To set up oil processing in Factorio, first, find an oil deposit and build pumpjacks to extract oil. Next, transport the oil via pipes to a refinery where it can be processed into various products like plastic and fuel. Finally, use chemical plants to further refine these products for your factory's needs.
Setting Up Oil Processing in Factorio
Oil processing is a crucial aspect of Factorio and requires careful planning and execution to ensure a steady supply of essential resources. To begin setting up oil processing, you first need to identify a suitable area for your oil operations. Locate an oil-rich area on the map, as these are typically indicated by dark patches. Ensure that your oil processing setup is near this oil-rich area to minimize transportation costs and streamline resource flow.
Oil Refinery Setup
The next step is to set up your oil processing infrastructure, starting with oil refineries. Oil refineries are the key buildings that convert crude oil into various refined oil products such as petroleum gas, light oil, and heavy oil. Construct a sufficient number of oil refineries based on your production needs. It's essential to balance the production of different oil products to avoid bottlenecks in your supply chain.
Fluid Management
Fluid management is critical in oil processing to ensure smooth operations. Set up storage tanks to contain excess oil products and prevent production shutdowns due to full pipelines. Use pumps to regulate fluid flow and ensure that each part of your oil processing setup receives a steady supply of resources. Plan your fluid transportation system carefully to avoid congestion and optimize resource distribution.
Cracking and Conversion
Cracking is a process used to convert one type of oil product into another to optimize resource utilization. Light oil, heavy oil, and petroleum gas can be cracked into each other based on your production requirements. Build chemical plants to perform cracking and conversion operations efficiently. Monitor your oil product levels closely and adjust cracking ratios to maintain a balanced production output.
By-Product Management
Oil processing in Factorio generates by-products such as petroleum coke and sulfur. Develop a plan for managing these by-products to prevent resource wastage. Petroleum coke can be used as fuel in boilers or converted into solid fuel for power generation. Sulfur is used in various advanced recipes, so ensure that you have a steady supply through efficient by-product management.
Automation and Optimization
Automation is key to optimizing your oil processing setup in Factorio. Use circuit networks and logistics systems to automate resource flow, manage production ratios, and respond to changing demand levels. Implement beacon and module setups to increase production efficiency and reduce resource consumption. Continuously monitor and tweak your oil processing infrastructure to maximize output and minimize production bottlenecks.
Expansion and Future Planning
As your factory grows in Factorio, you will need to expand your oil processing capabilities to meet increased demand. Plan for future expansion by leaving space for additional oil refineries, storage tanks, and cracking facilities. Consider investing in advanced oil processing technologies to unlock higher-tier oil products and improve overall production efficiency. Continuously evaluate your oil processing setup and make adjustments to adapt to changing production requirements and resource availability.