By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, July 24 -- Saras SPA has shut down the catalytic reformer unit at its 300,000 b/cd Sarroch refinery in Sardinia, Italy, after one of the unit's four reaction vessels malfunctioned.
The shutdown is expected to last about 10 days to allow for completion of the repairs.
As a result of the shutdown, Saras said its production of high-octane gasoline components and hydrogen will be reduced, limiting production of ultra-low sulfur diesel. However, loss of ULSD production during the next 30 days will be only about 10% of the company's normal level due to the optimal selection of crude oil, the use of storage, and available feedstocks. The production loss for high-octane gasoline is similar.