Crude Oil Refining

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The first step in refining crude oil is known as atmospheric distillation. Crude oil is heated in a tower, and its components with different boiling points are separated. As the oil is heated, it vaporizes, and the vapors rise up and different hydrocarbon components condense and are collected. 

Conversion: Once crude oil is distilled, further processes called conversion are employed to convert heavier components into more products. 

These conversion processes include 

Cracking, Reforming, Hydrocracking, Reforming, Alkylation, Isomerization, Desulfurization, Coking  

In cracking, heavy hydrocarbon molecules are broken down into smaller, lighter molecules. This is done through processes such as catalytic cracking or thermal cracking, which use heat and catalysts to induce the breakage. This produces additional gasoline, jet fuel, and other lighter products.

Reforming is a process that transforms low-octane naphtha into high-octane gasoline. It involves rearranging the hydrocarbon molecules through catalytic reactions to enhance the gasoline's octane rating.

Hydrocracking combines cracking and hydrogenation processes. Heavy hydrocarbons are exposed to high pressure and hydrogen in the presence of catalysts, resulting in the production of lighter products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.

After the conversion processes, the resulting petroleum products may undergo further treatment to remove impurities. These treatments include: Desulfurization & Hydrotreating

Desulfurization is a process that reduces the sulfur content in petroleum products. Sulfur compounds are harmful to the environment and can damage vehicle emissions control systems. Desulfurization processes, such as hydrodesulfurization, help meet environmental regulations and produce cleaner fuels.

 Hydrotreating involves treating petroleum products with hydrogen and catalysts to remove impurities such as nitrogen, sulfur, and metals. This process improves the quality and stability of the final products.