Scherer and Christophe Chau, Grace

2016 / Q2

Comparative trials with FCC catalyst formulations identified a winner on olefins selectivity and other factors
More

Remote sensing for process optimisation

Gregory Shahnovsky, Ariel Kigel and Ronny McMurray, Modcon-Systems

2016 / Q2

Remote sensing technology delivers process properties in hazardous areas in real time and in agreement with laboratory results
More

Developments in hydrotreating catalyst

Michael T Schmidt, Haldor Topsoe

2016 / Q3

How a second generation hydrotreating catalyst was developed for high pressure ultra-low sulphur diesel units and hydrocracker pretreaters
More

Loss into gain in high-capacity trays Part 2: reverse vapour cross flow chanelling

Henry Kister, Fluor

Neasan O'shea (Ret'd) and Dan Cronin, Phillips 66 Whitegate refinery

2016 / Q3

Systematic troubleshooting diagnosed two complex problems that limited the capacity of an atmospheric crude distillation tower
More

The future of automation

Rohan McAdam and Paul McLaughlin, Honeywell Process Solutions

2016 / Q3

The Industrial Internet of Things promises to be the biggest influence on plant automation systems since the advent of distributed control systems
More

Connected data improves refinery operations

Jefrey Zurlo, GE Water & Process Technologies

2016 / Q3

Connecting data with a common knowledge management platform improves visibility, response, and analysis to benefit refinery operations
More

Handling delayed coker disturbances with APC

Dinesh Jaguste, Yokogawa India

2016 / Q3

An advanced process control system provides automatic detection of disturbances during drum switch in a delayed coker to raise performance levels
More

Automation of tank farm systems

Jijnasa Panigrahi and Arun Kumar S, Helium Consulting

2016 / Q3

Automation helps to streamline operations as well as supply and demand planning, sales orders and inventory in tank management
More

Corrosion resistance in tropical environments

Barinder Ghai, Sandvik Mateials Technology

2016 / Q3

Tests at NASA demonstrate how super-duplex tubes provide corrosion resistance at lower cost in a challenging environment
More

Troubleshooting standpipe aeration

Rahul Patil, Ajay Gupta and Asit Das, Reliance Industries Limited

2016 / Q3

Standpipe aeration plays a critical role in smooth catalyst circultion in the riser and reactor of a FCC unit.  A refiner details guidelines for effective aeration.
More

Refrigeration compressor anti-surge control

Medhat Zaghloul and Wayne Jacobson, Compressor Controls Corporation

2016 / Q3

A refrigeration compressor requires the same high-performance and fast-acting surge control technology as other gas compression circuits
More

Reciprocating compressors in a hydrogen plant

Benjamin Williams, Ariel Corporation

Laurent Richaume, Air Liquide Engineering & Construction

2016 / Q3

A hydrogen producer chose moderate speed reciprocating compressors for its natural gas feed and hydrogen product services
More

SRU simulation: getting the properties right

Anand Govindarajan, Nathan A Hatcher, Claytone E Jones and G Simon Weiland, Optimised Gas Treating Inc

2016 / Q3

Reliable, predictive simulation software for SRUs requires recognition of many of the unique properties and behaviours of sulphur
More

High efficiency zero export steam reforming

Holger Schlichting, Dieter Ulber, Sebastien Cadalen, Sebastien Doublet and Laurent Prost, Air Liquide

2016 / Q3

Development of a new hydrogen production technology based on steam methane reforming
More

Dealing with desalter cleaning challenges

Justin Weatherford and Marcello Ferrara, ITW

2016 / Q3

How to overcome lengthy and potentially dangerous challenges when cleaning a crude unit desalter
More

Automated column start-ups

Martin Sneesby, APESS

2016 / Q3

Automation at start-up, supported by dynamic simulation, is desirable if it can be accomplished with a modest amount of engineering effort
More

Improved distillation efficiency

Manish Bhargava, Roomi Kalita and Joseph Gentry, GTC Technology

Norihito Suzuki, TonenGeneral Group

2016 / Q4

Dividing wall column technology applied to a xylenes separation project delivered superior energy efficiency compared to a two-column arrangement
More

Benchmarking and optimising maintenance for turnarounds

Shawn Hansen and Brett Schroeder, Asset Performance Networks

2016 / Q4

A methodology can be used to benchmark scope and provide early and reliable forecasts of labour hours and costs during a turnaround
More

Operating vacuum distillation ejector systems

Jim Lines, Graham Corporation

2016 / Q4

Best practices and opportunities to deliver reliable ejector system performance and reduce performance risk
More

Reducing hydrocarbons in SWS acid gas

Ben Spooner, Sulphur Experts

David Engel, Nexo Solutions

2016 / Q4

Measures to minimise the level of hydrocarbons in sour water and thereby protect the efficiency of the sulphur plant
More

VOC recovery in crude oil loading

Grant Johnson and Mike Dodd, Costain

2016 / Q4

Facilities to reduce VOC emissions during loading are providing major environmental benefits driven by emissions standards and legislation
More

Ammonia destruction in the reaction furnace

Simon Weiland, Nathan Hatcher, Clayton Jones and Ralph Weiland, Optimized Gas Treating Inc

2016 / Q4

A study based on reaction fundamentals aids a comparison of the advantages of one-zone and two-zone SRU reaction furnace design in ammonia destruction
More

Regenerable tail gas treatment

Martin Lebel, Shell Cansolv

Manuel Jacques, Technip

2016 / Q4

Cost assessment of tail gas treating technologies that recycle H2S or SO2 to the Claus unit
More

Upgrading sulphur removal performance

Yves Herssens and William Lam, MECS

2016 / Q4

Reverse jet scrubbing enabled a refinery to bypass its upstream tail gas unit while still meeting sulphur removal targets
More

Data analytics for hydrocarbon processing

John McCall, The Data Lab

2016 / Q4

Advanced data handling techniques are transforming operations in the refining industry at an increasing pace
More

Pressure surge during crude unloading

Dattesh Kondekar, Prateek Agarwal and Maruthi Ethakota, Technip

2016 / Q4

How to avoid pressure surge problems when dissimilar ship to shore offloading operations are interconnected
More

Simulating crude units with preflash

Juan Gomez-Prado, Ralph Goodrich and Don Hoppens, KBC Process Technology

2016 / Q4

Process simulation offers a cost effective way of testing ideas to improve yield and energy performance
More

FCC catalyst for maximum propylene

Rafael Gonzalez Sanchez and Christophe Chau, Grace Catalysts Technologies

Javier Llano Nogales, Berta Aramburu Lopez-Aranguren and Rafael Domingo Larrazmora, CEPSA

2016 / Q4

A case study for boosting unit profitability through FCC catalyst selection for propylene maximisation
More

Controlling LPG/propylene quality

Chayan Bhalla and Satyendra Balot, Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited

2016 / Q4

Online analysers can minimise costly upsets in FCC LPG/propylene quality and realise savings in caustic wash operations
More

Designing storage tanks

Scott Mayeux and Jana Miller, Intergraph

2016 / Q4

Software based on the latest international codes enables straightforward design of storage tanks in a range of load conditions
More

SIL and functional safety in rotating equipment

Oliver Franz, Prognost Systems

2016 / Q4

Unravelling the terminology and meaning of safety integrity level and functional safety in rotating equipment
More

Isokinetic nozzles for steam sampling

Astha Mahendru, Meghna Bahl and Partha Mondal, Fluor Daniel

2016 / Q4

The proper design of a sampling system is critical for a sample that is representative of the stream to be measured
More

Being lean in ethylene

Luc Chantepy, AspenTech

2016 / Q4

Operational excellence in ethylene production requires integrated design and control solutions to optimise plant for improving yield, efficiency and energy performance
More

Revamp cat feed hydrotreaters for flexible yields

David Schwalje, Larry Wisdom and Mike Craig, Axens North America

2016 / Revamps

Revamping a cat feed hydrotreater to a flexible mild hydrocracker can be the most attractive economic option for adjusting the gasoline to diesel ratio
More

Achieving turnaround success

Jerry Wanichko, T A Cook Consultants

2016 / Revamps

Large maintenance overhaul projects are complex, expensive processes, often with unpredictable challenges that call for best practice techniques
More

Revamping crude towers for quality and yield

Leonard Souza, Rafael Wagner, Claudio Rocha and Henry Giron, Petroleo Brasileiro SA

Antonio Cortines, Sulzer Chemtech

2016 / Revamps

A successful revamp of distillation towers for increased diesel quality and yield depended on reliable design and accurate assembly
More

FCC unit revamps at minimum cost

Gary R Martin, ReCon Management Services Inc

2016 / Revamps

Selective modifications for FCC unit revamps can deliver the best return on investment
More

Turnarounds deliver process improvements

Mark Pilling, Sulzer USA

2016 / Revamps

An extended unit shutdown is relatively rare and an opportunity to take every advantage to improve performance
More

Troubleshooting vacuum systems

Norman Lieberman, Process Improvement Engineering

2016 / Revamps

Case histories of refinery vacuum tower problems solved are gleaned from five decades of experience
More

Crude oil sourcing: price and opportunity

Misha Gangadharan, S D Pohanekar and M D Pawde, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd

2017 / Q1

Sourcing crudes for the best refining margin needs to be supported by a detailed procurement strategy
More

Cuba's oil: due for development

Amaury Perez Sanchez, University of Camaguey

2017 / Q1

Cuba's ambitions for energy self-sufficiency require major investment in the nation's oil reserves and refining industry
More

Control system security

Sinclair Koelemij, Honeywell Process Solutions

2017 / Q1

A major cyber attack on a refinery is a clear and present danger.  What lessons can be drawn from other sectors?
More

Data operations transform fuels value

Craig Harclerode, OSIsoft

2017 / Q1

A refiner applied advanced analytics to develop techniques for processing opportunity crudes which minimise negative effects on the plant
More

Profiting from plant data

Douglas White, Emerson Automation Solutions

2017 / Q1

Predictive analytics is an evolving technology with many potential applications in - and gains for - the process industries
More

Optimal processing scheme for producing pipeline quality gas

Saeid Mokhatab, Gas Processing Consultant

Gerrit Bloemendal, Jacobs Comprimo Sulfur Solutions

2017 / Q1

Exploring processing line-ups for optimal design of sour gas processing plants
More

Correcting vacuum column design flaws

Gary Martin, Recon Management Services Inc

2017 / Q1

Conventional design practices have been proven inadequate when maximising diesel recovery and gas oil cut point
More

Analysing FCC hot spots

Kenneth Fewel, Technip Stone & Webster Process Technology

2017 / Q1

Finite element analysis can be employed to improve the safety and quality of old or new designs and troubleshoot problems in the field
More

Balanced distillation equipment design

Soun Ho Lee, GTC Technology

2017 / Q1

Fouling resistance and efficiency requirements for distillation equipment are balanced and optimised for reliable unit performance
More

Firing high sulphur fuel

Adil Rehman, C Steven Lancaster, Sandeepan Ghosh, Om Prakash Sahu and Pawan Kumar Sharma, KBR Technology

2017 / Q1

An evaluation of schemes to improve firing efficiency and ensure the reliability of combustion equipment
More

Combating reactor pressure drop

Ankita Jain and Ajay Gupta, Reliance Industries Ltd

2017 / Q1

A refiner investigates the causes of pressure drop due to fouling in a fixed bed reactor and considers an appropriate mitigation strategy
More

The design temperature of flare systems

Paul David, Paul David Process Ltd

2017 / Q1

A key objective when setting flare system design conditions is to maintain the integrity of the system during fire relief
More

Laser scanning with dimensional control

Petrer Field, Warner Surveys

2017 / Q1

Integrating traditional methodology with new scanning technologies to achieve higher order accuracies for critical interfaces and tie-in points
More

Identifying contributors to flaring

P Sridhar, Indian Oil Corporation

2017 / Q1

Applying an integrated flare and fuel gas monitoring system to identify and eliminate major contributors to refinery flaring
More

Tier 3 gasoline from tight oil crudes

Tek Sutikno and Kevin Turini, Fluor Enterprises Inc

2017 / Q2

Assessing process schemes to counter loss of gasoline road octane when the crude feed includes tight oil
More

Managing petcoke slurry

Prafull Patidar and Ajay Gupta, Reliance Industries

2017 / Q2

There is a good economic case for petcoke slurry as a refinery fuel, but first you need to deal with the rheology
More

Handling mercury in gas processing plants

Saeid Mokhatab, Gas Processing Consultant

Panayiotis Theophanous and Alaa Shanableh, Johnson Matthey

2017 / Q2

Advances in the safe treatment and disposal of mercury in gaseous and liquid streams
More

A broader view to improve energy efficiency

Nicolas Lambert and Filipa Goujard, Axens

2017 / Q2

A project to improve a FCC unit's energy efficiency took into account surrounding process units to expand opportunities for saving energy and utilities
More

Exchanger cleaning contest: chemicals vs jetting

Haradi Anand Ashok and Ritwik Kumar Hatial, Mangalore Refinery Petrochemicals

2017 / Q2

Chemical cleaning proved to be more effective than water jetting to increase the efficiency of a high heat flux exchanger
More

Membrane bioreactors for wastewater treatment

Brian Arntsen, Stephen Katz and Wajahat Syed, GE Water & Process Technologies

2017 / Q2

Processing opportunity crudes enables higher profits but introduces bigger challenges in effluent treatment
More

On-demand propylene from naphtha

Bart De Graaf and Ray Fletcher, Inovacat B.V.

Angelos Lappas, Chemical Process and Energy Resources Institute of the Center for Research and Technology

2017 / Q2

A new catalytic process targets economic production of propylene from naphtha at relatively low capital and operating costs
More

Upgrading CO2 removal systems

V K Arora, Kinetics Process Improvements

2017 / Q2

Simple modifications to three carbon dioxide removal systems raised their efficiences with short payback periods
More

Revamping crude towers to meet bitumen specifications

Secil Uzun and Murat Ercan, Tupras

2017 / Q2

A revamp of crude column internals improved bitumen quality, increased output of light products, saved on energy costs and improved ease of operation
More

Model predictive control of a distillation unit

Otmar Lorenz, Bernd-Markus Pfeiffer, Michael Schuler and Ute Forstner, Siemens

2017 / Q2

In a coordinated plant process, particular attention must be paid to control of individual columns
More

Improving sulphur plant performance

Elmo Nasato, Nasato Consulting

2017 / Q2

Strict attention to utilities is critical to ensure safe and reliable sulphur recovery unit operation
More

Building robust hydroprocessing operations

Amit Kelkar, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies

2017 / Q2

Advances in catalyst technology enable refiners to maximise profitability by processing opportunity crudes and running heavier feeds
More

Building a refinery monitoring system

Soumen Mandal, P Sridhar, Sowmya Challa, A N Jadhav, Deepak Kewlani and Arnab Banerjee, Indian Oil Corporation

2017 / Q2

Developing a process network and unit monitoring system that identifies significant changes in process parameters
More

Stopping corrosion on in-service structures

Merrick Alpert, EonCoat

2017 / Q2

Unlike more traditional coatings, chemically bonded phosphase ceramics can stop corrosion, extend equipment life, and minimise production downtime
More

Troubleshooting crude column constraints

Jill Borwn Burns, Kristen Becht and Brandt Mueller, Valero Energy

2017 / Q3

Multiple limitations to operating capacity were identified and resolved during a column turnaround
More

Olefins and butanes to gasoline

Arvids Judzis Jr, Romain Lemoine, Jackie Medina and Stephen D Williams, CB&I

2017 / Q3

Increasing alkylation capacity to process readily available olefins can be an opportunity to add value to refinery operations
More

Optimising the health of rotating equipment

Martin Turk, Schneider Electric

2017 / Q3

Applying predictive analytics to rotating equipment enables a preventative maintenance programme for improved savings
More

APC in a mild hydrocracker fractionator

Arnold Kleine Buning, Bayernoil

Stephen Finlayson, AMT

Y Zak Friedman, Petrocontrol

2017 / Q3

Advanced proces control of a mild hydrocracker can save millions of dollars annually by maximising kerosene and/or diesel
More

Crude fingerprinting and predictive analytics

Conrad Teran, GE Water & Process Technologies

2017 / Q3

Predictive modelling technology has been developed to predict the behavioural characteristics of crude oils and their blends
More

Higher margin from the bottom of the barrel

Victor Scalco, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

2017 / Q3

Treating slurry oil in an electrostatic precipitator helps Indian refiners to increase production and profits and reduce environmental impact when processing
More

Best practice desalting Part 1: crude flexibility window

Brad Mason, Nalco Champion

2017 / Q3

A replacement programme of desalter treatment chemistry transformed the operation of crude units struggling to meet performance targets
More

Leveraging hydrocracking to upgrade low value streams

Adrienne Van Kooperen, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies/Zeolyst International

2017 / Q3

Flexible design of hydrocracking catalyst systems enables maximum conversion of lower value feed streams into more valuable liquid products
More

FCC product fractionation for maximum LCO

Phillip Niccum, William McDaniel and Howard Pollicoff, KP Engineering

2017 / Q3

For increased production of diesel over gasoline, maximising recovery of LCO from the FC reactor can be part of the scheme
More

Modelling the processing of gasifier feed

Ankit A Jain and Ajay Gupta, Reliance Industries Limited

2017 / Q3

Inlet particle size distribution is crucial to the performance of a gasifier.  A simulation exercise determines the performance of a rod mill processing gasifier feed
More

Improving FCC unit profitability

Stelios Kyriakou, Costas Plellis-Tsaltakis and Dimitrios Gkanis, Hellenic Petroleum SA

Emmanuel Smaragdis, Matthias Scherer and Daniel McQueen, W R Grace

2017 / Q3

Upgrading the FCC catalyst and additive system enabled a refiner to increase olefins production with lower bottoms to coke and no increase in dry gas
More

Controlling the hydrocarbon dew point of pipeline gas

Saeid Mokhatab, Gas Processing Consultant

Scott Northrop, ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company

Michael Mitariten, Air Liquide

2017 / Q3

A key factor in selecting technology to control the hydrocarbon dew point of natural gas is the quantity of heavy hydrocarbons in the feed stream
More

Modelling catalytic naphtha reforming

Reza Seif Mohaddecy and Sepehr Sadighi, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

Ershad Amini, University of Tehran

2017 / Q3

A data handling modelling approach is applied to predict the output performance of a heavy naphtha catalytic reforming unit
More

The future for hydrocracking: part 1

Patrick Christensen, Amy Hearn and Thomas Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2017 / Q4

Hydrocracking technology faces challenges and opportunities amid diesel emission scandals, low sulphur marine fuels, and the growing position of electric vehicles
More

Converting two columns into one

Manish Bhargava, Roomi Kalita and Joseph C Gentry, GTC Technology

2017 / Q4

Dividing wall column technology can be tailor-made to meet specifications for product quality with less utility consumption and lower capital costs
More

Catalyst technologies for improved FCC yields

Carl Keeley, Vasilis Komvokis, Alexis Shackleford, Melissa Clough, Sabeeth Srikantharajah, Benjamin O'Berry and Bilge Yilmaz, BASF Refining Catalysts

2017 / Q4

Boron based nickel passivation enables refiners to reduce contaminant hydrogen and coke production and improve FCC yields
More

Meeting emission targets with potential savings

Rik Schuffelen and Lydia Singoredjo, Shell Global Solutions International

2017 / Q4

New solvent and catalyst technologies deliver a step change in tail gas treating performance for green- and brownfield sites
More

Debottlenecking an FCC gas concentration unit

J Rajesh and Pawan Gupta, Essar Oil Limited

R Madhavan and Sandeep Yadav, Koch-Glitsch

2017 / Q4

Component trapping by physical carry-over of water can cause capacity bottlenecks that are not easily predicted
More

High efficiency coalescers for gas processing operations

Thomas H Wines, Pall Corporation

Saeid Mokhatab, Gas processing consultant

2017 / Q4

High efficiency coalescers reduce running costs and shutdown time by removing contaminants in feed streams to each gas processing step
More

Plant optimisation: leveraging data analytics and modelling

Gopi Sivasubramanian, Arivergy

2017 / Q4

More advanced modelling skills are needed at the design stage to realise the promise of better optimisation
More

New technologies for operator training

John J Roffel, Honeywell Limited

Martin J Ross, Honeywell Control Systems

2017 / Q4

Advanced technologies including cloud hosting and virtual reality can enhance the effectiveness of operator training simulators
More

Oxidation catalysts for VOC reduction

Mike Shao, Clariant

2017 / Q4

How destruction of volatile organic compounds at lower temperatures is positioning catalytic oxidation systems for the future
More

Meeting low sulphur diesel challenges

Timothy Carmann, DuPont Clean Technologies

2017 / Q4

Liquid stream hydroprocessing technology enabled a refiner to meet fast-changing diesel sulphur specifications and process a wide variety of feedstocks
More

Preventing ammonium salt fouling and corrosion

Berthold Otzisk, Fausto Magri, Jelle Achten and Sander Halsberghe, Kurita Europe

2017 / Q4

Best practices and opportunities to reduce the risk of salt deposition and damage
More

Wastewater treatment for challenging crudes

James Kiolbassa, Baker Hughes, a GE Company

2017 / Q4

A new organic polymer treatment has enabled refiners to more effectively process a variety of opportunity crudes
More

Oil recovery from tank sludge

Marcello Ferrara and Cristina Ferrara, ITW

2017 / Q4

Thorough tank cleaning means removing all of the sludge and restoring the vessel's full storage capacity
More

Processing schemes for shale gas liquids recovery

S D Radia and Marco Grande, Fluor

2017 / Q4

The energy efficiency and liquids recovery of processing schemes employing propane refrigeration improve with additional fractionation
More

Full conversion of bitumen

John Petri, Honeywell/UOP

2017 / Q4

A line-up featuring ebullated bed hydrocracking delivers full conversion of bitumen, including production of premium diesel fuel
More

Refining-petrochemicals integration: an Indian view

Vahidunnisa Qureshi, Vivek Chate and Prabhat Srivastava Fluor Daniel India

 

2018 / Q1

Integrating a refinery with a petrochemicals complex offers high value products and a boost to gross margin
More

Maximising CDU performance

Sandeep Ram Mohan Aspen Technology

2018 / Q1

Scalable simulation of crude unit operations enables refineries to build increasingly rigorous models to enhance performance
More

Improved economics with increased condensation

Tom Higley Calgavin

2018 / Q1

Attention to the influence of heat transfer mechanisms will promote better economic performance in heat exchanger operation
More

Advances in residue hydrocracking

Ujjal Mukherjee and Dan Gillis Chevron Lummus Global

2018 / Q1

Recent developments in ebullated bed hydrocracking technology target high residue conversion and high quality products
More

Dealing with hydrogenation catalyst poisons

Dirk Lose, Ernesto J Angueira and Markus Schulte CRI Catalyst Anke Derking Shell Global Solutions International

2018 / Q1

For stable operation of a pyrolysis gasoline unit, it is crucial to know the effects of poisons and inhibitors on catalyst performance and how to counteract them  
More

Dynamic column simulation delivers reduced relief load

Harry Z Ha and David B Mercer Fluor Canada

2018 / Q1

Dynamic modelling of a gasoline hydrodesulphurisation column simulates the column relief profile during power failure
More

Compressor improvements turn benchmarks into savings

 Christian Prinz Hoerbiger

2018 / Q1

How can refiners create real improvements at plant level? Reciprocating compressors are likely candidates
More

The future for hydrocracking: part 2

Patrick Christensen, Amy Hearn and Thomas Yeung Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2018 / Q1

Technical solutions and strategies for innovative hydrocracking technologies are needed to meet challenging environmental legislation and future market challenges  
More

Managing knowledge retention

Ian Peirson IDBS

2018 / Q1

With continued activity in mergers and acquisitions, companies need to consolidate assets to survive or retain their influence in the market
More

SOx and NOx emission abatement in the FCC

Kate Hovey and Rick Fisher Johnson Matthey 

2018 / Q1

The complexities of sulphur and nitrogen species formation in the FCC call for tailor made catalyst additive chemistry to limit formation of polluting emissions 
More

Crude analysers in corrosion prevention

Gregory Shahnovsky, Ariel Kigel and Ronny McMurray Modcon-Systems Ltd

2018 / Q1

On-line salt-in-crude oil analysers and crude oil analysers are essential in protecting the CDU and other refinery process units from corrosion
More

Challenges in producing BS-VI diesel

Karthick R, Nandakumar V, Shyamprasad Kamath, M Vinayakumar and M Venkatesh ONGC-MRPL

2018 / Q1

An Indian refiner describes the technical challenges of meeting a leap in fuel quality specification
More

Opening the crude flexibility window: enhancing crude unit capabilities

Philip Thornthwaite and Brad Mason Nalco Champion

2018 / Q1

Innovative online analysers help refiners to mitigate crude unit threats in real time and provide new insights into existing problems
More

Advanced process control of distillation

Hans Aalto and Stefan Tötterman Neste Jacobs

2018 / Q1

The introduction of model predictive control enabled a bio-products plant to raise throughput and automate product variation
More

Surfactant-stabilised emulsions in amine units for LPG treating

David Engel, Heath Burns and Scott Williams Nexo Solutions

2018 / Q1

Emulsion formation by surfactants is one of the most complex problems facing amine units treating refinery LPG
More

Producing ultra low sulphur gasoline with octane retention

Jignesh Fifadara Albemarle

2018 / Catalysis

A drop-in catalyst enabled refiners to meet ultra low sulphur gasoline requirements with more severe feedstocks while retaining octane barrels
More

In-line H2S analysis during sulphiding

Francis Humblot Arkema 

2018 / Catalysis

In-line analysis enables constant measurement of H2S concentration in hydrogen recycle gas during catalyst sulphiding
More

Interpreting FCC equilibrium catalyst data

Alexis Shackleford BASF 

2018 / Catalysis

Regular Ecat and fines analysis provides information to support optimum performance from the FCC
More

Catalyst passivation for safer, more efficient turnarounds

Alvaro Barrueto ENAP Refinerías
Ian Baxter and Gary Welch Cat Tech International

2018 / Catalysis

Eliminating inert entry for catalyst changeout in a hydrocracker
More

Hydroprocessing rate increase using shaped charges

Adrienne Van Kooperen Criterion Catalysts & Technologies/Zeolyst International 
James Esteban Criterion Catalysts & Technologies 
Brandon Murphy Marathon Petroleum Company 

2018 / Catalysis

Catalyst size and shape are critical contributors to hydroprocessing reactor performance 
More

Automating catalyst withdrawal for improved safety

Kate Hovey and Rick Fisher Johnson Matthey

2018 / Catalysis

Catalyst withdrawals can be carried out continuously and reliably, minimising operator risk and maintaining the integrity of withdrawal piping
More

Prompt start-up with cracked feed

Michael Martinez and Guillaume Vincent Porocel

2018 / Catalysis

Presulphurisation technology enables refiners to process cracked feed immediately after start-up while maintaining catalytic performance
More

Countering hydrate formation in an NGL recovery unit

Jenn Welsh Chevron North America Exploration and Production Company 
Justin C Slagle Bryan Research & Engineering
Steve Cheaney Dickson Process Systems
Glenn Shiveler Sulzer Chemtech USA

2018 / Gas

Process modelling can be used to validate data from the plant and identify the most effective approach to process optimisation
More

Gas: the low-carbon fuel?

 Chris Cunningham PTQ

2018 / Gas

The natural gas industry has some way to go to make its full contribution to climate change targets
More

Accuracy of measured lean amine H2S loading

Ralph H Weiland, Nathan A Hatcher, Clayton E Jones, Steven M Fulk and Simon A Weiland Optimized Gas Treating, Inc.

2018 / Gas

When solvent regeneration is done robustly the most accurate assessment of lean loadings can be by simulation rather than by measurement
More

Modelling ethane absorption in MEA solution

Leonardo Leite Garcia De Souza, Alvaro Luiz Ribeiro Sarmet Moreira Smiderle, Igor Sanches Militão and Moacir De Alcântara Petrobras SA

2018 / Gas

Solving foaming problems related to absorption of hydrocarbon and feed contaminants by amine solution
More

Developments in H2S scavenging

Marc Schulz UltraFab 

2018 / Gas

Advances in the application of triazine scavengers have significantly improved process efficiencies
More

Boosting energy efficiency in aromatics processing

Sunil Kumar, Prasenjit Ghosh and Shrikant Nanoti CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum

2018 / Q2

Simulation of a revamped process scheme with improved heat integration indicates big gains through energy savings and emissions abatement
More

Enhanced energy recovery for crude preheating

Eva Andersson Alfa Laval
Ibrahim Tahric Preem

2018 / Q2

Replacing shell and tube heat exchangers with a compact welded exchanger increased heat transfer efficiency and reduced fouling issues in a crude unit
More

Machine learning in asset maintenance

John Hague AspenTech

2018 / Q2

Application of machine learning to asset performance management marks a transition from estimated and statistical models towards measured patterns of behaviour
More

Wireless instruments in corrosive and hazardous locations

Sheikh Rafik Manihar Ahmed and Kuleesha Malik Fluor Daniel India

2018 / Q2

Wireless instruments introduce a range of benefits in corrosive and hazardous process areas
More

Designing for a sourer future

Debopam Chaudhuri and Srinivasa Oruganti Fluor  

2018 / Q2

Achieving the right sulphur plant capacity and configuration is crucial to the proper operation of a refinery 
More

Dividing wall columns for gas plants

Manish Bhargava, Roomi Kalita And David Kockler GTC Technology

 

2018 / Q2

Uniting two unit offerings into one column shell can lead refiners to improve the profitability of their gas plants
More

Challenges and opportunities of an FCC revamp

Rashed Al Fadhli And Subhash Chander Singhal KNPC
Dharmesh Panchal Honeywell UOP

2018 / Q2

An FCC revamp for enhanced refinery performance and profitability called for close coordination with the technology licensor and contractors
More

Maximising heat exchanger cleaning

Berthold Otzisk Kurita Europe
Ladislav Úradnícek Leader Technology

2018 / Q2

Powerful chemical cleaning programmes reduce downtime and increase the efficiency of heat exchangers
More

Innovation in supply chain planning

Dennis Ostendorf Quintiq

2018 / Q2

Software that can be configured to solve any problem in the supply chain is critical to planning in the oil and gas industry
More

Process flow determines coker heater performance

Rahul C Patil, Pinakiranjan Patra, Ajay Gupta, Ved Prakash Mishra and Asit Kumar Das Reliance Industries

2018 / Q2

Uniform tube metal temperature resulting from a change in process flow enhances the run length of a delayed coker heater
More

Replacing a corroded column with packing internals

Yang Quan, Markus Duss And Dong Jiao-Jiao Sulzer Chemtech

2018 / Q2

A corroded column was replaced with a new column equipped with high capacity packing. The cross sectional area is less than half that of the original
More

Packed bed performance analytics

Lowell T Pless Tracerco

2018 / Q2

Advanced analytics introduce a numerical and easily understood approach to tower gamma scanning
More

Heavy feed characterisation: a molecular approach

Glen Hay And Lante Carbognani Virtual Materials Group
Hideki Nagata Fuji Oil Company

2018 / Q2

Characterising heavy feeds on a molecular basis, together with kinetic studies, accurately predicts the reactivity of a wide range of vacuum residues
More

Reducing plant downtime

 Andy Hollins ABB

2018 / Q3

The benefits of including a non-intrusive approach within a risk based strategy for the inspection of pressure vessels
More

Efficient membrane systems for natural gas dehydration

Michael Mitariten Air Liquide Advanced Separations
Saeid Mokhatab Gas Processing Consultant

2018 / Q3

Applications of membrane technology for reducing water content in natural gas to meet pipeline specifications
More

Increasing resid processing flexibility

Runpu Zhao Beijing CUP-Qiantai Supercritical Extraction Technology Company
Warren Chung Well Resources Inc
Zhifang Tang and Bo Yuan North Huajin Chemicals Industries Group
Zhiming Xu and Suoqi Zhao China University of Petroleum
Keng H Chung Chinese Academy of Sciences

2018 / Q3

A resid processing technology converts low value refinery streams to full range refinery products
More

The corrosion-fouling cycle in amine systems

Robert James Pall (Canada)
Ali Arshad Pall Corporation

2018 / Q3

Recommendations to reduce the impact of the mechanisms of corrosion in amine systems
More

Controlling the metals content of FCC equilibrium catalyst

Hernando Salgado Saudi Aramco

2018 / Q3

A method for calculating catalyst make-up provides a means to control the stability of FCC equilibrium catalyst in terms of metals content
More

Burner retrofit increases capacity and cuts costs

Roy Bisnett Zeeco

2018 / Q3

Replacement burners in a hydrogen reactor feed heater saved the cost of retrofit within a week
More

Water treatment on contract

Mark Dyson Veolia Water Technologies - Mobile Water Services

2018 / Q3

Rented mobile water services can be a cost effective alternative to capital investment in water treatment plant
More

Some myths about mechanical cleaning

Marcello Ferrara and Cristina Ferrara ITW 

2018 / Q3

Because it has long been the only option when unit cleaning becomes unavoidable, the true cost of mechanical cleaning has been overlooked
More

Effect of reactor inlet temperature in a hydrotreater

Amit Kalyan Chandra Indian Oil Corporation Limited

2018 / Q3

Solving a problem of pressure drop in a naphtha hydrotreater led to fresh insights into the role of reactor inlet temperature 
More

Low cost gasoline from low octane feed

Stephen Sims, Elena Lobichenko, Iosif Lishchiner and Olga Malova
New Gas Technologies – Synthesis

2018 / Q3

Naphtha and methanol are the feedstocks for production of high octane, low cost gasoline
More

Predictive analytics in incident prevention

William R Brokaw Kestrel Management

2018 / Q3

Predictive analytics can support risk management by identifying where failures are likely to occur and what can be done to prevent them
More

Structured catalyst for steam reforming

Sanjiv Ratan ZoneFlow Reactor Technologies
Juray De Wilde Université Catholique de Louvain

2018 / Q3

A catalyst system for steam methane reforming for improved heat transfer, pressure drop and catalyst effectiveness 
More

Reducing hydrogen consumption in diesel hydrotreating

Pradyut Kumar Dhar, G Valavarasu, Peddy V C Rao and Gandham Sri Ganesh
Hindustan Petroleum Green R&D Centre

2018 / Q3

Fractionating a raw diesel stream before hydrotreating reduces consumption of hydrogen to produce high quality diesel
More

Selecting valves for pressure swing adsorption

Michael Stinn and Jonathan Vance Emerson

2018 / Revamps

The PSA unit is a demanding process for control valves. Here are guidelines and maintenance strategies for control valves in applications including revamps  
More

Predicting centrifugal compressor performance

Tek Sutikno Fluor Enterprises

2018 / Revamps

When a plant revamp is planned, assessing an existing centrifugal compressor to meet new performance requirements is essential
More

Optimising hydroprocessing turnarounds

James Esteban Refined Technologies, Inc.

2018 / Revamps

Elimination of the hot hydrogen strip from all hydroprocessing unit shutdowns enables optimisation of down time activity in planned and unplanned maintenance
More

Resisting metal dusting corrosion

Ramesh Venkat Tubacex

2018 / Q4

Metal dusting corrosion can limit operating conditions, but recent developments in alloys are helping to combat the phenomenon
More

Clauswasteheatboilereconomics Part 1: process considerations

Nathan A Hatcher, Clayton E Jones, Simon A Weiland, Steven M Fulk and Matthew D Bailey Optimized Gas Treating, Inc.

2019 / Q1

The design of the waste heat boiler has a critical role to play in determining process operations, reliability and economic performance in the sulphur recovery unit

More

Flexible upgrading of heavy feedstocks

Jacinthe Frecon, Delphine Le-Bars and Jacques Rault Axens

2019 / Q1

Adding tailor-made options for upgrading heavy crudes to existing assets can adapt refineries to changes in market conditions and regulatory demands
More

Hydrate formation in a fluid catalytic cracking off-gas line

Aqeel Al Muharraqi, Ashish Deshpande and Gregory M Lilburne Bahrain Petroleum Company

2019 / Q1

A hydrate blockage led to sudden loss of a FCC unit’s off-gas flow and a system pressure surge. Comprehensive troubleshooting delivered remedial measures
More

Avoiding unplanned reactor shutdowns

Maria J L Perez, Roberta Cenni, Zeina Maroun and Kenneth G Myntman

Haldor Topsoe

2019 / Q1

In hydroprocessing operations, prevention is better than just dealing with the effects of corrosion and fouling problems
More

The power option

Robert Giglio Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ltd-Foster Wheeler

2019 / Q1

With the market for high sulphur fuel oil under pressure, refiners with delayed cokers can instead opt for higher value power and steam generation
With the market for high sulphur fuel oil under pressure, refiners with delayed cokers can instead opt for higher value power and steam generation
More

On-purpose propylene production

Michael Marsh And Jeffrey Wery Honeywell UOP

2019 / Q1

Propane dehydrogenation plays an increasingly key role in closing the global shortage in traditional propylene supplies

More

Predicting middle distillate properties

Madi Asiri Saudi Aramco Total Refining and Petrochemical Company (SATORP)

2019 / Q1

Development of on-stream correlation models to predict cloud point, flash point and freezing point and increase production of on-spec jet fuel using a single analyser
More

Digital solutions improve refinery operations

Hirotaka Yamashita Yokogawa Electric Corporation

2019 / Q1

Digitalising and standardising the tasks and activities of plant personnel improves efficiency and safety, resulting in greater uptime and throughput
More

Problems in processing discounted crudes Part 1: definition and crude preheat

Scott Golden, Tony Barletta and Steve White Process Consulting Services, Inc.

2019 / Q1

Problems in processing discounted crudes Part 1: definition and crude preheat
Project costs must be considered to fully understand whether or not an opportunity crude really does deliver on savings
More

Designing a sampling system

Partha S Mondal and Archan Sinha Fluor Daniel India Pvt. Ltd

2019 / Q1

So you thought that delivering process samples was a simple task? The useful performance of an analyser system relies on how the sampling system is designed
More

Improving biodiesel’s properties

Chandragupthan Bahubali and Ashwin Gopalan Wood PLC India

2019 / Q1

Properties including cold flow have prevented biodiesel from living up to its early potential. Emerging strategies may improve matters
More

Countering cyber attack

Chris Cunningham PTQ

2019 / Q1

The oil and gas sector is consistently among the most vulnerable to cyber attack. Can a security programme reduce the risks?
More

Impact of sulphiding agents on ULSD catalyst performance

 

TIAGO VILELA, JOSÉ CASTRO and HENDRIK DATHE
Avantium

 

Tiago Vilela, José Castro and Hendrik Dathe Avantium

2019 / Catalysis

A research programme demonstrated the comparative performances of a conventional sulphiding agent and an agent that offers safer, cleaner catalyst activation
More

Bottoms upgrading of FCC resid feedstock

Carl Keeley, Stefano Riva and Ankit Apoorv BASF

Steve Challis Chalcat Consulting

2019 / Catalysis

 

 A refiner chose a new catalyst to improve bottoms upgrading and maximise fuels production from resid feeds
  A refiner chose a new catalyst to improve bottoms upgrading and maximise fuels production from resid feeds
More

Generating value in the FCC

Dicho Stratiev Ivan Chavdarov and Alexandr Ivanov Neftochim Burgas JSC

Aleksey Popov and Rafael González W. R. Grace & Co

2019 / Catalysis

 

New catalyst technologies and technical service support helped a refiner overcome difficulties with VGO conversion
  New catalyst technologies and technical service support helped a refiner overcome difficulties with VGO conversion
More

Life cycle stability of ULSD catalysts

Florian Huber and Ioan-Teodor Trotuș hte GmbH

2019 / Catalysis

Accelerated ageing test methods allow refineries to gather an unprecedented amount of information about catalysts
More

Unloading spent catalyst

Eric Braams Hoover Ferguson

2019 / Catalysis

Using catalyst bins to unload units during change-out can offer efficiencies in handling, storage and transportation
More

Increase FCC residue processing by additive control

Tom Ventham Johnson Matthey

2019 / Catalysis

An additive development enables substantial reductions in delta coke and dry gas
More

War stories from the foaming front

David Engel Nexo Solutions

Ben Spooner and Michael Sheilan

Amine Experts

2019 / Gas

Many factors can cause an amine unit to foam. Often there is more than one cause, so foaming problems demand thorough investigation
More

Digital twins enhance LNG plant performance

Tim Shire and Andrew McIntee KBC

2019 / Gas

Digitalisation technologies offer new and disruptive ways to overcome the challenges of increasing margin, reducing carbon emissions and addressing talent shortages
More

Technology selection for a natural gas plant

Jan-Willem Hennipman and Karen Hanlon Kinsberg Jacobs Comprimo Sulfur Solutions

2019 / Gas

 

Selecting equipment for a sulphur block requires balancing technical
performance and costs, as well as local conditions and regulations
  Selecting equipment for a sulphur block requires balancing technical performance and costs, as well as local conditions and regulations
More

Liquefaction technology for mid-scale LNG production

Saeid Mokhatab Gas processing consultant

2019 / Gas

Location,capacity and operability of a plant as well as project investment criteria can greatly affect the choice of liquefaction technology for a mid-scale LNG project
More

Developments in sulphur recovery

Mahin Rameshni and Stephen Santo Rameshni & Associates Technology & Engineering (RATE)

2019 / Gas

Process developments and technology selection meet increasingly stringent emissions limits
More

New catalysts for low and medium pressure hydrotreating

Andrea Battiston, Adel Abdo, Luca Moraca, Leon Van Den Oetelaar, 
Edwin Van Rooijen, Henk Jan Tromp, Jelle Van De Vall and Eelco Vogt
Albemarle Catalysts; Utrecht University

Andrea Battiston, Adel Abdo, Luca Moraca, Leon Van Den Oetelaar, Edwin Van Rooijen, Henk Jan Tromp, Jelle Van De Vall and Eelco Vogt Albemarle Catalysts; Utrecht University

2019 / Q2

A catalyst platform provides higher performance in middle distillate hydrotreating applications with limited hydrogen, difficult feedstocks and severe operating conditions
More

Operational challenges in sour water stripping

Philip Le Grange 
Sulphur Experts

Philip Le Grange Sulphur Experts

2019 / Q2

How to keep a sour water stripper at optimum performance between shutdowns
More

Refinery catalyst testing

Tiago Vilela Avantium

2019 / Q2

Selecting the best catalyst for a unit demands thorough evaluation of the available options
More

Sizing relief valves for real gas or vapour

Tek Sutikno Fluor Enterprises

Tek Sutikno Fluor Enterprises

2019 / Q2

An appraisal of relief valve discharge area sizing methods for gas or vapour
An appraisal of relief valve discharge area sizing methods for gas or vapour

More

Flue gas heat recovery through the acid dew point

Pim Van Keep and Robert Sakko HeatMatrix Group

2019 / Q2

Polymer based heat exchange technology enables more heat recovery from flue gas by addressing acid corrosion issues
More

IMO 2020 – the deadline approaches

Stephen George KBC

2019 / Q2

How is the refining industry reacting to the shake-up with less than a year to go?
More

Solving hydrotreating fouling problems

Yinling (Grace) Wang Nalco Champion

2019 / Q2

Upgraded antifoulant technology is helping refiners to overcome the increased hydrotreater fouling issues that result from more stringent fuel sulphur limits
More

Claus waste heat boiler economics Part 2: mechanical considerations

Nathan A Hatcher, Clayton E Jones, Simon A Weiland, Steven M Fulk 
and Matthew D Bailey Optimized Gas Treating, Inc.

Nathan A Hatcher, Clayton E Jones, Simon A Weiland, Steven M Fulk and Matthew D Bailey Optimized Gas Treating, Inc.

2019 / Q2

The design of a cost effective waste heat boiler faces many, often opposing factors affecting the performance and reliability of the exchanger
More

Problems in processing discounted crudes Part 2: crude and vacuum columns

Scott Golden, Tony Barletta and Steve White
Process Consulting Services, Inc.

Scott Golden, Tony Barletta and Steve White Process Consulting Services, Inc.

2019 / Q2

Project costs must be considered to fully understand whether or not an opportunity crude really does deliver on savings
More

Development of a naphthenic acid corrosion model

Eric Vetters ProCorr Consulting Services

2019 / Q2

A model has been developed to predict and help prevent corrosion when processing high TAN crudes
More

Forecasting crude oil prices

Shanu Jain and Ajay Gupta Reliance Industries Limited

2019 / Q2

Building a good time series model is the primary requirement for generating good oil price forecasts
More

Forecasting crude oil prices

Shanu Jain and Ajay Gupta Reliance Industries Limited

2019 / Q2

Building a good time series model is the primary requirement for generating good oil price forecasts
More

Revamping a bitumen heating system

Gülşah Altunbaş and Murat Bariş Türkoğlu Tüpraş

2019 / Q2

A redesigned oil based heating system for bitumen storage and sales saves energy and eliminates customer complaints
More

Troubleshooting a heavy crude topper

 

Daryl Hanson, Mike Wessels and Adam Smith Valero Energy
Isis Mejias Consultant

 

Daryl Hanson, Mike Wessels and Adam Smith Valero Energy

 Isis Mejias Consultant

2019 / Q2

Thorough troubleshooting revealed the primary cause of a heavy crude topper’s poor availability: desalter operation. A comprehensive revamp resolved matters
More

The origins and fates of chlorides in hydroprocessing units

Steven A Tresse Becht Engineering

2019 / Q3

A step-by-step roadmap to identifying and managing the negative effects of chlorides in hydroprocessing units
More

Fundamentals of refinery safety

 Norman Lieberman Process Improvement Engineering

2019 / Q3

A study of process safety considerations arising from a raffinate
splitter explosion
A study of process safety considerations arising from a raffinate splitter explosion
More

Optimising desalter control

 Andrew Shaw and Neil Murch Tracerco

2019 / Q3

Analysing desalter performance and improving crude blending capacity with multi-phase instrumentation and control
More

Simulating and optimising an FCC naphtha post-treater

 Pedro Rojas Bryan Research & Engineering, LLC

2019 / Q3

A model integrates sections of an FCC naphtha post-treater for evaluating plant operating conditions to maximise octane-barrel at varying levels of desulphurisation
More

Eliminating phosphorus from cooling treatment

Renate Ruitenberg and Emregul Cetin
Nalco Champion, an Ecolab Company

Renate Ruitenberg and Emregul Cetin Nalco Champion, an Ecolab Company

2019 / Q3

Non-phosphorus programmes for corrosion and scale control in water cooling systems reduce environmental impact and operating costs
More

Piston design method makes recips more reliable

Andreas Brandl, Bruce Hermonat and John Ladd
Hoerbiger

Andreas Brandl, Bruce Hermonat and John Ladd Hoerbiger

2019 / Q3

Gas leaking past piston rings and rider bands is a significant problem for many reciprocating compressors
More

Fieldbus – is interest fading?

Meghdut Manna Technical Advisor

2019 / Q3

An end user perspective on why the oil and gas industry has a divided view of fieldbus technology
More

Racing to meet IMO 2020 regulations

Victor Scalco and Maggie Vidal
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

Victor Scalco and Maggie Vidal General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

2019 / Q3

Looming new rules for low sulphur fuel oil leave refiners with the problem of increased output of lower value material
More

Process schemes to solve the fuels/chemicals imbalance

John J Murphy and Clyde F Payn The Catalyst Group

2019 / Q3

Refiners who think only about production of transportation fuels need to think differently
More

Sustainable technology for cleaning a crude preheat exchanger network

Yoshinori Kanno JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation
Guiqing Xu Softard Industries
Ian Baxter Cat Tech International

Yoshinori Kanno JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation

Guiqing Xu Softard Industries

Ian Baxter Cat Tech International

2019 / Q3

Mitigating environmental impacts, saving time and reducing costs: cleaning a heat exchanger network using a renewable cleaning agent
More

Residuum hydrocracking: chemistry and catalysis

Julie Chabot and Woody Shiflett
Advanced Refining Technology and Chevron Lummus Global

Julie Chabot and Woody Shiflett Advanced Refining Technology and Chevron Lummus Global

2019 / Q3

Significant advances have been made in understanding the hydrocracking chemistry of residuum oils and in the catalytic systems required for deep conversion of resid
More

Best practice for refinery flowsheets

Jitendra Chellani and Asma Al Sariyahi KBC

2019 / Q3

Refinery-wide flowsheets can demonstrate the true representation of changes in key operating variables and their associated impact on refinery operation
More

Preventative maintenance of piping systems

Shirish Lal
Piping Technology & Products

Shirish Lal Piping Technology & Products

2019 / Q3

The design of the piping system is a major part of the engineering of an operating plant build
More


Go Back