Understanding SCO: Insights from the KC Refinery Process

Jose Pagan
Dec 2, 2025
4 min read

The KC Refinery offers a wide range of petroleum products, including naphtha, bitumen, , base oils, fuel oils, pet coke, and alcohols. These products serve various industries such as construction, transportation, manufacturing, and chemical production. Understanding the specifications, pricing, and applications of these products can help buyers make informed decisions and optimize their procurement strategies.

Naphtha Overview

Naphtha is a light hydrocarbon mixture used primarily as a feedstock for petrochemical plants and as a solvent in industrial processes. The KC Refinery supplies naphtha in quantities ranging from 50,000 to 500,000 metric tons, priced between $350 and $360 per metric ton. This product is essential for producing plastics, synthetic fibers, and other chemical intermediates.

Bitumen Varieties and Uses

Bitumen is a viscous material used mainly in road construction and roofing. The refinery offers several grades of bitumen, each suited for specific applications:

Bitumen 30/40: Priced at $280 to $290 per metric ton, suitable for heavy-duty road surfaces.
Bitumen 40/50: Available at $300 to $310 per metric ton, ideal for general paving.
Bitumen 50/70: Costs range from $320 to $330 per metric ton, used in flexible pavements.
Bitumen 60/70: Priced between $350 and $360 per metric ton, offers higher viscosity for durability.
Bitumen 80/100: Available at $340 to $350 per metric ton, used in moderate traffic roads.
Bitumen 100/120: Costs $310 to $320 per metric ton, suitable for low traffic areas.

Additionally, viscosity grades VG-10, VG-20, VG-30, and VG-40 are offered, with prices ranging from $260 to $310 per metric ton. These grades cater to specialized construction needs requiring specific flow characteristics.

Gasoline Grades and Pricing

Gasoline from KC Refinery comes in various octane ratings, each designed for different engine requirements:

87 Octane: $300 to $310 per metric ton.
89 Octane: $290 to $300 per metric ton.
91 Octane: $320 to $330 per metric ton.
93 Octane: $350 to $360 per metric ton.
95 Octane: $330 to $340 per metric ton.
97 Octane: $340 to $350 per metric ton.

These gasoline grades support a range of vehicles, from standard cars to high-performance engines. The refinery also pays commissions of $5 per metric ton on gasoline sales, which can be an incentive for distributors.

Base Oils for Industrial Use

Base oils are the foundation for lubricants and other industrial fluids. KC Refinery supplies several types:

SN 100: $290 to $300 per metric ton.
SN 150: $330 to $340 per metric ton.
SN 300: $340 to $350 per metric ton.
SN 500: $350 to $360 per metric ton.
BS 150: $310 to $320 per metric ton.
N 40: $360 to $370 per metric ton.

These base oils vary in viscosity and purity, making them suitable for different machinery and environmental conditions. Commissions of $5 per metric ton are also paid on these products.

Fuel Oils and Their Applications

Fuel oils from the refinery include:

CST 180: $320 to $330 per metric ton.
CST 280: $310 to $320 per metric ton.
CST 380: $300 to $310 per metric ton.

These oils are used in power generation, marine engines, and industrial heating. The refinery offers commissions of $5 per metric ton on fuel oil sales.

Pet Coke Supply

Petroleum coke, or pet coke, is a carbon-rich solid used as a fuel and in industrial processes. KC Refinery provides all grades of pet coke in quantities from 100,000 to 750,000 metric tons, priced between $140 and $150 per metric ton. This product is popular in cement manufacturing and power plants.

Alcohols for Chemical Industry

The refinery also supplies alcohols used in chemical manufacturing:

Ethanol: $450 to $460 per metric ton.
Methanol: $420 to $440 per metric ton.

These chemicals serve as solvents, fuel additives, and raw materials for various products. Commissions of $5 per metric ton apply to alcohol sales as well.

Pricing Structure and Commissions

Most products from KC Refinery are available in bulk quantities ranging from 30,000 to 750,000 metric tons, depending on the product type. Prices vary slightly within each product category, reflecting market conditions and quality grades. The refinery consistently offers a commission of $5 per metric ton on most products, providing an added benefit for distributors and agents.

Practical Tips for Buyers

Assess Your Needs: Choose product grades that match your specific application requirements to avoid overpaying for unnecessary quality.
Bulk Purchasing: Larger quantities often lead to better pricing and lower shipping costs.
Consider Commissions: Factor in commissions when negotiating deals to maximize profitability.
Verify Specifications: Ensure product specifications meet industry standards for your intended use.
Plan Logistics: Coordinate delivery schedules and storage facilities to handle large shipments efficiently.

Final Thoughts

KC Refinery offers a comprehensive portfolio of petroleum products with competitive pricing and flexible quantities. Whether you need bitumen for road construction, gasoline for fuel supply, or base oils for industrial lubrication, the refinery provides reliable options. Understanding the product grades, prices, and commission structures helps buyers make smart purchasing decisions and supports smooth supply chain operations.