This intensive Refinery Process Yields Optimisation training course by Oxford Training Centre, part of our specialised Oil and Gas Training Courses, is designed to deliver advanced skills in optimising refinery yields from crude oil to refined product. Through practical case studies, software-based simulations, and expert-led discussions, participants will gain in-depth knowledge of how to maximise output, profitability, and process efficiency across all refining operations.
Over one comprehensive week, this course delves into every major refinery unit, integrating key elements of Process Improvement, Oil Refining, blending strategies, crude selection, and economic decision-making. Participants will be equipped to identify inefficiencies, implement yield optimisation techniques, and navigate the complexities of modern refinery economics with confidence.
Whether you are an engineer, planner, or decision-maker, this training offers transformative insights and hands-on tools to elevate your operational effectiveness and contribute directly to your organisation’s profitability.
Course Objectives & Target Group
Course Objectives:
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Understand and interpret the role of each refinery process and how it contributes to overall Refinery Process Yields Optimisation.
- Assess how refinery complexity and configuration impact economic performance and operational strategies.
- Master the principles of blending, crude assay selection, and stream routing to enhance refining flexibility and output quality.
- Utilise industry-standard software to simulate refining scenarios and make data-informed decisions.
- Apply techniques to reduce energy consumption and Process Improvement across units.
- Learn how to analyse and optimise margin calculations, improving bottom-line results through technical insights.
Target Group:
This course is ideal for:
- Refining Engineers seeking to deepen their understanding of process yields and integration.
- Operations and Shift Supervisors aiming to implement effective operational strategies.
- Planners and Marketers interested in aligning supply strategies with refining capabilities.
- Blending Coordinators and professionals involved in fuel specification and production balancing.
- Process Engineers, New Graduates, and Technical Managers wishing to strengthen their grounding in Oil Refining and optimisation methodologies.
- Non-technical personnel such as finance analysts or commercial staff looking to enhance their understanding of refinery operations and economics.
Course Content
Day 1: Introduction to Refinery Yields and Crude Assay Evaluation
- Overview of the refining process: atmospheric and vacuum distillation
- Crude oil characterisation and assay analysis
- Influence of crude properties on product yields
- Key terminology and process configurations
Day 2: Major Refinery Units and Process Interactions
- Fluid catalytic cracking, hydrocracking, coking, alkylation, and reforming
- Product specifications and process yield implications
- Integration of secondary processes and impact on throughput
Day 3: Yield Improvement and Blending Optimisation
- Blending calculations and giveaway reduction
- Product blending strategies and simulation tools
- Minimising reprocessing through efficient planning
- Real-world case studies on blending optimisation
Day 4: Refining Economics and Operational Decision-Making
- Economic drivers of refinery operations
- Gross refining margin (GRM) analysis and optimisation
- Refinery planning and crude diet optimisation
- Margin improvement through process configuration
Day 5: Simulation, Case Studies, and Future Outlook
- Hands-on session with refining simulation software
- Group case studies: applying knowledge to realistic refinery scenarios
- Environmental constraints and sustainability considerations
- Trends in digitalisation and the future of Refinery Process Yields Optimisation
Training Methodology
This is a practical and immersive training programme. Through lectures, interactive group sessions, software simulations, and scenario-based learning, participants will grasp theoretical principles and translate them into practical applications. Real industry challenges will be explored, allowing participants to critically assess current operations and apply optimisation techniques effectively.
Oxford Training Centre uses internationally recognised training techniques, ensuring participants experience a collaborative learning environment that encourages knowledge sharing and analytical thinking.
Organisational Impact
Participants will return to their organisations with:
- Enhanced capability to conduct process analysis and identify improvement opportunities.
- A strategic understanding of yield impacts across units and how to manage them effectively.
- The ability to integrate economic thinking into technical operations.
- Tools to support long-term cost reduction and productivity enhancement.
Personal Impact
Professionals will gain:
- A refined understanding of Oil Refining fundamentals with practical expertise in improving process yields.
- Confidence in using blending and simulation tools to make informed technical decisions.
- Skills to evaluate crude slates and product demands in an integrated way.
- Enhanced ability to lead and support Process Improvement initiatives within refinery operations.
This one-week Refinery Process Yields Optimisation course is a unique opportunity for professionals across the oil and gas industry to advance their understanding of refining operations and economic decision-making. It is designed not only to educate but to empower—providing actionable strategies and tools to drive measurable results.
Whether your goal is operational excellence, cost efficiency, or greater strategic impact, this course equips you with the knowledge and confidence to make it happen.
Join us at Oxford Training Centre and transform the way you think about refining.