My understanding is that the transition to ULSD (Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel) has lead to more breakdowns. Apparently the process to remove Sulphur involves some pretty maintenance intensive equipment, and when that goes down they have to shut down the refinery to fix it. That is one of the more reasonable explanations I have heard.

Oh and more happy news on the Diesel front, most diesel engine manufacturers are going to SCR (Selective Catalyst Reduction) to meet the 2010 NOx standards. Part of the SCR process includes injecting Urea into the exhaust stream. Unfortunately Urea is derived from Natural Gas.

Yeah, that actually does sound reasonable though again it would be nice if someone can confirm or otherwise explain.

Ghawar Is Dying
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