In this paper

multi-refinery using the same heavy crude oils as raw materials is studied

while a new nonlinear model for mixed heavy crude distillation is proposed. In practical crude distillation operation

the distillate yield and product distribution of distillation units are different due to their various equipment and operating parameters

even the same ratio of raw materials is provided

so different process models for multi-refinery planning is therefore required. For process modeling

the relationships between total yields and mixing ratio of different refineries were determined

which is combined with process simulation using production data. Then

the yields and properties of crude distillation unit (CDU) fractions were calculated with the use of true boiling point (TBP) curves and property curves respectively when the initial cutting temperatures were given. Finally

in order to maximize the economic benefit of distillation

the optimal product distribution and the best mixing ratio of crude oilwere calculated under the constraints of different properties of fractions. Comparing to previous models

the proposed model takes the influence of different refinery parameters on production process into account

while avoiding the complex process for determining the cutting points

which is considered more efficient and more accurate with respect to heavy crude refinery. Model was successfully verified by a case study

allowing a significant improvement of the refinery profit to be achieved.