Heavy Crude Oil is a type of crude petroleum with a high viscosity, high density, and higher impurity content compared to light crude oil. It does not flow easily at room temperature and generally requires heating or special extraction processes. Heavy crude typically has an API gravity of less than 22.3° and contains higher levels of sulfur, metals, and asphaltenes.
Because of its rich hydrocarbon structure, it is widely used for producing asphalt, fuel oils, lubricants, and petrochemical feedstocks.
Key Characteristics of Heavy Crude Oil
High density & low API gravity (8°–22.3°)
High viscosity requiring heating or dilution
Higher sulfur and metal content
High asphaltene and resin levels
Lower gasoline yield, higher heavy fuel oil yield
Typical Mechanical / Physical Properties
| Property | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| API Gravity | 8° – 22.3° |
| Viscosity | 100 – 10,000 cP @ 25°C |
| Sulfur Content | 2% – 5% |
| Pour Point | -10°C to +30°C |
| Density | 0.90 – 1.02 g/cm³ |
| Asphaltenes | 5% – 20% |
| Metals (Ni, V) | 50 – 500 ppm |
Available Forms
Raw heavy crude oil
Diluted heavy crude (Dilbit)
Upgraded synthetic crude
Blended heavy fuel oils
Applications of Heavy Crude Oil
Power generation & industrial fuel
Marine bunker fuel
Asphalt & bitumen production
Lubricants & petrochemical feedstock
Road construction & waterproofing