February 2025

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.

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. 

This article compares the two approaches in blending practices—classic chemometrics and AI—highlighting the superiority and practicality of using AI. 

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.

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.