Catalyst separation method reduces Platformer turnaround costs

Journal Article · Mon Sep 18 04:00:00 EDT 1995 · Oil and Gas Journal

OSTI ID:103971

Blashka, S R; Welch, J G ^[1]; Nite, K ^[2]; Furfaro, A P ^[3]

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1. CRI International Inc., Houston, TX (United States)
2. Fina Oil and Chemical Co., Port Arthur, TX (United States)
3. UOP, Des Plaines, IL (United States)

A catalyst separation technology that segregates catalyst particles by density has proved successful in recovering CCR (continuous catalyst regeneration) Platforming catalyst that had been contaminated with heel catalyst, non-flowing catalyst. UOP`s CCR Platforming process converts naphtha to high-octane gasoline components and aromatics for petrochemical use. The reforming reactions take place in a series of Platforming reactors loaded with platinum-containing reforming catalyst. CCR Platforming technology incorporates a moving catalyst bed in a system that permits addition and withdrawal of catalyst from the reactor while the unit is operating. As the catalyst circulates through the reactors, it builds up typical carbon levels of 5%. Over time, the heel catalyst will build up carbon levels as high as 50%. When the catalyst is unloaded, heel catalyst is released, contaminating the last fraction of catalyst removed from the reactor. The heel-contaminated catalyst should not be reused because only a small fraction of the carbon on the heel catalyst is removed in the regeneration section. If returned to inventory, the carbon would react rapidly, causing temperature excursions. If heel-contaminated catalyst is reused, there is a high potential for damage to the unit. Density grading was used, after ex situ regeneration to recover the uncontaminated catalyst for reuse.

• OSTI ID: 103971
• Journal Information: Oil and Gas Journal, Journal Name: Oil and Gas Journal Journal Issue: 38 Vol. 93; ISSN OIGJAV; ISSN 0030-1388
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
CATALYSTS
CATALYTIC REFORMING
COKE
DEPOSITION
ECONOMICS
NAPHTHA
PETROLEUM REFINERIES
REGENERATION
SEPARATION PROCESSES