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The Main Column

The Main Column

Hosted by Hydrocarbon Processing

TechnologyManagementNewsInterviews guests

Episodes

300

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

The Main Column podcast, brought to you by Hydrocarbon Processing, stands as the premier audio destination for professionals in the downstream oil and gas industry seeking the latest insights and trends. Each episode delves into critical topics, including technology advancements, sustainability, energy transition, and operational excellence. With expert interviews and high listener engagement, this podcast delivers significant value, offering listeners thought-provoking discussions that enhance understanding and drive industry innovation. Whether you're seeking to stay ahead of the curve with the latest industry news, deepen your professional knowledge, or explore emerging technologies and strategies for sustainability and efficiency, The Main Column podcast is your essential resource for all things downstream. Join us as we navigate the industry's complexities, offering valuable perspectives and insights that empower professionals to make informed decisions and lead confidently.

Listen to episodes

60 recent
June 16, 202624 min

Digital transformation: Combining physics-based models with AI to optimize operations

In this episode, industry experts Eissa Alnatter, Digital Business Development Manager - MENA, Lummus Digital; and Kapil Bakshi, Strategic Advisor, Lummus Digital, discuss the importance of combining physics-based models with AI for optimizing petrochemical operations, the challenges of data quality and strategies for successful digital transformation in the energy sector.

June 10, 202616 min

How industrial AI Is transforming asset performance management

In this episode, Nithiya Parameswaran, VP of Product Management at Emerson | AspenTech, discusses how Industrial AI is reshaping Asset Performance Management, moving it beyond traditional monitoring toward predictive insights, faster maintenance action, and greater scalability across the enterprise.

June 3, 202625 min

How catalysts turn refinery off-gas streams into valuable products--Part 1

Hydrocarbon Processing sat down with Holli Garrett, Global Product Manager, Ethylene, at Clariant Catalysts to discuss the evolution of refinery off-gas treatment, and how those gases are creating value.

May 27, 202619 min

Bolted Flange Joint Certification: A paramount industry standard and safety measure

This episode explores the development and importance of the new API bolted flange joint (BFJ) certification program, featuring insights from industry experts Andri Orphanides, Director of Individual Certification Programs, API, and Andy Smith, Director of Training, VSP Technologies. Learn about the BFJ certification program, the certification process, and industry impact and importance of bolted flange joint competency.

May 21, 202613 min

Protecting polyolefin catalysts through advanced feed purification

This episode features Manuel Pfanzelt, Global New Project Manager, Clariant, discussing the critical importance of feed purification and catalyst protection in polyolefin production. Learn about innovative solutions, industry trends and how tailored purification strategies can enhance operational efficiency and product quality.

May 18, 202622 min

The future of industrial operations: AI and enterprise optimization

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing interviews Claudio Fayad, Chief Technology Officer, AspenTech, about the future of industrial operations, AI integration and recent product innovations. We explore how enterprise-wide optimization, AI and data strategies are transforming the refining and petrochemicals industries.

May 11, 202623 min

Decarbonizing industry: Strategies and technologies discussion with the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy

In this episode, Charles McConnell, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy, discusses the evolution of carbon capture, utilization,and storage (CCUS), its market dynamics in the U.S. and Europe, and the future of energy transition investments. Insights include the importance of monetizing CO2, industry decarbonization strategies, and technological innovations in monitoring and reporting.

May 4, 202617 min

Energy transformation and the role of advanced catalysts

In this episode, we sat down with Johnson Matthey’s U.S. President, Krista Johnson, to break down how the company is driving modern energy innovation. From emissions breakthroughs to platinum-powered clean tech, this conversation challenges the idea of energy transition and reframes it as something bigger: transformation.

April 23, 20267 min

Why do equipment failures persist? The answer lies in the three pillars of reliability

This episode explores the persistent challenge of equipment failures in the hydrocarbon processing industry. It emphasizes the importance of the three pillars of reliability—design it right, operate it right and maintain it right—and discusses how a holistic approach can lead to safer, more efficient and more profitable operations.

April 16, 20265 min

Procurement's blind spot: Rethinking vendor selection in EPC projects

This episode explores the critical importance of rethinking vendor selection in EPC projects by shifting focus from purchase order value to the comprehensive cost of ownership, emphasizing long-term value and strategic procurement.

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