Petroleum refining is the process of separating the various constituents or fractions of petroleum, which is a mixture of many substances such as gas, petrol, diesel, kerosene, lubricating oil, paraffin wax, etc. . This process is carried out in an oil refinery, which is an industrial manufacturing facility where crude oil is extracted and converted into more valuable goods, such as gasoline, jet fuel, petroleum naphtha, asphalt foundation, heating oil, petroleum kerosene, and liquefied gas. The refining process is a three-step process that involves separation, conversion, and treatment.

The major products or fractions of petroleum refining include:

• Light gases: These are the topmost fraction and include gases such as methane, ethane, propane, and butane. They are used as fuel for heating and cooking, and also as raw materials for the production of chemicals such as ammonia and methanol.

• Petrol: This is a light liquid fraction that is used as fuel for automobiles and other vehicles.

• Kerosene: This is a heavier liquid fraction that is used as fuel for jet engines and as a heating oil.

• Diesel: This is a heavier liquid fraction that is used as fuel for trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles.

• Lubricating oil: This is a heavy liquid fraction that is used as a lubricant for engines and machinery.

• Paraffin wax: This is a solid fraction that is used in the production of candles, crayons, and other products.

The uses of each petroleum product are:

• Light gases: Fuel for heating and cooking, raw materials for the production of chemicals such as ammonia and methanol.

• Petrol: Fuel for automobiles and other vehicles.

• Kerosene: Fuel for jet engines and as a heating oil.

• Diesel: Fuel for trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles.

• Lubricating oil: Lubricant for engines and machinery.

• Paraffin wax: Used in the production of candles, crayons, and other products.

It is important to note that petroleum refineries are very large industrial complexes involving a great many processing units and auxiliary installations such as utility units and storage tanks.