Petrobras starts operation of Replan's new Diesel hydrotreating unit

Petrobras has started the operation of a new Diesel hydrotreating unit (HDT-D) at the Paulínia refinery (Replan), in São Paulo. The operation was started three months in advance of the date originally foreseen in the technical and economic feasibility study of the project.

With the entry into operation of the new unit at Replan, the Paulínia refinery expands its S-10 diesel production capacity by up to 63 thousand barrels per day (mbpd) and aviation kerosene (QAV) by up to 21 mbpd. This expansion prepares the refinery for the phase out of S-500 diesel (500 ppm sulfur), enabling the total conversion of its diesel production to S-10 (10 ppm sulfur). In addition, the conversion brings environmental benefits, as it improves the energy efficiency of the plant and reduces emissions of sulfur compounds (SOx) by the fleet, which now uses the S-10 instead of the S-500.

Petrobras continues to focus on operational safety, improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases, adapting its refineries and preparing to remain competitive. Over the next five years, the company expects to invest US$ 15.2 billion in order to expand refining capacity and position its refineries among the best in the world in terms of efficiency and operational performance.

"The commissioning of the new HDT-D at Replan demonstrates Petrobras' commitment to expand the production of S10 and QAV Diesel. We are reaffirming our strategy of offering the market more efficient products and, at the same time, preserving the financial sustainability of the company,” said William França, director of industrial processes and products at Petrobras.

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