Mexican Refineries Disrupted by High Water, Salt Content in Crude

Researched by Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--Petroleos Mexicanos SA de CV (Pemex) (Mexico City), Mexico's state-owned oil company, has experienced significant operational disruptions in recent weeks due to an increase in the water and salt content of its crude oil feedstock, specifically the "Crudo Maya."

These challenges have led to unplanned shutdowns and reduced refinery capacities. While repairs are underway at several refineries, Pemex continues to face difficulties in restoring full production capacity. The situation underscores the need to address feedstock quality to prevent further operational inefficiencies. Pemex said it is closely monitoring these issues, with the expectation that its refineries gradually will return to full capacity in the coming months, assuming successful repairs and stabilization efforts.

On February 2, Pemex was forced to partially shut down its 315,000-barrel-per-day (BBL/d) Miguel Hidalgo Refinery, located in Tula de Allende, due to equipment issues caused by the high water and salt content in the crude oil feedstock. The Combinada Primaria 2 (Crude 2) unit was taken offline, followed by the shutdown of the FCCU 1 unit. Currently, the Combinada Primaria 1 (Crude) unit is operating at minimum capacity.

At the 245,000-BBL/d Antonio M. Amor Refinery in Salamanca, Pemex had to reduce operations after a partial shutdown on January 30. The Crude (AA) Unit was taken offline due to similar issues. The salt content in the Maya crude, which typically measures 50 pounds per 1,000 barrels, has spiked to more than 2,500 pounds per 1,000 barrels. As a result, other units, including the Crude (AS), Crude (RCC) and Crude (RD) units, have had to operate below their designed capacities. Repairs to the Crude (AA) unit are ongoing, with an expected completion date of February 20.

Meanwhile, at the 340,000-BBL/d Dos Bocas Olmeca Refinery in Tabasco, Pemex has stabilized the salt content in the crude oil, bringing it back within acceptable parameters. This marks a positive development for the refinery's operations moving forward.

At the 225,000-BBL/d Lazaro Cardenas (Minatitlan) refinery, Pemex has resumed operations following unplanned mechanical disruptions in early February. While challenges with the Maya crude persist, these issues have not directly impacted operations, thanks to the performance of the desalting units.

The high salt and water content in Pemex's crude oil also have impacted crude exports. Specifically, the Maya crude, which has traditionally been a key export product for Pemex, is facing challenges in international markets.

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