July 31 (Reuters) - Canadian oil producer Imperial Oil ( IMO )

posted a rise in second-quarter profit on Friday, as

crude prices and stronger refining margins more than offset

lower oil-sands production and a hit from planned refinery

maintenance.

The Calgary, Alberta-based company said its net income to

C$2.19 billion ($1.56 billion), or C$4.52 per share, in the

quarter ended June 30, from C$949 million, or C$1.86 per share,

last year.

($1 = 1.4025 Canadian dollars)