Question
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Changes in feedstocks processed through hydrotreating and hydrocracking reactors may sometimes lead to lower efficiency, such as thermal maldistribution problems and reduced cycle length. Can you report any recent cases, such as distillate hydrotreaters challenged with meeting T95 diesel specifications, where conversion problems were resolved that can be duplicated with other hydrotreating units facing similar challenges?
Mar-2023
Answers
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Daniel Gillis, Chevron Lummus Global, Daniel.gillis@lummustech.com
There are multiple units where hydrocrackers were designed for two years and are now achieving three years or higher in some instances, especially the second stage (of HCR). This has been made possible by novel catalysts regularly extending hydrotreating and cracking cycles, lowering the start-of-run (SOR) temperature without changing the fouling rate. With some tailoring, catalyst innovations can be extended to other units. In addition to catalyst systems, CLG’s latest reactor internals and new ISOCatch inlet baskets can be helpful in extending life where a high axial temperature gradient is an issue. Other processing schemes have been employed, which not only enhanced catalyst life but also offered to produce high-value products such as premium LBO.
Mar-2023
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