The Main Column

In this episode, cybersecurity expert Paul Smith, Honeywell Technologies, discusses the evolving cybersecurity threat landscape, the impact of artificial intelligence on cyber threats and strategies for industrial cybersecurity resilience. A must-listen for industry professionals aiming to stay ahead in cybersecurity.

In this episode, we explore Aduro Clean Technologies' innovative approach to hydrocarbon processing, focusing on waste plastics recycling and heavy crude upgrading. Guest Eric Appelman shares insights into their unique technology, recent advancements and future plans.

In this episode, Ernesto Guevara, Director of Sustainability Business Development, Ebara Elliott Energy, discusses sustainability and decarbonization in the energy sector. He explores the three pillars of decarbonization, and the importance of digitalization and workforce development in adapting to new energy technologies. The conversation also highlights the emerging markets of low-carbon ammonia and hydrogen, as well as the strategies for maintaining a sustainable and reliable supply chain.

In this episode, industry experts Eissa Alnatter, Digital Business Development Manager - MENA, Lummus Digital; and Kapil Bakshi, Strategic Advisor, Lummus Digital, discuss the importance of combining physics-based models with AI for optimizing petrochemical operations, the challenges of data quality and strategies for successful digital transformation in the energy sector.

In this episode, Nithiya Parameswaran, VP of Product Management at Emerson | AspenTech, discusses how Industrial AI is reshaping Asset Performance Management, moving it beyond traditional monitoring toward predictive insights, faster maintenance action, and greater scalability across the enterprise.

Hydrocarbon Processing sat down with Holli Garrett, Global Product Manager, Ethylene, at Clariant Catalysts to discuss the evolution of refinery off-gas treatment, and how those gases are creating value.

This episode explores the development and importance of the new API bolted flange joint (BFJ) certification program, featuring insights from industry experts Andri Orphanides, Director of Individual Certification Programs, API, and Andy Smith, Director of Training, VSP Technologies. Learn about the BFJ certification program, the certification process, and industry impact and importance of bolted flange joint competency.

This episode features Manuel Pfanzelt, Global New Project Manager, Clariant, discussing the critical importance of feed purification and catalyst protection in polyolefin production. Learn about innovative solutions, industry trends and how tailored purification strategies can enhance operational efficiency and product quality.

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing interviews Claudio Fayad, Chief Technology Officer, AspenTech, about the future of industrial operations, AI integration and recent product innovations. We explore how enterprise-wide optimization, AI and data strategies are transforming the refining and petrochemicals industries.

In this episode, Charles McConnell, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy, discusses the evolution of carbon capture, utilization,and storage (CCUS), its market dynamics in the U.S. and Europe, and the future of energy transition investments. Insights include the importance of monetizing CO2, industry decarbonization strategies, and technological innovations in monitoring and reporting.

In this episode, we sat down with Johnson Matthey’s U.S. President, Krista Johnson, to break down how the company is driving modern energy innovation. From emissions breakthroughs to platinum-powered clean tech, this conversation challenges the idea of energy transition and reframes it as something bigger: transformation.

This episode explores the persistent challenge of equipment failures in the hydrocarbon processing industry. It emphasizes the importance of the three pillars of reliability—design it right, operate it right and maintain it right—and discusses how a holistic approach can lead to safer, more efficient and more profitable operations.

This episode explores the critical importance of rethinking vendor selection in EPC projects by shifting focus from purchase order value to the comprehensive cost of ownership, emphasizing long-term value and strategic procurement.

In this episode, live from the AFPM Annual Meeting, Marcelo Carugo, Senior Director, Global Refining Market Strategy and Industry Leadership, Emerson, discusses safety vulnerabilities in modern refining operations, emphasizing the importance of monitoring weak signals, leveraging new technologies and proactive safety strategies to prevent incidents.

In this episode, Live from the AFPM Annual Meeting, Arun Arora, CTO of Chevron Lummus Global, discusses innovative catalyst portfolios, future-proofing assets with advanced technologies and sustainable solutions in hydrocarbon processing. Gain insights into how CLG is leading industry transformation with integrated solutions, digital advancements and processing technologies.

In this episode, live from the AFPM Annual Meeting, Hydrocarbon Processing sat down with Ken West, President and CEO, Honeywell Process Technology, to discuss the latest trends in energy, refining and the industry's digital transformation. Mr. West shares insights on industry shifts, technological innovations, knowledge transfer, AI and strategic directions shaping the future of energy production and sustainability.

In this episode, Live from AFPM's Annual Meeting, Myron Bockholt, Director of Strategic Accounts-Chemical, LGG Industrial, discusses innovative sealing solutions, U.S. EPA emissions regulations and how their products help refineries reduce fugitive emissions. Gain insights into gasket technology, installation best practices and industry standards.

In this episode, Live from the AFPM Annual Meeting, Vic Scalco, Global Commercial Strategic Senior Manager, Gulftronics, discusses innovative technologies for refining industry profit enhancement, focusing on slurry clarification, dielectric separation and market applications.

In this episode, Jim Masso, President and CEO of Honeywell Process Automation, discusses the transformative impact of AI and digital technologies in the energy and process industries. Topics include AI applications, workforce upskilling, cybersecurity and future industry trends.

This episode explores strategies for optimizing project management efficiency in megaprojects with globally distributed teams. It covers challenges like communication barriers, technological fragmentation and stakeholder coordination, and presents practical solutions including digital tools, hybrid methodologies and real-world case studies.

This episode explores the vital role of biofuels in achieving sustainable mobility, emphasizing their compatibility with existing infrastructure, technological advancements and global impact.

This episode discusses the transformative impact of advanced analytics in the oil and gas sector, highlighting its role in enhancing productivity, optimizing processes and driving operational excellence. The conversation covers the data revolution in the industry, various applications of analytics, implementation strategies and case studies demonstrating successful optimization in refinery operations. The discussion emphasizes the importance of integrating analytics across organizational boundaries and empowering personnel with the necessary tools to leverage data effectively.

This episode features a conversation with Michael Sadoski, Sales Engineer at Hayward Tyler, a 200-yr-old UK-based specialty pump and motor manufacturer. Sadoski breaks down how motor pump technology improves safety, reliability and lifecycle costs compared with traditional sealed and mag-drive pumps—particularly in high-pressure, high-temperature and hazardous applications. The discussion covers real-world use cases across syngas processing, ammonia production and transport, hydrogen value chains, petrochemicals and oil and gas.

This podcast episode discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with e-fuels as a viable alternative to fossil fuels in the decarbonization of global transport. It highlights the economic, technological, and policy-related factors that influence the production and scalability of e-fuels, emphasizing the importance of location and integration of various stakeholders in the process.

In this episode, Dr. Wolf Spaether, Global Head of Product Management and Strategic Marketing for Ethylene, Clariant, discusses the groundbreaking StyroMax UL100 catalyst, which revolutionizes styrene monomer production by achieving unprecedented low steam-to-oil ratios. The conversation covers the significance of styrene in the petrochemical industry, the technical challenges in developing this catalyst and the positive market response it has received.

In this episode, Danny Clayton, Director of Sales for Electrification, Automation and Digitalization, and Bjørn Rasch, Head of Technology Management for Electrification, Automation and Digitalization, both from Siemens Energy. discuss the challenges and innovations in power systems, particularly focusing on load smoothing and stabilization in data centers. They delve into Siemens Energy's Blue Vault battery technology, its performance optimization through the Clean Grid Converter, and the importance of safety and reliability in battery systems. The conversation highlights Siemens Energy's comprehensive ecosystem approach to power generation and its applications across various industries, emphasizing the future of energy solutions.

From our sister publication World Oil, this episode features Greg Trostel and Gil Cohen discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the energy industry, particularly focusing on optimization in process industries. They explore the journey of Imubit, the importance of education in AI, and how AI can enhance decision-making and operational strategies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of black box AI, the potential of generative AI and the future of AI in refineries, emphasizing the need for transparency and human oversight. Finally, they discuss how these advancements can attract new talent to the energy sector.To watch the video, click here.

In this conversation, Devin Pillay, Global Segment President for Heavy Industries at Schneider Electric, discusses the critical intersection of AI and natural gas, emphasizing the need for responsible energy management and decarbonization. He highlights the importance of efficiency as a pathway to sustainability and explores global perspectives on energy transition, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. The discussion also delves into the role of data centers in energy consumption and the transformative impact of AI on workforce skills and productivity.

In this episode, Clint Schneider, Vice President of Fisher Instruments, Emerson Flow Controls, discusses how the latest valve technologies can enhance plant operations, efficiencies and sustainability.

Dennis Joel, CEO, AIQ, discusses the transformative role of AI in the energy sector, particularly in optimizing operations and enhancing sustainability. He highlights AIQ's collaboration with ADNOC and other global partners to develop innovative solutions that redefine industry roles and improve efficiency. The discussion also touches on the future of AI in oil and gas, emphasizing the potential for AI to change the narrative around the industry and contribute positively to society.

In this conversation, Amit Kar, Digital Solutions Leader (Global) at Schneider Electric, discusses the company's role in energy management and automation, particularly in the energy and chemical sectors. He highlights the importance of digital solutions, efficiency and autonomous operations in adapting to the evolving energy landscape. Kar emphasizes the need for organizations to embrace change and align technology with strategy to navigate the complexities of the industry.

In this episode, we explore the rapidly evolving world of energy transition through the lens of syngas innovation. Grant Grothen from Burns Mcdonnell shares insights about their work in advancing infrastructure and energy solutions, and how syngas plays a pivotal role in shaping a more resilient, low-carbon future. We discuss the long-term outlook for syngas versus conventional natural gas, examine the key steps required to accelerate decarbonization and identify the biggest infrastructure challenges standing in the way of large-scale syngas deployment.

In this conversation, live from ADIPEC, Sylvain Cabalery, Senior Vice President Sustainable Fuels, Chemicals and Circularity, Technip Energies, discusses the future of refineries, emphasizing the need for flexibility and sustainability. He highlights the importance of co-processing sustainable fuels, optimizing hydrogen solutions and implementing carbon capture technologies to reduce carbon footprints.

In this episode, Amy Rouse, Business Development Manager for Turner Industries, discusses the evolving role of women in the refining and petrochemical industry, the opportunities available, the challenges faced and advice for women entering the field. Amy shares her personal journey and insights on the importance of community involvement and continuous learning in the industry.

In this episode, we sat down with Balasaheb Darade, to dive into the vision, strategy and engineering behind the “Ultra Mega” gasification project being developed by New Era Cleantech in Maharashtra, India. We explore how the company is tackling one of the most ambitious industrial decarbonization efforts in the region, transforming coal into syngas and value-added chemicals while integrating carbon capture and utilization.

In this episode, Karsten Radtke, Global Head of Technical Sales for thyssenkrupp Uhde joins us to discuss how gasification, blue hydrogen and ammonia are reshaping the path toward industrial decarbonization. Karsten explains how syngas serves as a crucial bridge between today’s fossil-based systems and tomorrow’s hydrogen-powered economy, and how modern gasification processes enable the efficient conversion of feedstocks into clean hydrogen and ammonia.

Joe McMullen, Oil and Gas Energy Transition Marketing Director, AVEVA, sat down with Hydrocarbon Processing to discuss various aspects of the energy transition, including what companies can do to prepare for it, how digital technologies are propelling decarbonization efforts forward and how organizations can future-proof their operations.

On this episode, Dr. Claus Reimers, Chief Technology Officer, Akselos, discusses the challenges in the disconnect between integrity, reliability and operations departments, and how structural performance management and concepts such as "agent AI" and "uber agent" can optimize operations and connect disparate plant systems.

On this episode, Eric Appelman, Chief Revenue Officer, Aduro Clean Technologies, discusses new regulations and challenges around mechanical and chemical plastics recycling, as well as the progress his company is making in developing a novel chemical recycling process technology.

Live from the AFPM Summit, Hydrocarbon Processing sat down with Constantine Lau, Global Director, Energy and Chemicals, Schneider Electric and Matt Henderson, Triconex Business Development Director, U.S., Schneider Electric to discuss how digital technologies (e.g., AI, operator training simulators, digital twins, machine learning, advanced process control, among others) are advancing and optimizing refining and petrochemicals production, operations and maintenance.

Live from the AFPM Summit, David Leach, Vice President and General Manager-FCC, Ketjen, discusses the challenges refiners are experiencing, especially when processing heavier feeds. This includes implications of metal contamination in FCC unit performance, as well as a new catalyst technology that provides refiners flexibility and enhanced efficiency when processing opportunity/heavier crudes.

Nennette Richard-Jordan, Head of Sales Syngas Americas, Clariant, discusses several new catalyst technologies in the company's Plus series, including ReforMax LDP Plus, ShfitMax 217 Plus and AmoMax 10 Plus, and how these catalysts optimize processing operations.

On this episode, recorded live at the AFPM Summit, Joel Lack, Senior Application Engineer, Baker Hughes, discusses wet reflux, including what it is, why it is a concern and how refiners can mitigate it.

In this episode, Leslie Bellas, Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), discusses the U.S. EPA's recent RFS proposal, including costs, feedstock challenges and a simple change to cut regulatory costs, among other items.

Unplanned shutdowns are always challenging for large industrial facilities. For decades, many energy-intensive industries have relied on costly backup generators to provide emergency power during outages. However, companies are now looking to a new, more reliable technology: microgrids.

Hydrocarbon Processing sat down with Cliff Keeler, Vice President, Business Development, SunGas Renewables, to discuss his company's $2-B Beaver Lake Renewable Energy green methanol project, as well as the use of biomass gasification as a pathway to produce clean fuels for the shipping, aviation, chemicals and industrial sectors.

This episode will outline the key benefits of real-time visibility, the technology making it possible and the trends shaping the future of chemical supply chains.

In the debut episode of the WGLC Podcast Series: Empowered to Lead, Conference Director Rachel McGhie sits down with Lauren Levicki Courville, President of Dress for Success Houston, to explore what empowerment looks like for women navigating economic independence, career growth and leadership. Lauren shares the incredible work of DFS Houston—an organization that has impacted close to 50,000 women and 65,000 children through professional development, mentorship and community support. From the first suit to sustained career advancement, she paints a vivid picture of how confidence and community are transformative forces, as well as the shared mission of DFS Houston and WGLC in advancing women’s leadership in energy and beyond. This episode is a reminder that leadership doesn’t start in the boardroom—it starts when a woman realizes she deserves a seat at the table. Learn more and register for WGLC 2025, taking place in Houston on October 28–29, at wglconference.com.

Leslie Johnson, Technical Service Manager, Crystaphase, sat down with Hydrocarbon Processing to address reactor optimization, including recognizing and addressing bed movements, and new technologies and models being used to boost reactor efficiency.

Hydrocarbon Processing sat down with Rajesh Gattupalli, President and CEO, Honeywell UOP, to discuss operational efficiency and profitability in refining and petrochemical operations. This includes various topics such as AI-driven tools that increase unit uptime and throughput, SAF production and adoption, emissions mitigation, digital tools shaping the workforce of the future, and much more.