Structure of the Refinery

Crude Oil Reception & Storage

Crude oil arrives via pipelines, ships, or trucks. Stored in large tanks before processing. Includes: Storage tanks Pumping systems Metering units

Primary Processing Unit (Separation)

Atmospheric Distillation Unit (ADU) The first major step. Crude oil is heated and separated based on boiling points. Produces: LPG Naphtha Kerosene Diesel Residue

Vacuum Distillation Unit (VDU)

These units break down heavy fractions into lighter, more valuable products. Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Converts heavy gas oil into gasoline and LPG. Hydrocracking Uses hydrogen to produce cleaner fuels. Coking Unit Converts residue into petroleum coke and lighter hydrocarbons

Treatment & Upgrading Units

These remove impurities and improve product quality. Hydrotreating Removes sulfur, nitrogen, and metals. Desulfurization Units Essential for environmental compliance. Reforming Unit Improves octane rating of gasoline.

Storage & Distribution

Finished products stored in tanks. Transported via: Pipelines Tankers Trucks These keep the refinery running: Power generation Steam systems Water treatment Cooling systems Flare systems (for safety)

Safety & Environmental Systems

Fire protection systems Gas detection systems Wastewater treatment Emission control systems Simple Flow Summary Crude Oil → Distillation → Conversion → Treatment → Blending → Storage → Distribution

Know Who We Are

Refinery Company Approach

Processing Approach This focuses on how the refinery is designed and operated. ➤ Simple vs Complex Refinery Simple refinery: Mainly distillation (low cost, low output value) Complex refinery: Includes cracking, reforming, coking (higher value products) Approach: Choose configuration based on: Market demand Investment capacity Crude type

Supply Chain & Distribution Approach includes: Efficient storage systems Transportation (pipelines, trucks, ships) Strategic depot locations Goal: Deliver products quickly and cost-effectively.