JCCP NEWS
Newsletter of Japan Cooperation Center, Petroleum

TopicsNo. 98
November 2007
In this issue:

FY2007JCCP Program Seminar

Topics

FY2007 JCCP Program Seminar

1

ES Seminar on Advanced Process
Control Held in Russia
4
Study Tour on Lubricating Oil
Production for PETRONAS

7

Personnel Exchange Programs

Intensive Course on Practical
Technology for Energy Saving

10

Participant’s Voice

13

JCCP Regular Courses Completed
June – September 200716
FY2008 JCCP Course Schedule

Seminar participants

17

Technical Cooperation

Progress of the Project “TankSludge Reduction System
Application to Crude Oil
Terminal in Iran”

18

FY2007 Invitation Programfor Researchers from
Oil-Producing Countries

19

Announcements

The 16th Joint GCC-Japan
Environment Symposium

22

The 26th JCCP International
Symposium

23

Personnel Changes

24

JCCP held an 8-day Program Seminar(TCJ-1-07) from July 18 to 25, 2007.
Unlike regular courses, the program
seminar is a special program that invites
managerial people from JCCP counterpart
departments in national oil companies
in oil-producing countries to Japan, tofurther their understanding of JCCP
and hold concrete discussions on future
training programs and expert services.
In the past however, the main
objectives of the program had notnecessarily been fully conveyed to JCCP
counterparts in major oil-producing
countries. JCCP had even had to put off
implementing the yearly program a few
times, due to lack of participants. Outof regret of this situation, JCCP further
clarified the objectives of the program

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

and made active efforts to widely convey
its significance to relevant countries.
As a result, last year JCCP was able
to successfully hold the program forthe first time in three years. This
year’s program built upon last year’sachievement, and produced additional
results, as described below.

1. Objectives of the Seminar
Following last year’s Program Seminar,
we held this year’s seminar with anemphasis on the following objectives.
(1) To enhance participants’ understanding of JCCP activities, and inparticular, JCCP policies for FY2008
We first presented JCCP’s annual• Topics •1

A participant (from Qatar) giving a presentation

plan for FY2008 regular courses, which
has just been formulated in early July,as well as reiterated JCCP’s policy tomore actively promote Expert Service(ES) and Study Tour (ST) programs tomajor counterpart countries. Based on
the above, we set the stage for concrete
discussions on implementing ES/ST
programs in FY2008.
(2) To allow participants to experience
the essence of a regular course
We conducted the opening ceremony,closing ceremony, administrative
guidance, and orientation in the samemanner as in an actual regular course, toallow the participants to gain a generalidea of what regular course participants
go through, and experience the essenceof a regular course. We also followed theexample of a regular course, and offeredlectures on an “Overview of Japan’s Oil
Industry” and “Japanese-style Human
Resource Management,” made a visit
to a refinery, and incorporated culturaland historical fieldtrips.

Tour of JCCP facilities

2• Topics •A participant (from Malaysia) giving a presentation(3) Presentations by the participants
We requested all participants to givea presentation that covers an overview
of their company, its human resource
management (HRM) policies, evaluationof JCCP training programs, requests to
JCCP, etc. Through the presentations,
we aimed to better understand ourcounterparts, and to obtain evaluations
and requests of JCCP that we would be
able to apply toward improving future
training programs.
We designed the Program Seminarwith the primary goal of accomplishing
the above three objectives, all the while
keeping in mind the ultimate goalsof promoting mutual understanding
between the participants and JCCP staff,
introducing Japanese society, culture
and customs to the participants so thatthey may further their understanding ofJapan, and increasing opportunities forthe participants’ companies to utilize
JCCP programs more actively in the
future.

2. Seminar Participants(Total: 14)
Country/Organization

No. ofparticipantsIndonesia (PERTAMINA)

2

Iran (NIORDC)

1

Kuwait (KNPC)

2

Malaysia (PETRONAS)

2

Nigeria (NNPC)

1

Oman (ORC)

1

Qatar (QP)

1

UAE (TAKREER)

1

Saudi Arabia (SAUDI ARAMCO)

3

At an average age of 44.1, thegroup of participants was composedof key executive personnel of HRMrelated departments (JCCP counterpart
depa r t ment) i n t hei r resp e ct ive
companies. This year’s participants
represented 9 major counter pa r t
countries of JCCP activities.

3. Achievements
As described below, the objectives

At the Muroran Refinery of Nippon Oil Refining

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

of the Program Seminar have beenaccomplished, and the program has
produced results that are beneficial toboth JCCP and participating countries.
(1) We have gained the understanding of
the participant countries on JCCP’s
policy to actively promote tailormade courses (ES/ST programs).
The courses will allow JCCP toeffectively respond to the specificneeds of each country, by directing
as much of its limited humanand financial resources to majorcounterpart countries as possible.
We have also proposed potential ES/
ST programs for implementation in
FY2008, and requested each country

to submit concrete requests by theend of November.
(2) The participants broadened theirunderstanding of Japan and JCCP,
and built relationships of mutual
understanding and trust with the
JCCP staff. In fact, many of themfelt that they have gained enoughknowledge to sufficiently brief
employees in their country who
are selected to participate in future
JCCP programs. We believe thatthe seminar has cleared the way forparticipant countries to more fully
utilize JCCP training programs in
the future.
The program included a visit to

the Nippon Oil Refining Co., Ltd.
Muroran Refinery. Members of
the refinery gave highly valuablelectures on its system of humanresource development, and guided
the participants on a tour through thefacilities. The participants evaluatedthe visit highly, as an excellent
experience in onsite training.
(3) The corporate climate, organization,and HRM policies of each participant
country all differed to some extent,
but we have obtained valuable
information from the participants’presentations. As we have also
obtained their evaluation andrequests regarding JCCP training

My Impressions of the Program Seminar
Mr. Hassan Ghani Abdula Majeed(SAUDI ARAMCO / Saudi Arabia)
Participating in the JCCP programindustry and Japanese-style HRM were highly interesting

seminar, which brought together

and informative, as they provided us with detailed

14 par ticipants from 9 dif ferent

insight into Japan’s economy, history, and politics, andcountries, has been a memorable

its transition to one of the most highly industrialized

experience. As the Executive Director of JCCP rightly said

nations in the world.

in his opening remarks, the objective of the seminar is to

The review of the proposed 2008 program scheduleachieve the “3Es” (Experience, Evaluate and Exchange).

and subsequent follow-up discussion were the highlights

Indeed, the seminar has provided us with an excellentof the seminar. The discussion session generated valuable

opportunity to widen our channels of communication,questions from the participants, to which the JCCP staff

interact and share knowledge with other participants,

responded with clear, detailed explanations.
Our visit to Nippon Oil Corporation’s Muroran Refineryand achieve the goals of the seminar.
Over the past 25 years, JCCP has always been at thein Hokkaido Prefecture has also given us an excellent

forefront of building bridges of friendship between

opportunity to learn about HR development techniques

Japan and oil-producing nations. It has contributedat the refinery and exchange information directly withtremendously to enhancing mutual cooperation

the refinery staff. The visit and meetings enhanced our

between companies from major oil-producing nations

understanding of plant processes and operations.
Field trips to Sapporo and Otaru were an unforgettable

and Japan.
Through the program seminar, we have acquired
Japan’s excellent technical knowledge, as well as gained

experience for each one of us, the memories of which weshall take home to share and cherish.

a glimpse of Japan’s rich culture, customs, and traditions,

Most importantly, we had the opportunity to holdand the warm hospitality, humbleness, and courtesy offormal consultation sessions with the JCCP staff, about

the Japanese people.

training program requirements and our plans to pursue

To ensure each participant enjoys his stay in Japan,

further cooperation with JCCP in organizing various

the JCCP staff put in enormous efforts to meticulously

expert services and study tours. The sessions provided

plan the program to the finest details. The combinationa basis for making formal decisions and planning futureof classroom training and field trips provided us with anfollow-up actions.

excellent opportunity to not only enhance our knowledge

We would like to extend our best wishes to theof JCCP courses, but to also enjoy the unique experience

Executive Director of JCCP and his staff, for welcoming usof witnessing Japanese lifestyles and visiting famousand making us feel at home, far away from home.

historical landmarks in various prefectures in Japan.
Lectures that introduced us to the Japanese oil

The program seminar has achieved the 3Es, and was a
resounding success. DOMO ARIGATO GOZAIMASHITA.

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Topics •3

activities, we intend to apply what
we have learned to improving future
activities.

My Impressions of the Program Seminar
Ms. Nina Nurlina Pramono(PERTAMINA / Indonesia)

4. Observations

I have decided to come to Japan to participate in
the JCCP program seminar for several reasons. First ofThis year’s Program Seminar enjoyed
the participation of members from 9 majorcounterpart countries, including 6 from
the Middle East (excluding Iraq). They
included Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, andOman, which did not send participants
to last year’s seminar, plus Kuwait and
Qatar, from which participants haveattended two consecutive years. This
was the second Program Seminar tobe held under the new approach, which
was adopted last year, but it appears
that the program is slowly taking root
among the major counterpart countries,
perhaps partly owing to the fact that
JCCP has clarified its intention to holdthe program every July as an annual
meeting. As a special program designed
for JCCP’s major counterpart countries,
we intend to further enhance the content
of the Program Seminar next year, sothat it may more deeply take root as ameaningful program.
Lastly, we would like to thank themembers of Nippon Oil Refining’s
Muroran Refinery and other parties
concerned, for their support andcooperation in the effective and successful
implementation of this Program Seminar.
Thank you very much.

all, I wished to thank JCCP for maintaining a strong
relationship with PERTAMINA since 1981. Secondly, I
wished to personally know and better understand how JCCP has promoted
and delivered such successful programs, which have so far been attended
by 16,400 people from 53 countries, and have dispatched 4,500 JapaneseExperts throughout the world. Furthermore, I wished to also take theopportunity to learn about Japanese people and culture. Specifically, I was
curious to know more about the discipline, politeness, and punctuality of
the Japanese people, which I have heard so much about, and how they
maintain their valuable traditional culture while adopting Western lifestyles
at the same time.
On the first day, I was immediately impressed by the way the JCCP
management so warmly welcomed us, as we entered the JCCP officeon the 58th floor of the Sunshine 60 Building. Everyone was so friendly,that we felt more at home than like strangers in a foreign country. The
introduction program involving the JCCP management and all participantsfrom 9 different countries has also strengthened the feeling that we hadalready met each other before this program.
On the whole, the program was highly efficiently organized, and welearned much from the presentations given by JCCP and relevant member
companies. “Japanese-style HRM” was one of the most interesting partsof the program. It was combined with site visits to a refinery and otherunique places, and has given us a clear idea of the people and culture ofJapan. It also gave us a glimpse of the country’s commitment to safety andenvironment, an example we should all follow. For all that we experienced,
I would like to again express my deep appreciation.
The presentations from each delegation have also enriched ourknowledge in a relatively short period of time. I personally feel strongly thatthese presentations should be continued in future program seminars.
Lastly, I would like to thank all JCCP members for their warm hospitality
and for offering the opportunity of this successful program. I would also
like to say to my dear friends from other countries, “You are all wonderful.”
I wish all the best to all of you, and hope we meet again. Insya Allah.

<by Koji Hori, Operations Dept.>

TopicsAdvanced Process Control Seminar
Held in Russia
Lukoil-Inform and JCCP held ajoint seminar (ES-50-07) on Advanced
Process Control (APC) from July 2 to5, 2007, at the head office of Lukoil-

Inform in Moscow.
Russia and JCCP have steadily
established friendly relations since
the beginning of the 1990s. In recent
years, given Japan’s increasing interest
in Russia and Central Asia as oil

4

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

1. Background to the Seminar• Topics •suppliers, JCCP has stepped up its
efforts to strengthen relationships withcountries in that region. In 2005, it
sent a special team to the region, to
promote interactions with counterpart
organizations.

Toward the end of 2006, Russia(Lukoil-Inform) submitted a request
for both Expert Service (ES) and Study
Tour (ST) programs, in response to
JCCP’s call to oil-producing countries
for the implementation of ES and ST
programs in FY2007. It specificallyrequested an ES program on “Advanced
Process Control,” and an ST program on“Refinery Computerization.” LukoilInform, a subsidiary of Lukoil, employs
approximately 7,000 employees, andunder ta kes the constr uction andma intenance of com munications
facilities, information systems ingeneral, and instrumentation systems,
for the entire Group. JCCP agreed to
the request, partly because the request
presented an opportunity for JCCP toreceive the participation of LukoilInform to its programs for the firsttime. JCCP decided to first hold an ES
program in Russia, and has sent JCCP
lecturers Messrs. Y. Nito and K. Saegusa
to Moscow to implement the seminarwith the cooperation of Mr. H. Takatsufrom Yokogawa Electric Corporation.

2. Seminar Content
As the seminar was to be held underthe main theme of “Advanced Process
Control” we designed the programwith a focus on the representative
type of control method called “Model
Predictive Control.” As one of themost powerful control methods used
today, it has been introduced to manyrefineries, with significant results. In
the seminar, we also covered the soft
sensor technology, which is a method for
estimating product properties, because

At the seminar venue

product property measurements areindispensable to predictive control. Softsensors estimate product properties bystatistically processing the operating
conditions (temperature, feed rate,pressure) of a product, and provide
quick estimation results, without deadtime. These sensors incorporate a newtechnology that has only recently comeinto practical use.
We also included in the seminaran overview of real-time optimizers ofcontrol systems. Real-time optimizers
seek optimum operating conditions,in response to real-time changes in theoperating environment, to maximize
controller functions.
Furthermore, the seminar introduced
examples of control applications thatare actually being used in refineries.
Our original intent was to provide an
opportunity for direct exchange ofviews with a development engineer, but
the engineer could not accompany us
to Russia, due to work-related matters.
However, courtesy of the refinery, wewere able to borrow the engineer’s

presentation manuscript, and presented
it as an alternative.
Based on the understanding that
optimization of an entire refinery
requires advanced use of information,
we allotted some time to introducing
exa mples of major i n for mat ion
management systems that are currently
employed by refineries in Japan. By
the same token, we also introduced
the “Operator Support System” that is
beginning to gain widespread interest
among refineries today. In Japan, alarge number of experienced operators
will retire when they reach mandatory
retirement age over the next several
years. On the other hand, refinery
equipment is increasingly being
operated for prolonged hours, and there
is little opportunity to conduct irregular
operations. The operator support system
incorporates the operational expertiseof experienced operators, and supports
young operators who have yet to acquire
experience.
We conducted the seminar according
to the following agenda.

Seminar scenes

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Topics •5

Day 1:
1) Introduction to JCCP
2) Overview of Japan’s Oil
Industry3) Outline of Advanced Process
Control
Day 2:
1) Outline of Model Predictive
Control2) Outline of Real Time
Optimizers
Day 3:
1) Outline of Soft Sensors2) Outline of Plant Information
Management Systems3) Operator Support System
Day 4:
1) Example of Advanced Process
Control Applications
2) Brief description of ST
program (training program
held in Japan)
3) Course review

3. Overview of the Seminar
Prior to commencing the seminar,
we paid a courtesy call on the leadersof Lukoil-Inform, and met with Messrs.
Alexander Mironov (First Deputy
Director) and Oleg Rutskin (Deputy
Director). Mr. Rutskin stated that he wasplacing great expectations on this ES
program and the subsequent programthat is scheduled to be held in late
September. He explained that Lukoil has
a grand design to establish an optimal
production system, and has modernized
its refinery equipment as the first step
toward that goal. The next step consistsof modernizing its instrumentationand information systems. Mr. Rutskindelivered a speech to the same effect at
the opening ceremony of the seminar.
Mr. Alexander Zheludov of theTechnological Process and Manufacture
Automation Department, our counterpart
department at Lukoil-Inform, tookcharge of coordinating the entire
seminar. About 14 to 18 participantsconsistently assembled from LukoilInform’s head office and regional offices
throughout Russia, and attended the6• Topics •seminar with strong interest. Lecturesneeded to be translated from English
to Russian, but thanks to the translator
who had extensive refinery experience,the exchange of information proceeded
extremely smoothly.
The pa r ticipants raised manyquestions concerning model predictive
control (MPC) and soft sensors,
indicating their strong interest inadvanced process control (APC). The
focus of their questions ranged from thefeatures of different vendor products,
to the connectivity with distributed
control systems (DCS), timing of model
updates, investment issues, and effectsof APC. We later learned that one of therefineries is already implementing an
APC introduction project, and anotheris at the stage of selecting a vendor for
APC installation. We understood thatquestions were concentrated on APC,
because APC is currently the primaryconcern at refineries. On the other
hand, since we received few questions
concerning information systems, weperceived this to mean that advanced
information systems are an issue thatwill be further addressed in the near
future.
At the end of the seminar, allparticipants responded to a questionnaire,and rated the seminar “useful.”

4. Impressions
We have been able to hold thisES program as planned, thanks inlarge part to Mr. Zheludov’s effective
management. The participants arrived
at each day’s program on time, andenabled us to cover all topics that we
had planned for the seminar. Theylistened to our presentations intently,
and contr ibuted many insightfulquestions and comments, which madefor an interesting and lively seminar.
Although there was the language
issue, Lukoil-Inform had arranged for
an English/Russian translator for theduration of the program, as mentioned
earlier. We understood that the translator,
Mr. Michael Avrov, traveled 400 or so

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

At the entrance to the Lukoil-Inform
Head Officekilometers from Nizhny Novgorod
to Moscow, to provide his services.
Mr. Avrov was highly knowledgeable
about refinery matters, owing to his
previous experience as a translator at
a refinery. He had good understandingof technical terms to begin with, but healso prepared well for the seminar byreading the presentation manuscripts
in advance. He had very few questions
concerning technical terms he was
unfamiliar with, and judging from what
we gathered by observing participant
responses, we believe Mr. Avrov did an
outstanding job.
For this seminar, International
Business Relations (IBR) acted as
an intermediary between LukoilInform and JCCP, and helped eliminate
language issues and facilitate smoothcommunications for the implementationof the seminar, with its quick responses.
IBR had also arranged for an interpreterfor us, provided local transportation,and escorted us to Lukoil-Inform.
Consequently, we were able to function
well throughout our stay in Russia,
without any problem.
This ES program covered a lotof ground in a short amount of time,
but everything proceeded smoothly,
owing to the support and cooperationof everyone involved in the program.
Thank you all very much.
<by Keiichi Saegusa, Training Dept.>Topics

JCCP Conducts a Study Touron Lubricating Oil Production for Malaysia(PETRONAS)
This year, JCCP has announced its
policy to actively push ahead with a new
initiative to promote Expert Service(ES) and Study Tour (ST) programs, andhas recently implemented the first of its
upgraded ST programs. In response to arequest from PETRONAS in Malaysia,
JCCP conducted a Study Tour in Japanon Lubricating Oil Production (ST40-07), from August 28 to September
6, 2007. The eight-day program wasattended by a group of 13 members fromPETRONAS, who are involved in a baseoil production project that is currently
underway at the Melaka Refinery.

1. Background andCourse Planning
The Melaka Refinery sells its surplusof oil residue that is produced in its lightcrude distillation unit as low valueadded fuel, and produces lubricating oil
by blending imported base oil. However,it has recently introduced a base oil
production unit, in an effort to upgrade
the surplus oil residue to high valueadded lubricating oil. It was under thissituation that PETRONAS requested acourse on lubricating oil production.
Before implementing the program,training and project managers fromPETRONAS visited JCCP to help
create the program curriculum. They
discussed, and in the end agreed to,various details of the curriculum, anddisplayed their strong expectations of
the program.

2. Participants
PETRONAS originally requested an
ST program for a total of 40 participants,
divided into several small groups.
However, JCCP is currently engaging

Visit to PETRONAS Japanin a number of ongoing discussions on
ES/ST programs with other countries,
and its time and resources are limited.
Therefore, JCCP and PETRONAS
ultimately agreed to a one-time programfor 13 participants. The participants
mainly included engineers from theresearch and analysis, production
pl a n n i ng, c o m m i s s io n i ng, a n d
instrumentation departments of the
Melaka Refinery, and engineers fromthe production planning department in
the head office.
The study group, composed of
9 men and 4 women whose average
age was 34, was young and energetic.
It included 2 “repeaters” who haveparticipated in a regular course in thepast, and a few others who have finallybeen selected to participate in a JCCP
training program, after having applied
on many occasions. At the opening
ceremony, Mr. Abd Rahim Bin Othman,Technical Professional, delivered aspeech as leader of the Study Tour group.
He spoke with fervor about the group’s
strong expectations and enthusiastic

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

commitment to the program.

3. Overview of the Program
Th rough lectures and on-sitetraining, we introduced various aspectsof lubricating oil in Japan, such as
standards, properties, test management
methods, and supply/demand trends.
We also gave lectures and provided
practical training on the characteristics,
operations, and management technologies
of base oil production units, as wellas included visits to the head office,research laboratory, and refinery ofvarious oil-related companies in Japan,
to allow the participants to systematicallystudy the roles of each facility.
To cover a large number of topics
in the short, intensive program, webegan the first day of the program
earlier than originally planned, andpromptly proceeded to the main aspectsof the program from the first day. We
shortened the time frame of lectures at
JCCP, compared to the lectures given
in regular courses, and designed the• Topics •7

program so that participants can gain
firsthand knowledge about Japan’s oil
industry, as well as its present situationof lubricating oil production, throughpractical training.
(1) Lectures at JCCP
1) Japan’s Oil Industry
In this lecture, we explained thestructure and energy supply/demandof Japan’s oil industry and how it
responded to the oil crisis of the
1970s. PETRONAS has recently been
privatized, so many participants havecommented that the lecture has provided
helpful information for the future
development of PETRONAS.
2) Lubricating Oil Situation andStandards in Japan
Lubricating oil is generally divided
into lubricating oil for automobiles,
ships, and industrial-use, but its
smaller categories are extremelycomplex. However, the lecture gave
a comprehensive, well-organized
explanation of lubricating oil in general,
including, for example, the necessity of
establishing standards, and met with theparticipants’ approval. The participantsalso highly evaluated the large collectionof standards concerning lubricating oilthat was presented as reference.
3) Lubricating Oil Production
FacilityThis lecture covered base oil
production processes in general,
which include vacuum distillation, deasphalting of propane, solvent refining,hydrodesulfurization, solvents, andcatalytic de-waxing. It provided useful
information on specific operation andmanagement techniques, based ona lubricating oil production facility
constructed and introduced to a certain
country in the past.
(2) Practical Training
1) Nippon Oil Corporation
Head Office (Nishi-Shimbashi)
Members of the Nippon Oil Head
Office first gave a general introductionof the company, followed by explanations
on the roles of the head office andproduct supply/demand trends. In regard
to lubricating oils, they explained basic
friction and shear stress in relation to
lubricating oil theories, in addition to
performance evaluation methods andthe use of additives.
The study group learned first-handthat 95% of base oils produced in Japan
fall under Group 1, and that Japan
handles very little Group 3 base oils,
which PETRONAS plans to produce.
2) Lubrizol Japan Ltd. (Kinuura
Office, Chita-Taketoyo, Aichi)
The study group visited a major
additives producer in Japan andobserved a lubricating oil evaluation
and analysis equipment, which they
do not normally have the chance tosee. The participants examined theequipment with strong interest, whileabsorbing the details that were very
carefully explained to them.
3) Nippon Oil Refining Co., Ltd.
Negishi Refinery(Negishi, Yokohama)Classroom scenes

8• Topics •JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

The study group next visited thelargest refinery in Japan, and studied theflow of activities, from the production ofbase oil in the base oil production unit,
to its delivery.
They spent close to 2 hours touring
the refinery and observing the intensive
instrument room, field analysis room,
shipping facilities, and automated canfilling facility. The participants seemed
particularly impressed with the automatedcan-filling facility, which handles entire
series of tasks for multiple products,from the preliminary inspection of cans
to filling and delivering them, with justa handful of operators.
4) Nippon Oil Corporation Central
Technical Research Laboratory(Honmoku, Yokohama)On the next day, the study group
visited the Central Technical ResearchLaboratory of Nippon Oil Corporation,
where they were introduced to thegas-to-liquids (GTL) technology andother advanced technologies that thelaboratory has succeeded in developing,through laboratory-wide R&D efforts.
They also received a lecture on thetechnical trends of automotive andindustrial lubricating oils.
The group had already completed
the tour of the research buildings during
the morning, but they requested anothertour of analyzing equipment after the
final Q&A session, and displayed an
extremely industrious attitude. We
received comments concerning their
desire to maintain contact with themembers of the laboratory and tocontinue to learn more from them.

5) Japan Lubricating Oil Society(JALOS) (Funabashi, Chiba)
On the fifth and final day of practicaltraining, the study group studied
management methods of lubricating oil
in general at JALOS, as a final wrap-up
of practical training.
JA LOS promot es “l i fe cycle
maintenance” (LCM) activities, which
are activities similar to “total productive
maintenance” (TPM) activities. Here,oil analysis is indispensable to themaintenance of equipment that uses
lubricating oil, and is just as importantas blood tests are to human beings. The
group received training in various oil
sampling and analysis methods.
The group, and particularly thosemembers from analysis departments,
seemed especially fascinated withthe metal wear-particle analysis byferrography and the practical training on
particle measurement using an opticalcounter.

4. Introduction to Japanese
History and Culture
In a regular course, participants
spend a weekend touring the sitesof traditional Japanese cities such as
Hiroshima and Kyoto, to learn about
and experience Japanese culture andhistory. In this program, however,t he g roup visit e d K a ma k u ra , ahistorical and cultural spot nearer toTokyo, because time was limited, andsince we were afraid to overtire theparticipants. Coming from an Islamic
country, some of the participants had
reserved responses to Japan’s temples

At Lubrizol Japanand shrines, but they appreciated theblooming f lowers in the Japanesegarden at Hasedera Temple, a temple
known for its beautiful flowers year
round, and encountered a Japanese-stylewedding at the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
Shrine, and invariably admired Japan’s
traditions, culture, and the seasonal
beauty of nature.

5. Impressions of theProgram
The Melaka Refinery producesbase oil, but as mentioned earlier, it isstriving not only to simply produce baseoil, but to improve its profit margin by
upgrading oil residues to base oil.
Additionally, since PETRONAS has
traditionally produced lubricating oilfrom imported base oil, the membersof the study group already possessed a
considerable level of knowledge about
lubricating oil, when they attended thisprogram. Yet, in anticipation of thecommencement of operations on their
new base oil production facility next
spring, the participants were full of
positive energy, asking questions duringlectures, and wholly applying themselvesto practical training on analysis and test
methods. It seems their enthusiasm
rubbed off on their lecturers, who felt
they gained a rewarding experiencefrom teaching the participants.
The program spanned a short 10 days.
Therefore, according to participants’
responses to a final questionnaire, 8 of the
13 participants felt that the duration was
too short, and considered it more realistic
to allot at least 21 days. In response toa question about whether they felt the
program would benefit them in the future,
6 participants answered that it would“greatly benefit them,” and 7 answeredthat it would “certainly benefit them.”
Given this evaluation, we believe thatthe program fully achieved its objectives,
and was able to more than satisfy thehigh-level group of participants. We hopethat it will prove to be useful when the
Melaka Refinery commences and begins
management of operations on its new baseoil production facility.
We later received questions from thegroup, concerning general production
planning issues at refineries and head
offices, about which we did not havetime to sufficiently discuss during the
program. We therefore put the questions
to the personnel of relevant refineries
and head offices by phone, and relayed
their responses to the participants.
The information greatly exceeded theparticipants’ expectations, and washighly appreciated.
The Study Tour group was very
well-organized, and was composed ofmembers who seemed to be acquainted
with each other from before coming toJapan. They were prepared and readyto start each day 15 minutes ahead ofschedule, and always behaved as a groupwhen traveling from one site to another.
Moreover, when they visited facilities
outside JCCP, they adopted the “toban
system,” where two members each tookturns taking head counts when travelingto different locations, delivering athank-you speech at facilities where
they received on-site training, verifying
the implementation of the 5S’s, andAt the Nippon Oil Corporation Head Office

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Topics •9otherwise did their best to support their
JCCP coordinators. Owing to theirsolidarity, the program proceeded amid
an extremely friendly atmosphere.
For 10 days, the group endured
the lingering heat and humidity of atypical Japanese summer in September,when temperatures daily continued to
exceed 30°C. On their last day, theyeven witnessed Typhoon No. 9 makelandfall on the Kanto region, before safely
returning to Malaysia the following day.
Although JCCP has temporarilysuspended the regular course on
lubricating oil production since 2005,
we expeditiously arranged this Study
Tour on lubricating oil in response to arequest from PETRONAS. We would

like to extend our deepest gratitude to all
the companies who generously received
the group and provided practical training
at their facilities.
Finally, we would like to end thisreport on a wish to continue strengthening
the friendly relationship between
Malaysia and Japan in the future.
<by Tetsuji Kubota, Training Dept.>

My Impressions of the Study TourMs. Atifahi Binti Idris(Manager, PSR-1 & MGB Planning Refinery, Planning Department, PETRONAS / Malaysia)
On behalf of PETRONAS Penapisan (Melaka) Sdn. Bhd. and the participants of the Lubricating
Oil Production course, I would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere and deepest
appreciation and gratitude to the JCCP management, all staff members, and the relevant parties,
for organizing this specially customized program for PETRONAS.
We were impressed with the hospitality and kindness given to us by JCCP and all the companies involved in thisprogram, and with their strong commitment to making the program successful. We also found the Japanese people
to be systematic, polite, very helpful, and good at time management.
The course has given us knowledge, techniques, and best practices on lube base oil manufacturing, lubricant
production, and testing in Japan. The valuable knowledge is sure to benefit us in preparing ourselves for the operationof our base oil plant and the handling of various products, when the plant comes into commission next year.
We all enjoyed the program very much, and hope to maintain the strong network and relationships that we havebuilt during the study tour.

Personnel
Exchange

Intensive Course on
Practical Technology for Energy Saving
1. Course Concept
JCCP offers intensive courses as ameans of responding to the needs ofparticipants who are unable to leave
their workplace for long to participate ina regular course. Intensive courses span
about 10 days on average, and focus on
carefully-selected topics for which there
are strong and advanced needs.
Recently, JCCP implemented an
intensive course on “Practical Technology
for Energy Saving” (IT-1-07). The course
was designed to provide participants
with wide-ranging knowledge theyneed to promote energy conservationin their refineries, by introducing the

10 • Personnel Exchange Programs •latest energy conservation technologies
employed in refining plants and boiler
utilities in refineries, and by providing
practical training on actual energysaving activities and utility management
based on steam-trap inspections, forexample, at refineries in Japan.

2. Participants
Initially, we received 12 applications
from 8 countries. However, the course
was attended by 10 participants from 6
countries, due to the cancellation of 2
participants after our screening process.
The average age of the participants
was 41, with 5 participants in their

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

thirties and 3 in their fifties. They were
all active and youthful, and composed
an extremely congenial group withdisregard to age.
Overview of participants
Country

Organization

Age

Indonesia

PERTAMINA

32

Indonesia

PERTAMINA

35

Iran

NIORDC

30

Iran

NIORDC

32

Libya

NOC

45

Libya

NOC

42

Nigeria

WRPC

50

Nigeria

NNPC

38

MexicoPEMEX

54

Saudi Arabia SAUDI ARAMCO

53

3. Course Structure
We divided the course program intoroughly two parts. One part featured
lectures at JCCP, including lectures
given by JCCP lecturers and those given
by external lecturers. The other partfeatured practical training on actualtechnologies and activities implemented
in the field. We designed this partof the course to feature lectures andtours at actual refineries and factories
in Japan, so that participants may
acquire first-hand knowledge of various
technologies in line with the objectiveof the course.
(1) Training at JCCP
To provide knowledge of practicaltechnologies efficiently, in a shortperiod of time, JCCP lecturers firstgave lectures on the overview of the“Japanese Oil Industry” and “Energy
Saving at the Refinery,” followed by an
in-depth lecture on “Recent Technology
for Energy Saving” given by an external
lecturer. This part of the program also
included practical calculation training
in a session on “Exercise of Heat
Calculation in Refinery,” and practicaltraining using a process simulator(practice in energy-saving operationsof a heating furnace through dynamic
simulation of a CDU unit).
Japan’s Oil Industry
This lecture covered various aspectsof Japan’s oil industry—i.e., the history
and background of Japan’s oil industry,a breakdown and trends of crude oil
imports and product demand, the status

At Idemitsu Kosan, Aichi Refineryof Japan’s oil industry in the world,energy demand today, the trend toward
deregulation, and issues confronting
oil industries. It placed particularemphasis on Japan’s policies for energy
demand/supply balance and energy in
general, and on the quality improvementof gasoline and diesel oil, which areissues closely related to the subject of
this course.
Energy Saving at the Refinery
This lecture discussed the progressof energy conservation in Japan’s
refineries, in reference to many specificexamples of energy conservation
efforts. It also covered topics on energy
conservation outside of refineries,
such as Japan’s efforts to address
the global warming issue and theunique “top-runner method,” based onenergy utilization efficiency. In many
countries today, refineries are making
independent efforts to systematicallypromote energy conservation. Therefore,
participants held active discussions
on specific means and examples ofpromoting energy conservation during
this lecture.
Recent Technology for
Energy Saving (I)This lecture provided systematic andspecific information on improving heatefficiency by cogeneration, optimizing
steam balance levels in refineries by
maximizing the characteristics of steam
turbines, heat/electric energy balance
based on a combined cycle, and energysaving methods related to the variable
voltage, variable frequency (VVVF)
inverter and other rotating equipment.
It then discussed the application of
the high-temperature air combustion
technology (HiCOT) to reformers inhydrogen plants, and how they can
improve heating furnace efficiency andreduce greenhouse gases.
Exercise of Heat Calculation in
Refinery (lectures and practice)
Generally, refinery engineers tend
to depend on computers to perform
calculations for various processes.

Lecture session at JCCP (heat balance practice)

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Personnel Exchange Programs • 11

At Mitsubishi Heavy Industries,
Yokohama Dockyard & Machinery Works

However, in this session, participants
practiced manual calculations using
basic equations, with the objective ofgaining an accurate understanding of
the fundamental theories of heat balanceand physical balance, which are needed
to promote energy conservation in
refineries. Specifically, they practiced
solving sample problems related tothe thermal insulation of pipework
in refineries, heat exchangers, andconductive/convective heat transfersaround furnaces. Each of the participants
came from a different work background,but they diligently spent the whole day
applying themselves to the practice.
Process simulation training
In this session, the participants
practiced dynamic simulations of a
Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) heating
furnace, which consumes the largest
amount of fuel in refineries. They spent
the day studying the energy conservation
effects of gradually reducing surplus airand of using an air preheater. Dynamic
simulations using a Distributed Control

At TLV International, Kakogawa Head Office

System (DCS) keyboard offered anexperience that came extremely close
to operating real equipment. The
participants have evaluated the training
as an invaluable experience that left an
extremely strong impression on them.
Recent Technology for
Energy Saving (II)This lecture provided an overview ofpinch technology, which is indispensable
for large-scale energy conservation
activities and equipment revamping, andthe latest information on heat exchangers
and towers/vessels for “energy-saving
plant design.” Explanations of the latest
heat exchanger were given using an
actual compact model, and invited manyquestions from the participants. The
lecture also introduced the Independent
Water and Power Project (IWPP) thatis actively underway in the Middle East
countries today, and seawater desalination
technologies, providing details of project
methods and applied technologies suited
to the circumstances and environment or
each country/region.

At Idemitsu Kosan, Aichi Refinery

12 • Personnel Exchange Programs •JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

(2) On-site Training
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Yokohama Dockyard & Machinery
Works and Kanazawa Plant
The staff of the works facility
int roduced va r ious tech nologies
relating to boiler facilities, as wellas trouble cases and improvementcases, followed by explanations of thetrends of such technical improvements,
their functions and efficiency, andexamples of implementation in Japanand abroad. They also provided a lectureon the steam turbine technology, withdetails on blade improvements and thelatest technologies today. Though theinformation they presented was highly
specialized knowledge, the participants
all listened with great interest. In theafternoon, the participants had theopportunity to tour the shop and plant.
They appeared extremely impressed, as
they normally do not have the chance to
see the production site of large boiler
equipment inside such a huge andspacious plant.

Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.
Aichi Refinery
After introducing an overview of therefinery, members of the refinery gavea detailed description of their energy
conservation promotion organization, its
framework, and activity status. Young
engineers of the refinery then introduced“case examples of various energy-saving
activities” at the production site. The
Aichi Refinery actively engages intotal production management (TPM)
activities, and boasts an extremelyorganized work environment, which
duly impressed the participants. The
participants also highly evaluated theextremely detailed and interesting
information on energy-saving activities
implemented at the refinery.
TLV International, Inc.
Kakogawa Head Office
The participants visited the head
office and factory of TLV International,
a steam specialist company, andreceived presentations on an overview
of its operations, the thermodynamic
cha racter istics of steam, and its
applications and functions. They also
received lectures on the principle
and structure of steam traps, their
management and maintenance, andcondensate recovery. The participants
had seemingly never heard such detailed
and meticulous explanation of thefunctions and structure of steam traps,
and took advantage of the opportunity to

ask many questions. After the lectures,
the TLV side gave a demonstration on
the operation of its equipment at thetraining center located within the head
office building. The demonstration
facilities were extremely well-developed
to provide demonstrations that wereeasy to understand, just as the lectures
were, and were more than appreciatedby the participants.

the essence of practical technologies ina short period of time, and prepared toprovide knowledge, technologies andinformation that they need to promoteenergy conservation at their refineries
in the future. According to the resultsof a questionnaire filled in by allparticipants at the end of the course, 8participants felt that the course content
and level were “very good,” and 2
participants, “good,” indicating that the
majority of the participants thought thecourse satisfactory. They also rated thecourse coordination and arrangement“excellent.”

4. Impressions
This intensive course turned out tobe an experience-filled event for theparticipants. Adding to the fact that it washeld during the peak of the rainy season,a large-scale typhoon had approached
Tokyo and further aggravated the badweather, and most noteworthy, on July
16 a massive earthquake struck off thecoast of Chuetsu, Niigata Prefecture,
whose strong tremors were even felt
as far away as Tokyo. The participants
had been attending a lecture at JCCP
headquarters located on the 58th floor of
the Sunshine 60 Building in Tokyo, when
they suddenly felt the building sway.
The participants were good-natured
as a whole, and formed a well-organizedgroup. They were responsive and full ofenergy during lectures and off-site visits,
and avidly exchanged views on various
topics with each other throughout thecourse period.
We designed the course so that theparticipants could efficiently acquire

Despite our tight schedule, we asked
to visit a refinery and manufacturing
companies for on-site training, andwere warmly welcomed at each site. The
participants’ evaluation of the course
clearly showed that they sincerely
appreciated the generous and considerate
hospitality of the facilities. We arealso full of gratitude for everyone’s
cooperation. We are convinced that thesuccess of this intensive course was madepossible by the strong desire and attitude
toward learning on the participants’side, combined with the meticulous
preparations and considerations madeon the implementing side.
We would like to extend or deepest
gratitude to everyone who has helped
plan and support this intensive course,
for their efforts in bringing it to a
successful end. Thank you very much.
<by Yoshiaki Ueno, Training Dept.>

Participant’s VoicePetroleum Marketing and Products Delivery(TR-9-07: June 26 – July 13, 2007)
Mr. Rawee Boonsinsukh (BCP / Thailand)First of all, I would like to thank JCCP for the valuableof professionalism combined with warm hospitality. It

opportunity to attend the TR-9-07 course and to express

provided us with abundant knowledge of the petroleum

my impressions of the course. The course embraced a spirit

business, introduced us to various aspects of Japanese

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Personnel Exchange Programs • 13

Participant’s Voicesociety, and gave us the opportunity to develop networks

We also exchanged useful experiences and practices inand exchange business experiences among the JCCP staff

the industry. We are certain that the experiences andand all participants.

the network of contacts we have gained will benefit our

The course comprehensively covered downstream
petroleum business operations and management in Japan.

future careers, as well as help strengthen the bonds offriendship among the participants and with JCCP.

We studied: the overview of Japan’s petroleum industry

We realize that we could not have acquired thisfrom JCCP lecturers; best practices in maximizing crude

precious experience without the kind support of theoil value at Nippon Oil Refining’s Negishi Refinery; theExecutive Director of JCCP and all members of thetank truck loading system at the Nippon Oil Corporation’s

JCCP staff. We are especially thankful to Messrs. Tabei,

Ichikawa Depot; state-of-art ordering and distribution

Hoshino, and Hayabe, who always put in their best effort

planning system at JLS; service station management

and were always there for us, providing exceptionallyat Cosmo Oil; and tank truck operations at Niyac

warm support and hospitality. Even after returning toCorporation. We also visited JFE Steel Corporation andour countries, our experience in Japan will forever remain

San-ai Oil’s JP-1 Depot, and attended a training session

etched in our memories. Domo Arigatogozaimasu. Thankon “Management by Rational Thinking Process.”you very much.

Lectures on Japan’s transition histor y and HR
management, and field trips to historical places in Japan
have given us an ample window to learn about Japaneseculture and society. We found that the Japanese people
have a very unique lifestyle in which modern civilization
perfectly harmonizes with nature. We sensed the beautyof this harmony wherever we went in Japan. We believethat many aspects of the Japanese management styleand HR management, in particular, are worth adoptingin our countries as well.
Most importantly, having spent three weeks together,
we shared smiles, laughter, and thoughts with each other,and have created solid relationships during the course.

With the Atomic Bomb Dome in the background, in Hiroshima

Safety Management for Refineries(TR-10-07: June 26 – July 13, 2007)
Mr. Batal M. Al Mutairi (SAUDI ARAMCO / Saudi Arabia)

I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to

T h e c o u r s e w a s d e s i g n e d t o m a x i m ize o u rparticipate in TR-10-07, Safety Management for Refineries.

comprehension of refinery safety and environmental

On behalf of my colleagues, the program participants, I

management. Refineries and companies that we visited

would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Kojima,
the Executive Director of JCCP, JCCP lecturers Satakesan and Takahashi-san, and all staff members, for theirwarm welcome and hospitality extended to us during ourmemorable stay in Japan.
The preparation and planning that went into thecourse to deliver a rich experience from the day we arrived
in Japan, distinguished this course from all other training
events we have ever attended. These preparations
effectively bridged the differences in experience andcultural background among the participants, to produce
a coherent team and a successful program.

14 • Personnel Exchange Programs •At the Japan Energy Corporation Mizushima Refinery

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

Participant’s Voice
during the program were very well selected from amongsafet y management ; we were introduced to theleading industrial and energy companies in Japan.

fascinating culture of the Japanese people, a culture

They prepared for our visit, and provided invaluableof one of the leading nations in the world. We visited

information on safety and environment, throughshrines, historic sites, and modern shopping centers,

lectures and handout materials. We were extremely

and have learned from the Japanese people, dedication,pleased by their warm welcome and hospitality. Thesehonesty, and the importance of focusing on priorities. Our

companies included Sompo Japan Insurance Inc., therich experience has certainly enhanced our understanding

Japan Energy Corporation Mizushima Refinery, the Toaof the country, so that we may better strengthen our

Oil Co., Ltd. Keihin Refinery, the Idemitsu Kosan Co.,

relationship with Japan in the future.

Ltd. Chiba Refinery, and Yokogawa Electric Corporation.

To our course coordinators, as well as the employees

Again, on behalf of my colleagues, I would like to takeof facilities visited and the people whom we met on thethis opportunity to extend my sincerest thanks to thesetrains and streets, who have contributed to enhancing

companies.

our understanding of Japan, I would like to say, Domo

In Japan, we have learned much more than refinery

Arigato Gozaimashita.

Practical Technology for Energy Saving(IT-1-07: July 10 – July 20, 2007)
Mr. Abbas Mohseni Nikoogoftar (NIORDC / Iran)First of all, I would like to thank JCCP for giving me thisover it. I think there is great meaning in learning how theopportunity to express my impressions about the course,

Japanese people have survived the terrible incident andJapanese culture, and the people of Japan.

overcome the catastrophic damage.

The course was extremely meaningful and easy to

The good memories of the Japanese people and theunderstand. We have improved our knowledge and havenew knowledge and technologies we have gained willobtained valuable information about the technologies

remain in our hearts and minds, never to be forgotten.

of the refining industry. Some of the new technologies

I would especially like to thank Mr. Yoshiaki Ueno, ourthat we have been introduced to included advanced

course coordinator, and his colleague Mr. Kazuyoshi

high-temperature air combustion technology, advanced

Kamijyo for their help, hard work, and arrangements theysteam turbine technologies, the cogeneration system, andmade for us, to make our stay in Japan so comfortable.

steam traps. We also visited several companies, including

We sincerely hope to keep in touch with JCCP.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., the Idemitsu Kosan Co.,
Ltd. Aichi Refinery, and TLV International, Inc. I strongly

Again, on behalf of my colleagues from IT-01-07, I
would like to say thank you to all the JCCP staff.

believe that the new ideas and knowledge we have gainedin this course will prove to be highly useful in improving
refinery operations in our respective countries.
During our stay in Japan, the weather was mostly
rainy or cloudy, but I truly enjoyed participating in thecourse and traveling to various facilities in the country.
Everything we saw and experienced came as a fresh
reminder that Japan is one of the most advanced
countries in the world.
We also visited a number of unique cities that were
simply beautiful and peaceful, and met many people.
They were invariably hospitable, kind, and hardworking,and went out of their way to make us feel at home. Due
to limited time, we could not visit Hiroshima during thecourse, but I was reminded of its tragic history while I was
in Japan. I had read about it, and had felt deep distress

With the Yokohama Landmark Tower in the background

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Personnel Exchange Programs • 15

JCCP Regular Courses Completed in June – September 2007

TR-9-07

Petroleum Marketing and Products Delivery

Period:June 26 – July 13, 2007

No. of participants:

16

Country of participants: Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Mexico,
Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, UAE, Yemen

TR-10-07

Safety Management for Refineries

Period:June 26 – July 13, 2007

No. of participants:

16

Country of participants: Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Iran, Kuwait, Libya,
Mexico, Nigeria, Qatar, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia,
UAE, Yemen
TR-11-07

Project Management for Mechanical Engineers

Period:June 26 – July 13, 2007

No. of participants:

15

Country of participants: Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar,
Saudi Arabia, Thailand, UAE, Yemen

IT-1-07

Practical Technology for Energy Saving

Period:July 10 – July 20, 2007

No. of participants:

10

Country of participants: Indonesia, Iran, Libya, Mexico, Nigeria,
Saudi Arabia

TR-12-07

Material Problems and Their Countermeasures

Period:August 21 – September 7, 2007

No. of participants:

14

Country of participants: Indonesia, Kuwait, Libya, Mexico, Qatar,
Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen

TR-13-07

Advanced Field Devices and Control

Period:August 21 – September 7, 2007

No. of participants:

11

Country of participants: Colombia, Kuwait, Malaysia, Qatar,
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Vietnam

Total: 82 participants

16 • Personnel Exchange Programs •JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

FY2008 JCCP Course Schedule
In FY2008, JCCP will offer 25 courses, including 21 regular courses (TR) and 4 intensive courses(IT), as follows.
Course No.

Course title

Date

TR-1

Online Analyzer

Apr 3– Apr 18, 2008

TR-2

Petroleum Marketing

Apr 3– Apr 22, 2008

TR-3

Upgrading Processes of Heavy Oil

Apr 3– Apr 22, 2008

TR-4

Essential Petroleum Refining for Process Engineers

May 13 – May 30, 2008

TR-5

Diagnostic Techniques and Maintenance for Rotary MachineryMay 13 – May 30, 2008

TR-6

DCS Fundamentals and Applications

May 27 – Jun 13, 2008

TR-7

Human Resource Management (HRM)

May 27 – Jun 13, 2008

TR-8

Refinery Management

Jun 3

TR-9

Safety Management for Refineries

Jun 24 – Jul 11, 2008

TR-10

Project Management for Mechanical EngineersJun 24 – Jul 11, 2008

IT-1

Practical Technology for Energy Saving

Jul 8

TR-11

Environmental Management for Refineries

Oct 14 – Oct 31, 2008

TR-12

Material Problems and Their Countermeasures

Oct 14 – Oct 31, 2008

TR-13

Advanced Field Devices and Control

Oct 21 – Nov 7, 2008

TR-14

Petroleum Marketing and Products Delivery

Oct 21 – Nov 7, 2008

TR-15

Gas Processing for LNG

Nov 4– Nov 21, 2008

TR-16

Maintenance Management

Nov 4– Nov 21, 2008

TR-17

Training Management

Nov 25 – Dec 12, 2008

IT-2

Advanced Technologies for Rotary Machinery –Reliability Enhancement–

Dec 2– Dec 12, 2008

IT-3

Model Predictive Control

Dec 2– Dec 12, 2008

TR-18

Quality Management of Refinery Products

Jan 13 – Jan 30, 2009

IT-4

Petroleum Marketing and Physical Distribution

Jan 20 – Jan 30, 2009

TR-19

Energy Saving for Profitability Improvement

Feb 10 – Feb 27, 2009

TR-20

Advanced Inspection Techniques and Diagnostic for Static Equipment in Refineries

Feb 10 – Feb 27, 2009

TR-21

Advanced Process Control on DCS

Feb 10 – Feb 27, 2009Marketing,
HRM Field

Maintenance
Field

Process
Field

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

– Jun 17, 2008

– Jul 18, 2008

Instrumentation
Field• Personnel Exchange Programs • 17

TechnicalCooperation

Progress of the Project “Tank Sludge Reduction System
Application to Crude Oil Terminal in Iran”
This is a technical cooperation
project that has been ongoing since
FY2005. With the cooperation ofJapanese companies and Oil Terminals
Company (OTC), a state-run company
on the Iran side, we have completed
installing project-related facilities, andhave begun the test operation to verify
the performance of the facilities. In thisoccasion, we would like to introduce
the background, objectives, and present
status of the project.

Floating roof
Crude oil
Dissolve and re-suspend
accumulated sludge

Circulation pump
Fig. 1 Conceptual diagram of the SRJ system

1. Background and Objectives
Japa n impor ts approx imately
4.2 million b/d of crude oil. Around
15% of the total, corresponding toapproximately 590,000 b/d, is imported
from Iran (2005). From the viewpoint ofJapan’s energy security, Iran is clearly
an important exporter of crude oil. Mostof Iran’s crude oil is shipped from thecrude oil terminal managed by OTC.
OTC, a subsidiary of the National
Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) which
controls the terminal operation, havebeen addressing the tank sludge problem
hindering crude oil storage operations
at the terminal, but had yet to find afundamental solution to the tank sludge
issue.
In response to this situation, JCCP
has implemented a technical cooperation
project for introducing the submerged

rotating jet (SRJ) system to the shipping
terminal. Oil companies in Japan have
conventionally been using the SRJ
system to reduce tank sludge, withsuccess, and accumulated abundant
technical expertise of the system.

2. Introduction of the SRJ
System to the Crude Oil
Shipping Terminal

monthly cycle operations. As a result,
we have indeed confirmed a reduction
in sludge accumulation.
During FY2007, we will transfer
the SRJ technology to the Iran side, by
examining appropriate operation durations,intervals of running the SRJ, and otheraspects of operation management.
<by Wataru Maekawa,Technical Cooperation Dept.>

We installed the SRJ system to arelevant tank at the terminal as a test
basis by the cooperation of OTC.

3. Future Tasks
After completion of the initial
preparation for operating the system
in FY2006, we have been watching
the accumulation of sludge, following
Crude tank (tank used for the test)

Rotary nozzle

18 • Technical Cooperation •Circulation pump (the pump is mobile)

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

TechnicalCooperation

FY2007 Invitation Programfor Researchers from Oil-Producing Countries
Background
The JCCP Invitation Programfor researchers from oil-producing
countries was initiated in FY1993, tolaterally support the success of the JCCP
international joint research project on
the development of advanced catalysts,

which was launched in FY1992, withKing Fahd University of Petroleum
and Minerals (KFUPM) in Saudi
Arabia and the Kuwait Institute for
Scientific Research (KISR) in Kuwait
as counterparts. The invitation programaims to offer cooperation and guidance
to resea rchers f rom counter pa r torganizations, in conjunction with joint
seminars that are held regularly in oilproducing countries, to provide a forum
for information sharing and exchange
on catalyst technologies. The ongoingprogram is sponsored by JCCP and
implemented by the Japan Petroleum
Institute (JPI).

Overview of the FY2007 Invitation Program
Organization
1

KFUPM

Name
Dr. Ali Osman Oncel,
Assistant Professor

Host institution
Kyoto University,
Disaster Prevention Research InstituteProf. Manabu Hashimoto

PeriodTheme

Jul 2 –
Aug 24

Seismic analysis anddisaster preventionin oilfield districts in
Saudi Arabia

Jul 30 –Sep 7

Study of aromaticcompounds
production from LPG

Jul 5 –
Sep 3

Study of ultra-deep
desulfurization
catalysts

National Institute of Advanced Industrial
Science and Technology,
Institute for Geo-Resources andEnvironment
Mr. Osamu Nishizawa, Senior Research
Scientist
2

KFUPM

Dr. Mohammad Naseem The University of Kitakyushu,
Faculty of Environmental Engineering
Akhtar,Prof. Sachio Asaoka
Research Scientist

3

KACST

Mr. Feras Ahmed
Al-Shehri,
Assistant Researcher

Shimane University,
Department of Material Science
Prof. Yasuaki Okamoto
Tohoku University,
Graduate School of Engineering,
Department of Applied ChemistryProf. Muneyoshi Yamada

4

SAUDI
ARAMCO

Dr. Ali Mahmoud
Al-Somali,
Research Scientist

Japan Advanced Institute of Science andTechnology,
School of Materials Science
Prof. Mikio Miyake

Nov 10 –Nov 23(planned)

Study ofhydrocracking
catalysts forde-asphaltene oil

5

KISR

Mr. Abdulwahab
Al-Barood,
Assistant Research
Scientist

Japan Energy Corporation,
Petroleum Refining Research &Technology Center
Mr. Kenichi Matsuda, Director

Jun 28 –Jul 27

Study of ultra-deep
desulfurization
catalysts

6

KISR

Dr. Abdulazeem Marafi, Kyushu University
Prof. Isao Mochida
Associate Research
Scientist

Feb 4 –
Feb 29,2008(planned)

Analysis of impurities
in diesel oil

7

UAEU

Dr. Eisa Ali Al Matroushi Kyoto University,
Department of Aeronautics andAstronautics
Prof. Takaji Inamuro

Jun 25 –Jul 25

Study of the behaviorof liquid droplets andair bubbles in pipes

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Technical Cooperation • 19

The international joint research
project was successfully completed in
FY2004, but the invitation program andseminar have continued. Today, they
are highly regarded in oil-producing
countries, and constitute one of the
major pillars of technical cooperation.
The program was extended to 7
researchers in FY2007. As of September,
5 of the researchers have alreadycompleted their study in Japan. Including
the 7 researchers selected for the FY2007
program, a total of 82 researchers fromoil-producing countries have studied inJapan under the program. In terms ofcountry, 50 researchers have been from
Saudi Arabia, 28 from Kuwait, and 4
from the UAE.

FY2007 Program(1) Overview
Researchers for the FY2007 program
were selected from among prospective
researchers nominated by the university
or research institute to which they
belong. The Overseas Cooperation
Subcommittee established within JPI(Chairman: Takashi Tatsumi, Professor
at Tokyo Institute of Technology;
Members: 7 university professors,
5 members from oil compa nies,
and 1 member from an independentadministrative institution) examinedand discussed the eligibility of thecandidates, their research themes, andhost institutions, and ultimately selected
the 7 researchers. They included 4
from Saudi Arabia (1 from KFUPM,

1 from KACST and 1 from SAUDIARAMCO), 2 from Kuwait (KISR), and1 from the UAE (UAE University), andwere successively received by their hostinstitutions in Japan beginning in July.
(2) Status of Researchers’ Study inJapan1) KFUPM, Dr. Ali Osman Oncel,
Assistant Professor
Dr. Oncel studied factors that
influence seismic waveforms whenseismic waves pass through the rockstratum in oil and gas layers, by meansof model experiments. With his study,
he aims to contribute to controlling
earthquake damage to oil production
and refining facilities, by obtaining
data on the development of oil reservoir
monitoring techniques using seismic
waves, and by estimating seismic wave
behaviors.
At Kyoto University, Dr. Oncel
conducted a simulation analysis using
seismic data from Bahrain and Iran,in addition to research data of theuniversity. At the National Instituteof Advanced Industrial Science andTechnology, he gathered data througha model experiment.
It so happened that an enormous
earthquake hit the Niigata region ofJapan while Dr. Oncel was studying
in Kyoto. News of the earthquake andserious damage it brought to the region
renewed Dr. Oncel’s strong recognitionof the significance of earthquake
countermeasures.

Dr. Ali Osman Oncel (second from left)

20 • Technical Cooperation •2) KFUPM, Dr. Mohammad Naseem
Akhtar, Research Scientist
Dr. Akhtar studied the productionof aromatic compounds from propane
and other light paraffins, throughvarious combinations of reactions,such as dehydrogenation, reduction,
alkylation, and disproportionation. He
fully applied himself to his research,
to produce as much results as possible
during his limited time in Japan. He wasso focused that his professor and othermembers of the department worried
about his health.
3) KACST, Mr. Feras Ahmed
Al-Shehri, Assistant Researcher
At age 28, Mr. Al-Shehri wasyoung, both in terms of age andexperience. His goals of studying inJapan were to acquire catalytic theories
for ultra-deep desulfurization of diesel
oil, desulfurization processes, andengineering expertise. At Shimane
University, he studied the basics ofdesulfurization catalysts, engaged in
catalytic preparation, and measured
cat a lyst prop er t ies. At Tohok u
University, he conducted a high-pressure
experiment on a micro-reactor, using
new and used catalysts, and analyzed
the data obtained.
Under this invitation program, Mr.
Al-Shehri had the opportunity to receive
guidance directly from two professors.
In the future, as he hopes to obtaina Master’s Degree in Japan, we lookforward to his becoming a full-fledged
researcher in his field and serving as aDr. M. Naseem Akhtar (third from left) and Prof. Sachio Asaoka(second from right), at the University of Kitakyushu,
Asaoka laboratory

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

Mr. Feras Al-Shehri receiving guidance on mirco-reactor
operations from Prof. Muneyoshi Yamada, at Tohoku University,
Graduate School of Science, Yamada laboratory)

bridge for research cooperation between
Japan and Saudi Arabia.
When he first arrived in Japan, Mr.
Al-Shehri could not eat Japanese food,and we worried about how he would fareduring his 2-month-long stay in Japan.
All worries aside, however, he becamea big fan of Japanese-style grilled unagi
eel, once his professor introduced him to
Matsue’s special soba noodles and unagi
dishes. He became quite the connoisseur ofJapanese food, so much that in Sendai, healmost daily enjoyed miso-cooked saba,
or Japanese mackerel, a favorite among
the locals. We are extremely grateful tomembers of both host institutions for theirwarm support that extended beyond theirofficial capacity.
4) SAUDI ARAMCO, Dr. Ali
Mahmoud Al-Somali,
Research Scientist
Dr. Al-Somali is scheduled to
study in Japan from November 10 toNovember 23, 2007.
5) KISR, Mr. Abdulwahab Al-Barood,
Assistant Research Scientist
As part of the countermeasuresfor Kuwait’s heavy crude, Mr. AlBarood studied the effects that nitrogencompound levels in stock oil have on
desulfurization reactions under theconditions for deep desulfurization ofdiesel oil, using a micro-reactor. As
a result, he found that an increase in

Mr. Abdulwahab Al-Barood (front row, right)

nitrogen compound levels decreases
the desulfurization rate, but has little
influence on the activation energy.
Mr. Al-Barood has previously
studied in Japan under the invitation
program in FY1997, at Japan Energy
Corporation’s Petroleum Refining
Research & Technology Center, thesame institution as this time around.
Previously, he mainly received guidancein the operation and management of apilot plant, as an assistant researcher.
However, 10 years later, the main
purpose of his recent visit was to receive
guidance on an important research
theme related to oil refining. We feel Mr.
Al-Barood’s development as a researcher
is an indication that the program issteadily taking root, and hope he willagain gain much from his study in Japan,
for further growth in the future.

6) KISR, Dr. Abdulazeem Marafi,
Associate Research Scientist
Dr. Marafi is scheduled to study inJapan from February 4 to 29, 2008.
7) UAEU, Dr. Eisa Ali Al Matroushi,
Assistant Professor
Dr. Matroushi’s research theme
is expected to contribute to solving
important issues relating to phasechanges that confront various oil
production and refining processes.
At Kyoto University, Dr. Matroushi
focused on conducting and analyzing
various simulations with the goal of
elucidating the mutual interaction ofliquid droplets and air bubbles insidea vertical tube.
The approach proposed by Dr.
Matroushi for the implementationof his study was highly original and

Dr. Eisa Ali Al Matroushi (front row, second from right)

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Technical Cooperation • 21

promising, and the attending professor
was highly convinced that the study
would produce greater results than
expected. To promote the developmentof research in this area, the professor
expressed his hopes to maintain achannel of information exchangewith Dr. Matroushi, to continue theircooperative relationship.

(3) Summary
The five researchers who havealready completed their studies in Japan
under the FY2007 invitation program
took full advantage of their short stay inJapan to advance their research, under
the care and tutelage of their attending
professor and research team at theirrespective host institutions.

This program is made possible by
the active support and cooperation of theOverseas Cooperation Subcommittee
and Secretariat of JPI in all aspects ofplanning and implementation. We would
like to take this opportunity to thankthem for their continuous cooperation.
Thank you very much.

<by Kazuhisa Okumura, Technical Cooperation Dept.>

Announcement from JCCP

The 16th Joint GCC-Japan Environment Symposium
We are pleased to announce that we will hold the 16th Joint GCC-Japan Environment Symposium (the4th Joint KFUPM-JCCP Environment Symposium) as follows.
Q Dates:January 28 & 29, 2008
DAY ONE (Jan. 28) Opening Ceremony & Session
DAY TWO (Jan. 29) Session

Q Venue:King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) Auditorium
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

Q Co-Organizer:

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM）

Q Main Theme:

GCC Environment & Sustainable Development

Q Topics:• Sustainable Development for Environment• Water Resources Management

Q Contacts:• JCCP Head Office in Tokyo, Japan
Mr. Koichi IO, Deputy General Manager, Technical Cooperation Dept.
e-mail: io@jccp.or.jp
TEL: +81-3-5396-8021 FAX: +81-3-5396-8015• JCCP Riyadh Office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Mr. Toshimi KINOSHITA, General Manager
e-mail: kinoshita@jccp.or.jp
TEL: +966-1-462-5121 FAX: +966-1-461-0983• JCCP Middle East Office in Abu Dhabi, UAE
Mr. Kazuhiro HIRANO, General Manager
e-mail: hirano@jccp.or.jp
TEL: +971-2-627-4410 FAX: +971-2-626-2166• KFUPM in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
Dr. Nassim Adib Al-Abed, Research Engineer-II
Center for Environment & Water, Research Institutee-mail: nassim@kfupm.edu.sa
TEL: +966-3-860-2896 FAX +966-3-860-4518

22 • Announcements •JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

Announcement from JCCPThe 26th JCCP International Symposium
JCCP will hold the 26th JCCP International Symposium as follows.
Q Dates:

Opening Ceremony, Keynote Speech, Guest Speeches:
Feb. 6, 2008 (Wed) 2:00 p.m. – 5:40 p.m.
Reception:
Feb. 6, 2008 (Wed) 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Session I:
Feb. 7, 2008 (Thu) 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Session II:
Feb. 7, 2008 (Thu) 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Q Venue:

Palace Hotel (1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)

Q Main Theme:“The Role of the Oil Downstream Sector from the Perspective of Stable Energy
Supply — The Necessity and Possibilities of International Collaboration”

Q Sub Themes:

Session I:“Management Issues in the Oil Downstream Sector for Contributing
to Globally Stable Supply of Energy”

Session II:“Technological Issues in the Oil Downstream Sector for Contributing
to Globally Stable Supply of Energy”

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007

• Announcements • 23

Personnel Changes
Outgoing Personnel

Incoming Personnel

Toshio ESUMI
Training Department

Fumihiro TONE
Training Department

Japan Cooperation Center, Petroleum (JCCP)
Headquarters
Sunshine 60 Building 58F, 3-1-1 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-6058, Japan• Administration Department• Operations Department• Training Department• Technical Cooperation Department

TEL. +81-3-5396-6000
TEL. +81-3-5396-6001
TEL. +81-3-5396-6909
TEL. +81-3-5396-8021

FAX. +81-3-5396-6006
FAX. +81-3-5396-6006
FAX. +81-3-5396-6006
FAX. +81-3-5396-8015

Overseas Offices• Middle East Office#904, Al-Ghaith Office Tower, Hamdan St.,
P.O. Box 51828, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
TEL. +971-2-627-4410 FAX. +971-2-626-2166

URL: http://www.jccp.or.jp

24 • Announcements •• Riyadh Office
Al-Dahlawi Building, King Fahad Rd., Tahlia St., Olaya,
P.O. Box 61356, Riyadh 11565, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
TEL. +966-1-462-5121 FAX. +966-1-461-0983

E-mail: webmaster@jccp.or.jp

JCCP NEWS No. 98 November 2007