Refining

Improve plant maintenance programs by keeping CUI in check

If not adequately addressed, corrosion under insulation (CUI) has dangerous and costly consequences, including a greater risk of heat losses, increased energy usage, unplanned downtime, leaks and spills.

Heat exchanger modifications during hydrocracking and lube oil basestock units’ revamp at BPCL’s Mumbai refinery

This article provides insights into several possibilities for modifying heat exchangers that will help refinery owners/operators and consultants to plan similar revamp activities. 

Sizing PRVs for homogeneous non-equilibrium saturated flashing liquids

Driving operational excellence: Integrate digital solutions for a smarter supply chain

Siloed systems lead to isolated data and inefficiencies in decision-making due to a lack of visibility. To address these challenges, the authors' company built a strategic digital command and control center. The goal was to resolve daily operational issues by integrating various systems into a unified data ecosystem, enabling real-time, integrated decision-making and driving operational excellence.

Phase-gate process for optimal turnaround performance: Long-range turnaround planning

The volume of turnaround (TAR) work in a limited physical space and within a compressed timeframe presents challenges for securing the required qualified workforce and ensuring quality control and health, safety and environment. For these reasons, excellent TAR planning is critical for successful outcomes. 

The role of coatings in the transition to renewable feedstocks

One often overlooked aspect of the shift to renewable feedstocks involves the critical role of coatings in protecting infrastructure. While advanced coatings have long supported the industry, new innovations must address the evolving demands of renewable feedstocks. These enhanced coatings will safeguard infrastructure from the more aggressive chemical environments introduced by renewable feedstocks, ensuring long-term durability and operational efficiency. 

Mexican refinery Olmeca hits new high in March, but still short of target

Mexican state energy company Pemex's new Olmeca refinery in March posted its highest crude processing and fuel production figures since it began reporting data in mid-2024, boosting the company's refining arm even as its hydrocarbon output declines.

EIA: Oil prices and refinery margins fell slightly in first quarter of 2025

During the first quarter (1Q) of 2025, crude oil prices generally decreased while U.S. refinery margins initially increased before decreasing in the final month of the quarter. In its quarterly update, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reviews petroleum markets price developments in 1Q, covering crude oil prices, refinery margins, biofuel compliance credit prices and natural gas plant liquids prices.

Biofuel maker Neste expects limited impact from tariffs, but supply glut still weighs

Finnish biofuel maker and oil refiner Neste expects U.S. tariffs will have only a limited direct impact on its business, but warned of continuous oversupply in renewable fuel and market volatility.

Portugal's Galp restarting Sines oil refinery over coming days

Portugal's Galp will be gradually restarting units at its Sines oil refinery over the coming days after the major Iberian power outage on Monday forced it to suspend operations.