The state of the fuel and energy complex of Russia is considered. A brief history of the development of the study of oil and the processes of its processing is given, the physicochemical and colloidal-dispersed properties of oil, oil fractions and residues are described. The characteristics of the main processing products are given. Particular attention is paid to the scientific foundations and methods of oil preparation for processing, the technology of direct distillation of oil in atmospheric and atmospheric-vacuum installations, as well as secondary distillation of distillates. Hardware design of technological processes, their automation, technical and economic indicators, reliability of equipment operation and issues of environmental safety of processes and environmental protection are considered. For students of oil universities and faculties; It can be useful to specialists working in the field of oil refining, economists and environmentalists, as well as engaged in the oil business - from oil production to the sale of finished products.