Emerson has introduced two new software solutions designed to automate crude scheduling and product blending, helping refineries improve operational efficiency, increase margins and respond more quickly to changing market conditions.
The new applications have been added to the company’s Aspen Unified Scheduling (AUS) platform and are aimed at simplifying two of the refining industry’s most complex and time-consuming processes. The solutions, Crude Schedule Optimisation and Multi-Blend Optimisation, integrate planning, scheduling and blending into a single platform, enabling refineries to translate production plans into executable schedules more efficiently.
According to Emerson, the software is designed to replace disconnected tools and manual data collection processes that can hinder decision-making, particularly during periods of crude market volatility.
Claudio Fayad, chief technology officer for Emerson’s Aspen Technology business, said refinery scheduling teams are facing increasing operational complexity and market uncertainty while working within the same resource constraints. He noted that automating key workflows allows experienced personnel to focus on higher-value activities while enabling less experienced engineers to contribute more effectively, ultimately supporting stronger operational and financial performance.
Crude Scheduling Automation
The Crude Schedule Optimisation application uses refinery data from Aspen Unified PIMS to automatically determine optimal crude receipts, transfers, blending strategies and production schedules with the objective of maximising refinery margins.
By reducing manual scheduling activities and enabling rapid “what-if” scenario analysis, the software helps operators improve scheduling accuracy, minimise errors and respond more quickly to fluctuations in crude supply and pricing.
Improved Product Blending
The Multi-Blend Optimisation solution is designed to optimise the formulation of each blended product batch throughout the scheduling period. It continuously balances product quality, market conditions and operational constraints while ensuring compliance with product specifications.
Emerson said the optimisation process enables refineries to make more efficient use of available blend components, reducing quality giveaway, lowering blending costs and improving overall profitability.
Integrated Refinery Operations
Both solutions are available as separately licensed applications within the Aspen Unified Scheduling platform. As part of Emerson’s broader Aspen Unified portfolio, the platform is designed to connect operational data, optimisation and execution in a single environment, reducing manual intervention and improving consistency across refinery operations.
The company said the new software supports faster and more informed operational decision-making, enabling refiners to adapt more effectively to evolving market conditions while improving production efficiency and financial performance.
For more information visit www.emerson.com/en/corporate
