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Moderator:
Bill Clark, Phillips 66

Speaker:
Jim Payne, Phillips 66

For many facilities, cyclic reformers play a pivotal role in refining operations, offering flexibility in upgrading naphtha into high-octane reformate and a continuous source of hydrogen. While cyclic reformers offer a distinct advantage over semi-regen reformers with regards to turnaround timing, this comes at a cost. This presentation tackles key operational challenges and reliability issues, such as iron contamination, ammonium chloride fouling, on-oil exotherms, reactor hot spots, regeneration section corrosion and the functionality of motor-operated valve (MOV) interlocks.

By providing a comprehensive approach to enhancing cyclic reformer reliability, this presentation reinforces the importance of proactive maintenance, process optimization, and robust safety measures. These strategies provide crucial insights to aid operators in maximizing unit performance while minimizing operational risks.

Moderator:
Alex Sabitov, Phillips 66

Speaker:
Greg Marshall, Becht

Moderator:
Russ Wiltse, Valero Energy Corporation

Speakers:
Rhett Finch, Marathon Petroleum Corporation
Matt Hutchinson, Axens North America
Alex Kniuksta, Honeywell UOP
Alex Sabitov, Phillips 66
Russ Wiltse, Valero Energy Corporation

In an era of rapid technological advancement, achieving positive reliability outcomes requires a strategic blend of innovation and foundational maintenance practices. This presentation explores how organizations can harness emerging technologies to enhance awareness and enable early anomaly detection. By integrating data-driven insights with proven maintenance strategies, companies can improve operational reliability and efficiency. Through an open discussion, we will explore the real-world challenges and opportunities that arise when merging traditional maintenance with cutting-edge technology.

The session is designed as an introductory-level discussion that highlights the value of combining traditional hands-on maintenance practices with modern monitoring tools to support a more comprehensive and reliable approach to decision-making. Together we aim to uncover practical strategies for building a resilient, future-ready maintenance culture. Participants will be encouraged to share experiences and insights on navigating common pitfalls—such as over-reliance on digital tools, integration complexities, and maintaining a balance between automation and human expertise.

Moderator:
Dean Roberts, Ergon Refining, Inc.

Speakers:
Jaxson O'Brien, CHS Inc.
Mark Sannes, Flint Hills Resources, LLC

Facilitator:
Andy Woods, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP

Speakers:
Jim Griffin, San Jacinto College
Ferril Onyett, BrandSafway
Brian Novicki, Valero Energy Corporation

Will the energy industry have enough operating and design & construction personnel to operate and maintain existing assets and build and operate the infrastructure planned for the future? How can we address the changing needs of the generation about to enter the workforce? Are companies adopting and implementing advanced technologies to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency on each jobsite?

The panel, consisting of owners, EPCs, academia, and construction workforce training and development experts, will discuss how we can develop, engage, train and sustain enough personnel to meet the projected energy and infrastructure needs across the country.

Facilitator:
Andy Woods, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP

Speakers:
Jim Griffin, San Jacinto College
Ferril Onyett, BrandSafway
Brian Novicki, Valero Energy Corporation

Will the energy industry have enough operating and design & construction personnel to operate and maintain existing assets and build and operate the infrastructure planned for the future? How can we address the changing needs of the generation about to enter the workforce? Are companies adopting and implementing advanced technologies to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency on each jobsite?

The panel, consisting of owners, EPCs, academia, and construction workforce training and development experts, will discuss how we can develop, engage, train and sustain enough personnel to meet the projected energy and infrastructure needs across the country.

Facilitator:
Gerard Celestine, Motiva Enterprises, LLC

Speakers:
Tieraney Celestine, Motiva Enterprises, LLC
Andrew Martindale, Motiva Enterprises, LLC
David Midkiff, Motiva Enterprises, LLC

This session will discuss the evolution and ability of a successful materials management system that prepares for events at a time when rising material, labor costs and availability is due to inflation and supply chain interruptions.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) represents a significant breakthrough in the quest for greener aviation. This presentation delves into the operational challenges around SAF production and how the supply chain had to adapt accordingly. SAF producers will lead the discussion sharing their lessons learned and solutions to the challenges they encountered as they embarked on their SAF production journey. The presentation will also address the critical aspects of distribution and supply chain management. Efficiently managing the supply chain is essential for ensuring the widespread availability and adoption of SAF. We will discuss logistics, storage, and transportation challenges, along with strategies to optimize the distribution network and integrate SAF into existing fuel infrastructures.

Moderator:
Eric Legare, Chevron U.S.A. Inc.

Speakers:
Ramin Abhari, Chevron Renewable Energy Group
Daniel Carlson, Calumet Specialty Products

Fouling of Naphtha Hydrotreating Reactors can cause limitations to operation and planned cycle length. This session will present three technologies to effectively mitigate this fouling to hit the cycle:

• Catching Scale: Haldor Topsoe and Marathon Petroleum step up to the plate


• HeavyTrap: A Top Bed Double Play


• Axens' HyRing: A Grand Slam in Pressure Drop Mitigation

Moderator:
Rhett Finch, Marathon Petroleum Corporation

Speakers:
Nandita Akunuri, Axens North America
Amanda Cavazos, Marathon Petroleum Corporation
Rhett Finch, Marathon Petroleum Corporation
Leslie Johnson, Crystaphase

The intersection of refining and petrochemical manufacturing has never been more significant as industries navigate the dual challenges of efficiency and sustainability. This session will explore the critical role of Perchloroethylene (PERC) in modern refining processes while also highlighting its applications in petrochemical production.

PERC is recognized as one of the safest catalyst activators during normal operations, as well as a regenerator for spent catalysts. Utilizing less efficient materials can necessitate larger quantities of hazardous substances being kept onsite, thus increasing exposure risks. Other chlorinating agents are either restricted by the EPA or are inherently more hazardous, making PERC a preferable option.

Attendees will gain insights into how PERC enhances refining technologies through processes such as isomerization and catalytic reforming, which help ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Industry experts will discuss the extensive benefits of utilizing PERC, emphasizing innovations that contribute to both safety and operational efficiency.

Moreover, we will review advancements in safety protocols that facilitate the effective handling of PERC, ensuring minimal exposure and adherence to rigorous regulatory standards. By fostering dialogue among leaders in refining and petrochemical manufacturing, this session aims to identify collective strategies for driving innovation and achieving sustainability goals within the industry.

Moderator:
Alex Kniuksta, Honeywell UOP

Speaker:
Scott Wozniak, Honeywell UOP