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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 ..

Contain ‘normal’ leakage from primary seals

AESSEAL plc: Smith, R.  |  Shaw, S.

Dry containment seals have gained popularity over the last few decades and provided reliable service. The refinery sector has used this sealing technology to limit fugitive emissions in a cost-effecti..

HP Editorial Comment: Downstream has good news for 2015

Hydrocarbon Processing Staff: Romanow, Stephany

The outlook is optimistic for downstream companies. Independent refiners are positive on present and future demand for transportation fuels.

HP Reliability: Consider oil-resistant cable terminations to increase electric motor reliability

Hydrocarbon Processing Staff: Bloch, Heinz P.

Most engineers are familiar with adhesive-coated insulating tape used by electricians in the field and maintenance shop. If we use this tape in the engine compartment of an automobile, it will soon be..

HP Boxscore Construction Analysis: How low oil prices are affecting new project announcements

Hydrocarbon Processing Staff: Nichols, Lee

Beginning in July 2014, the world began to witness a widespread fall in crude oil prices. With the decrease in global crude oil prices, what has this meant for new project announcements in the downstream sector?

HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 83: What are useful questions to ask before starting a vibration analysis?

Consulting Engineer: Sofronas, A.

Periodically, this author receives questions from readers throughout the world addressing what performance issues could be wrong with a centrifugal compressor that is vibrating. Note: It is impossible..

HP Global: Latin America’s refinery product demand is decelerating

The trajectory of refined product balances in Latin America and the Caribbean is changing. With demand growth slowing and throughput expected to rise by 2020, the region’s combined deficits for p..

HP Petrochemicals: Fatal DuPont leak shows need for improved chemical safety systems

Hydrocarbon Processing Staff: DuBose, Ben

The November 15 chemical leak at DuPont’s plant in La Porte, Texas was the company’s third fatal US accident in five years and the deadliest of them all. The blast took the lives of four wor..

HP Project Management: Energy efficiency: Getting in early pays off exponentially

There are many situations and circumstances when it makes good sense to pursue energy efficiency for industrial processes. But when is the best time for such action?Better operating practicesIn existi..

HP Industry Perspectives: Notables from BP's Energy Outlook 2035

In mid-February, BP released its outlook for the next 20 years. As reminded by BP’s new chief economist, Spencer Dale, the outlook is a projection of what is most likely to occur based on the inf..