Refining
US refiners struggle to export surplus distillate
The stagnation in distillate exports reflects sluggish world trade, the slump in mining, and a warm winter across much of the northern hemisphere, all of which have cut global demand growth.
ExxonMobil CEO eyes new acquisitions, forecasts lower capital spending
Exxon's oil and gas production rose 3.2% in 2015, as its downstream refining unit provided some insulation against the impact of falling oil prices on its upstream.
Meet EPA Tier 3 clean fuel regulations through improved blending processes
This article will examine the impact of Tier 3 regulations on gasoline blending at refineries and terminals, and illustrate options that can contribute to compliance while keeping costs under control.
Minimize unplanned shutdowns of fired heater operations
There are many potential “rules,” or guidelines, for the safe operation of process heaters.
Linear position sensors gain preference in industrial process control applications
Today’s industrial process control applications increasingly use automated systems to optimize operations and ensure a safer, more productive process.
Central American nations beef up import infrastructure, fuel production amid demand shift
   Methanex’s methanol facility in Trinidad.
Automation Strategies: Data analytics solutions require valid data
Process plants collect enormous amounts of data, both from the sensors connected to the control system and from other sources, including edge devices in the plant and remote devices in the cloud.
Engineering Case Histories: Case 89: Cracking of welds due to weld fatigue
Pressure vessels, piping and fabricated structures adhering to recognized welding codes rarely fail in static loading, unless they are damaged or severely overloaded.
Industry Metrics
Refinery margins weakened in the US due to lower winter demand.
People
Clariant has appointed Britta Fuenfstueck as a new member of its executive committee.
- Valmet to acquire Severn Group to strengthen Process Performance Solutions segment 12/22
- World’s first dynamic green ammonia plant starts operations in Denmark 12/22
- Baker Hughes to supply liquefaction equipment for Commonwealth LNG export project 12/22
- South Korea petrochemical firms on track to cut up to 3.7 MM tons of output 12/22
- MOL and JERA sign HoAs for the charter of ammonia carriers 12/22
- China's November fuel oil imports up 15% from October 12/22
