1 – Fractionation
The first stage in the petroleum refining process is separating the crude oil into various components called “fractions”.
2 – Treatment
The second stage in the petroleum process is treating various hydrocarbon streams (naptha, kerosene, distillate, gas oil, etc.) to remove contaminants such as organic compounds (containing sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen), dissolved metals and inorganic salts, and soluble salts that are dissolved in the water.
3 – Conversion
Petroleum conversion is the final step in the petroleum refining process.