This article discusses first-principle blend model architecture used traditionally by refineries, including its pros and cons. This text also explores the concept and trend of using artificial intelligence and machine-learning hybrid models for blending for cases where online analyzers may not be installed or may be nonfunctional, sometimes causing quality giveaways and violations.

This article discusses strategies to address process instability for effective process control. 

This case study follows the installation of new sulfur recovery units in Kuwait by Kuwait Oil Co. This article highlights key aspects of collaboration and technological advancement in process design development and project execution between the operator and licensor to the benefit of both parties.

For refineries, chemical plants, oil and gas pipelines and oil/gas exploration, fire and explosion hazards are omnipresent. Process hazard analysis (PHA) and fire risk assessments (FRAs) play a vital role in managing fire risk at an acceptable level. While there are various causes for fires and explosions, robust FRAs based on pragmatism and optimum allocation of resources could help minimize fire/explosion mishaps. 

Improving asset performance is a major concern throughout industry and is associated with maintenance costs, experience, machine/equipment age, and operational and environmental conditions. This article will focus on improving the reliability and availability of a plant gas turbine by applying best maintenance practices, operational enhancements and performance monitoring. Moreover, an inclusive maintenance and inspection model is proposed compared with the current common model.