Refining
Enhance PSM design with metrics-driven best practices
This study shows the attributes and benefits of a data- and metrics-driven system focused on the process safety design integrity, reliability and control of process plant flares and pressure relief systems.
Utilize APC solutions to resolve hydrocracker conversion optimization challenges
Improving profits and reducing costs remain priorities for owner/operators and management.
Industry Perspectives: Downstream disputes breaking the 10% ‘blend wall’ for US ethanol
US refiners are set to break the 10% “blend wall” for using ethanol in gasoline, but downstream professionals are certainly not happy about it.
Industry Metrics
US product markets weakened despite unseasonably strong gasoline demand, and the gasoil crack spread hit the lowest level seen in more than five years, under pressure from increasing supplies amid thin demand due to warmer winter weather.
Innovations
In a market with reduced capital investment budgets, revamps and upgrades are becoming increasingly prevalent to extend asset service life.
People
Smaller-scale gas-to-liquids (GTL) specialist Velocys Plc has named David Pummell as chief executive officer (CEO).
Kuwait to set up new firm to run Al-Zour refinery
KNPC's chief executive Mohammed al-Mutairi said that setting up the new company KBRC would allow the independent management of many projects under one structure.
Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway buys more stock in US refiner Phillips 66
According to a regulatory filing on Friday night, Berkshire paid about $198 million this week for 2.54 million Phillips 66 shares, its first purchases of the stock since Jan. 14.
Emerson to boost refinery controls at BP Whiting
The project to upgrade the process control system of two fluid catalytic cracking units is part of a strategic BP-Emerson automation upgrade program.
Global Partners cuts workers, scraps crude at Oregon ethanol-rail hub
Global Partners says it is "taking steps" to use the Oregon terminal for ethanol transloading "during this period of headwinds in the crude market." The terminal houses an ethanol plant.

- Hydrocarbon Processing launches AI platform to accelerate decisions in the downstream sector 7/7
- Digital Feature: The critical interdependency of relief valve analysis and flare system considerations during HAZOP 7/7
- Trafigura to use Babcock's ammonia fuel supply system onboard gas carriers 7/7
- Lotte Chemical Titan secures $3-B ethylene supply deal in Indonesia 7/7
- Diesel East-West price spread nears 1.5-yr high amid supply concerns West, stable East 7/7
- U.S. Gulf Coast fuel oil imports at record low as refiners opt for heavier crude 7/7