Live cross-section
Fractionating column
Hot at the bottom · progressively cooler toward the top
Ready
Temperature profile
Continuous separation
25°C 100°C 180°C 250°C 320°C 370°C+ Crude petroleum Furnace Overhead condenser Light hydrocarbons Heavy hydrocarbons
Rising vapour Condensation Hot feed Liquid collection
Selected fraction
Petrol / gasoline
Approx. boiling range: 40–100°C
Upper column

Petrol contains relatively small hydrocarbon molecules. Its vapours rise high into the column before condensing in the cooler upper region.

VolatilityHigh
ViscosityLow