Process Optimization

Hybrid model using first principles and AI/ML for analyzer-less fuel blending

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.

Improve reliability with predictive maintenance insights

Machine-learning-equipped advanced analytics platforms empower SMEs to solve some of the toughest process problems efficiently, implement effective process improvements, transition from reactive to predictive maintenance strategies, increase productivity and uptime, and operate more profitably. 

IT dependencies complicate OT security

Cyber-securing oil and gas automation to ensure safe, reliable and efficient physical operations is becoming more challenging. This article explores the modern yet evolving threat environment, how expectations for cybersecurity are changing, how information technology/operational technology (IT/OT) dependencies have emerged as an important issue in most cybersecurity programs, and how owners and operators are addressing this new issue.

Strategies to resolve process variability via regulatory process control

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

Synergize FCCUs and hydrocracking processing units to maximize refining margins

Optimize process design and commercialize newly developed processes through close collaboration between licensor and client

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.

Nextchem to provide technology for Pacifico Mexinol's ultra-low carbon methanol plant (Mexico)

When it initiates operation in 2028, Pacifico Mexinol's facility is expected to be the largest single ultra-low carbon methanol facility in the world, producing approximately 350,000 tpy of green methanol and 1.8 MMtpy of blue methanol from natural gas with carbon capture.

LanzaJet, Mitsui & Co. and Cosmo Oil secures government funding for SAF production project in Japan

LanzaJet announced that Cosmo Oil Co. Ltd was selected for a subsidy from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to support a SAF project in Japan developed with Mitsui & Co. that will plan to utilize LanzaJet technology.

Pall Corporation and MTR Carbon Capture partner to advance carbon capture solutions

This partnership aims to promote a highly modular, scalable and cost-effective integrated solution leveraging MTR's pioneering Polaris™ membrane system for carbon capture and Pall's advanced filtration solutions for flue gas pre-treatment as well as innovative coalescer and filter technologies that safeguard critical assets throughout the carbon capture workflow.

Eni to use Nextchem's gasification technology to produce circular methanol and hydrogen

MET Development (MAIRE), Eni and Iren Ambiente have started the permitting process for an innovative circular methanol and hydrogen production plant at Eni’s refinery in Sannazzaro de' Burgondi (Pavia), Italy. The plant will have capacity of up to 110,000 tpy of methanol and up to 1,500 tpy of hydrogen