Refineries

When you think of oil, you likely visualize a thick, black substance. But you have probably noticed that the gasoline you pump for your car is light brown or colorless. This difference is the result of the refining process, which takes the heavy, crude oil from the ground and processes it into petroleum products like gasoline, plastic and agricultural chemicals, among others. Refineries are a key step in getting oil to market and meeting growing global energy demand.

The recent recession, among other factors, reduced petroleum product demand across OECD regions and has precipitated widespread refinery sales and closures.

The US refining industry is strategically important but faces many challenges that could have unintended implications for the country.

America's refiners are a strategic asset for the United States, and maintaining a viable domestic refining industry is critical to the nation's economic security.

Since 1924, API has been a cornerstone in establishing, maintaining and publishing standards and recommended practices for the oil and natural gas industry.

Explore the critical role refining plays in unleashing the potential of a barrel of crude oil and turning it into the specially formulated products that we rely on every day.

API members are committed to protecting the environment and the health and safety of all that share it. API's safety activities and programs support this commitment through research, standards development, training, information sharing and transfer and advocacy.

A turnaround is a planned, periodic shut down (total or partial) of a refinery process unit or plant to perform maintenance, overhaul and repair operations and to inspect, test and replace process materials and equipment.

When you stop and think about it, it’s amazing how many things get their start from oil and natural gas.