Octane
Maximize petrochemicals in the FCCU to boost refinery margins, improve gasoline pool quality
In light of the current market dynamics, challenging the FCCU to move out of its “maximum gasoline” comfort zone is a winning strategy to drive overall refinery profitability.
Alkylating refinery-grade propylene offers processing opportunities
The propylene in this stream from FCC and coking units can be combined with isobutane in an alkylation unit to yield a high-value gasoline blending component—alkylate.
China’s CNOOC begins exports of gasoline, diesel
China National Offshore Oil Corp (CNOOC) has received government approval to begin international exports of diesel and gasoline cargoes in early May.
HP Industry Metrics
Global product markets and refinery margins, particularly in the US, have seen steady improvement since January. Worldwide gasoline demand has soared in recent months in both OECD and non-OECD regions..
HP Editorial Comment: Accessing the value of methane and the North American petrochemical revolution
The North American (NA) petrochemical industry is experiencing a renaissance of new project announcements and manufacturing expansions. This wave of activity is supported by abundant, low-cost natural gas supplies. In particular, many ethylene projects are under various stages of development.
HP Industry Metrics
US commercial crude oil inventories are at elevated levels and are expected to increase. Lower crude oil prices have supported consumption in developed economies, removed budgetary constraints in emer..
Shale oil characterization optimizes refining process
The abundance of shale oils is an unexpected gift for US refiners. These new crude oils have different characteristics from conventional oils that will affect refining processes and the operation of p..
Update on the catalytic cracking process and standpipes—Part 1
The fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) process is a well-established technology used by complex refineries. It is a key profit center, as the FCC unit (FCCU) has the flexibility to produce transportation ..
HP Editorial Comment: Downstream has good news for 2015
The outlook is optimistic for downstream companies. Independent refiners are positive on present and future demand for transportation fuels.
HP Industry Metrics
The global market is experiencing a potential temporary recovery from a prolonged decline, possibly followed by the continuation of the downtrend. This is reflected in continued growth in the US tight..
- DHL and Sasol join hydrogen firm HH2E on sustainable jet fuel project 9/25
- Indorama Ventures achieves 100 billion PET bottles recycling milestone 9/25
- Worley awarded FEED for QatarEnergy LNG’s largest CO2 sequestration project 9/25
- Renault to maintain mixed ethanol combustion engines in Brazil 9/25
- Fire at Kuwait's Mina Al Ahmadi refinery put out, production, exports unaffected 9/25
- South Korea's SK Energy offers more October gasoil 9/25
