How Digitalisation and Advanced Materials are Reshaping Technical Services in Asian Refining
The Asian refining sector is currently navigating a period of intense pressure, driven by volatile margins, fluctuating demand, and increasingly strict environmental mandates. Against this backdrop, incremental process optimisations are no longer enough. According to Chiu Gha Uai, Senior Manager of Technical Services (Asia) at Aspen Aerogels Inc., a fundamental technological shift is redefining what […]
From Black Box to Transparent Advisor: The Next Evolution of APC and AI
Introduction: The Trust Gap in Plant AI Advanced Process Control (APC) has long been the workhorse of the downstream industry, quietly ensuring stable operations, improved yields, and better energy efficiency. Yet despite decades of success, APC systems are often treated as “black boxes”: they make adjustments, but operators are left wondering why. The same problem […]
Digital Transformation in Turnaround Management: How AP-Networks’ Turnaround Network Platform Drives Predictable, Competitive Outcomes
By John Crager, Vice President/GM at AP-Vantage (Asset Performance Networks) Executive Summary The energy and petrochemical industries face mounting pressure to execute shutdowns, turnarounds, and outages (STOs) with greater predictability while managing increasing complexity. AP-Networks’ Turnaround Network addresses this challenge through a comprehensive digital platform that transforms traditional turnaround management. By combining data-driven tools, industry […]
The Human Equation: Unlocking Resilience in Downstream Oil & Gas
While digitalisation and AI have long been present in the downstream industry, new opportunities now exist to enhance business operations. Advanced AI, including large language models, now processes vast datasets to optimise operations and even pinpoint solutions for complex issues like catalyst degradation. Crucially, AI captures the invaluable, often undocumented knowledge of an experienced, aging […]
Bridging the Gap: Balancing Technology and Usability to Achieve Real Efficiency
In today’s complex industrial landscape, organisations worldwide are grappling with persistent challenges like missed project deadlines, scalability issues, and unplanned downtime. A significant portion of leaders report being impacted by these issues, with manual processes, outdated information, and skills gaps often cited as key contributing factors. The drive for digital transformation is clear, with many […]
Bangchak Clinches Six Prestigious Awards at the 15th Asian Excellence Awards
On June 27, 2025, Bangchak Corporation Public Company Limited was honoured with six prestigious accolades at the 15th Asian Excellence Awards 2025 and the Sustainable Asia Awards 2025, under the theme “The Role of Asian Corporations in Achieving Climate Neutrality.” The awards, organised by Corporate Governance Asia magazine, were held at the JW Marriott Hotel, Hong […]
CAPEX Optimization in Heavy Industry with Oryx
By TJ Felts, Director of Capital Projects, Asset Performance Networks Capital projects are the foundation of heavy industry. From petrochemical expansions to manufacturing upgrades, these investments determine whether companies thrive or struggle. Yet most organizations manage these projects in isolation, missing opportunities to optimize their entire portfolio despite the efforts at digital transformation. Asset Performance […]
Navigating Geopolitical Currents: Implications for Asia’s Downstream Sector
The global energy landscape is increasingly shaped by shifting geopolitical forces and market dynamics. Changes in U.S. energy policy—particularly under a potential second Trump administration—are expected to have far-reaching effects on Asia’s downstream refinery and petrochemicals sector. In this article, Dr. Weerawat Chantanakome from Thailand’s Ministry of Energy shares insights on the potential implications and […]
Emerson Enhances Optimisation Capabilities to Drive Operational Excellence
New AspenTech software release provides expanded industrial AI, new sustainability features and enhanced user experiences to drive improved operational performance 13 May 2025 – Emerson, an industrial technology leader delivering advanced automation solutions, today announced a new release of the flagship software of its Aspen Technology business. The release introduces a significant expansion of industrial AI capabilities, […]
Reducing Repeat Workplace Incidents in Asia Pacific
Achieving zero injuries and fatalities in the workplace requires understanding of why an organisation continues to experience incidents, particularly those with similar causes and consequences.