Asia/Pacific
HP Reliability: Can integrally geared compressors be successfully used with variable speeds?
A recent HP webinar answered a number of compressor-related questions. This same webinar also generated a few additional ones. A viewer thought that two statements from this presentation were in contr..
HP Automation Strategies: Virtualization in process automation systems
Virtualization involves separating an information technology (IT) resource from specific physical hardware. This is usually managed by a specialized software layer called a hypervisor, which provides ..
HP Global: European refining—Cornered, with no way out?
2013 was a dismal year for European refining in terms of record low crude runs, which reflect weaked demand outlook and increasing competition from other regions. Out to 2020, we envisage European ref..
HP Automation Safety: It is easier to sit on the couch than go exercise
I like a routine each morning where I get up early and work on long-term projects—important tasks that lack the urgency of a short deadline, like reading that new safety critical systems book, wr..
HP Boxscore Construction Analysis: Vietnam: Reversing the tide of refined imports
Vietnam is developing six large-scale refinery projects with the potential to add 1.36 MMbpd of new domestic refining capacity at a total cost of over $50 B. This would reverse the country’s status from a net importer of refined products to a net exporter by 2020.
HP Industry Perspectives: Cyber bullies continue to be a menace
Cyber security is still a critical issue that the hydrocarbon processing industry (HPI) must address. Speaking at the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers Q&A and Technology forum in Denver, ..
HP Industry Metrics
Mid–October crude oil prices slumped as the International Energy Agency (IEA) announced a slight increase in global oil demand by 700 Mbpd. In contrast, oil production is forecast to increase by ..
HP People
Willbros Group has announced that Robert R. Harl, who joined Willbros in 2006 and has served as CEO of the company since January 2007, is retiring as CEO and director when his current employment agree..
Wanted: Future leaders
The hydrocarbon processing industry (HPI) has known for some time that a great shift change is eminent. The experienced engineers, chemists and crafts hired in the 1970s and 1980s are reaching retirem..
GTC Technology chosen for China aromatics unit
The new unit is the eighth GT-BTX license in China and will play an integral role in the 5-million tpy refinery being constructed by Shandong Sincier Chemical Group (SSCG).

- Refinery closures may lead to higher gasoline prices on the U.S. West Coast 7/9
- INNIO Group, Gföllner Group establish JV, offering power solutions to the U.S. market 7/9
- Using lightning to make ammonia out of thin air 7/9
- bp sells 300 Dutch petrol stations to Catom 7/9
- U.S. crude stockpiles increase, gasoline falls on July 4 driving demand 7/9
- Nigeria's Dangote refinery plans 1.6-MMbbl fuel storage tanks in Namibia 7/9