Vacuum Distillation Unit (VDU)

Vacuum Distillation Unit (VDU)

Following the atmospheric distillation process, the residual heavy oils that remain at the bottom of the atmospheric distillation column are further processed in the Vacuum Distillation Unit (VDU). The VDU operates under significantly lower pressures compared to the ADU, enabling the distillation of heavier fractions without the risk of thermal cracking.

Operating under reduced pressure conditions, the VDU lowers the boiling points of the residual oils, allowing for the separation of lighter fractions without inducing thermal decomposition. The lighter distillates obtained from the VDU include light gas oil and heavy gas oil, which serve as valuable feedstocks for downstream refining processes.

These lighter fractions are then directed to downstream separation and conversion units for further processing. For instance, light gas oil may undergo further refining to produce lube oil base stocks, while heavy gas oil can serve as feedstock for hydrocracking processes to yield light and middle distillates such as jet fuel, kerosene, and diesel.

The VDU plays a crucial role in maximizing the yield of valuable products from crude oil, ensuring efficient utilization of feedstocks and enhancing the overall profitability of the refining process.