SUBSCRIBER NOTE: Platts proposes changes to USGC raffinate specifications

S&P Global Platts is proposing to change the specifications for its US Gulf Coast raffinate barge assessments with effect from October 1, 2019.

Platts has observed an increase in transparency around blendstocks specifications in recent years and is proposing to update its methodology to reflect this.

Platts is proposing to change the raffinate specifications to reflect product with a maximum RVP of 5 psi and an octane level of 58-60 (R+M)/2. Platts currently assesses product reflecting an RVP of 2-6 psi and an octane level of 55-65 (R+M)/2. Product specifications will be normalized to reflect value for a barge at 60 (R+M)/2 and an RVP of 4 psi for the assessment.

This proposal follows changes earlier this year to Platts' USGC alkylate and reformate specifications, as well as to the assessment laycan and delivery basis for all USGC blendstocks. These earlier changes were announced in a subscriber note on July 1, 2019: www.spglobal.com. Please send all comments, feedback and questions by August 30, 2019, to oilgroup@spglobal.com and pricegroup@spglobal.com.

For written comments, please provide a clear indication if comments are not intended for publication by Platts for public viewing. Platts will consider all comments received and will make comments not marked as confidential available upon request.