Middle East
Dow Chemical to reduce role in Kuwait JVs, plans new US Gulf MEG plant
MEGlobal will build a new MEG plant on the US Gulf Coast -- enabling MEGlobal and its parent companies to enjoy growth and drive significant expansion of MEGlobal’s geographic footprint.
Global petrochemical prices fall to six-year lows
Petrochemical prices, expressed as a monthly average, fell $102/ton from August to $786/ton in September. This is the second straight month where the average price has fallen over $100.
Total, Saudi Aramco remain interested in SATORP petrochemicals expansion
A leading Total executive told Reuters that the SATORP expansion would be large and involve capacity increases for linear-alpha olefins, poly-alpha olefins and elastomers.
Improve refinery margins with new crude selection concept
A refinery with an active crude selection strategy encompassing dedicated staff, preapproval of all new crudes and an updated crude acceptance window can gain $0.5/bbl–$1/bbl vs. a more passive strategy.
Maintaining gas system accuracy and reliability through calibration
In the process industries, laser-based analytical techniques have emerged as a popular method of examining process line samples because of their high level of durability, fast response time and minimal maintenance requirements.
Managing the recovery from the Jaipur oil terminal fire
In October 2009, a devastating fire at the oil terminal in Jaipur, India, killed 11 people, injured many more and incurred a significant financial loss.
HP Automation Strategies: APC technology adapts quickly to economic changes
With significant fluctuations in feedstock and energy prices, making economic changes quickly is vital to capitalize on the most profitable assets.
HP Industry Metrics
High US refinery utilization rates have continued, encouraged by strong gasoline demand amid lower crude prices.
Varied solutions to the challenges of sulfur management
As governments impose progressively stringent limits on the sulfur content of fuels, the refining industry and the hydrocarbon processing industry (HPI) are increasing their focus on sulfur removal to maximize profits from sulfur-rich oil and gas resources.
Amec Foster Wheeler expands UAE office to serve new Middle East projects
The Middle East market remains strong in a time of oil price uncertainty, the company says, and Amec Foster Wheeler has established Abu Dhabi as its Middle East hub of expertise in the region.

- U.S. EIA forecasts new export licensing requirements will reduce U.S. ethane exports 6/18
- Nigeria to export first gasoline cargo to Asia from Dangote refinery 6/18
- Indian refiners cancel palm oil orders for July-September as prices surge 6/18
- U.S. set to object to green jet fuel recommendation at UN aviation council 6/18
- Phoenix Contact introduces intrinsic safety versions of the MINI Analog Pro Ex conditioners for hazardous areas 6/18
- EIA: U.S. crude inventories fall by most in a year, fuel stocks build 6/18