Equipment
A novel deep catalytic cracking technology for residue-to-chemicals processes
Over the past two decades, annual global demands for refined products and basic petrochemicals have increased by approximately 1.3% and 3.5%, respectively.
Flexibility in catalyst technology for improved bottoms upgrading
Bottoms product from fluidized catalytic cracking (FCC) is typically one of the least valuable products from a refinery.
Innovations
N’GENIUS Materials Technology has developed a new series of high-strength austenitic stainless steels that the company says will transform how materials are specified and utilized across the oil and gas sector.
Solving maldistribution: Catalyst loading and why it matters
Are your reactor yields lower than forecast? Does your fixed-bed catalytic reactor suffer from hotspots?
Online Feature: What you need to know about emergency isolation valves
Whether they are off-the-shelf or custom designed, EIVs are one of the most critical pieces of equipment in a refinery. The proper operation of EIVs is crucial for the safety of the workers in the plant and plant equipment, and lack of performance can be extremely costly.
Online Feature: Highlights of API 685 3rd Edition, Sealless Pumps—Part 1
This article—Part 1—describes the process of updating the document and cites the participating companies contributing to this work, along with addressing the significant changes that are of interest to the reader in understanding revisions from the previous API editions. Included are the influences and reasons behind each of these changes. Insight into subject matter for future updates to API 685 is addressed at the end.
Honeywell and Aramco partner for new intelligent operations software solution
Honeywell and Aramco have announced the signing of a joint venture agreement to provide a set of end-to-end business process automation solutions, under the Aramco Namaat Industrial Investments Program.
Site construction underway at TA’ZIZ and next major phase of growth launched
The centerpiece of the expansion will be a new world-scale, low-carbon footprint steam cracker to supply feedstocks for the various downstream production units.
Obsolescence management in a manufacturing unit
Obsolescence is one of the most detrimental and worrisome issues in manufacturing units. This is predominantly because of rapid advancements in technology.
Innovations
Anyone who has encountered foam clamshells for restaurant takeout food, white or green “peanut” packing to cushion shipments, or those thick foam blocks for protecting boxed furniture is familiar with expanded polystyrene (EPS).

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