Synthetic crude
Synthetic crude is the output from a bitumen/extra heavy oil upgrader facility used in connection with oil sand production. It may also refer to shale oil, an output from an oil shale pyrolysis. The properties of the synthetic crude depend on the processes used in the upgrading. Typically, it is low in sulfur and has an API gravity of around 30. It is also known as "upgraded crude".[citation needed]
Synthetic crude is an intermediate product produced when an extra-heavy or unconventional oil source is upgraded into a transportable form.[1] Synthetic crude is then shipped to oil refineries where it is further upgraded into finished products.[1] Synthetic crude may also be mixed, as a diluent, with heavy oil to create synbit. Synbit is more viscous than synthetic crude, but can also be a less expensive alternative for transporting heavy oil to a conventional refinery.[citation needed]
Syncrude Canada, Suncor Energy Inc., and Canadian Natural Resources Limited are the three largest worldwide producers of synthetic crude with a cumulative production of approximately 600,000 barrels per day (95,000 m3/d). The NewGrade Energy Upgrader became operational in 1988, and was the first upgrader in Canada, now part of the CCRL Refinery Complex. [1]
See also[]
- Albian Sands
- Canadian Centre for Energy Information
- History of the petroleum industry in Canada (oil sands and heavy oil)
- Manure-derived synthetic crude oil
- Scotford Upgrader
- Suncor
- Syncrude
References[]
- ^ Jump up to: a b c "Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan - HEAVY OIL UPGRADERS". University of Regina. Archived from the original on 5 March 2016. Retrieved 2011-08-07.
External links[]
- Petroleum stubs
- Synthetic fuels
- Bituminous sands
- Petroleum industry in Canada