HPCL Commissions World’s First LC-Max Unit at Visakh Refinery, Boosts Distillate Output & Profitability

New Delhi: Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) has successfully commissioned the Residue Upgradation Facility (RUF) at its 15 MMTPA Visakh Refinery, marking a major technological milestone for the Indian refining sector.

The newly commissioned unit has a capacity of 3.55 MMTPA and uses the world’s first LC-Max based residue hydrocracking technology, enabling conversion of nearly 93% of bottom oils into high-value petroleum products. With this addition, HPCL expects the refinery’s distillate yield to rise by up to 10% from pre-expansion levels.

The company said the project will significantly improve the refinery’s Gross Refining Margins (GRMs) due to a superior product mix, increased ability to process heavier and opportunity crudes, and higher value realisation per barrel. The higher middle-distillate output will also help HPCL narrow the gap between its diesel marketing and refining volumes, reduce dependence on external sourcing, strengthen supply chain efficiency, and enhance overall profitability.

Following the commissioning of the RUF, the Nelson Complexity Index of the Visakh Refinery has increased to 11.6, placing it among the most advanced deep-conversion refineries in India. The facility is equipped with the LC-Max Digital Suite, allowing highly optimised operations, improved yield control and long-term margin management.

HPCL stated that this achievement reinforces its commitment to advanced refining technologies, operational excellence, and long-term value creation.