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Hydrocarbon Processing

The Main Column

A Technology , Business and Management podcast

#65 in Technology · 🇰🇷
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About the show

The Main Column podcast, brought to you by Hydrocarbon Processing, stands as the premier audio destination for professionals in the downstream oil and gas industry seeking the latest insights and trends. Each episode delves into critical topics, including technology advancements, sustainability, energy transition, and operational excellence. With expert interviews and high listener engagement, this podcast delivers significant value, offering listeners thought-provoking discussions that enhance understanding and drive industry innovation. Whether you're seeking to stay ahead of the curve with the latest industry news, deepen your professional knowledge, or explore emerging technologies and strategies for sustainability and efficiency, The Main Column podcast is your essential resource for all things downstream. Join us as we navigate the industry's complexities, offering valuable perspectives and insights that empower professionals to make informed decisions and lead confidently.

Newest episodes

Building the future of compression: Engineering, manufacturing and innovation

13 min

In this conversation, Tony Sardella, General Manager of Atlas Copco ComTech, discusses the evolution of compressor technology and the gas processing industry. He highlights key market trends driving demand for larger and more sophisticated compression systems, the changes in manufacturing requirements, and the importance of local engineering and testing capabilities. The discussion also covers the company's new high bay facility and its implications for future operations, as well as the significance of workforce development in supporting growth.

Clean gas, reliable operations: Inside Clariant’s ActiSorb™ GP portfolio for gas processing

14 min

Natural gas streams often carry sulfur and mercury. Left in, they damage equipment, put compliance at risk and harm the environment. In this episode, Nennette Richard-Jordan, Head of Sales- Refinery Catalysts of Clariant explains how the company’s high-performance catalysts and sorbents for fixed-bed reactors address that problem. She introduces Clariant and its gas processing setup, then covers the applications and customers it serves. She also walks through the ActiSorb™ GP series, which removes sulfur and mercury from natural gas-derived streams to meet industry standards. Listeners will learn what sets Clariant’s products apart and how its support, from research and application development to on-site service, helps operators get longer cycle times and the highest reliability.

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All episodes

The newest 50 of 299 episodes

Building the future of compression: Engineering, manufacturing and innovation

13 min

In this conversation, Tony Sardella, General Manager of Atlas Copco ComTech, discusses the evolution of compressor technology and the gas processing industry. He highlights key market trends driving demand for larger and more sophisticated compression systems, the changes in manufacturing requirements, and the importance of local engineering and testing capabilities. The discussion also covers the company's new high bay facility and its implications for future operations, as well as the significance of workforce development in supporting growth.

Clean gas, reliable operations: Inside Clariant’s ActiSorb™ GP portfolio for gas processing

14 min

Natural gas streams often carry sulfur and mercury. Left in, they damage equipment, put compliance at risk and harm the environment. In this episode, Nennette Richard-Jordan, Head of Sales- Refinery Catalysts of Clariant explains how the company’s high-performance catalysts and sorbents for fixed-bed reactors address that problem. She introduces Clariant and its gas processing setup, then covers the applications and customers it serves. She also walks through the ActiSorb™ GP series, which removes sulfur and mercury from natural gas-derived streams to meet industry standards. Listeners will learn what sets Clariant’s products apart and how its support, from research and application development to on-site service, helps operators get longer cycle times and the highest reliability.

Axens at 25: From technology licensor to industrial partner

10 min

In this episode, Tina Cract, CEO of Axens Americas, shares insights into the company's innovative technologies, market strategies and future plans in the energy and refining sectors. Discover how Axens is shaping sustainable fuels, decarbonization and industrial efficiency.

CLARITY™ Digital Solutions: What Better Catalyst Data Could Do for Your Plant

7 min

This episode, featuring Felicitas Cokoja and Morgan Engelmeyer of Clariant, explores how Clarity and Clarity Prime are transforming refining and chemical plant operations by leveraging real-time data, artificial intelligence and environmental considerations to optimize performance and sustainability.

Turning refinery data into operational value

13 min

In this episode, Cesar Martinez, Industry Marketing Manager, Oil and Gas, Endress+Hauser discusses how refineries can leverage process data and measurement technology to optimize operations, improve margins and prepare for future digitalization trends including AI and automation.

Flare gas recovery: Turning emissions into value

6 min

In this episode, Seth Lloyd, Business Development Manager, Oil and Gas, Aerzen USA, discusses flare gas recovery, its benefits, design considerations and future prospects. Learn how this technology can reduce emissions, recover valuable resources and meet regulatory demands.

Balancing refining reliability and the low-carbon transition

4 min

In this episode, Gustavo Marroquin, Director of Global Service Sales, Americas, Ebara Elliott Energy, shares insights on balancing traditional refining with low-carbon initiatives, reliability challenges, regional support strategies, and future technologies like hydrogen and carbon capture..

Close measurement gaps without shutdowns

5 min

This episode explores how non-intrusive measurement instrumentation can help refineries improve safety, reliability and efficiency by closing measurement gaps without shutdowns. Marcelo Carugo, Senior Director, Global Refining Market Strategy, Emerson, shares insights on practical applications, benefits, and decision-making improvements.

Digitalizing catalyst management for next-generation refinery optimization: A discussion with Ketjen

8 min

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing explores how Ketjen’s innovative platform iKet™ is transforming catalyst management in refineries through real-time data analysis, AI integration and enhanced decision-making speed. Guest Henry Tausch, Chief Commercial Officer, Ketjen, shares insights on digital transformation, operations optimization and future trends in refining technology.

From flow assurance to asset reliability: Technology-driven solutions for midstream operations excellence

7 min

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing sits down with Ebuka Nwakile, Industry Technical Consultant and Global Marketing Manager Midstream, Nalco Water (an Ecolab company), regarding the challenges and solutions in midstream operations, focusing on asset reliability, flow assurance and digital innovations. Mr. Nwakile shares insights on managing contaminants, optimizing systems and leveraging technology for proactive maintenance.

Refining for the future: Flexibility, innovation and strategy

6 min

In this episode, Gary Cheng, Director, FCC Strategic Marketing, W.R. Grace discusses how the refining industry is evolving in response to global challenges, including feedstock flexibility, the impact of the Middle East conflict and strategic acquisitions. He shares insights on partnership approaches, technological innovations and future trends shaping the industry.

Designing and operating successful refinery overhead water wash systems

10 min

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing interviews Joel Lack, Senior Technology Advisor, Baker Hughes, about water wash systems in refinery overheads, exploring why some systems succeed while others fail, and how to optimize their design and operation for better reliability and corrosion control.

Navigating U.S. energy policy: Impacts of the CRAs and RFS on the fuel market

8 min

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing interviews Erica Perryman, Vice President of Communications, American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), about the impact of the Congressional Review Act and the Renewable Fuel Standard regulations on the U.S. energy sector. The discussion explores how these policies affect fuel costs, supply chains and national security.

Managing micro-maldistribution to help lengthen reactor cycles

24 min

In this episode, Austin Schneider, Vice President of Technology at Crystaphase, discusses RDT Technology, an innovative material designed to help address micro maldistribution in fixed bed reactors. Learn how this solution can help improve catalyst performance, enhance distribution, and extend reactor cycle length.

How catalysts turn refinery offgas streams into valuable products—Part 2

18 min

In this episode, Holli Garrett, Global Product Manager for Ethylene at Clariant Catalysts discusses the complexities of refinery offgas treatment, focusing on designing effective catalyst treatment packages tailored to specific gas streams. Learn about the key challenges, technologies and industry trends shaping this critical process.

How downstream operators can build environmental programs that strengthen operational assurance

12 min

For downstream operators, environmental performance can no longer be separate from operational performance. A missed emissions issue, delayed test result, unreliable monitoring system or fragmented compliance workflow can affect uptime, permit confidence, worker safety, community trust and the ability to move through critical operating windows without disruption. In this discussion, Jenna Granstra, Director of Project Development, Onterris, explores how leading downstream organizations are building environmental programs that directly support operational assurance, reliability and efficiency. 

Cybersecurity: A discussion in threat mitigation and resilience

28 min

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.

Navigating the energy transition: Decarbonization, digitalization, workforce development and supply chains

20 min

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.

Digital transformation: Combining physics-based models with AI to optimize operations

24 min

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.

How industrial AI Is transforming asset performance management

16 min

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.

Bolted Flange Joint Certification: A paramount industry standard and safety measure

19 min

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.

Protecting polyolefin catalysts through advanced feed purification

13 min

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.

The future of industrial operations: AI and enterprise optimization

22 min

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.

Decarbonizing industry: Strategies and technologies discussion with the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy

23 min

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.

Energy transformation and the role of advanced catalysts

17 min

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.

Why do equipment failures persist? The answer lies in the three pillars of reliability

7 min

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.

Live from AFPM Annual: Key strategies to help prevent major incidents in refineries

11 min

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.

Live from AFPM Annual: How Chevron Lummus Global is revolutionizing hydrocarbon processing with integrated solutions

16 min

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.

Live from AFPM Annual: How digital technologies are shaping the global energy industry

16 min

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.

Live from AFPM Annual: Reducing emissions with advanced gasket technology

8 min

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.

The future of process automation: AI, cloud and cybersecurity

21 min

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.

Optimizing megaprojects with globally distributed teams

17 min

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.

Leverage advanced analytics to drive productivity and augment process expertise

12 min

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.

Seal-less pump technology in syngas, ammonia and next-gen energy applications

12 min

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.

The real cost of eFuels: Closing the gap with fossil fuels through technology, location and policy

8 min

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.

A breakthrough in styrene catalyst technology: An interview with Dr. Wolf Spaether of Clariant

21 min

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.

Revolutionizing power systems: The future of load smoothing, a discussion with Siemens Energy

36 min

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.

Revolutionizing operations: AI's Impact on the processing industry

33 min

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.

Decarbonizing industry: The intersection of AI and natural gas

25 min

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.

Transforming oil and gas operations using AI: A discussion with the CEO of AIQ, Dennis Joel

7 min

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.

Digital technologies and the evolving energy landscape: A discussion with Schneider Electric

12 min

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.

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