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Yield estimation and operational parameter evaluation of three crude oils using aspen HYSYS simulation-based
Wan Nazihah Liyana Wan Jusoh1, Madiah Binti Omar2, Kishore Bingi3
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar 32610, Perak, Malaysia. nazihahliyana.j@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|June 6, 2026
Summary
This study simulates crude oil distillation using Aspen HYSYS to predict yield without product flowrate data. The model accurately estimates yields and temperature profiles, aiding refineries in evaluating new crude oils.
Area of Science:
- Petroleum Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Process Simulation
Background:
- Crude oil yield estimation is vital for refineries, especially with new feedstocks.
- Laboratory analysis alone is insufficient for accurate yield prediction.
- Simulation modeling offers an improved approach to yield estimation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To simulate a distillation column using Aspen HYSYS V14.
- To estimate crude oil yield without pre-specified product flowrates.
- To analyze factors influencing yield and temperature profiles.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Aspen HYSYS V14 for distillation column simulation.
- Applied actual refinery data for three distinct crude oil samples.
- Investigated the impact of feed flowrate, steam, and pressure on yield and temperature.
Main Results:
- The simulation model accurately predicted crude oil yield with minimal temperature profile errors (0.07%–1.04%).
- Flowrate deviations ranged from 1.60% to 20.48% across the samples.
- Higher bottom steam increased heavy products by ~5%; higher top pressure boosted kerosene yield by ~2.45%.
Conclusions:
- Aspen HYSYS V14 provides a viable tool for predicting crude oil yield and understanding process parameters.
- Simulation effectively reduces reliance on laboratory analysis for yield estimation.
- Optimizing steam and pressure in distillation columns can significantly influence product distribution.
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