Crude Distillation Unit
A Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) is like the heart of an oil refinery - it's the first and most important step in processing crude oil. Think of it as a giant sorting system that separates crude oil into different useful products like gasoline, diesel, and other fuels. It works similar to how water evaporates and condenses, but with oil components separating at different temperatures. When someone mentions experience with a CDU in their resume, they've likely worked at an oil refinery in operations, maintenance, or engineering roles. Other common names for this are "Atmospheric Distillation Unit" or "Primary Distillation Unit."
Examples in Resumes
Supervised operations of Crude Distillation Unit processing 200,000 barrels per day
Improved efficiency of CDU through optimization of operating parameters
Led maintenance planning for Atmospheric Distillation Unit and associated equipment
Typical job title: "CDU Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find CDU Operators
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain how you would handle an emergency shutdown of a Crude Distillation Unit?
Expected Answer: A senior operator should explain the systematic approach to safely shutting down the unit, mentioning safety protocols, communication procedures, and the sequence of operations to prevent equipment damage and ensure personnel safety.
Q: How would you optimize CDU operations to improve product yield?
Expected Answer: Should discuss monitoring key parameters like temperatures and flow rates, understanding product specifications, and making adjustments to maximize efficiency while maintaining safety and quality standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the main control parameters you monitor in a CDU?
Expected Answer: Should mention monitoring temperatures, pressures, flow rates, and product quality indicators, explaining why each is important in basic terms.
Q: How do you ensure product quality in CDU operations?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic quality control procedures, sampling methods, and common quality tests, demonstrating understanding of product specifications.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main safety considerations when working around a CDU?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of safety protocols, personal protective equipment requirements, and common hazards in refinery operations.
Q: Can you describe the basic process flow in a CDU?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms how crude oil enters the unit and gets separated into different products through heating and cooling.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of refinery operations
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Ability to monitor basic equipment parameters
- Understanding of routine maintenance procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent operation of CDU equipment
- Troubleshooting common operational issues
- Understanding of quality control procedures
- Experience with process optimization
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced problem-solving in unit operations
- Emergency response management
- Team leadership and training
- Process improvement and optimization expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures
- Lack of experience with control room operations
- No understanding of quality control procedures
- Unable to explain basic distillation principles
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