المستخلص: |
Petroleum refining industry is known as one of the most energy intensive industry. Large quantities of petroleum refined products, natural gas, refinery gases and electric power are used as energy input in various equipments and processes. In addition, other forms of energy such as steam and compressed air are also used for various purposes. The study highlights the importance and the opportunities of energy conservation in the refining industry which include heat integrations, process optimizations, furnace upgrading and maximization of the efficiency of power generation and cogeneration, optimization of fuel systems, reduction of flaring, minimizing steam and fuel leaks, improvement in insulation material and thickness. Best practices techniques and innovative technologies are currently available to help save energy in the oil downstream industries, thus improving its economic performance and at the same time providing a tool for improving the quality of the environment by lowering emissions of harmful gas such as carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen oxides which are produced during the combustion of fossil fuels. The study also summaries the results of examples and case studies on the possibility of conserving energy in the refining industry worldwide as well as in some Arab refineries. \
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