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SMOOTHFLOW™ FCC additive

SMOOTHFLOW from Albemarle offers a solution to FCC unit fluidization and circulation problems. Fluidization problems sometimes begin suddenly, often as the result of an unexpected process upset causing significant catalyst losses and possibly mechanical damage inside the unit. The finest catalyst particles in the circulating inventory are usually lost first, which results in a sharp increase in the equilibrium catalyst average particle size, Figure 1

In other cases, fluidization issues arise more slowly. They can occur when units push charge rate and maximize conversion. In other cases, preferential fines losses can occur through decreased cyclone efficiency as the cyclones erode or holes form in them.

A gradual loss in catalyst fines may go unnoticed until the critical level is reached. Exceeding the critical minimum of fines can lead to defluidization of the cyclone diplegs, which, in turn, leads to rapid catalyst loss. Loss of fines can also manifest as erratic slide valve delta pressures and loss of stability or even control of the unit.

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