The Main Column

Hosted by Hydrocarbon Processing

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Episodes

300

Latest episode

Aug 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

September 10, 20268 min

Digitalizing catalyst management for next-generation refinery optimization: A discussion with Ketjen

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing explores how Ketjen’s innovative platform iKet™ is transforming catalyst management in refineries through real-time data analysis, AI integration and enhanced decision-making speed. Guest Henry Tausch, Chief Commercial Officer, Ketjen, shares insights on digital transformation, operations optimization and future trends in refining technology.

September 9, 20267 min

From flow assurance to asset reliability: Technology-driven solutions for midstream operations excellence

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing sits down with Ebuka Nwakile, Industry Technical Consultant and Global Marketing Manager Midstream, Nalco Water (an Ecolab company), regarding the challenges and solutions in midstream operations, focusing on asset reliability, flow assurance and digital innovations. Mr. Nwakile shares insights on managing contaminants, optimizing systems and leveraging technology for proactive maintenance.

September 8, 20264 min

Optimizing assets for the future of fuels and chemicals: A discussion with Axens

In this episode, Benoit Chedal-Anglay, Global Asset Optimization Director, Axens, shares insights on global fuel market needs, technological solutions for energy and chemical industries, and what sets Axens apart in supporting operators worldwide.

September 7, 20266 min

Refining for the future: Flexibility, innovation and strategy

In this episode, Gary Cheng, Director, FCC Strategic Marketing, W.R. Grace discusses how the refining industry is evolving in response to global challenges, including feedstock flexibility, the impact of the Middle East conflict and strategic acquisitions. He shares insights on partnership approaches, technological innovations and future trends shaping the industry.

September 3, 202610 min

Designing and operating successful refinery overhead water wash systems

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing interviews Joel Lack, Senior Technology Advisor, Baker Hughes, about water wash systems in refinery overheads, exploring why some systems succeed while others fail, and how to optimize their design and operation for better reliability and corrosion control.

September 2, 20268 min

Navigating U.S. energy policy: Impacts of the CRAs and RFS on the fuel market

In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing interviews Erica Perryman, Vice President of Communications, American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), about the impact of the Congressional Review Act and the Renewable Fuel Standard regulations on the U.S. energy sector. The discussion explores how these policies affect fuel costs, supply chains and national security.

August 24, 202624 min

Managing micro-maldistribution to help lengthen reactor cycles

In this episode, Austin Schneider, Vice President of Technology at Crystaphase, discusses RDT Technology, an innovative material designed to help address micro maldistribution in fixed bed reactors. Learn how this solution can help improve catalyst performance, enhance distribution, and extend reactor cycle length.

August 19, 202618 min

How catalysts turn refinery offgas streams into valuable products—Part 2

In this episode, Holli Garrett, Global Product Manager for Ethylene at Clariant Catalysts discusses the complexities of refinery offgas treatment, focusing on designing effective catalyst treatment packages tailored to specific gas streams. Learn about the key challenges, technologies and industry trends shaping this critical process.

August 11, 202612 min

How downstream operators can build environmental programs that strengthen operational assurance

For downstream operators, environmental performance can no longer be separate from operational performance. A missed emissions issue, delayed test result, unreliable monitoring system or fragmented compliance workflow can affect uptime, permit confidence, worker safety, community trust and the ability to move through critical operating windows without disruption. In this discussion, Jenna Granstra, Director of Project Development, Onterris, explores how leading downstream organizations are building environmental programs that directly support operational assurance, reliability and efficiency.

July 12, 202628 min

Cybersecurity: A discussion in threat mitigation and resilience

In this episode, cybersecurity expert Paul Smith, Honeywell Technologies, discusses the evolving cybersecurity threat landscape, the impact of artificial intelligence on cyber threats and strategies for industrial cybersecurity resilience. A must-listen for industry professionals aiming to stay ahead in cybersecurity.