Downstream
The downstream sector commonly refers to the refining of petroleum crude oil and the processing and purifying of raw natural gas, as well as the marketing and distribution of products derived from crude oil and natural gas. The downstream sector touches consumers through products such as gasoline or petrol, kerosene, jet fuel, diesel oil, heating oil, fuel oils, lubricants, waxes, asphalt, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as well as hundreds of petrochemicals.
Name: Seth Trebatoski
Company: Citgo
Job Title: Automation Intern
Date: Intern Summer 2015
Description: “I learned a lot about the control aspects of the refining process. Working under 4 Process Control Engineers, I developed skills allowing me to better understand Honeywell Computer systems. I used my chemistry and coding skills in order to help develop logic for different processes. I helped the team write reports on tags throughout the entire plant so that we could configure safety procedures to better match the situation. We decreased the amount of nescience alarms in the control system in order to help the control operators focus more on the problem alarms without distractions. For PCS I removed several data highway points from TPS and added Experion Scada points to read safety data from West Plant facilities. Also, under supervision, I added and removed several control points to the Experion System. I went through several safety courses and developed a large understanding of the refining industry.” (Citgo Corpus Christi refinery below)
Name: Luis Riojas
Company: Valero Energy
Job Title: Control Systems Engineer
Date: Intern Summer 2015
Description: "This past summer, I interned in the control systems department at Valero – Three Rivers Refinery. During my time there, I was introduced to various industrial automation controls such as basic DCS and PLC control. Using both systems, I was able to construct different control schemes for field loops. Apart from the work environment, I participated in local community events and established good relationships with my mentors. I would highly recommend control systems engineering to anyone who wants an overview of how a refinery functions and performs."
Name: Maher Aghnim
Company: Phillips 66
Job Title: Process Engineer
Date: Summer 2015 Intern
Description: "I got the opportunity to experience the hands-on technicality of the refinery, from the crude oil that was refined to the product that we sold. I was able to provide path forward recommendations to area managers on the assigned projects I worked on. From utilizing my resources, such as going on the field, red-lining P&ID’s, talking to process engineers and manufacturing specialists, I got the opportunity to inspect a distillation columns during turnaround (T/A). Also, by preforming hydraulic calculations and studies on pumps and on other tower product system, I got the chance to present to the managers (RLT) on how we can improve unit capacities. It was an amazing experience and I am glad that I experienced it. Safety. Honor. Commitment."
Name: Audrey Lopez
Company: Alcoa World Alumina
Job Title: Process Engineering Intern
Date: Intern Summer 2015
Description: “During the summer, I worked in the precipitation department testing various crystal growth modifiers, and with the results, gave recommendations on dosages and products. I gained knowledge of industry through a hands-on environment and with the advice from experienced engineers, managers, operators, and laboratory technicians. Now back at school, I already see the benefits from my internship; I am so thankful to have been given the great opportunity.”
