AI Revolution in Oil Refining: World's First Autonomous Unit

ENEOS and PFN Lead the Way

In a groundbreaking development that marks a new era for the oil and gas industry, ENEOS Corporation and Preferred Networks, Inc. (PFN) have successfully launched the world's first AI-based autonomous operation of a crude oil processing unit. This innovative system, which began operations in January 2024 at ENEOS's Kawasaki Refinery, is set to redefine standards for safety, efficiency, and innovation in oil refining, with potential impacts on various petroleum products, including engine oil and motor oil.

The Power of AI in Complex Operations

The heart of this technological marvel lies in its ability to manage the intricate operations of an atmospheric distillation unit—a critical component in oil refining that forms the basis for producing various products, from fuels to lubricants like engine oil and motor oil. This AI system, jointly developed by ENEOS and PFN, demonstrates remarkable precision by:

• Continuously monitoring 24 key operational factors
• Simultaneously adjusting 13 valves
• Processing data from 930 sensors

What makes this achievement truly impressive is the level of complexity involved. Atmospheric distillation units traditionally require operators with years of experience to manage effectively. The AI system not only matches but surpasses human capabilities, showing higher stability and efficiency compared to manual operations.

A Journey of Innovation

This breakthrough didn't happen overnight. ENEOS and PFN have been collaborating since 2018, focusing on developing AI systems that enhance plant safety and stability. Their goal? To reduce dependence on varying skill levels of human technicians and create a more consistent, efficient operation. This innovation could lead to more consistent quality in refined products, potentially benefiting the production of high-grade engine oils and motor oils.

Global Impact and Future Plans

The success of this project has far-reaching implications:

1. Industry First: According to consulting firm Globe-ing Inc., this marks the world's first continuous autonomous operation of an atmospheric distillation unit using AI.
2. Expansion Plans: ENEOS and PFN are not stopping here. They plan to deploy similar AI systems across other ENEOS refineries and eventually offer this technology as a packaged solution to external parties. This could revolutionize how refineries around the world produce various oil products, including the base oils used in engine oil and motor oil manufacturing.
3. Supporting Sustainable Development: This innovation aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 9, which aims to "Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation." Improved efficiency in refining processes could lead to more sustainable practices in the production of all petroleum products, including engine oils and motor oils.

The Future of Refining

As we witness this pivotal moment in industrial automation, it's clear that the oil and gas sector is on the cusp of a technological revolution. The successful implementation of AI in such a complex and critical process paves the way for similar advancements across various industries, potentially impacting everything from large-scale refining operations to the production of specialized products like synthetic engine oils.

ENEOS and PFN's collaboration serves as a shining example of how cutting-edge technology can be harnessed to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability in traditionally human-operated fields. As this technology continues to evolve and expand, we can expect to see transformative changes in industrial operations worldwide, potentially leading to:

• More consistent quality in refined products, including base oils for engine oil and motor oil
• Improved energy efficiency in the refining process, potentially reducing the carbon footprint of oil-based products.
• Enhanced ability to adapt to changing market demands for various oil products, from fuels to lubricants

Stay tuned for more updates as ENEOS and PFN continue to lead the charge in sustainable industrial innovation, setting new benchmarks for the future of manufacturing and processing in the oil industry and beyond.