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Crude Oil Characterization

In addition to measuring the bulk properties, crude oil is also characterized by

boiling point fractions.

Each fraction can then be analyzed for the same properties (%S, API, etc.) and for
appropriate product properties.

We measure the liquid volume fraction distilled as we increase the temperature

Crude Oil Characterization slowly

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Crude Oil Characterization (Cont.) Crude Oil Characterization (Cont.)

First fraction to distill is material that boils typically at less than 40 oC. This is
The second fraction boils typically between 40 oC and about 90 oC and is known
called Light Ends. as light naphtha (sometimes called as gasoline or straight run gasoline).

Mostly dissolved C1, C2 and C3 compounds.  Light naphtha is usually blended straight into gasoline.
 Light naphtha is usually < 10% of the crude oil.

LPG is usually < 4% of crude oil.
 Light naphtha contains mostly paraffins.

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Crude Oil Characterization (Cont.) Crude Oil Characterization (Cont.)

Between typically 90 oC and about 190 oC, we get heavy naphtha (HN)
From typically 190 oC to 270 oC, we get kerosene (sometimes called straight run
(sometimes called naphtha). kerosene or light distillate).
 Heavy naphtha can also be blended into gasoline, but usually requires upgrading first.  Kerosene goes to make jet fuel, or can be taken as HN and diesel.
 HN typically about 10 - 20% of the crude oil.  Considerably more naphthenes and aromatics than heavy naphtha.
 HN contains primarily paraffins but significant proportion of naphthenes and some
aromatics.

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Crude Oil Characterization (Cont.) Crude Oil Characterization (Cont.)

Between typically 320 oC and 430 oC, we get heavy gas oil. This can be blended

Between typically 270 oC and 320 oC, we get light gas oil (sometimes called into heavy fuel oil, but it is more economically attractive to convert it to lighter
straight run diesel or heavy distillate). This goes to make diesel fuel or heating
products.
oil.

The oil starts to undergo thermal decomposition when we get to higher

temperatures.

To prevent this, we pull a vacuum that allows us to collect more fraction.

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