Engineering & Design
Optimize amine units and improve refinery profitability
The alkanolamine system in a refinery, better known as the amine unit, is used to remove hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon dioxide (CO2) and mercaptans (collectively referred to as acid gases) from proce..
Consider catalytic dewaxing as a tool to improve diesel cold-flow properties
Diesel engines rely on effective dispersion of fuel to ensure efficient combustion. In cold weather regions, maintaining the fluidity flow of fuels can be difficult. Catalytic dewaxing is a selectiv..
Are you using pinch technology effectively in your daily operations?—Part 2
In Part 1, the basic principle of pinch technology and applications were presented. Pinch technology is a valuable tool in the design of greenfield HPI facilities. More importantly, such tools provide..
HP Reliability: Expect adversity, but plan for success
Consider that a major oil refinery was planning a substantial modernization project in 2008. Energy efficiency gains and the ability to process a more readily available crude slate were key motivating..
HP Integration Strategies: Virtualization goes mainstream
Virtualization, a computing approach that decouples hardware and software, is rapidly gaining traction in the traditionally conservative automation and control industry. With its roots in the informat..
HP Boxscore Construction Analysis: Outlook for major revamp projects—Part 1
Worldwide, refiners are investing billions in upgrading and modernization projects. These efforts are focused on:Increasing flexibility to process heavier, sourer crudesImproving energy efficiencyMeet..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 73: Useful troubleshooting tools to keep at hand
Over the past 45 years, the author has pursued troubleshooting machinery and pressure vessels. It has also been the subject of this column. The troubleshooting tools used in this endeavor have been an..
HP Impact: Global distribution of natural catastrophes in 2012
In 2012, there were 905 natural catastrophes worldwide, 93% of which were weather-related disasters. In terms of overall and insured losses ($170 billion and $70 billion, respectively), 2012 did not f..
HP Construction Profile: European refiner makes significant processing advancements
At the Sannazzaro de’ Burgondi refinery, Eni is moving forward with leading-edge technological breakthroughs to produce “clean” transportation fuels. This refinery has a balanced 190,00..
Technip wins hydrogen reformer work for refinery upgrade in Venezuela
The contract covers the complete engineering, fabrication, modularization and procurement. This project will utilize Technip's reformers to produce high-purity hydrogen and export steam, and the latest nitrogen oxide reduction technology to ensure minimum emissions.
- Allied Biofuels signs PIA with Uzbekistan to advance $6-B biofuels refinery project 4/10
- Nufarm strengthens strategic collaboration to support long term growth in biofuels production 4/10
- Pertamina and CRecTech sign MoU to explore pilot biogas-to-biomethanol facility in SEZ, Indonesia 4/10
- Shell Chemicals and Syensqo partner to deliver low-carbon ethylene oxide solutions 4/10
- HAMR Energy’s nationally significant fuel projects selected for Australian Government’s Investor Front Door Pilot 4/10
- HD Hyundai Heavy Industries builds world's first ammonia-powered vessel 4/10

