Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Oil Receiving and Handling

• Understand the importance of oil receiving and separation in production and refining.
• Identify different types of crude oil and their properties.
• Learn about oil transfer methods, including pipelines, tankers, and railcars.
• Follow best practices for unloading and measuring incoming crude oil.

2. Storage and Transfer Operations

• Understand the design and function of oil storage tanks.
• Learn safe handling procedures for oil transfer to storage units.
• Monitor and maintain storage conditions, including pressure, temperature, and level control.
• Identify common tank issues such as sludge buildup, vapor loss, and contamination.

3. Oil Separation Processes

• Understand the principles of oil separation and the role of gravity, heat, and chemicals in the process.
• Learn about key separation technologies, including:
• Primary separation: Separators and free-water knockouts (FWKOs)
• Secondary separation: Electrostatic treaters and desalters
• Tertiary separation: Filtration and chemical treatment
• Monitor separator efficiency and troubleshoot common issues.

4. Equipment Used in Oil Separation

• Identify and operate key oil separation equipment, including:
• Three-phase separators
• Desalters and demulsifiers
• Centrifuges and hydrocyclones
• Heat exchangers and coalescers
• Perform routine inspections and maintenance to prevent failures.

5. Safety and Hazard Management in Oil Handling

• Recognize hazards associated with oil handling, including spills, fires, and toxic gas exposure.
• Follow industry safety standards for working with flammable and hazardous substances.
• Implement emergency response procedures for spills, leaks, and equipment failures.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety protocols.

6. Environmental Compliance and Waste Management

• Understand environmental risks and regulations related to oil processing.
• Implement waste oil management and treatment solutions.
• Ensure compliance with emission control, water discharge, and spill prevention measures.

7. Performance Monitoring and Troubleshooting

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) for oil separation efficiency.
• Detect and resolve issues related to emulsion formation, water carryover, and foaming.
• Utilize process control tools and automation for improved separation performance.

8. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world examples of oil receiving and separation operations.
• Participate in hands-on troubleshooting and problem-solving exercises.
• Develop strategies for improving oil separation efficiency and safety.

Target Audience

• Oil production and refining plant operators
• Field and process technicians
• Maintenance and reliability engineers
• Safety and environmental compliance officers
• Supervisors and shift leaders in oil processing