Abstract:

The configuration optimization of a grassroots 10 Mt/a refinery is selected as a case study. Saudi Arabian heavy crude oil (hereinafter referred to as AHC) and Saudi Arabian medium crude oil (hereinafter referred to as AMC) are studied respectively through setting up PIMS model, assessing the influence of crude on overall configuration and economic benefit. The result shows that AMC, which has lower density and better properties, not only improves the feed properties of RDS unit, e.g. lower content of heavy metals and asphaltene，but also achieves higher light oil yield (91.80%) and general commodity rate (79.81%). However, the refining margin of AMC is 53.5 Yuan per ton crude lower than AHC due to higher purchase cost. Considering the development tendency of crude refining, AHC is recommended to be the design crude, which can achieve better economic benefit and compatibility with AMC.

Key words: PIMS, overall configuration, optimization, crude selection