An oil refinery is a facility that processes crude oil into useful products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The refining process involves separating the different components of crude oil through methods such as distillation, where the oil is heated and its vapors are collected at various temperatures. This allows for the extraction of various hydrocarbons that can be further treated to create fuels and other petrochemical products.
Refineries also produce by-products like asphalt and lubricating oils, which are essential for road construction and machinery. The operation of an oil refinery is complex and requires careful management to ensure safety and environmental protection, as it involves handling flammable materials and chemicals.