COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of this course centers on the rigorous technical evaluation of crude oil to ensure its marketability, processability, and value. Crude oil is not a uniform substance but a complex and variable mixture of hydrocarbons that requires precise characterization to determine its refining potential. This course provides the analytical framework necessary to verify that crude oil meets the strict specifications required for transport, sale, and downstream operations.

The scope of the training focuses on the international standard test methods used in the petroleum industry, primarily those established by ASTM and IP. It addresses the physical and chemical properties that define crude quality, such as density, sulfur content, and water cut. Participants will learn how to operate specialized laboratory equipment, interpret test results, and understand the economic implications of quality deviations in the global energy market.

The coverage includes an in-depth analysis of sampling procedures, determination of salt content, vapor pressure testing, and distillation profiles. The course also explores the management of contaminants such as heavy metals, acidity, and sediment that can damage refining infrastructure. By mastering these quality assurance protocols, laboratory and field personnel can ensure the integrity of the oil supply chain and optimize the value of their petroleum assets.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Define the key physical and chemical parameters of crude oil.
• Execute ASTM and IP standard test methods for quality control.
• Implement representative sampling techniques for crude oil streams.
• Measure API gravity and density with high precision and accuracy.
• Determine sulfur content and its impact on refining and the environment.
• Quantify Basic Sediment and Water (BS&W) in crude samples.
• Analyze the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) for safe transport.
• Interpret distillation profiles to predict refinery yields.
• Measure the Total Acid Number (TAN) to assess corrosion risks.
• Detect and quantify trace contaminants such as Vanadium and Nickel.
• Implement a robust Quality Assurance (QA) program for crude labs.
• Evaluate crude oil assay data to determine market pricing.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Petroleum Chemists, Laboratory Technicians, Production Engineers, Oil Movement Supervisors, and Quality Assurance Specialists in the upstream and midstream sectors.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.