Thesis project: Fuel Mixing in Transport Systems

Field of study/Subject
As the demand for sustainable fuels continues to grow, efficient utilization of feedstocks is becoming increasingly important. In refinery and terminal operations, different products are transported through shared pipelines and storage systems, where they come into contact and mix at product interfaces. The formation and behaviour of these mixing zones can affect product quality, product losses, and overall operational efficiency.

By simulating and visualizing flow behaviour in complex transport systems, it is possible to improve our understanding of how products interact and identify opportunities for optimization throughout the value chain.
Purpose
This thesis explores how simulation models can be used to visualize and better understand mixing phenomena in fuel transport systems.

The project will investigate how factors such as injection rates and product properties influence mixing interfaces and how these effects can be represented visually within a complex flow system.

The overall aim is to improve understanding of the physical mechanisms governing product mixing and to evaluate how this knowledge can support optimization of refinery and terminal operations.
Thesis Goals
The goals of the thesis are to:

• Conduct a literature review of previous research and industrial applications related to mixing phenomena and flow simulations.
  
• Develop simulation cases based on operational data and information provided by VAROPreem.
  
• Perform simulations using appropriate modelling tools.
  
• Visualize how different feedstocks and products interact at interfaces under varying operating conditions.
  
• Analyse the results and identify opportunities for operational optimization.
  

Scope

30 ECTS credits
Location
Gothenburg. The project will primarily be based at the Gothenburg refinery. VAROPreem does not reimburse travel expenses to and from the refinery.
Start Date
January or early February 2026, or as agreed.
What We Offer
You will become an important part of VAROPreem, a workplace characterized by a welcoming atmosphere, trust in employees, and strong opportunities for professional development.

The energy market is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades. Therefore, we are driven by the purpose of meeting today's energy needs while accelerating the transition toward tomorrow's more sustainable energy solutions. At VAROPreem, you will be given freedom with responsibility and encouraged to take initiative and contribute to the continued development of our business.
Your Background
You are currently pursuing a Master of Science degree or a master's-level education in areas such as:

• Chemical Engineering
  
• Engineering Physics
  
• Chemistry with a focus on modelling or computational science
  
• Another related field with an emphasis on simulation and data analysis
  

Experience in one or more of the following areas is considered an advantage:

• Fluid Mechanics
  
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  
• Numerical Modelling and Simulation
  
• Data Analysis and Visualization
  

Experience with software such as COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, STAR-CCM+, Aspen HYSYS, or similar simulation tools is beneficial but not required.
Is this you?
We believe you are someone who enjoys exploring technical challenges in depth and is motivated by understanding how things work. You are curious, analytical, and enjoy tackling problems that do not always have obvious answers.

As a thesis student at VAROPreem, you will have considerable freedom to drive your work forward while receiving support from experienced colleagues. Therefore, we are looking for a self-motivated individual who takes ownership of their work, shows initiative, and enjoys collaborating with others.

We place great emphasis on your interest in the project, your approach to work, and your willingness to contribute with new perspectives.

Next step

If you have any questions about the thesis, you are welcome to contact Malin Berglund, Product Specialist Planning and Optimizing,malin.berglund@varopreem.se.

If you are two applicants who want to complete the degree project together, we ask that one of you apply but that you each attach your CV in the application. One CV is added as usual and the other CV you upload under "Additional files".

Selection takes place continuously during the advertising period and the degree project may be filled before the application period ends. Please submit your application as soon as possible, but no later than 27 October 2026. Due to GDPR we only accept applications submitted through the recruitment system.

We look forward to receiving your application!