Dhruv Patel

Optimized refinery process units (e.g., distillation, hydrotreating, hydrocracking) through advanced data analysis, simulation tools, and real-time monitoring to enhance throughput, product quality, and energy efficiency.

Developed and implemented process control strategies using DCS/PLC platforms (e.g., DeltaV, Honeywell), including control logic, interlocks, alarm rationalization, and safety instrumented functions (SIFs).

Conducted technical evaluations and process troubleshooting to resolve chronic operational bottlenecks, reliability issues, and energy inefficiencies using tools such as HYSYS, Aspen Plus, and PI ProcessBook.

Led multi-disciplinary teams for process optimization, incident investigations, and risk assessments (HAZOP, LOPA, SIL) while ensuring compliance with AER, Alberta OHS, and CSA Z767.

Contributed to Management of Change (MOC) and PSM activities by preparing detailed process narratives, evaluating safety and environmental impacts, and updating P&IDs and SOPs accordingly.

Developed and executed turnaround scopes of work, including process decontamination strategies, equipment isolation procedures, and safe shutdown/startup plans for critical refinery units.

Collaborated with reliability, mechanical, and inspection teams to define turnaround deliverables, ensuring alignment on mechanical integrity, corrosion monitoring, and statutory compliance.

Performed process walkdowns and risk reviews, validating work packages for critical equipment (e.g., reactors, heat exchangers, columns) and identifying opportunities for debottlenecking during outage windows.

Prepared post-turnaround performance reports, comparing actual vs. planned KPIs (unit availability, energy intensity, and production targets) to assess effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.

Provided real-time field support during commissioning, unit ramp-up, and troubleshooting post-turnaround issues, ensuring a smooth transition to stable, optimized operation.

• Led commissioning and start-up of key process units including an Amine Recovery Distillation Plant and Continuous Dry HCl Gas Generation Plant, ensuring smooth integration into existing operations.
  
  Championed safety and compliance initiatives, actively participating in HAZOP, SIL, LOPA, FMEA, and JSA reviews; enforced LOTO, GMP, and emergency protocols as part of the Emergency Response Team.
  
  Supervised a team of 49+ personnel, overseeing production planning, plant safety, manpower allocation, and continuous process improvement, while maintaining a high-performance culture.
  
  Executed process optimization projects to enhance throughput, reduce energy consumption, and improve cost-efficiency in distillation, polymerization, sulphonation, and chlorination units.
  
  Reviewed and implemented basic and detailed engineering packages (PFDs, P&IDs, H&M balances) for Greenfield projects, ensuring alignment with process safety and operational excellence.
  
  Handled hazardous and corrosive chemicals such as CME, DVB, Acrylonitrile, Oleum, and Hydrogen under strict safety protocols, including confined space entry, hot work, and electrical isolation procedures.
  
  Configured and operated DCS (Emerson Delta V 12.1) and PLC systems, including development of custom interlocks, alarm strategies, and control logic based on process dynamics.
  
  Conducted detailed root cause analyses (5 Why, Fishbone) of process deviations, equipment failures, and OEE gaps, and implemented corrective actions to improve reliability and uptime.
  
  Maintained SAP-based operations tracking for batch orders, material consumption, and warehouse inventory (raw, semi-finished, and finished goods), ensuring compliance with ISO and GMP standards.
  
  Coordinated with maintenance and lab teams to meet product quality norms, reduce downtime, and ensure smooth plant shutdown/startup activities aligned with production schedules.