The unit is currently processing 25,000 barrels per day crude oil and is producing high quality liquefied petroleum gas, kerosene, diesel, and naphtha.
The refining and petrochemical firm is expecting to increase its refinery competitive position in the market and enhance its ability to produce a product mix that would be more revenue generating.
Oil Refineries chief executive Pinhas Buchris said the company has activated the hydrocracker unit as a part of its business strategy.
"The project’s establishment lasted about three years and cost about $500 million so we see its activation as a business, technological and organizational achievement," Buchris added.
"The integration of the hydrocracker into ORL’s operations will enable us to produce improved and higher quality distillates relative even to the strict environmental standards and improve our competitive standing in the world.
"We believe that through the hydrocracker we can maximize the production capacity of the Company and positively impact our operational efficiency and hence improve the Company’s financial results."
The company invested $500m in the project as a part of its strategic plan which is totaled at $1bn and includes upgrading the HVGO desulfurization facility apart from other activities.
