Search by topic : General
Title Author Edition
Reducing FCCU NOX emissions

AA Lappas, DK Iatridis and IA Vasalos University of Thessaloniki
H Rhemamann and G Schwartz OMV Refining and Marketing GmbH
S Lonka and P Heinonen Fortum Oil and Gas Oy
G Spyridaki and Y Psichogios Hellenic Petroleum

2005 / Q1

Case studies of the strategies used to reduce NOx emissions at three European refineries. CO and feed nitrogen effects on emissions were taken into account, and a significant reduction in emissions was achieved with the use of additives
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Treatment options for molten sulphur

Tony Barnette Gas Technology Products LLC

2005 / Q1

A look at some options in the hydrocarbon processing industry for dealing with sulphur during vent handling and the removal of H2S from vent streams, which can fit well into a facility's overall storage and handling system.
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Benefit of revamping a main fractionator

Dana G Laird Koch-Glitsch LP.

2005 / Q1

Additional FCCU capacity can often be achieved by implementing new packing and distributor designs, even if the main fractionator has already been revamped. The author presents some of the factors to be considered in evaluating a revamp
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Revamps: maximum asset utilisation

Scott Golden Process Consulting Services Inc

2005 / Q1

Analyses of some common process unit limits, emphasising when equipment systems must be modified or new ones added. Knowing just where to focus investment depends primarily on process fundamentals and equipment basics
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Scott Golden Process Consulting Services Inc

2005 / Q1

Analyses of some common process unit limits, emphasising when equipment systems must be modified or new ones added. Knowing just where to focus investment depends primarily on process fundamentals and equipment basics
More

Increasing hydrogen Production

Ib Dybkjær Haldor Topsøe A/S

2005 / Q1

The cost effectiveness of increasing refinery hydrogen capacity with compact convection reforming-based plants. Depending on available feedstocks, existing process configurations and operating conditions, medium-scale units are options
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Improving hydrotreater operations

Gene J Yeh Daniel Longstaff Abdullah Al-Mahrous Olavo C Dias Saudi Aramco

2005 / Q1

Improvements made during naphtha hydrotreater operations at a Middle East refinery focused on the diameter of crude unit overhead line, better corrosion control, an upgraded catalyst grading system and higher furnace temperatures
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Increasing FCC profitability

Michael Edwards Albemarle Asia Pacific Company

2005 / Q1

Case studies demonstrate how operating and catalytic changes can result in higher FCC rates and improved conversion between turnaround cycles. Even with lower feed quality, the author argues, costs can be controlled and margins improved
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Increasing resid conversion at Curacao refinery

P Pereira, L Zacarias, J Guitian, R B Solari, PDVSA-Intevep
D de Haseth, Isla Refinery, Curacao
E Houde, UOP
H Feintuch, Foster Wheeler

1999 / Q1

Commercial demonstration tests carried out with a recently introduced low investment technology, Aquaconversion, have shown it as a valuable tool in revamping thermal cracking facilities and boosting a refinery's product slate.
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Development of a refinery petrochemical master plan

W J Hillier, Maureen FGilber, W C Petterson, Kellogg Brown & Root

1999 / Q1

A master plan for a refinery/petrochemical complex justifies comprehensive study of all the variables, from market forecast to operating costs.  This article discusses the methodology and reports the results from a study case involving technology to maximise propylene.
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Design and operation of residue catalytic crackers.

Simon Tan and Prabhakar Satbhal, Shell Global Solutions.

1999 / Q1

The Shell residue FCC process has been applied to grassroots units in a variety of locations, from Europe to South-east Asia, resulting in higher operating profits for the respective refineries.  Three such operations are discussed here.
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Dearomatisation and conversion in hydroprocessing.

Ernst Kohler, Sud-Chemie AG
Dinah Huang, United Catalysts Inc

1999 / Q1

A novel sulphur-tolerant dearomatisation catalyst, ASAT, for LCO upgrading, is featured as a part of integrated hydroprocessing, covering desulphurisation, mild hydrocracking and hydrodewaxing.
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Steam active reforming process for dehydrogenation.

R O Dunn and L W Shoemaker, Phillips Petroleum Company.

1999 / Q1

The development and uses of the STAR process in the dehydrogenation of C3, C4 and C5 paraffins are outlined in this article, together with a presentation of capital and conversion costs for the production of MTBE and propylene.
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Refocusing on refinery profit

Simon Calverley, KBC Process Technology Ltd

2004 / Q1

Value-generating strategies must be balanced between profit focus, yield constraints and cost savings.  Techniques presented here consider increasing profit from yields, balanced against energy costs. 
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Improved control of fluegas emissions

Jeffrey Sexton, Marathon Ashland Petroleum
Nicholas Confuorto, Belco Technologies Corporation
Michael Barrasso, BOC Process Gas Solutions

2004 / Q1

A proprietary selective low temperature oxidation technology combined with a wet scrubbing system, was applied to a refinery's FCC unit regenerator fluegas, resulting in maximum NOx reduction with no loss of SOx scrubbing performance.
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Balancing octane and hydrogen with ULS fuels

Jay Ross, Axens North America

2004 / Q1

Options for improving older, semi-regenerative catalytic reformers and new CCR based reformers, combined with more effective isomerisation, allow refiners to process straight run and cracked stocks while adding more octane to the gasoline.
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Using process technology to increase clean fuel yields

Vasant P Thakkar, Tom N Kalnes, Terry L Makrer, UOP LLC

2004 / Q1

A new approach to the treatment of FCC feed that increases ultra low sulphur diesel yield is shown in an Asian refinery case study.  The method breaks the link between hydrogenation and cracking functions and offers a three-year payback.
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Approaches to alkylation: a world review

Pamela S Pryor, Stratco.

2004 / Q1

Developments in alkylation technology are being influenced by many factors - not least, fuel specifications - and at a time when many refiners are considering conversion of HF units for safety reasons, alkylation capacity must be increased.
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Justification of online optimisation

Lee Turpin, Aspen Technology Inc

2004 / Q1

Defining the optimisation problem and creating a computer model to generate benefits in different scenarios will result in a reliable estimate of what is achievable through the implementation of online optimisation.
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An alternative option for producing light olefins

Amy S Len and Tony Pavone, SRI Consulting

2004 / Q1

Examination of a process using a fluidised catalytic reactor system to convert low value feedstocks into higher value propylene and ethylene products.
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Calcium removal from high TAN crudes

Jerry J Weers and Scott Bieber Baker Petrolite

2005 / Q3

Crude oils high in calcium naphthenate content are being processed using technology developed to remove calcium in crude unit desalting operations, with calcium removal efficiencies averaging 70% on Doba blends



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Optimising refinery profitability

Brian Lasiuk, R Mark Wilson and M Craig Winslow GE Infrastructure Water & Process Technologies

2005 / Q3

A comprehensive methodology is presented that maximises profitability when processing opportunity crudes while avoiding operational disruptions such as high temperature corrosion


 
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Efficient ULSD catalyst systems Charles “Chuck” W Olsen and David Krenzke Advanced Refining Technologies

 

2005 / Q3

Staged ULSD catalyst systems are available for the desulphurisation of multiple sulphur species, using combined high-activity CoMo/NiMo catalysts formulated at ratios based on expected levels of alkyl-dibenzothiophenic compounds



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LCO upgrading

Vasant P Thakkar, Suheil F Abdo, Visnja A Gembicki and James F McGehee UOP LLC

2005 / Q3

Adding value to LCO is achievable through aromatic ring manipulation, producing high-octane naphtha and low-sulphur diesel. Pilot plant results confirm the effectiveness of partial-conversion hydrocracking technology


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Wireless communication in refining Peter Jofriet and Stephen Clark Honeywell Process Solutions

 

2005 / Q3

Several wireless technologies are available today. The benefits of implementing these technologies, and the challenges associated with adopting this seemingly high-tech approach for furthering a refinery’s business objectives, are discussed

 
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An atmospheric crude tower revamp

Daryl W Hanson and Tony Barletta Process Consulting Services
John V Bernickas CITGO Petroleum Corporation

2005 / Q3

Overall gas oil yield was maintained with heavier crudes due to a crude tower revamp. The revamp allowed for a crude heater outlet temperature reduction and a lower vacuum flash zone pressure


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Hydrocracker reliability improvement
Tai-Sheng Chou H2Advance

 

2005 / Q3

Refiners continue to push the envelope of reliable hydrocracker operation. Optimised process design and operational improvements can help manage temperature excursions and avoid potential temperature runaways

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Technology for SOx removal

Thomas K Chow, Theresa M Flood, John A Gebur and Vincent W Wong
Fluor Enterprises Inc

2005 / Q3

A concern for many refiners is the increasing complexity of SO2 removal from flue gases in the presence of O2. Various solutions are available to achieve 99.99% sulphur recovery without by-product formation and corrosion problems


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Benefits from coking of heavy feedstocks Wayne Brown, Robert Pinchuk and Gerard Monaghan Envision Technologies Corp

 

2005 / Q3

Research into the thermal processing of heavy oil using advanced analytical and laboratory techniques has revealed that huge gains are possible, thanks to a new reactor configuration based on the marriage of two commercial technologies


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Refining hydroprocessing strategies

 Rene G Gonzalez, PTQ

2005 / Q4

No room for error:  planning and implementation of refinery strategies for optimal hydrotreating performance, hydrogen utilisation and sulphur-recovery unit expansion.       
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Optimising cooling water systems

Daniel A Meier, Nalco Energy Services LP

2005 / Q4

An integrated approach to chemical treatment can improve reliability, reduce costs and extend the life of cooling systems.  Cooling system problems can be overcome by combining cooling water programs with analytical tools.

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Delayed coking advances

Rick Wodnik, ConocoPhillips

Gary C Hughes, Consultant


2005 / Q4

New technologies and procedures for building and upgrading delayed coking facilities are enhancing health, safety and the environment while increasing economic viability.

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EU regulations on the horizon

 Frank M Bohnen and Timothy J Dougan, Davison Catalysts

2005 / Q4

Recent commercial applications in Europe and elsewhere have demonstrated that additives can effectively and reliably control both SOx and NOx emissions to very low levels, thus helping refiners to comply with new EU regulations.

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Benchmarking FCCU performance

 Warren Letzsch, Stone & Webster Engineering Inc

2005 / Q4

The value of upgrades to FCCU riser nozzles, cyclones, stripper and other key mechanical components is estimated in terms of yields, capacity, environmental objectives and reliability.

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Supply chain logistics challenges

 Stephen Clark, Honeywell Process Solutions

2005 / Q4

Integrating the complexities of multi-site refinery supply chain logistics using advanced forecasting, planning and scheduling tools gave one refining company the ability to monitor its supply chain in real-time or near real-time.

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Optimising FCC profitability

Xia Rong'an, Liu Huaiyuan, Wu Kai and Guo Jian, PetroChina Corporation Lanzhou Petrochemical Company

David He and Solly Ismail Engelhard Corporation

2005 / Q4

The use of additives has helped a chinese refinery to yield increased profitability of more than $3 million per year by transforming low-valued slurry into high-valued gasoline.

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Advantages of partial-burn regenerators

Rene Samson, Huub Dries, Ye-Mon chen and Paul Willbourne, Shell Global Solutions International BV

2005 / Q4

Single-stage partial-burn FCC regenerators can provide a low-cost residue processing option for high flexibility and low emissions.  Examples of specific solutions include improved cyclone designs and catalyst circulation enhancement technology.

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Recovering base oils from lubricants

W A Gorman Jr, SwRI

Detlev Bruhnke, Mineralol Raffinerie

2005 / Q4

A process to separate light ends, catalyst, base oils and asphalt extender from used lubricating oil.  The underlying principles of the process are the cyclonic vacuum flash and minimisation of the exposure of the oil to high temperatures.

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Paraffins isomerisation options

Bruno Domergue and Laurent Watripont Axens

2005 / Q2

A variety of isomerisation technologies are available, from conventional once-through and deisohexaniser recycle processes to advanced recycle schemes involving molecular separation processes



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High-efficiency coalescers for analyser protection


Hans Thoma OMV Burghausen Refinery
Verena Titzenthaler and Thomas Reisenhofer Pall Corporation

2005 / Q2

Coalescers are designed to either separate liquid aerosols from gas streams or to break liquid/liquid emulsions. Both liquid/gas and liquid/liquid coalescer technologies have been successfully applied to analyser technology

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Increasing p-xylene production

Patrick Silady and Gary Marr, UOP LLC

2005 / Q2

Improved catalysts and adsorbents can increase production without the need for a major revamp.  The authors focus on the combinatorial chemistry used to develop heterogeneous catalysts and adsorbents from new zeolitic materials.
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Expander inlet piping design P T Klumpp Refinery Technology Inc

 

2005 / Q2

The expander inlet piping system linked to the FCCU is one of the most complex piping systems to analyse and design in a refinery. Expansion joints used in the expander inlet piping system are also reviewed


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Controlling FCCU dilute phase reactions Warren S Letzsch Stone & Webster Engineering Inc

 

2005 / Q2

Various strategies are available to control unwanted secondary reactions in the FCCU reactor’s dilute phase, including vapour quench technology, designed to lower the temperature, or close-coupled systems to reduce the dilute phase contact time


 
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Bitumen processing developments

Mazen M Abu-Khader Al-Balqa Applied University
James G Speight CD & W Inc

2005 / Q2

Several process options have been tested for upgrading extra heavy oil at various processing facilities. The possibility of future process configurations for producing marketable products from bitumen is discussed



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Improved residuum cracking Mingting Xu and Rostam J Madon Engelhard Corporation

 

2005 / Q2

Catalyst deactivation is a challenge to FCCU yields when processing residuum. The detrimental effect of nickel and vanadium in forming contaminant coke and hydrogen can be reduced via appropriate passivation technology



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Simulating optimal tank farm design Michael D Stewart Foster Wheeler North America Corp
L Dean Trierwiler Haverly Systems Inc

 

2005 / Q2

Development of a computerised model incorporating Monte Carlo operational risk simulation with the optimisation power of linear programming. The basis, structure and execution of this model are discussed



 
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Saving fuel costs with WPHEs

Peter Barnes PBA Consulting
Pierre Xavier Bussonnet Packinox SA François Reverdy Packinox Inc

2005 / Q2

WPHEs save fuel costs and serve as a cost-effective CO2-trimming technology by reducing heater duty in reformers and HDS units. The resulting fuel cost savings add to emission trade benefits


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Managing hydrogen to achieve ULS targets
Dennis Vauk Air Liquide America LP
Rob Gardner Irving Oil Ltd
David Mercer Fluor Canada Ltd
Nick Hallale Aspen Technology

 

2005 / Q2

To meet clean fuel challenges, refiners must manage hydrogen usage to achieve sulphur reduction targets for 2005 and beyond. Hydrogen network optimisation can deliver significant benefits over traditional approaches

 
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Reducing CO2 emissions Ian Moore AspenTech UK Ltd

 

2005 / Q2

Several long-term challenges and opportunities face refiners after the introduction of the European Union ETS. These include emissions monitoring, operational improvements, emissions forecasting and economic emission reduction



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A forward look at the refinery of the future Calvin B Cobb Invensys Inc

 

2004 / Q2

A forecast of the way business and operating fundamentals in a long-established industry are likely to affect future technical applications. The author sees present and emerging technology providing the adaptability to deal with plant disruptions



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Refinery hydrogen Management Ruth A Davis and Nitin M Patel Air Products and Chemicals Inc

 

2004 / Q2

Managing current hydrogen infrastructure and planning for future requirements requires careful selection of the best combination of recovery, expansion, efficiency improvements, purification and new H2 supply options



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Selecting partial oxidation in refining Peter Hatchman and Martin Williams BP
Tony Collins Simon Minge Mike Berg BOC

 

2004 / Q2

BP’s refinery at Brisbane is meeting clean fuels specifications as a result of improvements to key process units. Collaborative efforts have increased hydrogen production from partial oxidation, including the use of heavier feedstocks


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Hitting ULS targets through hydrogen management

Wolfgang Hofer, OMV AG
Ian Moore , Aspen Technology Inc
Paul R Robinson , Air Liquide America

2004 / Q2

Simulation, optimisation and identification of projects for the hydrogen system at an Austrian refinery has helped to improve its potential of over †5 million a year. The authors describe the methodology applicable to hydrogen networks


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Handling vent gases in sulphur plants Mahin Rameshni Parsons Energy & Chemicals Group Inc

 

2004 / Q2

A review of methods to reduce emissions from vent gas systems such as sulphur storage tanks and SO2 streams. Ways to increase sulphur recovery capacity, and the design criteria for achieving emissions requirements, are also discussed

 
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Role of carbon capture in CO2 management

Tony Creek Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

2004 / Q2

Gasification of low-value refinery residuals could be used to raise utilities and hydrogen, allowing the relatively easy capture of half the plant’s CO2 emissions. LP modelling also helps to examine balances between SOx and CO2 emissions



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Reducing gasoline sulphur with additives Michael K Maholland Intercat Equipment Inc

 

2004 / Q2

Evolution of regulations in an era of limited capital has led to the development of catalyst additive technologies to reduce FCC gasoline sulphur. These additives can help to avoid more expensive sulphur-reducing options such as pretreatment



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Membrane separation for clean fuels Xinjin Zhao and Gautham Krishnaiah Grace Davison
Todd Cartwright CB&I Process and Technology

 

2004 / Q3

 An illustration of how membrane separation technology can be integrated into a clean fuel strategy at low capital cost relative to hydrotreating. Effective sulphur removal from certain naphtha streams, avoiding the octane penalty, is described

 
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Fundamentals of ULSD Production Salvatore Torrisi, Jr, and P Michael Gunter Criterion Catalysts & Technologies LP

 

2004 / Q3

Determining the best course for producing ULSD depends on four factors – chemistry, composition, reaction conditions and catalysis. Guidelines are offered for effective strategies and for deciding how to optimise future ULSD operations


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The role of hydrogen in clean fuels Visnja Gembicki Cara Roeseler Chris Anderle Neriman Baykal-Agosta Terry Adamopoulos UOP LLC

 

2004 / Q3

A typical refinery configuration is used to show changes in the utilisation of hydrogen from 1990 to the present, with a look into the future. Process strategies to achieve more efficient use of hydrogen under future regulations are presented



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Pretreatment of resid FCC feedstocks Byron G Johnson ConocoPhillips Company
Brian M Moyse Haldor Topsoe Inc

 

2004 / Q3

How a refinery optimised hydrogen consumption to raise API “shift”, enhancing FCC economics. The effect of heavy feedstock reactivity on the operation of refinery units, and its impact on current and future operations, is discussed



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Chemical treatment to solve FCCU problems

Sandra Garcia-Swofford Nalco Energy Services

2004 / Q3

From fouling and catalyst carryover to high feed nickel levels and varying feed qualities, FCCU problems can be solved quickly and cost effectively, says the author, through a well-designed and properly applied chemical programme 



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A range of options for resid conversion Warren S Letzsch and John Lauritzen Stone & Webster Inc

 

2004 / Q3

Resid cracking through the FCC can be cost effective with improvements in hardware, catalyst and operational knowledge. Strategies for processing residual streams with units working in full and partial combustion modes are discussed



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Statistical process control in FCC operations

J W (Bill) Wilson Barnes & Click Inc

2004 / Q3

Statistical process control techniques can be used in analysing and monitoring FCCUs. The author gives examples of the use of XmR charts in evaluating catalyst performance data and coke yield, and reviews other possible applications



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FCC additive demonstrations: Part 1

Guido W Aru Intercat Inc

2004 / Q3

A review of the issues associated with the FCC additive testing, data collection and analysis required by the US Environmental Protection Agency’s consent degrees. There are lessons for refiners in successful testing and demonstration


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Inner workings of the FCC stripper Henrique S Cerqueira Claudia M L A Baptista José M Fusco
Petrobras Research and Development Center (CENPAS)

 

2004 / Q3

Based on large-scale pilot plant and commercial FCC data, the authors consider the influence of operational variables in catalyst stripability, including the use of sampling and radiotracer techniques


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Advantages of profit centred maintenance

Jeffrey Ray Fluor

2004 / Q3

An explanation of how profit centred maintenance can be implemented in an existing facility, and how it can virtually pay for itself using systematic failure elimination and performance-based contracting


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Producing low sulphur gasoline

Adrian Humphries Pieter Imhof Chris Kuehler Terry Reid
Akzo Nobel Catalysts LLC

2004 / Q3

A practical and economic comparison of crude quality, pre-treating, post-treating, FCC additives and sulphur credit options. Solutions to meeting future gasoline specifications could involve a combination of these options 



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Light crude oil Treatment

Felipe Suarez and Herbert Wizig Merichem Chemicals & Refinery Services LLC
Liu Youchao China National Petroleum Corporation
Jack Zhang Jackson International Inc

2004 / Q4

A review of caustic treating technologies useful in the removal of volatile sulphur from sour light crudes. The authors describe how the caustic treatment of light crude oil at facilities in Kazakhstan has been profitable and economically sound


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Refinery oxidative Desulphurisation

Chris Gosling V A Gembicki Ron Gatan UOP LLC
Agostino Cavanna Eni SpA Daniele Molinari and Franco Baldiraghi EniTecnologie SpA

2004 / Q4

A study of the economics of applying oxidative desulphurisation technology, with its dependence on the operating pressure of existing hydrotreating capacity. Two case studies show how this new route can form an effective ULSD strategy



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Sulphuric acid alkylation reactor upgrade Steven Ackerman and Paul W Kamienski ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company, USA
Kate D Hart and Derek R Styles ExxonMobil Refining and Supply, Australia

 

2004 / Q4

Upgrading of the sulphuric acid cascade alkylation reactor-settler system at an Australian refinery decreased acid consumption significantly and increased product octane. Reactor temperature was reduced and acid circulation increased



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Upgrading heavy oils with new catalyst technology

Balbir Lakhanpal Darryl Klein Park Leung Advanced Refining Technologies LLC
Bruno Tombolesi Grace Davison
Józef Kubiak Polski Koncern Naftowy SA

2004 / Q4

Heavy oil upgrading performance and profitability have been improved at a refinery in Poland by a new low sediment ebullating bed resid catalyst technology. The authors report improved unit conversion and reduced need for HCO diluents



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FCC additive demonstrations Part 2

Guido W Aru Intercat Inc

2004 / Q4

An overview of additive technology for reducing SOx and NOx emissions, and a review of CO combustion promoter technology and performance at a refinery. Reduction mechanisms and other factors affecting performance are described



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Improving hydrotreater performance Ken J Mills Saint-Gobain NorPro

 

2004 / Q4

An account of the way ceramic technology can reduce hydrotreater operating cost and downtime by lowering the initial pressure drop. Use of dual function ceramic media also allows for the initial removal of nickel and vanadium


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Improving crude switching control

Ariffen Adnan and Nyonya Md Sani Petronas
Seung Yun Nam and Y Zak Friedman Petrocontrol

2004 / Q4

Crude unit advance process control has lucrative potential, provided it performs when it is most needed: during crude switching disturbances. The authors describe how one company is using first principles inferential modelling in crude switches 



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Causes of fouling in hydroprocessing units

Tai-Sheng Chou H2Advance

2004 / Q4

Costly unscheduled hydroprocessing unit turnarounds caused by fouling can be prevented. This study explores the root cause of process fouling mechanisms and suggests cost-effective means for implementing mitigation strategies


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Crude oil and quality Variations

Larry N Kremer Baker Petrolite Corporation

2004 / Q4

An assessment of the impact of crudes on operational and product quality, with an explanation of the way in which the crude oil supply chain, combined with the sources of many crude constituents, affects production



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Maximising plant Availability Arturo Grimaldi Andrea Polacchi Claudio Bonventre Technip-Italy SpA

 

2004 / Q4

With a growing demand in the petrochemical industry for extended plant availability, the authors demonstrate how a new design practice was applied to a hydrocracker revamp that maximised the technical availability of the unit


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ULSD problems and Solutions

Scott Sayles Jim Bailor Robert Ohmes KBC Advanced Technologies Inc

2004 / Q4

A review of the common pitfalls in scoping, designing, implementing and operating ULSD units. The authors offer various solutions, ranging from optimising hydrogen partial pressures to avoidance of recombination reactions


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Foam control in crude units

Tony Barletta and Edward Hartman Process Consulting Services Inc
David J Leake EGS Systems Inc

2004 / Q4

Installation of vortex tube clusters in crude unit preflash drums has eliminated foam carry-over, increasing diesel and atmospheric gasoil product yields. By avoiding preflash drum replacement, these retrofits have cut revamp investment



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Comparing the roles of cat coolers with riser quench

Alan Goelzer, Jacobs Refinery Specialists

2003 / Q1

A review of the issues to consider when disposing of the heat of combustion from riser coke formation in high severity vacuum gasoil FCC and RFCC units, with operating conditions becoming increasingly demanding.
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Role of advances in FCC catalyst technology.

J B McLean, D M Stockwell, W A Weber, W S Sinkler, M R Greczek, T E Masak, Engelhard Corporation

2003 / Q1

Sulphur-reducing chemistry that preserves gasoline yield and minimises octane loss while avoiding cut point penalties can help meet clean fuel specifications where post treatment and additive systems may not be adequate.
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The oxidative route to ULS production

Robert E Levy, UniPure Corporation

2003 / Q1

Refinery and terminal applications using modular designs where extraction of oxidised sulphur and nitrogen species is carried out without the processing severity and level of investment required with conventional hydrotreating.
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Production of ULS fuels from heavy feedstocks.

Romolo Montanari, Sergio Rose, Mario Marchionna, Snamprogetti SpA
Nicoletta Panariti and Alberto Delbianco, EniTecnologie SpA

2003 / Q1

Upgrading of extra heavy residues and oil sands bitumen has been demonstrated with a proprietary two-stage process incorporating slurry hydrotreatment, using a molybdenum-based catalyst followed by solvent deasphalting.
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Boosting diesel production with varying feedstocks

Christer Moren and Michael Heisel, Linde Gas & Engineering
Alexander Reichhold, Vienna University
Andrea Krause, Holborn Europe Refinery
A J Berlanga-Gonzalez, Malaga University

2003 / Q1

Evaluation of technology, chemistry and economy for increasing middle distillate output and producing less residue, using oxygen enrichment in fluid catalytic crackers with constrained capacity.
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Mitigating corrosion from naphthenic acid streams.

David Johnson and Gregg R McAteer, Ondeo Nalco Energy Services
Heinz Zuk, Norsk Hydro AS

2003 / Q1

The authors describe how crude and side-cut analysis, laboratory and field data lead to strategies for managing high severity operating conditions needed for pocessing opportunity crudes.
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Oxygen contamination of hydrocarbon feedstocks

M Vadekar, Chem Tech Consulting

2003 / Q1

An examination of the detrimental effects caused by dissolved O2 and practical solutions to control fouling, corrosion and expensive unplanned shutdowns when processing feedstocks vulnerable to air or oxygen ingress.
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Catalyst formulations and FCC unit performance

Ganesh Gandham and Alok Srivastava, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd

2003 / Q1

The authors describe how careful selection of catalyst and additives holds the key to achieving the objectives for improving naphtha RON and throughput.  Each refiner has to develop his own system for choosing the appropriate catalyst.
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Membrane separation for producing ULS gasoline

Jeff Balko and Gilles Bourdillon, Grace Davison
Nick Wynn, Sulzer Chemtech Membrane Systems

2003 / Q2

Membrane-based sulphur removal technology has emerged as a simple and cost effective way to minimise the volume of octane-sensitive light and intermediate FCC gasoline, avoiding capital-intensive and high operating cost post-treatment.
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Catalytic solutions for improved performance

Pierre-Yves Le Goff, Fabienne Le Peltier, Bruno Domergue, Axens
Jean-Francois Joly, Institut Francais du Petrole (IFP)

2003 / Q2

Replacement of original by new generation catalysts in four CCR units and a fixed-bed reformer has improved selectivity and run length.  Better performance was also achieved with technology providing more uniform catalyst distribution.
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Hydrocracking catalyst pre-activation

Jarmila Vukovic, Daniel Neuman, Ioannis Bouchagiar, Tricat
Vladimir Farkas, Slovnaft
Emir Ceric, INA

2003 / Q2

Case studies from two European refineries where pre-activated catalysts were loaded with no indication of self-heating during air exposure or of exothermic behaviour throughout the temperature range of unit startup
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Boosting ultra low sulphur diesel margins

Jean-Luc Rouby and Bernard Martin, Shell Global Solutions
Rob van der Meij, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies

2003 / Q2

For cost effective ULSD revamps, the use of technology such as online analysers, APC and product quality management is considered essential for finding the best solution for each processing step, for both short- and long-term objectives.
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Amine purification system to increase crude processing

Alfred E Keller, ConocoPhillips Inc
Arthur L Cummings and Dennis K Nelsen, MPR Services Inc

2003 / Q2

Bringing amine system contaminants down to low levels has reduced operational problems and, with the use of a regenerable system for cutting salt, hydrocarbon and solids contaminants, refinery throughput has increased.
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Improved optimisation of a refinery crude unit

Sesadri Ranganathan, Arold Offerman, Jossy Cijntje, Refineria ISLA
Randall McFarlane and Victor Lough, Invensys

2003 / Q2

A case study of real-time optimisation applied to a crude distillation unit, and the online results that followed.  The aim, to maintain optimum economic operation against frequent feedback changes, has also brought improved process consistency.
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Maintaining reliability of the FCC unit

Warren Letzsch and Reggie Blinkhorn, Stone & Webster Engineering Inc

2003 / Q3

A review of catalytic cracking equipment performance, design criteria, turnaround execution and their combined effect on long-term unit reliability and maintenance


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Modelling disturbances in refinery operations

Amir H Mohammadi Institute of Petroleum Engineering, Heriot-Watt University
Giti Abolhamd and Mohammad M Montazer-Rahmati, Faculty of Engineering, Tehran University

2003 / Q3

Investigation of the transient state and optimisation of a fluidised-bed catalytic cracking unit for maximum feed while satisfying system constraints. One of the most important goals has been optimisation from an operating viewpoint



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Creating value through hydrogen management Nitin M Patel William F Baade Leong Wah Fong, Air Products
Vinay Khurana, Technip-Coflexip

 

2003 / Q3

The authors discuss new and alternative sources of hydrogen production and the way in which optimising separation technologies allows refiners to unlock the value of H2 currently sent to fuel


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Gasoline and LCO Hydrotreating

Roberto Galiasso Tailleur PDVSA-Intevep

2003 / Q4

Hydroprocessing severity and catalyst selection play a significant role in refined product sulphur distribution. But other important factors must be taken into consideration before making an investment to produce ultra low sulphur fuels


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Review of fluid bed coking technologies

D G Hammond L F Lampert C J Mart S F Massenzio G E Phillips D L Sellards A C Woerner, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company

2003 / Q4

This review covers the basic aspects of technologies dealing with fluid bed coking, to provide an understanding of their fundamentals and potential applications, along with some considerations for technology selection 



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Concepts to improve sulphur facility reliability

Hank M Hudson and Susan M Grigson, Ortloff Engineers Ltd

2003 / Q4

Although many previously discussed concepts differ widely from usual industry practice, the authors have found that in most cases alternative concepts have not only improved reliability but have also reduced capital and operating costs 


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Integrated approach to unit optimisation

Derya B Özyurt Ralph W Pike F Carl Knopf Michael K Rich Jack R Hopper and Carl L Yaws, Louisiana State University Motiva Enterprises Lamar University

2003 / Q4

Using the flowsheeting, online optimisation and pinch analysis of an advanced process analysis system, increases in profit and energy saving were projected for an alkylation unit through reduced steam usage in the distillation columns



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Hydrogen technology– an overview Sanjiv Ratan Technip-Coflexip

 

2003 / Q4

Developments in the area of hydrogen production equipment, configurations, catalysts, materials and automation have brought about improved operational reliability and effluents curtailment, as well as achieving lower operating costs


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FCC monitoring and Optimisation

George Blair Eurotek Refining Services Ltd
Trish Ferguson Ferguson Consulting

2003 / Q4

A new Excel-based FCC monitoring and optimisation tool has been used to assist in assessing an FCC reactor stripper revamp, a unit troubleshooting problem and a regenerator capacity debottlenecking study


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Catalyst design for resid applications

Scott K Purnell Davison Catalysts

2003 / Q4

Higher percentages of heavier feeds can be processed using FCC catalysts designed with improved coke selectivity and metals tolerance. Feedstock properties, along with their dominant bottoms-cracking mechanisms, are also reviewed


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Options for achieving lower sulphur diesel

Rick Beaubien and Alan Goelzer, Jacobs Engineering Group Inc

2003 / Q4

A decision point is approaching where each refiner must determine the level of investment in technology, equipment and incremental operating costs needed for producing ultra low sulphur diesel fuels 



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Reducing the cost of ultra low sulphur diesel

Pankaj H Desai Akzo Nobel Catalysts LLC

2003 / Q4

Optimisation of process variables such as space velocity and operating pressures, using UD-HDS technology, can help to achieve 15ppm sulphur specifications, especially when processing cracked feedstocks


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Integrated solutions for optimised ULSD economics

Ronnie Maddox Tom Kalnes Dave Lindsay UOP LLC

2003 / Q4

An illustration of low cost solutions to ultra low sulphur diesel production, with case studies of integrated hydrocracking revamps – showing up to 70% savings in new units using new reactor internals – and novel separation and coprocessing



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Characterisation and analysis of resids James G Speight CD&W Inc

 

2003 / Q4

A description of the properties that are required for a detailed evaluation of resids and for comparison between resids and how they play a role in dictating which refinery operations are necessary for processing



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Recovering precious metals from spent catalysts Richard J DeSantis Sabin Metal Corporation

 

2005 / Catalysis

Finding and working with the right refiner can make a big difference in returns, not to mention many of the legal implications involved if the refiner crosses the line with regard to environmental regulations when processing spent catalysts



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Catalyst performance improvements Charles McCloud Criterion Catalysts & Technologies

 

2005 / Catalysis

Manufacturing technology advancements have lead to step-out improvements in catalyst performance and stability for ULSD, FCC pretreater and hydrocracker pretreater applications



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Increasing FCC Yields

Lori McDowell and Silas Y Wong Grace Davison Refining Technologies

2005 / Catalysis

Improvements to a FCC unit changed its operating characteristics. These changes called for a catalyst formulated with higher activity, stability and metals tolerance at higher throughputs to increase the yield of valuable liquid products


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Catalyst life cycle Performance Chris Anderle UOP LLC

 

2005 / Catalysis

Refiners can obtain value from solutions beyond the catalyst selection process if the decision-making process includes a review of the entire catalyst cycle



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Boosting FCC propylene with minimal conversion loss
Pieter Imhof, Erja P H Rautiainen and Arja Hakuli-Pieterse Albemarle Catalysts bv

 

2005 / Catalysis

Catalyst and additive technology can maximise light olefin yields with minimal dilution of the base catalyst and little impact on bottoms conversion. It also diminishes secondary reactions such as hydrogen transfer

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ULSD production at low pressure

Lars K Skyum Haldor Topsøe A/S

2005 / Catalysis

A large number of existing diesel hydrotreaters are operated at pressures below 30 bar. The catalyst used for production of ULSD in these hydrotreaters differs from catalyst formulations that perform well at higher pressures


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Reticulated ceramics improve reactor performance

William “Dusty” Duke and Austin Schneider Crystaphase Technologies Inc

2005 / Catalysis

With many hydroprocessing units being pushed beyond their original design, refiners need to improve the unit’s reactor performance. Upgrading reactor top-bed loadings that include reticulated ceramics will improve catalyst performance 



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Hydroprocessing revamp configurations

Ujjal Mukherjee, Jerry Mayer and Bharat Srinivasan Chevron Lummus Global

2005 / Catalysis

Upgrading existing hydrocrackers from single-stage to two-stage recycle offers significantly higher flexibility for increasing high-quality FCC feeds and naphtha/diesel production



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Adding value to FCC operations

Solly ismail and Eugenio Macaluso, Engelhard Corporation

2005 / Catalysis

Three case studies demonstrate how a distributed matrix structure-based additive enables the conversion of low-valued heavy-cycle oil and slurry into gasoline and LPG.

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Maximising hydrocracker profitability Mike Gunter Criterion Catalyst Company
Diana Altrichter Zeolyst International

 

2004 / Catalysis

Hydrocracking unit product quality and yields improve with stacked bed loading technology. The catalysts loaded in each bed are customised for changes in reactor conditions encountered throughout the unit’s typical run length


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Raising FCC catalyst circulation Warren Letzsch David Banks, Stone & Webster Inc

 

2004 / Catalysis

Extra cat feed and increased profits with quality products can come from improved catalyst circulation as a result of better slide-valve pressure differential, optimised standpipe diameter and withdrawal well design



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Pre-treatment improves FCC performance
Per Zeuthen Haldor Topsøe A/S

 

2004 / Catalysis

Feedstock hydrotreatment catalyst provides improved HDS and HDN activity at various unit operating pressures. The resulting economic benefits are gained through better product yield structures and longer pre-treatment cycles


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Maximisation of FCCU LPG olefinicity

José Marchena José Manuel Llanes Mari Fe Elía CEPSA
Sergio Sobrinos Fernando Sánchez Grace Davison

2004 / Catalysis

A 35 per cent increase in C3/C4 olefins yield was achieved by a refinery in Spain using the right combination of operating variables, additives and catalysts without changing the reactor-regenerator configuration


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Advanced FCC catalysts for VGO applications

Ray Fletcher Akzo Nobel Catalysts bv

2004 / Catalysis

High-accessibility catalysts allow more difficult feedstocks to be processed through the FCC. These new formulations can add considerable value to refiners running more conventional feeds, but who may have hardware or operating constraints limiting unit performance



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Optimising FCC unit performance

Hugh Niblock BP
Marius Vaarkamp Maarten van Vliet Engelhard Corporation

2004 / Catalysis

 Additive currently used in several FCC units increases conversion and gasoline yield without exceeding coke or gas limits. The resulting operating flexibility provided by the additive at an Australian refinery is discussed


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FCC catalyst evaluation Sanjay Bhargava KBC Advanced Technologies Ltd

 

2004 / Catalysis

A post audit at a Japanese refinery using a proprietary FCC model and catalyst-evaluation methodology determines a real improvement in profitability. The methodology for isolating the effect of catalyst alone on FCC yields is discussed



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Gasoline sulphur removal and olefins reduction

Fang Xiangchen Zhao Leping Hu Yongkang FRIPP/SINOPEC
Guo Hongchen Dalian University of Technology

2004 / Catalysis

Newly developed olefins-to-aromatic-and-alkylate technology significantly reduces the amount of sulphur and olefins in full-range FCC gasoline, resulting in higher gasoline yields and low road octane


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FCC Catalyst for cleaner gasoline

Daniel McQueen, Paul A Diddams, Grace Davison, Worms, Germany

2003 / Catalysis

Removal of thiophenic and olefinic compounds while maintaining high octanes is an important challenge facing refiners producing clean gasoline.
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Ultra-deep desulphurisation of gas oils

Lars Skyum, Haldor Topsoe A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark.

2003 / Catalysis

In order to choose the right combination of catalyst and technology for the production of diesel with 10ppm sulphur or less, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the reaction kinetics in diesel hydrotreating from SOR to EOR.
More

Butane and light naphtha isomerisation

Scott Graeme, Michel van der Laan, Akzo Nobel Catalysts, The Netherlands

2003 / Catalysis

Low-density, platinum-based cylindrically shaped catalysts can overcome maldistribution problems and improve catalyst performance measured by PIN, H2/HC and isobutane ratios, and characterised by higher activity, short loading and lower costs.
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New catalyst formulations for semi-regenerative reformers

Gary A Marr, UOP, Des Plaines, Illinois, USA

2003 / Catalysis

Two European refineries upgrade reformer technology, resulting in higher reformate and hydrogen yield with improved RONC and longer intervals between regeneration.
More

Grading and topping materials for hydrotreating applications.

David Berman, Tricat Inc, Hunt Valley, Maryland, USA

2003 / Catalysis

Extrudates are being remanufactured into alternative sizes and shapes for reactor activity grading and void-space grading as well as to help prevent pressure drop build-up caused by particulates and polymerisation.
More

New catalysts for reformers.

Pierre-Yves Le Goff, Fabienne Le Peltier, Bruno Domergue, Axens
Jean-Francois Joly, IFP France

2003 / Catalysis

New-generation catalysts, designed with close attention to the paraffin conversion mechanisms and pressure characteristics seen in fixed-bed and CCR units, are further optimised with special catalyst-loading techniques.
More

Performance Optimisation of fixed bed processes

C E D Ouwerkerk, E S Bratland, A P Hagan, B L J P Kikkert, M C Zonnevylle, Shell Global Solutions.

1999 / Q2

An extensive range of hydroprocessing technologies has been developed through a combination of long-term R&D commitment and commercial experience.  The result is compact reactor internals that maximise reactor volume use, and superior gas/liquid distribution and quench performance.
More

Raising mild hydrocracker profits without capital investment

Savas Soydaner, Hafedh Al-Qassab, Gregory M Lilburne, Adrian Stander, Bahrain Petroleum Company.

1999 / Q2

By systematically working on improvements to its operating methods, catalyst management and maintenance, a Middle East plant has increased unit converstion and profitability year-on-year with no capital investment.  The authors describe how it was done.
More

Selective FCC naphtha desulphurisation.

K L Riley, J L Kaufman, S Zaczepinski, Exxon
A R Gentry, Kellogg Brown & Root Inc
P H Desai, Akzo Nobel Chemicals Inc

1999 / Q2

By combining specially designed catalyst  and process technology, the SCANfining process selectively removes sulphur from FCC naphthas while preserving olefins, so avoiding undesirable octane loss and H2 consumption.
More

Coping with sulphur and water in naphtha isomerisation feeds.

Maureen F Gilbert, Carlos O Mora, Anshumali, F Mike Flloyd, Kellogg Brown & Root Inc
Miguel Peez Pasqual CEPSA
Ernst Kohler, Sud Chemie AG

1999 / Q2

An examination of the operational and economic benefits of an isomerisation process employing a superior water - and sulphur-tolerant catalyst - in particular, potential capital cost savings by eliminating feed and hydrogen drying and reducing feed desulphurisation.
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Improved FCCU feed and catalyst contact.

Sidney V Anderson, Saudi Aramco.

1999 / Q2

A series of modifications to the FCC unit at Jeddah refinery, Saudi Arabia, including an improved feed nozzle design, has resulted in better product selectivity and unit profitability. Further modifications are now under way.

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Role of asphaltenes cracking in bottoms conversion.

Toru Takatsuka, Shin-ichi Inoue, Yoshiaki Hori, Chiyoda Corporation.

1999 / Q2

The main factor in choosing upgrading processes for bottoms crude oil is often the refinery's current and anticipated product slate, say the authors of this article, but the most important consideration should be given to the part asphaltene cracking will play in the particular crude.
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The economics of integrating refining and petrochemicals.

Ralph Ragsdale, Bechtel Corporation
Gary L Ewy, Ewy Services Plus

1999 / Q2

Refining and petrochemical facilities in some countries are designed and constructed as separate entities, with no intention of integrating the plants. For future facilities, integration may be the preferred route.
More

Visbreaker operation and conversion enhancement.

Glen I Jackson and Andre Vanhove, BetzDearborn Inc

1999 / Q2

Among the subjects examined in this article are the phenomenon of fouling in visbreaker units, its location and severity; the impact of operational variables, and methods of fouling reduction by operational optimisation and the application of antifoulant treatment chemicals.
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Increasing efficiency of a fluid catalytic cracking unit.

Andrea Amoroso, Agip Petroli SpA

1999 / Q3

A combination of improved feed atomisation via new elevated nozzles, control software and latest catalyst technology has resulted in increased feedrate, better gasoline yeields and enhancement of octane at Sannazzaro.
More

Maximising FCC propylene production

Charles L Hemler and Lawrence L Upson, UOP

1999 / Q3

To meet the world demand for light olefins, the authors present the case for designing a fluidised light olefin catalytic cracker.  Its capabilities include a yield pattern producing large quantities of propylene, together with big C4 yields and a significant amount of aromatic gasoline.
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Adsorption process for removal of nitrogen and sulphur.

Robert L Irvine and Dominic M Varraveto, Blac, & Veatch Pritchard Inc.

1999 / Q3

The Irvad process is claimed as a breakthrough for removing heteroatoms from liquid carbon streams up to 240'C endpoint, using a solid adsorbent to contact liquid countercurrently in a multi-stage, fluidised adsorber.  The adsorbent is regenerated in a reactivator, using heated reactivation gas.
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Upgrading gasoils by mild hydrocracking.

Q Chen, Paul van den Oosterkamp, Simon Barendregt, Technip Benelux.

1999 / Q3

MHUG - Medium-Pressure Hydro Upgrading - is a single stage mild hydrocracking process which uses two proprietory Ni-W catalysts.  More than 40 units applying the catalysts have been built and operated successfully.
More

A proposal for an economic and environmental gasoline.

Roberto Amadei, Refining Consultant.

1999 / Q3

The author describes how adopting identified C6- and C7+ hydrocarbon concentrations in the reforming and isomerisation feeds can increase profits and transform gasoline into a new, more environmentally friendly grade.
More

Technologies to achieve 2000 diesel specifications.

Joanne Langston, Lyondell-Citgo Refining Company (LCR)
Liz Allen and Dilip Dave, Criterion Catalyst Co Ltd

1999 / Q3

A discussion of the options for modifying existing hydroprocessing units to cost effectively produce higher quality, restrictively specified diesel fuels that will meet the demands for reduced sulphur levels in the new millennium.
More

Hydrogen flux monitoring devices in wet H2S service.

Michael S Cayard and Russell D Kane, InterCorr International Inc
Carlos J B Joia and Luiz A Correa, Petrobras/CENPES

1999 / Q3

This article discusses a methodology for extending the use of hydrogen flux monitoring equipment to assess quantitively the severity of hydrogen charging and relate the response directly to the material's resistance or susceptibility to wet H2S cracking.
More

Low cost process for refinery residue conversion.

Hans Weiss and Jorg Schmalfeld, Lurgi Umwelt GmbH

1999 / Q3

An outline of the technology of residue oil converstion, dealing with the mild coking of residue oils by the LR process.  The authors also describe the process principle, its characteristics and a number of test results.
More

Improving commercial hydrocracking performance

Stuart Frazer and Warren Shirley, The New Zealand Refining Company Ltd.

1999 / Q4

A description of the commercial success that came from implementing a strategy to improve hydrocracking unit performance, including the methods used for controlling polynuclear aromatics and their effect on performance
More

Advances in biocatalytic desulphurisation

Elaine A Lange and Michael A Pacheco, Energy BioSystems Corporation.

1999 / Q4

Significant advances have been made towards practical applications of biodesulphurisation technology through reduction in process costs and development of chemical co-products from waste sulphur materials.  Recent work in process and product development are reviewed here.
More

The drive for refinery energy efficiency

Steve M Brown, Linnhoff March Ltd

1999 / Q4

Total Site analysis, apart from improving a refinery's energy effeciency, also brings capital avoidance in site expansion, process unit debottlenecking and other benefits.  This article describes how it was applied to a real life problem.
More

Optimising resid FCC unit catalyst design.

Stephen J Yanik, Paul O'Connor, Anton H Pichel, Akzo Nobel Catalysts
Makoto Nakamura, Nippon Ketjen Company Ltd.

1999 / Q4

A review of the advantages of applying the latest residue FCC unit catalyst design technologies.  The authors also discuss improvements in small-scale catalyst evaluation techniques for predicting the commercial benefits.
More

A cheaper way of alkylating propylene and amylenes

J Randall Peterson, David C Graves, Ken Kranz, David M Buckler, Stratco Inc

1999 / Q4

The authors describe how propylene and amylenes can be alkylated using much less sulphuric acid catalyst.  When a propylene-rich feed is alkylated at high acid strengths, or amylene-rich feed is alkylated at low strengths, acid consumption is similar to that of butylenes.
More

Direct-coupled cyclone and feed injection

RJ Glendinning and HL McQuiston ABB Lummus Global

1996 / Q4

Retrofitting key technology elements in vintage FCC units can bring many of the economic benefits associated with the use of advanced technologies.  Commercial operating data demonstrate the yield benefits achieved with Lummus direct-couples cyclone and feed injection methods, plus fast payback.
More

Solvent deasphalting and gasification to reduce fuel oil

H David Sloan, Howard J Simons and David J Bosworth MW Kellog
John Griffiths Jacobs Engineering

1996 / Q4

The authors describe the technology and economics of the way a refinery with a bisbreaker unit can reduce production of heavy fuel oil.
More

High olefins feedstocks in stream reformers

F Giacobbe, O Loiacono, G Iaquaniello, F Vinci, Kinetics Technology International (KTI) SpA

1996 / Q4

Feedstocks for catalytic steam reforming include a wide group of streams,  from natural gas to LPG, naphtha and refinery offgas.  Their uses call for ever greater quantitites of unsaturated compounds to be treated.  This article shows how feedstocks being steam reformed has solved the problem.
More

Removal of trace H2S and COS from liquid streams

Mark Doran and Dave Harpham, ICI Katalco

1996 / Q4

Non-regenerable absorbents are being used increasingly in refineries to remove small levels of sulphur impurities, such as copper strip corrosion.  Factors determining the suitability of such processes, and some operational examples, are presented here.
More

Hydrogen effects on cracking catalysts

Hideshi Hattori, Tetsuya Shishido, Kentaro Higo, Junpei Tsuji, Takahiro Nagase, Center for Advanced Research of Energy Technology (CARET), Hokkaido Univery

1996 / Q4

Catalytically active sites for cracking are formed from hydrogen molecules, suggesting that when hydrogen is present in a reaction mixture it affects not only hydrogenation/dehydrogenation but also acid-catalysed cracking reaction.
More

Waste organic coprocessing with coal/oil and recycling

V R Pradhan, A G Comolli, L K Lee, G Popper, Hydrocarbon Technologies Inc

1996 / Q4

A new technology has been developed for the combined processing of organic wastes, using feedstocks such as coal and petroleum residue.  It enables clean transportation fuels and value-added chemicals to be produced economically and in an environmentally benign manner.
More

Aluminised steels for sulphidation corrosion resistance

George T Bayer and Kim A Wynns, Alon Processing Inc

1996 / Q4

Steel tubing, piping, and vessels aluminised by the pack cementation process can give enhanced performance and service lifetimes through increased resistance to high-temperature sulphidation in a variety of hydrocarbon processing operations, claim the authors.
More

Economics of process analyser applications

Derek Benke and Frank Rutzen, Benke Instrument & Elektro GmbH
Alfred Rother, Verba Oel AG

1996 / Q4

Data in this article are based on European conditions at the beginning of 1996 for refineries with a distillation capacity of about 5 million tons/year.
More

Troubleshooting FCCU operating problems

Jack R Wilcox, Dennis C Kowalczyk, Robert J Campagna, Refining Process Services Inc

1997 / Q1

Important FCC catalyst properties and the way they affect unit performance are described in this article, which also reviews operating problems that can be corrected, based on analysis and adjustment of the catalysts' properties.
More

Hydrowaxing process at Danube refinery

Janos Gergely, Jozsef Perger, Gabriella Szalmas-Pecsvari, Hungarian Oil and Gas Co (MOL)

1997 / Q1

Hungarian Oil and Gas Company has developed a distillate hydrowaxing process for the purpose of improving the cold flow properties of heavy gas oils by reducing C16+ normal paraffin levels.  This comprises hydrocracking over a selective catalyst which is bifunctional and contains ZSM-5 type zeolite.
More

Caustic treatment of jet fuel streams

Patricia Forero and Felipe J Suarez, Merichem Company
Abe J duPont National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa

1997 / Q1

Caustic treatment of jet fuel streams using Fiber-Film Contactors has proven to be practical and reliable, compared with conventional systems.  An acid number specification can be obtained in a single stage using this technology.
More

Meeting the next generation of motor fuels

Geoff Tobin, Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

1997 / Q1

Clean fuels legislation, which began in the USA, has now spread to Europe, and Asia is expected to follow.  Its introduction comes at a difficult time for refiners but short-term compliance should not prove technically challenging.
More

FCC feed preparation for improved quality

Henyr Chung and Susan Kolbush, Ultramar Inc
Emiliano de la Fuente and Preben Christensen, Haldor Topsoe.

1997 / Q2

The benefits of hydrotreating heavy gas oil FCC feedstocks at different levels of severity  are discussed in this article, particularly the operating success of a combination of processes at the Ultramar refinery in California.
More

Removal of NOX from FCCU regenerator vent gases

Peter Brook, Bernard Hagger, John Wood, Foster Wheeler Energy

1997 / Q2

Design of FCCUs has traditionally been aimed at optimising process yields and heat recovery, but legislation on emissions from refineries required changed investment criteria.  At Sweden's Scanraff refinery a technology that is not in common use is being applied in a project to reduce NOx.
More

Spent catalyst management

Roger K Clifford, Chevron Research and Technology Company

1997 / Q2

It is each refiner's responsibility to determine how and where to manage spent catalysts.  Options include reuse, regeneration, metals reclamation and disposal.  Government regulations differ in each country, and they are in a state of flux - it is prudent to consult the regulators and evaluate the options.
More

Integrated refinery and power with fertiliser coproduction

Yukihiro Kobayashi, Takeshi Yoshimitsu, Kadaba R Umesh, Toyo Engineering Corporation

1997 / Q2

A means of achieving efficient utilisation of refinery residues in developing countries for the production of power, and the coproduction of value added product such as urea fertiliser, is described in this article.
More

Vertical integration for refineries and petrochemical units

D H Purvis, R H Al-Shaikh, H A B Monro, Stone & Webster Canada Ltd

1997 / Q3

A market-driven integrated refinery/petrochemical complex consistent with current development plans in Asia, including India and China, where there is strong potential for growth in demand, is described in this article.
More

Catalytic reforming: real-time planning and optimisation

Lee E Turpin, Honeywell Hi-Spec Solutions

1997 / Q3

The four basic modes of catalytic reformer operation in modern refineries are summarised.  Degrees of freedom for optimisation, and the need for catalyst deactivation predictions and infrastructure requirements, are also reviewed.
More

Converting sulphide biologically

Dennis sullivan and Balise Arena UOP
Andre de Vegt, Cees Buisman and Albert Janssen, Paques BV

1997 / Q3

The Thiopaq treating process uses a living biological organism and ambient operating conditions in an improved approach to the handling of spent sulphidic caustic, with moderate investment and operating costs.
More

Simulation aid to main fractionator expansion

Mark Pilling, Nutter Engineering
Paul Mannion Elf Oil Ltd

1997 / Q3

This article describes the simulation methods and data testing employed to upgrade the main fractionator at Elf Milford Haven's alkylation unit, a prime aim of which was to improve the ratio of recycle isobutane to olefin.
More

A distillate hydrotreater to meet future regulations

Alain Pierru, Elf Oil UK Ltd

Didier Duee and Christophe Virondaud, Institut Francais du Petrole

1997 / Q4

To keep pace with recent trends in diesel fuel, refiners must choose processes that ensure future regulations are met.  Technical solutions with built-in flexibility are required to achieve present and future targets, particularly in the fields of distillate hydrodesulphurisation.

More

A new approach to FCC unit optimisation

Terry L Goolsby and Howard F Moore, Ashland Petroleum Company

Dennis C Kowalczyk, Refining Process Services

Tiffin E Johnson, Mario L Zampieri, B Karl Bussey, The M W Kellogg Company

1997 / Q4

The MagnaCat process for removing spent catalyst uses permanent magnets to separate metal-laden particles from newer ones, enabling the refiner to return the most active FCC catalyst particles to the unit, with economic benefits.  

More

Debottlenecking options and optimisation

Donald F Schneider, Stratus Engineering Inc

1997 / Q4

Debottlenecking continues to be a viable option for enhancing unit performance - altering existing facilities has less risk and, often, reduced cost compared to new construction.  Today's technology makes the necessary prior assessments and evaluation easier than ever to make.

More

Cost effective production of environmental distillate fuels.

Dilip Dave and Justin Swain, Criterion Catalyst Co Ltd

Mario Baldasari, ABB Lummus Global Inc.  With co-authors

1997 / Q4

The SynSat process of customised diesel hydroprocessing has been used in a variety of circumstances since the beginning of the Nineties, and in this article its commercial effectiveness in three different refineries is analysed.

More

MTBE and alkylate via the Isoether process: Part I

Roberto Trotta and Mario Marchionna, Snamprogetti SpA

1997 / Q4

The Isoether Dimerisation/Etherification Process (DEP) produces at the same time IsooctaneGas, an isooctane-based high quality alkylate, and MTBE or ETBE, thereby greatly enhancing the flexibility of these technologies.

More

Improving refinery integration

Ryuzo Watari, Chiyoda Corporation

1998 / Q1

With deregulation of electric power production, the question of how to turn waste products of upgrading processes into assets may be answered by the combination of the Eureka cracking process and the Texaco Gasification Power System (TGPS).
More

Reaping the rewards of an internal audit

Brian M Moyse and Johannes Wrisberg, Haldor Topsoe
David L Yeary, Phillips Petroleum Co

1998 / Q1

Production of 0.05 wt% S diesel for an acceptable period of time can present challenges.  This article quantifies the effect of a properly designed distributor to enhance catalyst contacting efficiency which, in the refinery discussed here, produced a 45'F lower reactor temperature and double the run length.
More

Mid-barrel optimisation

Gerald A Lambourn, AMEC Process and Energy

1998 / Q1

Refiners face an unprecedented technological and economical challenge in meeting the European Union's propsed new fuel specifications.  This article develops a planning strategy for the typical cat cracking refinery with adequate conversion capacity.
More

Revamp opportunities for isomerisation units

Christopher Gosling, Richard Rosin, Patrick Bullen, UOP
Toshio Shimizu, Cosmo Research Institute
Tetsuya Imai, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

1998 / Q1

Light paraffin isomerisation technology traditionally has used either zeolite or chlorided alumina catalysts, each with certain weaknesses.  This article reviews a new isomerisation process, Par-Isom, based on a high performance sulphated metal catalyst which is robust and regenerable.
More

Integrated choice etherification system: Pt 2

Mario Marchionna and Roberto Trotta, Snamprogetti SpA

1998 / Q1

The Integrated Choice Etherification System is aimed at the production of different components.  The most important features of the etherification technologies employed, and their impact on the reformulated gasoline pool, are outlined and discussed in this article.
More

Refining trends in hydrogen and syngas

Alan Karp and Ronald L Dickenson,   SFA Pacific Inc

1998 / Q1

Hydrogen demand for bottom-of-the-barrel upgrading and fuel reformulation, together with the power-for-sale opportunities created by deregulation and the potential for converting natural gas to liquid products, are raising new and widespread interest in synthesis gas generation and utilisation.
More

Leuna 2000: an example of refinery plant engineering

Peter Jabulowsky, Lurgi Ol-Gas-Chemie GmbH

1998 / Q2

Leuna 2000 in Germany is the first greenfield refinery to be built in Europe for more than 20 years.  Its design, engineering and construction is state-of-the-art technology, governed by stringent standards, resulting in one of the most advanced, efficient and environmentally friendly plants in the world.
More

Effects of ZMS-5 zeolite additive on FCC olefin yields

Maria Balai, Janos Forstner, Antal Katona, Szabolcs Szoboszlay, Laszlo Szirmai, MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas Company

1998 / Q2

A research project aimed at developing an FCC catalyst additive to promote octane enhancement has resulted in MAG-O - an additive with high ZMS-5 content, making it easier for refineries to meet new gasoline specifications.
More

Quality FCC products from increasingly dirty feeds

Gerard Heinrich and Stephane Wambergue, IFP Industrial Division

1998 / Q2

Heavier FCC feedstocks and increasingly stringent emissions regulations and motor fuel specifications have led to the integration of pre- and post- hydrotreatment units into FCC complexes and more controlled operations.
More

Catalytic distillation to enhance gasoline quality: Part 1

Kerry L Rock, Richard M Foley, Hugh M Putman, Amarjit S Bakshi, Monoj Som, CD Tech

1998 / Q2

Initiatives towards the improvement of gasoline motor fuel quality means refiners must modify their processing facilities to meet higher standards.  Catalytic distillation, discussed here, offers flexibility in fitting to existing facilities new technologies for treatments such as gasoline sulphur reduction.
More

Reducing the danger of maintenance exposure

Andrew W Sloley, Process Consulting Services Inc.

1998 / Q2

Maintenance cost overruns result from inadequate cost estimating and the emergence of unidentified work that has to be done.  Correctly defining work in advance reduces costs, and the author discusses how this can be done.
More

Managing operating strategy affecting process reliability

E Bradford Clark, Martin W Ball, Peter H Haar, KBC Process Technology Ltd

1998 / Q2

A review of the method for combining opportunities for profit improvement, together with processing and maintenance requirements, with engineering practices, technologies and expertise.
More

Residue hydroconversion processes - New options

Bob Scheffer, Wim Rozema, K W Robschlager, Shell Global Solutions
F A Buhrman, Shell Netherlands Refinery, Pernis

1998 / Q3

The Hycon process has been operated at Shell's Pernis refinery for more than six years, and a moving bed retrofit has been developed to revamp fixed bed LR-HDS units, enabling them to handle heavier, higher metal feeds and to attain a cycle length of two years or longer.
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Two into one - a merger of neighbouring refineries

Horst Gobel and Bernd Raabe, MiRO Mineraloelraffinerie Oberrhein GmbH

1998 / Q3

It made economic sense to combine two adjacent German refineries, owned by OMW and ESSO, into one unified operation, particularly at a time of tight margins and changing market demands.  The authors describe the decisions and engineering that went into the making of the MiRO, Karlsruhe, refinery.
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An advance in fixed-bed alkylation technology

Johanna H Jonsdottir and Peter Sogaard-Andersen, Haldor Topsoe A/S

1998 / Q3

Fixed-Bed Alkylation (FBA) represents a new generation of alkylation technology, evolved from proven methods in use for many years.  The process described here combines the benefits of a liquid catalyst system with the advantages of a fixed-bed reactor.
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Design parameters for feed injectors

Christopher S Grant, BP Oil International.

1998 / Q3

FCC feed injector technology has advanced from being virtually a centrally mounted pipe stub at the base of the riser to an arrangement of complex radially mounted spray generators.  The parameters that affect feed injector design are discussed in this article.
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Development of residue hydrocracker project

Kenneth G Tasker, James J Colyar, Lawrence I Wisdom, IFP North America Inc

1998 / Q3

Tonen Corporation of Japan started-up its first residue hydrocracker, based on the H-Oil process, last year, after completing field construction of the 25000bpsd unit in a record 13 months.  This article outlines the history of the project, from technology selection to startup.
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Maximising distillate production from the FCC unit

John Black, Jon Petrunia, Robert T Powell, KBC Advanced Technologies Inc

1998 / Q3

In the heating oil season, many refiners switch from a gasoline to a distillate mode of operation of the FCC unit, to increase light cycle oil yield.  There are various steps to maximise distillate production; some are discussed here.
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Catalytic distillation to enhance gasoline quality: Part II

R M Foley, K L Rock, A Bakshi, W Groten, G Gildert, D Weidert, T McGuirk, CDTech

1998 / Q3

European regulations covering gasoline quality standards have moved on since Part I of this article appeared in the last issue.  With further reductions in sulphur levels now likely, a comparison of catalytic distillation (CD) and conventional technology in benzene reduction is discussed. 
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FCC and visbreaker integration to improve bottom conversion

D Bhattacharyya, S Mandal, S K Das, N S Raman, A K Das, S K Shah, B S Rawat, S Makhija, S Ghosh, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd

1998 / Q4

It is impossible to enhance the overall conversion of heavy petroleum residues in the refinery by integrating the visbreaker with FCC/hydrocracker.  The integration involves the separation of heavy gasoil/vacuum gasoil cut from visbroken residue and processing in the FCC/hydroracker.
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Fluidised bed coking - utilising bottom of the barrel

D S McCaffrey, D G Hammond, V R Patel, Exxon Research and Engineering Company

1998 / Q4

Recent economic studies have indicated that Fluidised Bed Coking could be an attractive option for maximising use of the bottom of the barrel.  It is described as a continuous and relatively low cost thermal conversion process.
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Recovery of olefins from refinery offgases

Margaret M Shreehan, ABB Lummus Global Inc

1998 / Q4

Low pressure recovery of refinery offgases is discussed in this article, describing the Lummus process which eliminates the multi-stage feed gas compressor yet maintains over 90 per cent recovery of ethylene while cutting capital cost and reducing energy consumption.
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Tapping capacity potentials for residue FCC

Tsing Wu, Zhenhai Refining & Chemical Co Ltd

1998 / Q4

An innovative approach to eliminate bottlenecks on a residue FCC unit has resulted in much-increased tapping capacity.  The fluidisation quality and catalysis circulation after the revamp, together with the technical transformation and an economic analysis, are discussed in this article.
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Sulphuric acid recovery from sulpurous waste streams

Ole Rud Bendixen, Haldor Topsoe A/S

1998 / Q4

The WSA process is a catalytic system for producing concentrated sulphuric acid from any sulphur-containing offgas, without the use of chemicals.  Among its uses in refineries has been treatment of hydrotreater sour gases and onsite regeneration of spent sulphuric acid from alkylation.
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Results from an ex-situ presulphiding process

Daniel J Neuman, Hans Klaver, Brunu, Laakmann, Wolfgang, Schnabel, G Karl Simper, TRICAT

1998 / Q4

Commercial tests have been completed on a system which presulphides hydroprocessing catalyst before it is loaded.  XpresS-treated catalyst is loaded in air into the hydroprocessing unit.  Startup is simplified, and results show the presulphided catalyst is as active as those sulphided in-situ.
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Thermal use of residues in a combined heat and power plant

Werner Auel, Wolfgang Benesch, Hannes Reichel, Lurgi Lentjes Service GmbH

1998 / Q4

The major Leuna refinery complex in Germany is now drawing its energy from a heat and power plant specially built for the purpose.  The authors describe features of its design and experience gained in its operation.
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Hydroprocessing solutions to Euro diesel specifications

D Farshid, A J Dahlberg, S J Nutting, D V Law, A S Krishna, Chevron Products Company

2000 / Q1

 In anticipation of new diesel specifications in Europe, a technology has been developed which claims low initial investment but maintains maximum flexibility in upgrading.

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Crystallisation technique to simplify dewaxing

Vicente A Citarella, Evelino A Ruibal, Sam Zaczepinski, Exxon Research and Engineering Co

Brent E Beasley, Exxon Research and Development Laboratories

2000 / Q1

A spherical wax-crystal structure described produces higher lube dewaxed oil yeilds and filter rates, and allows refined wax production by warming the dewaxing slack wax to deoiling temperature - without recrystallisation

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Ammonium bi-sulphide corrosion in hydrocrackers

Walid A Al-Naim, Saudi Aramco

2000 / Q1

Factors in the corrosion of effluent condensers in hydrocrackers are the subject of this article, which includes a case study of the problems experienced at Riyadh refinery, Saudi Arabia, and the corrective actions that were taken.

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A novel approach to attain new fuel specifications

Alain Billon, Frederic Morel, Institut Francais du Petrole 
John Duddy and Lawrence I Wisdom, IFP North America

2000 / Q1

The authors describe a novel T-Star-based approach that can be used to meet new low sulphur fuel specifications and allow refiners to significantly increase their diesel to gasoline production ratio.

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Optimal management of catalytic operations

Frederic Girardier, Eurecat SA

Eric Gaillard, Petroval SA

2000 / Q1

A review of the technical and financial advantages of the services - offsite and onsite - that are available to help refiners keep down costs and obtain the best performance from catalyst management.

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Competitive advantage with process safety management

N H Kosaric, Bahrain Petroleum Company

2000 / Q1

In a proactive philosophy of refinery management, all personnel-operating, maintenance and engineering - need to be mobilised to identify potential problems and to cooperatte in a strategy that prevents them from happening.

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Hydroprocessing atmospheric and vacuum residues

Pascal Tromeur, Isabell Guibard, Virginie Harle, IFP

Martin Pike, Procatalyse

2000 / Q2

A description of the way in which the Hyvahl technology for atmospheric and vacuum residue hydroprocessing associates a permutable reactor system with a novel HDS catalyst for improving run length and product quality.

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Improvements in paraffin isomerisation catalysts

Sebastien Decker and Raphael E Gall, TotalFina

2000 / Q2

A high active catalyst has been developed for the isomerisation of low octane C5/C6 light naphthas into high octane products, and for the isomerisation of butane to produce isobutane for alkylation and synthesis of MTBE.  They are aimed to be a cost-effective way of debottlenecking for future specifications.

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Synergy effect of improved accessibility catalysts

Luiz Fernando Leite and Claudio Remeo Schlosser, Petrobras SA

Jose Geraldo F  Ramos, Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores SA
King Yen Yung, Akzo Nobel Catalysts BV

2000 / Q2

An FCC catalyst technology has been developed which enhances the accessibility of large molecules to the functional sites and the egress of reaction products.

More

Crude unit revamp to increase diesel yield

Tony Barletta, Process Consulting Services Inc

Matthew Smith and Catherine Macfarlane, Caltex Refineries NSW

2000 / Q2

An account of a crude vacuum unit revamp in which detailed calculation of the true performance of existing equipment, plus a realistic calculation of the benefits a revamp would bring, raised diesel production by 14.5 vol% on crude.

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Environmental catalytic cracking technology

Steven W Davey, Grace Davison

2000 / Q2

Catalytic technologies for the control of Nox and SOx have been developed and commercially proven in a number of different FCC units around the world.  They provide a low-cost route for environmental compliance.

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An advanced asphaltene pelletisation process Murugesan Subramanian and Jon Moretta, Kellogg Brown & Root Inc

Rick Bloom and Michael Martin, The Devco Companies

2000 / Q3

A description of a new process for pelletising asphaltene from solvent deasphalters to produce solid asphaltene pellets with a higher heating value, and which are claimed to have improved fuel properties over petroleum coke.

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A method for improving plant reliability

Gert Koppen, Det Norske Veritas

2000 / Q3

Risk Based Inspection methodology allows risk to be measured in terms of personal safety, damage to equipment, environmental damage and business or financial impact.  The author describes its development and effectiveness.
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A less expensive route to IGCC power generation

James S Falsetti and Richard A De Puy, Texaco Power and Gasification

Daniel Brdar and Ashok Anand, General Electric Power Systems

Jerry Paolino, Praxair Inc

2000 / Q3

A report an an exercise to harness the technologies of three companies, in the refining and power industries, to establish a more cost effective way of producing electric power from integrated gasification combined cycle.

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Aiming for safe plant design and operation

Adrian Fletcher and Fabrizio Gambetti, Snamprogetti SpA

2000 / Q3

A look at the reasons behind the development of the IEC-61508 standard, with a description of the techniques that can be used for integrity level evaluation.

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Long-life flare tips - a challenge to old notions

J Keith McCartney, Kaldair Inc

2000 / Q3

Several refinery operators have had to reexamine preconceived ideas about flare performance and maintenance requirements, with the result that they are looking at flare tips with a new awareness

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Integrating a refinery and petrochemical complex

Partha Maitra, Reliance Petroleum Ltd

John Folkers, UOP LLC

Peter Coles, Bechtel Ltd

2000 / Q4

An account of the planning and organisation that went into a project to converge the operations of a combined 540 000bpd refinery and petrochemical plant, thereby minimising processing costs and optimising product distribution.

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Upgrading heavy oil using iron/active carbon catalyst

Satoshi Terai and Hidetsugu Bukuyama, Toyo Engineering Corporation (TEC)

Kaoru Fujimoto, University of Tokyo

2000 / Q4

Iron/active carbon catalyst has effectively cracked heavy residual oil, restricting formation of asphaltene and suppressing coke formation at higher conversions under low hydrogen pressure.  It also showed strong activity in sulphur removal.

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Solvent deasphalting and gasification: a synergy

Andrea Bernetti and Mauro De Franchis, ERG Petroli SpA

Jon C Moretta and Pankaj M Shah, Kellogg Brown & Root Inc

2000 / Q4

An analysis of the different refinery bottoms processing schemes, identifying configurations that produce the lowest cost feedstock for the integrated gasification combined cycle complex while maximising refinery profitability.

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Processing feedstock having high nitrogen content

Ruichi Zhang, Research Institute of Petroleum Processing, Sinopec

2000 / Q4

A description of the way in which the denitrogenate catalytic cracking (DNCC) process can abate the contamination of basic nitrogen in cracking catalyst, and also increase FCC conversion and gasoline octane number.

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Hydrogen: innovative business solutions

Graham Phillips, Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

2000 / Q4

The author presents a systematic approach to the problems that follow from the increasing demand for hydrogen in the search for clean, low sulphur fuels - and which can result in greater CO2 emissions which refinereis are anxious to reduce.
More

Retaining know-how with Knowledge Management

Laurence M Myers, RWD Technologies

2000 / Q4

Economic pressurs tempting plants to delay turnarounds means that some of their most experienced operators will have moved on by the time their expertise is needed.  The author describes how Knowledge Management can anticipate this.

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Troubleshotting FCC standpipe operations

Joseph W Wilson, Barnes & Click Inc

2000 / Q4

An outline of the fundamentals of standpipe flow - the author discusses problems often encountered in standpipes, diagnostic tools that can be used to identify the nature of the problem and possible corrective actions that can be taken.

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Revamp options for improved diesel

Gary L Hamilton, ABB Lummus Global

Bert van der Linde, Shell Global Solutions

Dave DiCamillo, Criterion Catalyst Company

2001 / Q1

Integration of cocurrent and countercurrent reactor systems into existing hydrotreaters makes various revamp options possible, providing opportunities for meeting changing specifications for diesel.

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Implications of producing ultra low sulphur diesel

Bradford L Bjorklund, Timothy L Heckel, Neil D Howard, David A Lindsay, David J Piasecki, UOP LLC

2001 / Q1

The practical implications of producing an ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD) are reviewed in this article.  The authors define ULSD as a diesel transportation fuel with 5ppm or less of sulphur and with no other specification changes imposed.

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Calculating atmospheric residue FCC product slate

William Gilbert, Claudia Baptista, Marco Antonio Teixeira, Petrobras

2001 / Q1

A set of atmospheric residues was cracked in a circulating riser pilot plant and the results interpreted with the help of a process simulation model.  New heavy feed properties were identified as being important factors in product yield prediction.

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Hydrocracking: past, present and future

David V Law, Chevron Texaco

2001 / Q1

Modern hydrocracking continues its importance as a refining process of choice in the current era of rapidly changing product specifications, particularly for transportation fuels.  Its process and catalyst characteristics are reviewed here.

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Beating pressure drop with a trash baskets redesign

Byron G Johnson, Phillips Petroleum Company
Brian M Moyse and Kenneth Lee Smith, Haldor Topsoe Inc

2001 / Q1

Unscheduled turnarounds of hydrotreaters can be expensive in terms of catalyst and manpower costs, as well as the value of lost production.  The authors describe how a refiner saved three such turnarounds per year on a naphtha hydrotreater.

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Oxygen enrichment to reduce Nox emissions

Kirk Limbach, Satish Tamhankar, Subodh Ganguly, Vijay Balse, Raghu Menon, Ram Ramachandran, BOC Gases

2001 / Q1

An account of studies of the effect of FCC regenerator oxygen enrichment on NOx and SO2 emissions, showing that oxygen enrichment significantly decreases NOx emissions and those of SO2 when SOx transfer agent is present.
More

Catalyst management for ultra low sulphur gasoil

Constant Bruyninckx, Belgian Refining Corporation

Daniel J Neuman, Maarten van Vliet, G  Karl Semper, Tricat Companies

2001 / Q1

By purchasing high quality regenerated catalyst rather than regenerating its own catalyst during turnaround, a Belgian refinery was able to reduce downtime from 12 days to six and also shorten startup with the XpresS presulphiding process.

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FCC cyclones - a vital element in profitability Robert McAuley, Shell UK Oil Products

Huub Driess, Shell Global Solutions International

2001 / Q2

When it was found that standard cyclone designs did not always work reliably, an extensive development programme was initiated to design and produce cyclone systems specifically to form part of a refinery's overall FCC operations.

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Advanced recycle paraffin isomerisation technology Bruno Domergue, IFP Industrial Division

Russel Matthews, Holborn Europa Raffinerie GmbH

2001 / Q2

An examination of how combining chlorinated catalyst, molecular sieves and well designed process configurations can maximise the value of C5/C6 streams.  A case study outlines a refinery's programme for meeting Euro 2005 specifications.

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Preventing salt fouling in FCC main fractionators

David O Martin, Nalco/Exxon Energy Chemicals

Richard O Allen, Texaco Ltd

2001 / Q2

Results of using sale dispersant additives on a badly fouled FCC unit has shown that the method allows refiners to avoid more costly methods of naphtha fractionation and, potentially, water washing of the main fractionator.

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Steady state simulator to monitor treater performance

Michael C Hu and Robert T Powell, KBC Advanced Technologies

Naoki Yomoji and Danichiro Ohshima, Kashima Oil Company

2001 / Q2

A description of a procedure used successfully at a Japanese refinery in which a steady state hydrotreater model was used to monitor the effects of feed quality, so that changes in key process factors could be matched against catalyst age.

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Economic treattment options for effluent caustics

 Malcolm G Sharpe and Ramiro G Vazquez, Merichem Chemicals and Refinery Services LLC

2001 / Q2

The authors describe how selective application of technologies involving partial oxidation, total oxidation and deep neutralisation could add value to caustic streams while meeting environmental quality standards.

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An economic approach to future fuel specifications

Jorg Reinhard, Veba Oel Verarbeitungs GmbH

Ulrich Balfanz, Aral Forschung FDT

2001 / Q2

In anticipation of the extra burden forthcoming fuel specifications will impose on the industry, a joing venture in Germany has gone ahead with a project to convert a surplus heating oil based stream to high-value petrochemical feedstock.

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Treating options to meet clean fuel challenges

Rik B Miller, Aristides Macris and Arthur R Gentry, Kellogg Brown & Root Inc

2001 / Q2

The multiple challenges of meeting fuel specifications and upgrading low value streams, such as LCO and heavy naphtha, call for a comprehensive understanding of various hydroprocessing options.  This article discusses some of them.

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Using laboratory lessons to maximise profitability

Steven J Yanik, Akzo Nobel Catalysts

2001 / Q3

A review of the progress made in catalyst evaluation methods, brought about by the formulation of new and improved testing equipment and methodology plus an understanding of the mechanisms driving catalyst deactivation processes.

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A hydrocracking strategy for a competitive market

P Marion, D Duee, E Benazzi, IFP

2001 / Q3

A description of a novel hydrocracking technology that offers refiners a cost effective way of complying with European 2005 diesel specifications, taking into account new configurations necessary to meet capacity and quality targets.

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Hydrocracking solutions for reducing sulphur

D R Cash, A S Krishna, D Farshid, G J Forder, Chevron Products Company

Laszlo Toth, MOL Hungarian Oil & Gas
Edmund Monkiewicz, Rafineria Gdanska

2001 / Q3

A growing requirement to produce higher yields of high quality products call for significant modifications to many of the world's singe-stage hydrocrackers.  How two refineries successfully met this challenge is discussed by the authors.

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FCC catalyst technology for maximum residue upgrading

James R D Nee, Paul A Diddams, Steven S Paloumbis, Grace Davison

2001 / Q3

New zeolite and matrix components, designed with high intrinsic stability and low delta coke and metals tolerance properties, have demonstrated an ability to process high boiling range feedstocks, with improved FCC gasoline quality.

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Bioslurping treatment for subsurface contamination

E Gidarakos and J Thomas, Battelle Ingenieurtechnik GmbH

I Gaglias and D Lambrinoudis, Hellenis Petroleum Aspropyrgos Refinery

2001 / Q3

An unconventional bioremedial technology has been used to clean up the contamination of subsoil and ground water resulting from a refinery's leaking oil tanks, at the same time achieving a cost effective recovery for lost product.

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Ultra low sulphur - low aromatic diesel

Alain P Lamourelle and Douglas E Nelson, Haldor Topsoe Inc

Jerry McKnight, San Joaquin Refining Inc

2001 / Q3

Moves to minimise sulphur emissions are causing refiners to consider more active hydrodesulphurisation catalysts in revamp projects.  For obtaining ultra low diesel, the authors discuss the benefits of NiMo and CoMo catalyst combinations.

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Selective H2S removal for the refining industry

Harald Linga, Erik Nilsen, Finn P Nilsen, Framo Purification

Per Age Sorum, Sigfred Johansen, Tore Pedersen, Statoil Mongstad Refinery

2001 / Q3

An account of the development and testing of a unit designed to remove H2S more efficiently from offgas process streams.  The authors conclude that it enables offgases to be purified to an exceptional level with minimum CO2 co-absorption

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Overcoming constraints to maximise FCCU feed rates

John Black and Jon Petrunia, KBC Advanced Technologies Inc

2001 / Q4

A discussion of the typical restraints encountered in FCC operation and the methods available to alleviate them, specifically through changes in operation or catalyst, or both - the objective being to increase the fresh feed to the FCC unit.

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Getting the maximum from hydroprocessing reactors

Justin Swain, Criterion Catalyst & Technology Co

Marja Zonnevylle, Shell Global Solutions Int
Dieter Pohl and Franz Geerdes, SRS Salzbergen

2001 / Q4

Recent advances in hydrotreater catalyst formulations mean that, with careful attention to distributor design and other mass transfer improvements, it is possible to effectively overcome reactor volume limitations.

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Meeting the low sulphur mogas challenge

Norman H Sweed and Edward S Ellis, ExxonMobil Research & Engineering Company

2001 / Q4

Aimed at helping refiners to understand the issues in selecting the appropriate technology for meeting new limitations on sulphur in gasoline, this article reviews current and future specifications and offers a range of available options.

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High capacity distillation revamps

Daryl Hanson and Edward Hartman, Process Consulting Services Inc

2001 / Q4

A review of fundamental tray design principles used to increase column capacity.  It is argued that understanding how high-capacity trays work assists in the selection and design process and can also help in the avoidance of failures.

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Benzene reduction in naphtha catalytic reforming

Rafael Larraz, University of La Laguna

2001 / Q4

Refiners in Europe and elsewhere are having to deal with new specifications for gasoline, which are likely to be followed by even tougher regulations in the future, including benzene and aromatics restrictions affecting naphtha reforming.

More

Online gasoline and gasoil blending optimisation

C Bozzini, C Swart, H van de Kamp, Invensys Process Systems

M Sinatra, G  Di Battista, G Petrillo, D Longhitano, ERG Petroli SpA

2001 / Q4

Rising crude oil prices and proliferating regulations have persuaded a major European refinery to increase the efficiency of its product blending and offsites operations by replacing analogue controls with a new computerised system.

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Comparison of clean diesel production technologies

C K Lee and Steve McGovern, PetroTech Consultants

2002 / Q1

Technology is available for meeting 15ppmw sulphur for road transport diesel, but technologies required to produce ultra low sulphur diesel are not necessarily the same as those for producing diesel with high cetane and low polyaromatics.

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Revamping conceptual process design

Tony Barletta and Gary Martin, Process Consulting Services Inc

2002 / Q1

With the desirability of getting the maximum use out of existing equipment when revamps are planned - not least to minimise investment costs - a rigorous approach to CPD is required to avoid scope growth.

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New developments in resid hydroprocessing

K Fujita, S Abe, Y Inoue, Nippon Ketjen Co Ltd

F L Plantenga and B Leliveld, Akzo Nobel Catalysts

2002 / Q1

A comparison of fixed bed and ebullated bed hydroprocessing rom the viewpoint of the process and sediment formation.  The authors also look at new grades of catalysts for fixed bed and ebullated bed units.

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Understanding gas treating fundamentals

James L Jenkins and Randy Haws, CCR Technologies Inc

2002 / Q1

While much is being placed on the study of conversion and hydroprocessing units, refiners are finding that primary amine units and associated sulphur plants require study and optimisation to meet the new environmental challenges.

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Cost benefit evaluation of risk-based maintenance

Klaus Stucker, Dagmar Kalkhof, Ludwig Hoin, Wilhelmshavener Raffinerie GmbH

Jurgen Hofmann, DNV Germany GmbH

2002 / Q1

A cost effective maintenance strategy is of prime importance to the profitability of a refinery.  This article compares various strategies - like condition-based maintenance and reliability-centred maintenance - with risk-based maintenance.

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Using surplus equipment in hydroprocessing units

Weldon H Lybarger and Gerald D Lamb, Mustang Engineers and Constructors

2002 / Q1

An exmination of the economics, maintenance considerations, design and other questions in purchasing used versus new equipment for plants, not only in revamps but also for installation in new grassroots facilities.

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Effect of feed properties on FCC unit performance

Robert J Campagna, Dennis C Kowalczyk, Jack R Wilcox, Refining Process Services Inc

2002 / Q1

Hydrotreating FCC feed is a viable option for refiners wishing to produce ultra low sulphur gasoline and diesel fuels, and the economics are superior to product-treating, say the authors, but they warn of the high capital costs that this entails.

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FCC refinery solutions for the European market

L A Lacijan, M W Schnaith, P J Van Opdorp, S G Simpson, J G Woodwock, UOP

2002 / Q2

The authors look at the options available to refiners for meeting the latest legislative constraints, the trend towards greater diesel fuel demand and changes in refined product ratios and values.

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Inventing the future in RFCC catalysts

 S J Yanik (Singapore), A Humphries and R Pinto (USA), R Fletcher (Netherlands), Akzo Nobel Catalysts

2002 / Q2

Individual innovations to improve RFCC catalysts, the authors believe, must be an open process and combined to produce continuous development: a wall of secrecy around new developments only serves to constrain future advancement.

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Clean Fuels: online analysers and laboratory methods

Robert J Schaefer and Kathryn Brtko, BP

Chuck Lieder, Equilon

2002 / Q2

Analytical laboratories in the USA, charged with testing refineries' produced fuels, are having to cope with current and future government specifications that will demand far more complex analaytical methodology.

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Controlling fluegas emissions

Nicholas Confuorto and Edwin H Weaver, Belco Technologies Corporation

2002 / Q2

This article reviews the latest developments in a wet scrubbing system that is used to reduce particulate SO2 and SO3 within one simple process.  It can be applied as a particulate-only device and later be converted to particulate and SOx.

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Meeting the demands of low sulphur gasoline

E S Ellis, J P Greeley, E M Roundtree, T J Davis, T R Halbert, G F Stunz, G B Brignac, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company

2002 / Q2

The refining industry has not been slow in developing and making use of new processes and catalysts designed to reduce sulphur levels in gasoline, and so meet burgeoning clean air regulations.  This article reviews one such technology.

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A flexible approach to refinery olefin alkylation

Andrew R Tyas and Tony Parker, Stratco Ltd

2002 / Q2

Safety issues concerning HF alkylation units, combined with incentives to process a wider range of olefin feedstock has resulted in options for converting these units to sulphuric acid technology.

More

Getting total performance with hydrotreating

Didier Duee, Dominique Admaski, Michel Dorbon, Axens

Magalie Roy-Auberger and Clementina Lopez-Garcia, IFP

2002 / Q2

If the most refractory compounds are to be treated successfully, say the authors, new hydrogenation mechanisms must be considered.  Refiners need to prepare for probable - as well as certain - legislation in the middle distillate fuel market.

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Rigorous hydrotreater simulation

Michael C Hu, KBC Advanced Technologies

Zbigniew Ring, Jenny Briker, Mure Te, National Centre for Upgrading Technology

2002 / Q2

The authors describe an integratd approach to dealing with the complexities of producing ultra low sulphur diesel, involving analytical support and process research as well as computer simulation.

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Advances in residue upgrading technology

G Phillips, Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

2002 / Q2

A combination of mature technology and innovative catalyst design and process improvements
provide the flexibility to upgrade heavier feeds, while the search continues to make mature residue upgrading technologies truly cost effective.

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Catalyst management to improve profitability

Glenn W Guglietta, Gautham Krishnaiah, Alan C Kramer, E Thomas Habib, Davison Refining Services

2002 / Q3

The authors describe a catalyst managment tool for improving FCCU profitability where metal variations affect operating conditions and addition rates.  It is argued that refiners have the opportunity to increase their margins considerably.

More

Best practices for producing ultra low sulphur diesel

Sal Torrisi, Dave DiCamillo, Richard Street, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies

Tom Remans, Shell International Chemicals Research
Jahn Svendsen, Shell Global Solutions

2002 / Q3

This article presents a methodology for approaching low sulphur diesel design with low pressure reactor solutions.  It reviews commercial cases showing proven best practices can be applied to existing hydroprocessing assets to produce ULSD.    

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Refinery energy efficiency and environmental goals

Zoran Milosevic and Wade Cowart, KBC Process Technology

2002 / Q3

Cheaper fuels do not always reduce costs, say the authors, and an alternative is cogeneration.  It is argued that fuel saving programmes and cogeneration, applied worldwide, could reduce world fuel consumption by some 26 million tons a year.

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Fluid catalytic cracking: meeting the challenges

Warren Letzsc, Stone & Webster Inc

2002 / Q3

The key to survival in the face of incresing pressures on refineries is adaptability, says the author, and from fuels to fine chemicals, refiners can diversify their product portfolios with a variety of FCCU improvements.

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Foam control methods in delayed cokers

Lawrence N Kremer, Baker Petrolite

Timothy G Hueston, Dow Corning

2002 / Q3

Injection of high viscosity PDMS fluids for controlling the buildup of foam in delayed cokers reduces costs while at the same time increasing capacity and maintaining downstream quality control.    

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Managing the molecule: an update on 2005

Simon C Clarke, Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

2002 / Q3

An overall look at the opportunities for gas-to-liquids projects in Europe as tighter gasoline and diesel specifications loom.  The author comments that refiners are beginning to run out of options, but are also using some successful strategies.

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Continuous catalytic process for diesel desulphurisation

Brian Turk, Raghubir Gupta, Blaise Arena, Research Triangle Institute.

2002 / Q3

With the production of ultra low sulphur diesel now threatening to become a major investment cost for refineries, work is going ahead on a technology that can be used to desulphurise naphtha and diesel in the vapour phase.

More

Improvements to increase fuel capacity and quality

Christopher F Dean, Saudi Aramco

Jay L Ross, Axens, IFP Group Technologies

2002 / Q4

By using staged technology upgrades, fuels production at the Jiddah refinery in Saudi Arabia was expanded and quality improved, meeting market and regulatory criteria, at the same time mitigating capital constraints.

More

Catalytic reduction of nitrous oxide emissions

Timothy J Dougan and J Robert Riley, Davison Catalysts

2002 / Q4

An account of how interactions of unit-specific operating variables, combustion promoters and additives on high temperature fluegasees will affect environmental objectives.  Novel catalytic additives can effectively reduce NOx emissions.

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Operating an FCCU at multiple constraints

Greg Tragitt and Gloria Chukman, KBC Advanced Technologies

2002 / Q4

Integration of an FCCU operational model within a rigorous refinery-wide flow sheet, incorporating the use of software for process modelling, say the authors, enables refineries to increase profitability without the need for capital investment.

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Delayed coker design and project execution

Ram Malik and Gary L Hamilton, ABB Lummus Global Inc

2002 / Q4

This article presents insights into the key considerations for residue upgrading and details some of the advances in technology, including online computer control and an innovative water management/coke recovery system.

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Neural software to estimate vacuum residue quality

Francesca Faranda and Alberto Servida University of Genoa

Nicoletta Aloi Iplom Refinery

2002 / Q4

Efficient implementation of control and optimisation systems depends on the online product quality index of residue from a vacuum unit operating in asphalt mode.

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Global clean fuels and the Middle East

Leslie P  Antalffy, Claus-Peter Haelsig, George West, Fluor Daniel

2002 / Q4

The Kyoto Protocol has been one of the drivers, together with mounting regulations and a variety of environmental issues, behind the efforts being made by refiners in the Middle East to develop more cost effective technology.

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Flash drum options and systems

Alan Goelzer and Alan Ganster, Jacobs Engineering Group Inc

2002 / Q4

An explanation of the optimised interactions between flash drum and stripper in diesel HDS and light distillate hydrotreaters.  The authors point out that selection of a flash drum option is an important element in revamps and new unit designs.

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New options for flexible hydrocracking

Han Chongren, Fang Xiangchen, Shao Jingchun, FRIPP/Sinopec

2002 / Q4

Refiners in China are having to tackle problems on two fronts: a growing demand for gasoline and diesel in an expanding national economy, against a raft of new regulations.  One answer has been the development of a new hydrotreatment.

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Rigorous process simulation for troubleshooting

C S L Narasimhan, Kaushik Basak, R P Verma, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd

2002 / Q4

A case study demonstrating the operational improvements obtained in using rigorous process simulation for pointing out specific conversion problems in the second stage reactor of a refinery's hydrocracker unit.

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Catalyst catastrophes in hydrogen plants

John R Brightling, Peter V Broadhurst and Mike P Roberts, Johnson Matthey Catalysts

2006 / Q1

Processing mishaps can occur if catalyst is placed in abnormal conditions.  These catastophes include temperature runaways, the formation of toxic nickel carbonyl, steam-reforming disasters, unplanned exotherms and side reactions.

More

Improving gas flow measurement

Dave Ferguson and Simon Xu, Quest TruTec LP

2006 / Q1

An on-site gas meter proving method, based on the radioactive tracer pulse velocity technique, can help reduce gas flow rate measurement errors, especially in large-diamter pipelines in natural gas transmission and refinery flare systems.

More

Increasing FCC propylene

M Lesemann, W C Cheng, James R D Nee, Sergio Sobrinos and Gordon H McElhiney, Grace Davison Refining Technologies.

2006 / Q1

ZSM-5-based catalysts are being used in FCCUs to increase propylene yields by as much at 15%.  Case studies demonstrate technology capable of providing coke - or LPG - constrained FCCUs more flexibility
to improve propylene yields.

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Meeting Euro IV fuel specifications

Georgy Andonov, stefan Petrov, Dicho Stratiev, Lukoil Neftochim Bourgas AD

Per Zeuthen, Haldor Topsoe A/S

2006 / Q1

Pretreating technology and special catalysts can help refiners meet the current and forthcoming European environmental regulations and improve their FCCU performance.  HDS and MHC modes of pretreater operation are compared.

More

Octanizing reformer options Bruno Domergue and Pierre-Yves le Goff, Axens

Jay Ross, Axens NA

2006 / Q1

Staged investment and reformer technology improvement strategies are available for increasing hydrogen production, cycle time and reliability.  Options include revamps to SR reformers and hybrid SR/CCR Dualformers, as well as new CCR unit investments.

More

Increasing crude unit preheat

Scott W Golden & Steve White, Process Consulting Services Inc

2006 / Q1

Cost-effective exchanger network solutions, designed to increase crude preheat temperature and reduce energy consumption, need to rely on more than just pinch technology if theyt are to be successful. 

More

Upgrading heavy oil products

David K Lifschultz, Genoil Ltd

2006 / Q1

Until recently, hydrogen addition-based technology and carbon rejection upgrading technology have been hindered by their low potential profitability, owing to high capital costs and low price spreads between light and heavy oil products.

More

Hydrogen management

Axel Duker, Sud-Chemie AG

Rainer Basse, Uhde GmbH

2006 / Q1

Several possibilities exist for the recovery of hydrogen from offgases and the processing of different sources of refinery gases through the hydrogen plant.  Catalysts play an important role in efficient hydrogen generation and recovery.
More

Increasing Value of ULSD assets Justin Swain, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies 2006 / Q2

Two new proprietary catalyst manufacturing technologies have been developed that provide a range of products, extending ULSD performance and operational flexibility beyond the level delivered by current technology.
More

Crude column relief design

Uwe Nagel, OMV Deutschland GmbH

Howard B Jemison and Cal Depew, SimSci-Esscor

Ralph-Uwe Dietrich,  Invensys Process Systems 

2006 / Q2

Examination of a crude unit's behaviour using a dynamic model can provide significant insight into the operation and transient behaviour of the process, preventing unnecessary investments in relief system upgrades.

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Enhancing FCC performance

Carel Pouwels, Albemarle Catalysts Company BV

2006 / Q2

Laboratory data demonstrates the performance of catalyst technology designed to address the three fundamentals of heavy feed cracking: coke and dry gas selectivity, metals tolerance and bottoms upgrading.

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Metathesis for maximum propylene

Robert J Gartside and Marvin I Greene, ABB Lummus Global

2006 / Q2

Using metathesis technology to process refinery-based C4 feedstocks can maximise propylene.  The economic advantages of flow schemes using alpha-olefins, such as ethylene or isobutylene, in the metathesis reaction with C4 olefins are discussed.

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Residue desulphurisation and conversion

Cecile Plain and Eric Benazzi, Axens

Denis Guillaume, IFP

2006 / Q2

Technology and market imperatives converge to enhance residue desulphurisation and conversion value.  The current market forces that presage a boom in resid hydrotreatment are examined along with recently reported progress in technology. 

More

Processing resid through FCCUs

Warren Letzsch, Shaw Stone & Webster Inc

Derek Lawler, Shaw Stone & Webster Inc

2006 / Q2

While residual feeds can be run in any FCCU, it is important to consider the riser design, termination selection and stripper technology along with independent two-stage regeneration to minimise catalyst deactivation.

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Converting SO2 to elemental sulphur

Mahin Rameshni and Stephen Santo, WorleyParsons

2006 / Q2

Historically available processes for large-scale SO2 recovery as elemental sulphur are inherently problematic in terms of operability, emissions, product quality and fuel consumption.  An SO2 reduction process can overcome these drawbacks.

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Residue upgrading

Edward J Houde, UOP LLC

Michael J McGrath, Foster Wheeler, USA

2006 / Q2

An examination into the feedstock and process conditions where solvent deasphalting is the most appropriate technology for upgrading residue.  Process variables, key design issues and finding a use for the SDA pitch are discussed.

More

Reducing refinery SOx emissions

Eric Butler, Kate Groves and John Hymanyk, Chevron Canada Ltd
Michael Maholland, Patric A Clark and Guido Aru, Intercat Inc

2006 / Q3

Through an extensive study and 18-month trial, a Canadian refinery chose SOx reduction additive technology to reduce its SOx emissions.  Variations in FCCU operating conditions and changes in SO2 emissions targets were taken into consideration.

More

Benchmarking FCC operations

C J Farley and Dennis Newell, Engelhard Corporation
Atula V Saraf, Astron International Inc

2006 / Q3

Benchmarking is an important tool in routine FCC data evaluations.  It can be used to validate unit data as well as identify areas for improved performance and show important shifts in FCC operation due to catalyst, technology or feedstock changes.

More

FCC safety and reliability

Eric W Hennings, Shaw Stone & Webster

2006 / Q3

Inbuilt design and operational safety practice in fluid catalytic cracking.  Changes to FCC processing over time are described with examples of improvements.  Safety instrumentation is discussed, along with the best way of operating the vapour line blind.

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Profiting with FCC feestock diversity

 Natalie Petti, Larry Hunt and George Yaluris, Grace Davison.

2006 / Q3

Despite the availability of hardware for treating FCC feedstocks to comply with clean fuel regulations, gasoline sulphur-reduction catalysts and additives can provide additional options and flexibility while maximising refinery profitability.

More

Hydrocracker fractionation modification

 Ken Sherman, Dino Chakraborty, Sam Pun and Vince Guarrasi, Colt Engineering

2006 / Q3

Modification of a hydrocracking unit's fractionation section was re-evaluted and an alternative processing scheme developed, which reduced the total installation cost by almost 50% while mitigating safety annd metallurgical concerns.

More

Coke drum design

 Coby W Stewart, Aaron M Stryk and Lee Presley, CB&I

2006 / Q3

Issues to consider for extending the turnaround schedule of a delayed coking unit.  Theory behind coke drum failure is discussed, with detailed solutions centred on drum design and support structures.

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Evaluating wet scrubbers

Edwin H Weaver, Belco Technologies Corporation.

2006 / Q3

The use of both regenerative and non-regenerative wet scrubbing systems to control the emission of particulate and SO2 is well proven and established.  Several scenarios, design and selection criteria for each type of system are discussed.

More

Refining developments and aromatics prospects

Andy Nicholson, DeWitt & Co Inc

2006 / Q3

Catalytic reforming will be of growing importance as a source of aromatics.  Capacity constraints will underpin aromatics prices for the next three to five years, while the location of refining capacity will dictate future aromatics investment.

More

Improving sulphur recovery units

Steven F Meyer and Christina Kulczycki, MECS

Ed Juno, Sinclair Oil Corporation

Nick Watts, CEntry Constructors and Engineers

2006 / Q3

A new alternative to the Claus unit tail gas treatment has been found in the wet gas scrubber.  This can maintain or increase acid  gas feed rates to the front end of the sulphur recovery unit, while reducing SO2 emissions.

More

Integrating power recovery into FCCU operations

Keith Couch, Leonard Bell and John Yarborough, UOP LLC

2006 / Q4

Case studies of FCC flue gas power-recovery systems, beginning with traditional maximum electrical power generation configurations.  New PRTs are presented, with a focus on reducing total erected cost and optimised energy integrations with improved ROI.

More

Risk-based maintenance

Brian G Hudson, ABB Engineering Services

2006 / Q4

Top-down approach case studies use qualitative and semi-quantitative asessment models to build a picture of risk, review current mitigation and identify immediate action to improve risk management and increase reliability.

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Refinery CO2 challenges: part IV

Vicente de Pablo Burna, CEPSA Gibraltar Refinery
Jem Hart and Allan Rudman, KBC Process Technology Ltd

2006 / Q4

Reducing CO2 emissions with a strategic energy-improvement programme.  The strategic energy review approach is summarised and results from recent studies conducted at a European refinery are discussed.

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Benchmarking og linear programming

J C M (Hans) Hartmann, Hans C M Hartmann Refinery Consultancy

2006 / Q4

As the preferred decision-support-tool for the oil industry supply chain, benchmarking of linear programming is as important as benchmarking actual refinery operations.

More

Hydrogen sourcing for refinery expansions

Dennis A Vauk, Air Liquide Large Industries US LP
Pietro Di Zanno, Air Liquide SA
Scott Savage, Air Liquide Large Industries US LP

2006 / Q4

Many factors influence the decision to build or outsource the supply of hydrogen.  Synergies obtained from a third-party OTF supply should be evaluated in addtion to typical recovery routes from fuel gas, revamped SMRs or new SMR projects.

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Control room consolidation part II: design trends

Bob Shepard, Invensys Process Systems

2006 / Q4

Part I identified the operating factors to consider when consolidating a group of distributed control rooms.  Part II explores the design and systemic measures that can enchance productivity while satisfying needs for process safety and risk management.

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Managing training simulator projects

Nick Harbud, Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd

2006 / Q4

Operator training simulators are not cheap, yet their value in preparing personnel for the fast startup and operation of new process plants is significant.  Tight control of information and a well-manageed OTS supplier are key to success.

More

Evaluating opportunity crude processing

Thomas W Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2006 / Q4

Is processing opportunity crudes for every refiner? Technical challenges and economic benefits from processing high-acid crudes and botton-of-the-barrel feedstocks are identified.

More

Selective asphaltene removal from heavy oil

Keng H Chung, Zhiming Xu, Xuewen Sun, Suoqi Zhao and Chunming Xu, China State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing.

2006 / Q4

Case study of a selective asphaltene extraction process for heavy crude or residuum.  Desirable oil components are recovered and the asphaltene-free heavies can be processed in conventional refining operations.

More

Overcoming unpredictable industry challenges

Frank Whitsura, Honeywell Process Solutions

2006 / Q4

Integrated solutions help refiners overcome unpredictable industry challenges.  through a continuous improvement cycle, refiners can derive insight from the plan, perform and perfect stages.

More

Integrated expander control system

Krishnan Naryanan and Farooq Sheikh, Compressor Controls Corporation

2006 / Q4

Commissioning of an integrated turbomachinery controls system at a world-scale PTA plant.  The expander control system requirements described are applicable to power recovery trains found in process units with hot-gas energy.
      

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Vacuum unit design for high metals crudes

Scott W Golden, Tony Barletta and Steve White, Process Consulting Services

2007 / Q1

Vacuum unit design can influence vacuum gas yield, product quality and run length.  A wet vacuum unit with residue stripping achieves the highest cutpoint and produces the lowest metals content.

More

Converting a DHT to ULSD service

Kirit Sanghavi, Alon USA

Sal Torrisi, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies

2007 / Q1

One refinery overcame the challenge of converting its diesel hydrotreater from LSD to ULSD service with creative solutions for a low investment cost, much below the industry average cost.

More

Avoiding boiler feed water corrosion

Kari J Enqvist, Borealis Polymers Oy

2007 / Q1

Investigating corrosive chemicals in BFW, defective analysing systems and incomplete treatment of steam systems, resulting in serious transfer line exchanger failures.  A number of incidents initiated the thorough investigation of root causes.

More

Exploiting unconventional heavy oils

Jeffrey S Plotkin, Nexant Inc

2007 / Q1

Potential opportunities exist for developming the heaviest of the non-conventional hydrocarbons.  The decline of conventional oils can be mitigated through the ingenuity and technology brought to unconventional heavy oil upgrading.

More

Gamma scanning fractionators

Brian Kirmse and Kevin Krase, Tesoro Refining & Marketing Company

Dave Ferguson, Tracerco Inc

2007 / Q1

Gamma scanning is a powerful tool that can be used to determine the cause of flooding and regain column efficiency.  Debutaniser capacity and performance were improved after tower scanning technology pinpointed mechanical and hydraulic defects.

More

Optimising heat recovery with CPHEs

Eva Andersson, Alfa Laval Packinox

2007 / Q1

Compact plate heat exchangers are an efficient way to optimise heat recovery in refineries, especially when installation space or weight is crucial and exotic materials are needed to deal with corrosion issues.

More

Asset management strategies

William D Turner, Jacobs Constructors Inc

2007 / Q1

The Six-Sigma approach to asset management describes the level of variations or defects present in a process.  Identifying critical processes and their contributing input variables provides opportunities to remedy the sources of defects.

More

Magnetic imaging of pyrolysis feedstocks

Preetinder S Virk, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

2007 / Q1

Olefin feedstock characterisation fills the need to engineer and predict the performance of modern pyrolysis coils that must crack diverse feedstocks at ever-increasing temperatures, reaction severities and product selectivities.

More

High-severity FCC operation

Y Fujiyama, N Nakanishi, Nippon Oil Corporation

C Dean, M Al-Tayyar, Saudi Arabian Oil Company

A Aitani, M Saeed, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals

2007 / Q1

High-severity catalytic cracking using a proprietary down-flow reactor can maximise propylene production.  The new process features a high reaction temperature and high catalyst-to-oil ratio along with a short contact time.

More

Gasification technologies for hydrogen manufacturing

 Joachim Wolff, Shell Global Solutions International BV

2007 / Q2

Gasification technology can follow on from upgrading and treating technoloiges to convert a wide range of heavy residues into syngas, which can be used as clean fuel for high-efficiency IGCC power generation or to produce H2 and/or CO.

More

Hydrogen plant safety

V G Bahad, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd

2007 / Q2

Hydrogen-generation unit safety during startup and shutdown is based on experience sharing.  The safe startup of any process unit depends on the knowledge base of the operating and maintenance personnel.

More

Hydrogen recovery from refinery offgases

A K Jain, G D Goyal and M K Joshi, Engineers India Ltd

2007 / Q2

Use of pressure swing adsorption to extract hydrogen from offgases that would otherwise be combusted in the refinery fuel system.  Increasing hydrogen purity by steam reforming, effect of tail gas pressure and other considerations are discussed.

More

Alkylating isolbutylene with isobutane

 Todd Vogt, Catalytic Distillation Technologies (CDTECH)

2007 / Q2

Pairing of isobutylene pretreatment with low-temperature alkylation offers dehydro-based MTBE operators the opportunity to incorporate isobutane with isobutylene to produce large volumes of high-quality gasoline blendstock.

More

Self-inflicted contaminants and fouling

Allison A Fielder and Mark B Schmidt, DuPont Sabine River Works

Raghu K Menon, Sud-Chemie Inc

2007 / Q2

Pairing of isobutylene pretreatment with low-temperature alkylation offers dehydro-based MTBE operators the opportunity to incorporate isobutane with isobutylene to produce large volumes of high-quality gasoline blendstock.
More

Sulphuric acid alkylation developments

Amarjit Bakshi, Refining Hydrocarbon Technologies LLC

2007 / Q2

A recently developed alkylation technology incorporates low-temperature isothermal operation and a refrigeration compressor.  The acid-hydrocarbon separation incorporates simple coalescers and readily available reactor-contactor internals.

More

Meeting changes in plant production targets

Dieter Krenz, Linde AG

2007 / Q2

Overview of a syngas plant automatic load controller shows how reliability is maintained.  The functionality built into the plant automation concept allows the plant to remain in operation, even in the event of a unit trip.

More

Integrated treating options for sour natural gases

T J Brook, Shell Global Solutions International BV

2007 / Q2

Two cases for treating sour natural gas with H2S, CO and mercaptans are discussed.  These configurations are designed to prepare a treated gas that is suitable for GTL and LNG applications or normal pipeline gas specifications.

More

Reformer technology for hydrogen

Suresh Chandra Gupta and Kamalesh Karkun, NOIDA, Projects & Development India Ltd

2007 / Q2

Various retrofitting and debottlenecking options are available for improving the rated capacity, operating efficiency and energy efficiency of steam hydrocarbon reformers in hydrogen plants.

More

Ethylene cracking furnaces influence burner design

Richard Martin, Callidus Technologies LLC

2007 / Q2

Burner testing and CFD modelling can assure a burner will perform properly.  Special considerations are discussed for improving burner combustion characteristics in new compact thermal cracking furnace radiant sections.

More

FCC fundamentals: coke yield/delta coke

Ziad S Jawad, Shaw Energy and Chemicals

2007 / Q2

A summary of FCC fundamentals and technology options.  Understanding the options available to control the FCC unit's coke yield and delta coke is significant due to their direct impact on FCC operations and refinery profitability.

More

Reliability of IGCC power-generation units

Christopher Higman, Syngas Consultants Ltd

Salvatore A DellaVilla and Robert F Steele Jr, Strategic Power Systems Inc

2007 / Q2

Reliability is key to improving IGCC power-generation unit economics, provided it can be achieved with excessive Capex increases.  However, focus on a single subsystem such as gasification is insufficient for the success of the overall IGCC concept.

More

Maximising hydrogen availability

Mahendra C Shah, Dharnendra C Jawali and Rajesh K Patel, Reliance Industries Ltd

2007 / Q2

Case study of a hydrogen complex discuss interaction of hydrogen processing steps with overall refinery productivity.  Hydrogen partial pressures, pinch options and other important operating parameters influence economics.

More

Advanced combustion system for cracking furnaces

Roger Poe, Ashok Patel, Charles E Baukal and Daniel Wright, John Zink Company LLC

2007 / Q2

A discussion of design considerations for burner technology used in cracking furnaces.  Significant improvements include more uniform heat flux profile, wider turndown, stable flame, high combustion efficiency, and low CO and NOx emissions.

More

Determination of crude properties

Didier Lambert, Topnir Systems

2007 / Q2

Real-time knowledge of crude properties is obtained via management software applied to a crude network.  With the resulting better characterisation and optimisation, an increase in throughput from the additional crude processed leads to increased revenue.

More

Turbine oil conditioning in process facilities

Brian McNeil and Tim Mills, Kaydon Custom Filtration

2007 / Q2

Strategic modelling for turbine oil conditions in refineries and petrochemical plants focuses on different types of filtration equipment and the philosophy that accompanies each.    

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Realities of rising costs

John Jenkins, Jacobs Consultancy Inc

2007 / Q3

Material costs, inflation, shortage of engineering expertise and other risk factors have changed the way contractors and operating companies work together to control project costs.  Business practicies that address these issues are discussed.

More

FCC propylene production

Ketih A Couch, James P Glavin, Dave A Wegerer and Jibreel A Qafisheh, UOP LLC

2007 / Q3

Factors influencing the selection of propylene yield design points and a comparative study of an absorption-based gas concentration unit relative to cold-box recovery design show how refiners can leverage existing assets to close the market gap for propylene production.

More

The FCC unit as a propylene source

Charles Radclife, Intercat Inc

2007 / Q3

The FCCU is an important source of propylene production.  Hardware and catalyst design changes can increase the propylene yield, but ZSM-5 and other additives are essential to optimise and retain the flexibility to respond to today's and tomorrow's challenges.

More

Crude overhead system design considerations

Tony Barletta and Steve White, Process Consulting Services

2007 / Q3

Proper crude unit overhead system design is important when building a new unit or revamping an existing one to process different crudes.  Overhead condenser designs should meet the specific processing objectives, such as distillate yield, run length and energy recovery.

More

Elimination of refinery sour gases and trace components

Hans-Peter Kaballo, Ulvi Kerestecioglu and Harald Klein, Linde Enginering Division, Linde AG

2007 / Q3

Case study concerning elimination of sour gases and trace components from gasifiction gases.  The objective is to produce pure hydrogen for hydrotreating within a refinery, and a feed gas for energy production in an IGCC.
More

Evaluation of sulphur-reducing technologies

 Lauren Blanchard, Grace Davison

Craig Borchert and Min Pu, Valero Energy Corporation

2007 / Q3

Case study where the impact of a FCC feed hydrotreater outage was minimised by running carefully selected feeds combined with sulphur-reducing technology appropriate for the type of sulphur species expected to be processed during the outage.

More

Selective hydrogenation of hydrocarbons

Amarjit Bakshi, Refining Hydrocarbon Technologies LLC

2007 / Q3

Selective hydrogenation and isomerisation of diolefins using fixed-bed conventional technology in a two-phase reactor configuration can help refiners to meet sulphur and aromatics limits for fuels such as gasoline, kerosene and diesel.

More

Upgrading an olefin polymerrisation unit

David Verbitsky, Mitrajit Mukherjee and James Nehlsen, Exelus Inc

2007 / Q3

A solid-acid catalyst (SAC) alkylation process can be used to effectively revamp an olefin polymerisation unit with minimal costs.  An engineered SAC has been designed at multiple levels to give long life, resistance to poisons and high product octane.

More

Fieldbus technology in LNG and GTL plants

David Wood, David Wood & Associates

Saeid Mokhatab, Tehran Raymund Consulting Engineers

2007 / Q3

Complex LNG and GTL processing facilities at remote sites can benefit from Fieldbus technology.  Its predictive maintenance and plant interrogation capabilities can add to the overall reliability of the digital-based control system.

More

Expanding FCCU wet gas compressor capacity

Tek Sutikno, Fluor Corporation

2007 / Q3

Parametric correlations can predit WGC performance curves at different speeds and molecular weights.  However, performance curves in a range of speeds and suction pressures must first be made available.

More

Dynamic simulation of a FCC unit

Yiannis Bessiris and Vassilis Harismiadis, Hyperion Systems Engineering Ltd

2007 / Q3

Increasingly complex FCC operations, such as predicting FCCU operation after switching from a conventional feed to a hydrotreated one, can benefit from simulation applications that improve the unit's real-time control system.

More

Upgrade of a tail-end acetylene converter

Edgar Mohundro, BASF Fina Petrochemicals

Sam Valleru, Scott Miller and Juergen Fuchs, BASF Corporation

Dimitri Mertens de Wilmars and Bruno Leaustic, Total Petrochemicals

2007 / Q3

An acetylene converter's poor performance was improved through the implementation of a succession of changes.  Over a period involving several strategies, all acetylene off-specification incidents and flaring events were eventually eliminated.

More

Distillate fuels from Coal-to-liquids processing

J Mark Landrum and Jon Warzel, Baker & O'Brien Inc

2007 / Q3

Numerous factors affect CTL economics and the technology for converting different qualities of coal into transportation fuels, chemicals and intermediates.  Potential yields are based on future market conditions relative to crude prices and conventional refinery operations.

More

Industrial flaring: efficiency and smokeless combustion

 Olavo C Leite, Flare Industries Inc

2007 / Q3

Flaring large volumes of gas by combustion should be safe, cost-effective and environmental friendly.  Criteria ang general rules for industrial flaring steam include flare size and design, ability to entrain atmospheric air and other parameters.    

More

Recycling of polyethylene production wastes

A S Sultanov and S A Berdiev, NHC Uzbekneftegaz Shurtan Gas Chemical Complex

2007 / Q3

Various rubber products including glues and rubber seals can be manufactured from compounds derived from the recycling of low-molecular polyethylene waste (LMPE)

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Engineering emails for success

Gregory M Lilburne, Hafedh Al-Qassab and Savas Soydaner, The Bahrain Petroleum Company BSC (c)

2007 / Q4

PTQ has just published the Bapco Technical Writing Style Guide, based on two decades' experience of written communication in the technical services department of The Bahrain Petroleum Company.  This article is based on the section relating to eamil.  The Style Guide can now be downloaded from www.eptq.com.

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FCC fundamentals: cyclones and vendor datasheets

Ziad S Jawad, The Shaw Group

2007 / Q4

A summary of FCC cyclones and their design.  Understanding FCC cyclone vendor process datasheets and how to effectively use this valuable tool.  Quick design checks of vendor cyclone process datasheets using cyclone fundamentals are provided.

More

Hydrocracking for heavy feestock conversion

Vasant Thakkar, Don Ackelson, Rich Rossi, Bart Dziabala and Jim McGehee, UOP LLC

2007 / Q4

As refiners move to process heavier crudes, hydrocracking and hydrotreating have taken on a more prominent role.  The technical challenges posed by the chemical composition of heavy feedstock is analysed along with results of catalyst development efforts.

More

Unconventional crude upgrading challenges

Scott Sayles, KBC Advanced Technologies Inc

2007 / Q4

Case studies of upgrader technology selection such as blending of syncrude with bitumen and other intermediates.  Unconventional crude quality is dependent on production location and method, design and final blending.

More

FCC unit revamp meets multiple objectives

 Mary Richardson, Suncor Energy Inc

Ye-Mon Chen and Richard Sanborn, Shell Global Solutions (US) Inc

2007 / Q4

Reliability improvement and MACT II compliance for an FCCU were achieved with regenerator modifications and new third-stage separator system.  Benefits included five-year run turn around cycle and less after-burn.

More

Crude unit corrosion-control programme

 Randy Rechtien, Baker Petrolite Corporation

2007 / Q4

An overview of crude unit corrosion-control techniques using low- and high-temperature case studies.  Overhead corrosion control for low-temperature zones and naphthenic acid corrosion control for high-temperature zones are detailed.

More

Increasing FCC unit performance

Divya Jain and Grandham Sri Ganesh, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd

2007 / Q4

How one refinery's low-investment revamp strategy boosted FCC performance.  Unit limitations are discussed in detail, followed by the options that were explored and the final revamp carried out for overcoming unit constraints.

More

Oil/water interface control for desalters

 Paul Hewitt, Tracerco

2007 / Q4

Profiling instrument provides vertical real-time phase density measurement in desalter vessels.  Benefits include reduced process upsets from interface excursions, optimisation of crude blends, minimisation of chemical usage and reduction in chloride carry-through.

More

Troubleshooting tail gas amine treaters

Nathan A Hatcher and Alfred E Keller, ConocoPhillips Company

Ralph H Weiland and M S Sivasubramanian, Optimized Gas Treating Inc.

2007 / Q4

Simulation of a tail gas-treating unit contaminated with sodium and heat-stable salt anions.  Comparisons are made between plant performance data and the simulations.  Accurate solvent analysis leads to improved simulation accuracy.

More

Ammonium salt removal in fuel gas burners

Torsten Diestelkamp, Hermann Kempen and Berthold Otzisk, Kurita Europe GmbH

Bernhard Hugot, BP Gelsenkirchen GmbH

2007 / Q4

Chemical removal of ammonium salts allows refiners to clean fouled burner nozzles during normal operation without removing them for mechanical cleaning.  Regular maintenance work is reduced to a minimum with less material stress for the equipment.

More

Carbon capture in petrochemical operations

Bollapraqada K Bhaskararao, MVGR College of Engineering

2007 / Q4

A major obstacle to greenhouse gas reduction in refinery and petrochemical operations is the need for CO2 storage or sequestration.  However, chemical convertion of captured CO2 to CO, which can be converted into valuable hydrocarbons, may be possible.

More

Tray technology enhances extraction

Waldo de Villiers and Jose L Bravo, Shell Global Solutions (US) Inc

Glenn Shiveler, Sulzer Chemtech USA Inc

Frank Siebert, The University of Texas at Austin

2007 / Q4

A case study involving the revamp of two rotating disc contactors in aromatics service highlights the most important design considerations for enhancing capacity and efficiency in high-performance extraction sieve trays.

More

Computation of blending indices

Didier Lambert, Topnir Systems

2007 / Q4

Prediction of blending indices and characterisation of fuel components have increased in complexity with the blending of biofuels and additives.  Case studies show how a real time system for the computation of blending indices has improved fuel recipe quality.

More

LCO upgrading at moderate to severe conditions

Rene G Gonzalez, Editor, PTQ

2008 / Q1

Several routes are available for processing LCO to diesel and gasoline, depending on economics and process objectives.  For LCO upgrading, recent developments promote a two-stage process for separate hydrodesulphurisation and dearomatisation of thiophenic compounds.        

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Performance-minded, character-driven safety

David G Lynn, Fluor

2008 / Q1

Zero-incident techniques for excelling in health and safety performance involve commitment, involvement, analysis, prevention and training.  The challenge is to translate these fundamental principles into action.

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Minimising FCC slurry exchanger fouling

David Hunt, Bill Minyard and Jeff Koebel, Grace Davison

2008 / Q1

A case study shows when to expect reductions in slurry/FCC preheat exchanger duty from a variety of factors, including organic and inorganic-based fouling, asphaltene precipitation and atypical feedstock characteristics.

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Designing FCCU internals

Robert Giuricich and Anthony Schmitz, Emtrol LLC

2008 / Q1

The proper evaluation for new FCCU cyclone equipment or the risk assessment can substantially impact profitability.  The combination of assumed pressure, corrosion rates, mechanical loading and fluctuating temperature must be taken into account.

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Canadian crude processing challenges

Scott Golden, Process Consulting Services LLC

2008 / Q1

Vacuum unit design influences liquid volume yields, run length, product yield and product quality when processing bitumen crude oils  These crudes require special design considerations to maintain a reasonable run length without significant economic loss.

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FCC regenerator design: part I

Warren Letzsch and Chris R Santner, Shaw Stone & Webster

2008 / Q1

To minimise catalyst deactivation, a regeneration system should be operated in counter-current flow with a superficial regenerator velocity that is well into the turbulent flow regime.  Part II will explore factors in regenerator design that relate to emissions.

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Coker naphtha hydrotreating

Rasmus Breivik and Rasmus Egebjerg, Haldor Topsoe A/S

2008 / Q1

Highly exothermic olefins saturation and silica contamination can occur when hydrotreating coker naphtha.  Recent studies show how optimum process and catalyst technology can help find the best unit layout and operation conditions.

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Chemical cleaning and degassing refinery equipment

Berthold Otzisk, Kurita Europe GmbH

2008 / Q1

The safe removal of volatile hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulphide gas and pyrophoric iron sulphide from refinery equipment before inspection is indispensable.  A chemical cleaning programme reduces downtime and the need for mechanical cleaning.

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Ethylen furnace heat flux correlations

Joseph Colannino, John Zink Company LLC

2008 / Q1

Equations are presented that correlate and predict heat flux as a function of operating, burner and furnace parameters for all major ethylene-cracking furnace configurations.  Similarity relations correlate heat flux with elevation or temperature in test and field units.

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Evaluating process profitability

Joseph McMullen, Invensys Process Systems

2008 / Q1

Case studies from the energy industry explain strategies for extending the benefits of simulation and modelling across the value chain.  Benefits include the ability to make the decision-making process more efficient using an intuitive bidirectional interface.

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Evaluating FCC flue gas emission-control technologies

Martin Evans, Intercat Inc

2008 / Q1

Comparing technologies for reducing FCCU flue gas emissions. Special emphasis is placed on selecting cost-effective solutions, particularly in the area of minimising SOx, NOx, CO and particulate emissions from operations in either full-burn or partial-burn mode.    

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Optimising refinery CO2 emissions

Mike Stockle, Daniel Carter and Lucy Jones, Foster Wheeler Energy Limited

2008 / Q1

Assessing the impact of changing emissions costs.  Case studies of typical European refinery configurations show how the inclusion of CO2 LP-based modelling costs can change operations in the short term and impact configurations in the longer term.

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Reducing ether and biodiesel productions costs

Amarjit Bakshi, Refining Hydrocarbon Technologies LLC

2008 / Q1

Advantages of ethers produced through wet ethanol and biodiesel through vegetable oils as esters of hydrogenated vegetable oil provide major advantages in blending and fuel properties and meet the renewable fuels requirements.

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Revamping a mild hydrocracker to an ULSD hydrotreater

Hafedh Al-Qassab, Gregory M Lilburne, Savas Soydaner and Sayed Hamza Alawi, The Bahrain Petroleum Company BSC (c)

2008 / Q2

Revamping a mild hydrocracker to a world-scale ULSD hydrotreater presented some unique design challenges and highlighted several factors that are key to success, including an experienced client team and strong licensor and contractor teams.

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Unlocking current refinery constraints

Rashid Iqbal, Asif Khan, Odette Eng and Raymond Floyd, KBR

2008 / Q2

When processing heavy feeds, technology based on residuum supercritical solvent extraction provides higher volumes of gas oil and DAO for conversion units.  Potential constraints through existing vacuum and coker units can also be resolved.

More

FCC regenerator design: part II

Chris R Santner and Warren Letzsch, The Shaw Group

2008 / Q2

Options for minimising catalyst deactivation and reducing emissions are discussed.  In the previously published part I, catalyst deactivation in the regenerator was addressed.  Here, regenerator design as it relates to regenerator emissions is considered.

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Alarm management - the human factors challenge

Rob Turner, ABB Global Consulting

2008 / Q2

Refinery alarm systems are supposed to support the operation, yet in several notable accidents they have proved to be ineffective.  Part of the problem is that these systems are not being designed or managed with human needs in mind.

More

Reducing FCC SOx in partial-burn regenerators

Martin Evans, Intercat Inc

2008 / Q2

Latest developments in SOx - reduction additives are discussed along with their relative merits and appropriate applications.  Examples show how refineries have chosen to meet SOx emissions limits, and the rationale behind the choices made is explained.

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Acid gas enrichment part II: maximising selectivity

Ralph H Weiland, Optimized Gas Treating Inc

2008 / Q2

By recycling about 70% of enriched gas back to the front end of an acid gas enrichment unit, an almost two-fold improvement in SRU feed quality can be enjoyed simply for the minimal cost of providing a recycle line and no increase in operating costs.

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Managing integrity risks of aged assets

 Laza Krstin, Ron Hewson and David Stanier, ABB Global Consulting

2008 / Q2

A practical approach to asset integrity management is provided along with an insight into a suitable methodology of how this can best be achieved.  This includes all essential aspects of operations.    

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Minimising refinery costs using spiral heat exchangers

Eva Andersson, Alfa Laval

2008 / Q2

Case studies explore how fouling has been minimised or eliminated from high-fouling applications in oil refineries, such as the FCC and visbreaking bottoms cooling dutes.  Performance of spiral heat exchangers is compared with shell and tube heat exchangers.

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Conversion of syngas to diesel

Stephane Fedou, Eric Caprani, Damien Douziech and Sebastien Boucher, Axens

2008 / Q2

An overview of Fischer-Tropsch technologies for the production of diesel from syngas using a variety of feedstocks.  Process technology, reactor design and catalyst requirements to achieve industral-scale diesel and petrochemical production are discussed.

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Securing fuel supply and reducing GHG emissions

A M Blume, T B Garrett, B P Goldhammer, E J Mace, M W Wunder and T W Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2008 / Q2

Six strategic options are available to refiners to satisfy future energy and environmental requirements in the light of surging oil prices and public concerns over global warming, including refinery upgrades and revamps and the production of green fuels.

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Turbomachinery assett management: part I

Valter Quercioli, GE Oil & Gas

2008 / Q2

As financial resources drive most business practices today, a clean understanding of the asset management levels for optimising the return on capital employed (ROCE) is mandatory for an operator to be successful with the owner and board of directors.

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Improving refinery distillation operations

Bernard Hagger, Foster Wheeler Energy Limited

2008 / Q2

The outline of a route map or staged approach to unit process improvements, for better distillation, follows similar steps to those taken when installing advanced controls on a unit, and depends on individual needs and the benefits that can be delivered.

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Impact of bitumen feeds on the FCCU: part I

Keith A Couch, James P Glavin and Aaron O Johnson, UOP LLC

2008 / Q3

The impact of processing bitumen-derived feeds on FCC operations and product yields is assessed, and the capital investments required to process varying quantities of bitumn feeds are discussed.   

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CO2 and refining trends and challenges

John H Jenkins, Jacobs Consultantcy Inc

2008 / Q3

A look at the refining industry as a carbon emitter from a process and chemistry standpoint.  Data regarding the carbon/hydrogen content of various crudes and products are presented.  CO2 controlling projects and their implementation are also discussed.

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Effect of hydrocarbon partial pressure on FCC propylene

Ruizhong Hu, Gordon Weatherbee, Hongbo Ma, Terry Roberie and Wu-Cheng Cheng, Grace Davison Refining Technologies.

2008 / Q3

The results of a series of cracking experiments are discussed, where the hydrocarbon partial pressure was varied by altering the total reactor pressure, feed rate and amount of lift gas.  Light olefin yields and gasoline sulphur are also considered.

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Making the right investment choice

 Joseph R Jacobs Jr, Robert A Ohmes and Scott Sayles, KBC Advanced Technologies Inc.

2008 / Q3

Gasoline or diesel?  US market forces skew the product slate towards diesel, but each refiner's target market and required configuration are unique.  A rigorous analysis methodology can help examine alternate configuration options.

More

Reducing benzene in gasoline

Maarten J Almering, Kerry L Rock and Arvids Judzis, CDTECH

2008 / Q3

The simultaneous processing of light reformate and light straight run is a cost-effective solution for more complete benzene reduction and the isomerisation of hydrogenated C5/C6, particularly with regard to MSAT II requirements.

More

Analysing economic viability of opportunity crudes

Adrienne M Blume and Thomas Y Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2008 / Q3

Challenges to refinery heavy oil upgrades are discussed.  Demand for heavy and high-TAN crudes continues to rise as light sweet crude reserves decline.  These upgrades will remain lucrative for refiners, provided they develop strategies for mitigating higher carbon emsissions.

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Processing heavy ends: part I

Phillip K Niccum and Aldrich H Northup, KBR

2008 / Q3

The synergy of solvent deasphalting and FCC can provide economic access to heavy ends.  Pilot plant data on bottom-of-the-barrel processing options are examined, which can be used as presented or combined with other options such as coking.

More

Biofuel economics, CO2 balance and energy efficiency

Stephen McGovern and C K Lee, PetroTech Consultants

2008 / Q3

When comparing biofuel processes, it is important to perform accurate and consistent material and energy balances, as these balances reveal the limitations of biofuels.  Currently, petroleum requires the lowest capital investment.

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Scenarios for Russian refinery modernisation

Mikhail Levinbuk, Gubkin Russian State Oil and Gas University

A Lebedev, Moscow Oil Refinery

V L Kalachev, Scientific Manufacturing Corporation

2008 / Q3

Effective strategies for placing high-value oil and petrochemical products from Russia into international markets can benefit from partnerships with Russian design, R&D institutes and leading Western engineering companies, together with proper funding.

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Optimising a reactor's catalyst distribution

S Reza Seif Mohaddecy, Islamic Azad University

Sepehr Sadighi, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

2008 / Q3

Catalyst distribution in the semi-regenerative catalytic reforming reactors at the Tehran refinery, Iran, was studied, and optimised distribution for high RON was determined.

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Improving hydrotreater reactor performance

Garry E Jacobs, Fluor Enterprises Inc

Gerianne D'Angelo, Advanced Refining Technologies

2008 / Q3

Case study of a kerosene hydrotreater shows that combining new and old technologies - a unique inlet diffuser with Raschig rings - can significantly improve liquid distribution and catalyst utilisation when producing ultra-low-sulphur products in a trayless reactor.

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LCO upgrading for increased distillate demand

Rene Gonzales, Petroleum Technology Quarterly

2008 / Q4

A shortage of straight-run diesel and other more desirable paraffinic feedstocks sees refiners turning to higher volumes of FCC light cycle oil to meet the growing demand for diesel, but not without challenges.

More

CO2 infrastructure development: CCS options

Tim Bullen and Michael Stockle, Foster Wheeler

2008 / Q4

How CCS options can be combined with linear programming to ensure optimum levels of CO2 reduction across the region.  Capture schemes can be optimised against such targets as carbon price, injection gas requirements and total emissions.

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Refinery water management

Gert-Jan Fien, KBC Energy Services

2008 / Q4

A holistic approach to refinery water management requires many aspects of the process and utility systems to work together.  Waste minimisation and loss prevention for improving effluent water quality and rendering more water suitable for reuse are discussed.

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2008 / Q4



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Reducing FCC emissions without affecting reliability

Rene G Gonzales, Petroleum Technolgoy Quarterly

2008 / Q4

Both increasing demand for refined product and environmental regulations are affecting FCC operatons and require changes in equipment design.  Operational concerns such as afternburn and hardware deterioration are but a few of the challenges.

More

FCC reactor design: part I

Warren Letzsch, Chris Santner and Steve Tragesser, The Shaw Group

2008 / Q4

An overview of the kinetics, important reaction mechanism consequences, fluidisation and hydrodynamics considered in the design of a FCC reactor, which is used to explain the reuslts seen in actual operations.

More

Impact of bitumen feeds on the FCCU: part II

Keith A Couch, James P Glavin and Aaron O Johnson, UOP

2008 / Q4

Refinery configuration optimisation through LP modelling identifies attractive investments for processing Western Canadian Select.  These investments involve FCC, VGO hydrotreating or VGO hydrocracking.

More

Processing heavy ends: part II

Phillip K Niccum and Aldrich H Northup, KBR

2008 / Q4

Improvements in the SDA technology incorporated into ROSE units, together with expanding options for asphaltene product utilisation, have led to an increased rate of capacity for producing high-quality FCC feedstocks from asphaltenes.

More

Alkylation with solid acid catalyst

Emiel H van Broekhoven and Edwin van Rooijen, Albemarle Catalysts Company

2008 / Q4

Results of an environmentally friendly alkylation process using a variety of olefinic feedstocks to produce clean gasoline are discussed.  Operating conditions, energy concumption, product purity and uutilisation of existing assets are considered.

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Strategies for infrastructure reliability

Thomas Kline and George Fischer, Structural Preservation Systems.

2008 / Q4

Case studies assess the effects of civil infrastructure deterioration on a plant-wide basis or on a critical specific structural level, including the importance of employing an engineered approach to crumbling infrastructure challenges.

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LP modelling for profit maximisation

Reza Seif Mohaddecy, Islamic Azad University

Sepehr Sadighi, M Bahmani and S Zahedi, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

2008 / Q4

Optimisation of a feed blender, CDU, VDU, visbreaker and product blender under changing feed specificiations.  Central composite experimental design and response surface methodology are used to obtain a second-degree polynomial model for maximising profitability.

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Improving process control with TDL technology

 Sam Miller, SpectraSensors, Inc

2008 / Q4

Ultra-fast and highly accurate TDL-based analysers are replacing conventional sensors at refineries and gas processors, saving on maintenance while providing enhanced control over process integrity.

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Staged FCCU main fractionator revamp

Darius Remesat, Koch-Glitsch Canada

Michael Popowick, CCRL

2008 / Q4

A refinery column is debottlenecked in steps to address operational concerns and strategic goals.  Understanding the site specific operational nuances and developming a representative revamp plan to accommodate the maintenance plan improves the project's success.

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FCC reactor design: part II

Warren Letzsch, Chris Santner and Steve Tragesser, Shaw Energy & Chemicals Group

2009 / Q1

In part I, reaction kinetics, cracking chemistry, pressure balance, catalyst andvapour residence times, and fluidisation were considered.  In part II, feed injection technology and riser termination devices to minimise dilute-phase cracking are reviewed.

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Stabilisation of asphaltenes

 Berthold Otzisk and Hermann Kempen, Kurita Europe

2009 / Q1

Asphaltenes can plug refinery equiment and can decrease or stop production.  Stabilisation of asphaltene particles is an efficient and cost-effective way to avoid undesired asphaltene agglomeration or precipitation.

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Maximising diesel recovery from crude

Scott W Golden, Process Consulting Services Inc

2009 / Q1

The CDU/VDU process flow scheme is reviewed, including equipment design and operating fundamentals used to maximise straight-run diesel recovery.  Factors important to increasing diesel yield are discussed in detail.

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Online cleaning improves operational excellence

 Marcello Ferrara, ITW

2009 / Q1

Online cleaning, followed by degassing and decontamination, can result in a significant reduction in downtime, increased run length, operation under cleaner conditions and potential avoidance of a turnaround, leading to an increase in production.

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Increasing FCC yields with oxygen enrichment

 Jack Olesen, Praxair

2009 / Q1

With the demand for diesel increasing faster than that for gasoline and other refined products, an increase in FCC distillate yield can provide a low-cost route to capturing margins opportunities.  Oxygen enrichment can help to achieve these goals.

More

New roles for FCCU: carbon capture unit and coke gasifier

 Erich J Mace, Adrienne M Blume and Thomas W Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2009 / Q1

Environmental and energy security concerns may evoke new roles for the FCCU in addition to the production of liquid fuels and light olefins.  Gasification and carbon capture are two such possiblities.

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Oil sands industry status

Tony Pavone, SRI Consulting

2009 / Q1

The steady progress made in the oil sands industry up to Q3 2008 will eventually resume.  For now, an examination of the favourable market conditions and upgrading scenarios that are required for future profitability are presented.

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Beyond turnaround planning

Brian Cormier, Resource Development Company

Charles F Gillard, C F Gillard and Asscoociates

2009 / Q1

Utilising process and unit-specific knowledge transfer to improvide turnaround execution.  A better approach is needed to ensure the transfer of critical event information to an experience and discipline-diverse workforce.

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Clean diesel hydrotreating

Ed Palmer, Stan Polcar and Anne Wong, Mustang Engineering

2009 / Q1

Design considerations for clean diesel hydrotreating.  Critical issues are discussed when designing a hydrotreating facility to produce diesel fuel with very low levels of total sulphur.

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Control of primary fractionator fouling

Bob Presenti, Dan Frye and Sandra Linares-Samaniego, Nalco Company

2009 / Q1

Optimal operation and chemical treatment of primary fractionators requires an in-depth knowledge of many parameters.  A combination of analytical tools and benchmarking information can help predict fouling severity.

More

Reducing FCC regenerator emissions

 Chris Kuehler, Pieter van de Gender and Subramani Ramachandran, Albemarle Corporation

2009 / Q1

There are several ways of meeting emission limits, but SOx and NOx reduction additives are very attractive as they require little or no capital investment and have reasonable operating costs, resulting in an overall lower cost than a WGS or SCR.

More

FCC fundamentals: turnaround best practices

 Ziad S Jawad, Shaw Energy & Chemicals Group

2009 / Q2

Basic procedures and activities are presented for the unit engineer and other support personnel, designed to ensure a successful and safe FCC turnaround.

More

Improving energy efficiency

Brendan P Sheehan, Honeywell Process Solutions

Xin (Frank) Zhu, UOP, A Honeywell Company

2009 / Q2

Major opportunities for energy efficiency and reduction of GHG emissions with a refinery/petrochemical complex are identified.  Work process methodology for capturing these opportunities is proposed.

More

Design challenges for future CO2 pipelines

Paul Andrews and Sub Parkash, Fluor UK

John Barrie and Peter Hatcher, Fluor Canada

2009 / Q2

Overview of some design issues that need to be considered when planning, engineering and constructing pipelines to transport CO2 in its supercritical state from process facilities to remote storage.

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FCC catalysts for resid processing

Simon Reitmaier, Daniel McQueen and Colin Baillie, Grace Davison Refining Technologies.

2009 / Q2

The diversifying feedstock scenario for FCCU operations has resulted in significant growth in the resid feed sector.  Case studies describe how FCC catalyst developments are being utilised to process increasingly heavier feedstocks.

More

Hydrocracker parametric sensitivity study

Mjid Bahmani, Tarbiat Moalem University


Reza Seif Mohaddecy, Sepehr Sadighi and Maryam Mashayekhi, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry.

2009 / Q2

Product yields and hydrogen consumption were predicted using a discreet lumping model.  The model was used to study unit responses to changes in operating conditions, to show that small changes in catalyst loading and recyle ratio can significantly improve yields.

More

Optimising crude unit design

Soun Ho Lee and Ian Buttridge, GTC Technology

Jay J Ha, GS Caltex Corporation

2009 / Q2

Real retrofit examples demonstrate how crude units can be successfully optimised with the crude slates currently being processed.  Process design strategies are discussed in detail and highlight how retrofit targets are achieved.

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Visbreaker optimisation: a step change

 Marc Rijkaart, Mario Vanacore and Christopher Russell, Nalco Europe.

2009 / Q2

Optimising visbreakers is not just a matter of monitoring and adding chemicals.  Opportunity crudes demand a more integrated approach.   Linking field results with research simulation adds another critical dimension that can boost visbreaking economics.

More

Hydrogen-induced cracking and blistering

Berthold Otzisk and Agnoula Gourzoulidou, Kurita Europe

Frank Dean, Ion Science

Klaus Bernemann, Evonik Oxeno

2009 / Q2

Hydrogen damage to steel is a well-known consequence of corrosion in sour service.  A corrosion inhibitor program can reduce hydrogen entry into the metal.  This decreases or eliminates hydrogen damage, resulting in higher profitability and plant availability.

More

Continued gains in FCC pretreating: part II

Desiree J deHaan, Andy Shivaram and Kevin D Carlson, Criterion Catalysts & Technologies.

2009 / Q2

Case studies show the application of MHC systems in FCC pretreaters to increase middle distillate yields, while achieving reasonable conversion and cycle length.  These systems offer stable operations at high temperatures and moderate pressures using low-quality feed.

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Cost-effective and reliable revamps

Scott W Golden, Tony Barletta and Steve White, Process Consulting Services

2009 / Q2

Test run hydraulic measurements and analysis, in conjunction with fundamental principles and equipment know-how, can help refiners to identify profitable, low-cost revamp opportunities.

More

Competitive driving force for integration

 Sanjeev Kapur and Shankar Vaidyanathan, Fluor Corporation

2009 / Q3

Case study for refinery-petrochemical integration.  Product portfolio diversification in integrated complexes will increase the production of higher value products.

More

Troubleshooting complex FCCU issues

Jack R Wilcox, Albemarle Corporation

2009 / Q3

Identifying the leading causes of FCCU feed outages and unscheduled shutdowns, including unexplained or increasing catalyst losses and erratic catalyst circulation.

More

Ambient conditions impact CO and NOx emissions: part II

Wesley R Bussman and Charles Baukal Jr, John Zink Co LLC

2009 / Q3

Effects of air temperature and humidity on burner NOx emissions are discussed, including considerations for factoring in these effects.

More

Multiple corrosion mechanisms in crude distillation overhead system

George Duggan and Randy Rechtien, Baker Hughes

Lionel Roberts, Irving Oil

2009 / Q3

Extensive troubleshooting efforts determine distinct corrosion mechanisms simultaneously attacking multiple areas of an atmospheric tower overhead system.

More

Residue value upgrade opportunities

Bill Howe and Jason Miles, Quadrise Fuels International

2009 / Q3

Overview of a process for upgrading residue to an emulsion-based fuel and the results of refinery manufacture, handling and combustion in a supercritical boiler.

More

Passivation of ethylene cracker transfer line heat exchangers

Abbass A Ezzat, Egyptian Petrochemicals Company

2009 / Q3

Case study based on four years of applying DEHA-based passivation treatment technology to the TLEs of Egyptian Petrochemicals' ethylene crackers.

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Coal liquids as refinery feedstock

Katerina Deem and Scott Sayles, KBC Advanced Technologies Inc

2009 / Q3

Is the refining industry ready for coal liquids processing?  Case study shows potential benefits of processing upgraded coal liquids in a high complexity refinery.

More

Hydrocracking catalyst and processing developments

Robert Wade, Jim Vislocky, Theo Maesen and Dan Torchia, Chevron Lummus Global

2009 / Q3

Improvements to hydrocracking catalyst activity and selectivity at various operational and feedstocks conditions are discussed.

More

Additives for real-time FCC catalyst optimisation

 Ray Fletcher and Martin Evans, Intercat

2009 / Q3

The ability to optimise the circulating inventory composition remains an elusive independent variable.  A solution to this often overlooked variable is discussed.

More

Surviving the global economic and legislative tsunamis

Patrick J Christensen, Thomas B Garrett, Brett P Goldhammer, Erich J Mace and Thomas W Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company.

2009 / Q3

Changes and challenges are sweeping the refining industry into a new era.  Primary processing units will remain essential, but their roles will change drastically.

More

Future road map for shale gas

Chirag Shah and Priyanka Kumar, Evaluserve.

2009 / Q3

As the process industry contemplates future availability of hydrocarbon feedstocks, shale gas could provide an added option to its mix of sources.

More

Predicting CO combustor performance

 Tek Sutikno, Fluor Corporation

2009 / Q3

Detailed description of a CO to CO2 reaction kinetic model for estimating performance of an RFCCU CO combustor.

More

Improving turbocompressor availability

Filippo Cinelli, Riccardo Valorosi, Gianni Mochi, Antonio Pumo and Dante Sabella, GE Oil & Gas

2009 / Q3

Modular replacement maintenance can reduce major overhaul downtime by nearly 50% and time between combustion and major overhauls can also be extended.

More

Romanian refiner adopts electronic learning to raise efficiency

Cristinela Budin, Rompetrol Refinery

Brian Cormier, Resource Development Company

Arun Palit, Solomon Associates

2009 / Q4

Following Romania's accession to the EU, a local refiner reassessed its approach to training to ensure a supply of skilled operators. 

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Flexible solutions for increased diesel production

 Robert Karlin and Aris Macris, Shell Global Solutions (US) Inc

Raul Adarme and Kathy Wu, Criterion Catalyst & Technologies LP

2009 / Q4

Distillation changes and optimised hydroprocessing units represent a broad range of technical and economic options for increasing production of diesel.

More

Has the time for partial upgrading of heavy oil and bitumen arrived?

 Jim Colyar, Colyar Consultants

2009 / Q4

Partial or field upgrading of heavy oil produces transportable synthetic crude oil and eliminates the need for diluents for transportation to refiners.

More

Upgrading residues for high levels of distillate production

 Dan Gillis, Mark Vanwees and Paul Zimmerman, UOP

2009 / Q4

A slurry hydrocracking reactor technology demonstrates a high level of conversion of vacuum residues to distillate and gasoline.

More

Strategies for increasing production of light cycle oil

 David Hunt, Ruizhong Hu, Hongbo Ma, Larry Langan and Wu-Cheng Cheng, Grace Davison

2009 / Q4

 Refineries should consider several strategies, including recycle and enhanced catalyst activity, to increase LCO output from the FCCU while minimising bottoms production

More

Wireless technology in the refinery

 Jeff Becker and Jerry Stanek, Honeywell Process Solutions

2009 / Q4

Wireless data gathering can mean lower capital costs and gains in efficiency, provided the limitations of available bandwidth are taken into consideration.

More

Developing standards in refinery energy management

 Herve Closon and Ulrika Wishing, Belsim

Jean-Claude Noisier, Societe Ivoirienne de Raffinage

2009 / Q4

 Precise validation and reconciliation of site data is required for an effective energy management system in a refinery.

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Real-time refinery energy manangement

 Diego Ruiz, Carlos Ruiz and Fernan Serralunga, Soteica

2009 / Q4

An online model installed at Repsol Cartagena refinery enables optimal balance between internal energy production and demand.

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Salt deposition in FCC gas concentration units

 Michel Melin, Colin Baillie and Gordon McElhiney, Grace Davison Refining Technologies Europe

2009 / Q4

Various operational problems can arise when ammonium chloride deposition occurs in FCC gas concentration units, and there is a range of likely causes.

More

Achieving optimal visbreaker severity

 Gaetano Petralito, ISAB

Marco Respini, Baker Hughes Europe

2010 / Q1

A refinery has managed to run a visbreaker unit continuously for more than two years without any loss of conversion

More

Increasing diesel production from the FCCU

Maurice Korpelshoek, Gary Podrebarac, Kerry Rock and Rajesh Samarth, CDTech

2010 / Q1

FCC naphtha desulphurisation technology produces low-sulphur heavy catalytic naphtha as a separate product for blending into the diesel pool

More

Achieving excellence inprocess safety management

 Graham Bennett, DNV Energy

2010 / Q1

The management of major accident hazards in refineries must recognise that all areas of the business have vital roles to play to ensure process safety management.

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Choosing a hydroprocessing scheme

Alpesh Gurjar, Fluor Daniel India

2010 / Q1

A systematic approach to selecting hydroprocessing technology meets process objectives with optimal operating and capital costs

More

Interface management in complex projects

 Richard Collins and Robert Durham, Foster Wheeler

Raafat Fayek and Walid Zeid, GASCO

2010 / Q1

Managing the interface between contractors, owners and a host of authorities and affected groups is vital to the success of large and complex energy projects.  

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Can refiners afford carbon capture?

Erich Mace and Thomas Yeung, Hydrocarbon Publishing Company

2010 / Q1

CCS is not widely considered an economical way of reducing refiners' carbon footprints, but case studies indicate great variation in the cost of implementation.

More

Are there alternatives to an expensive overhaul of a bottlenecked flare system?

Detlef Gruber and Dietmar-Uwe Leipnitz, BP Lingen Refinery

Prasad Sethuraman, BP Refining Technology

Miquel Angel Alos, Jose Maria Nougues and Michael Brodkorb, Inprocess Technology and Consulting

2010 / Q1

Changes in regulation or the revamp of an existing plant need not require an upgrade to a refinery's flare system configuration.

More

Planning for a pipestill clean

Cody Nath, Refined Technologies

Uwe Klingler, BP

2010 / Q1

A combination of proven technology, setting expectations and developming a detailed plan helped a refiner achieve optimum results from unit clearing and cleaning plans

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Choosing quench interbed technology

Ed Schouten, Jan Stolwijk and Ed Ouwerkerk, Shell Global Solutions International

Sujatha Degaleesan, Wenhua Yang and Sandro Mazzini, Shell Global Solutions US

2010 / Q1

A design for hydroprocessing interbed internals favours separate mixing of gas and liquid phases before contacting of the two phases occurs

More

Unique qualities of Canadian bitumen and synthetic crudes

Pat Swafford, Spiral Software

2010 / Q1

As production of Canadian bitumen and synthetic crude oil expands, North American refinery feed slates enter new territory in terms of crude oil quality.    

More

Entrainment issues in vacuum column flash zones

Mark Pilling, Mario Roza and S M Wong, Sulzer Chemtech

2010 / Q1

For a vacuum tower to operate effectively, the flash zone and the wash section must work together to provide the best possible feed quality to the sections.

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Installing a power recovery system on FCC or RFCC units

Tek Sutikno, Samsung Engineering America

2010 / Q1

Full examination of the design options and operating issues related to the installation of a PRS on a FCC or RFCC unit will increase energy efficiency and unit availability.

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Monitoring heat exchange systems

Loree Fields, URS Corporation

Jason Bradford, Marathon Petroleum Company

2010 / Q1

Anticipating final federal standards, the cooling tower monitoring programs at two refineries have been beneficial in estimating VOC emissions from the towers.

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Anode-grade coke from traditional crudes

 Mitra Motaghi, Kanu Shree and Sujatha Krishnamurthy, KBR Technology

2010 / Q2

A combination of solvent deasphalting and delayed coking is an option to minimise fuel oil production and produce anode-grade coke.

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Catalytic reforming options and practices

 Tom Zhou, Fluor Enterprises

Frederik Baars, Fluor BV

2010 / Q2

Design and practice in catalytic reforming is evolving to meet refinery challenges, including lower gasoline pool benzene content and increased demand for hydrogen.

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Planning for carbon capture

 Suzanne Ferguson, Foster Wheeler

2010 / Q2

 An investment planning roadmap for a project incorporating carbon capture should address the scheme's basic objectives and its viability in the market.

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Online cleaning and decontamination of a butadiene unit

 Dino Polverini and Cosimo Cucinelli, Polimeri Europa

Marcello Ferrara, ITW

2010 / Q2

Chemical treatment by closed-loop recirculation reduced cleaning time for a butadiene unit turnaround from a typical 20 days to 24 hours.

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Optimisation of product yield and coke formation in a RFCC unit

Sepehr Sadighi, Seyyed Reza Seif Mohaddecy, Omid Ghabouli and Mehdi Rashidzadeh, Research Institute of Petroleum Industry

2010 / Q2

Simulation studies of a commercial resideue fluid catalytic cracking unit indicate the conditions for an optimum balance of product yield with low coke deposition.

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Optimising steam systems: part 1

 Ian Fleming, Spirax Sarco

2010 / Q2

Simple techniques to reduce the cost of ownership of a refinery's steam distribution system and condensate return using steam traps and separators

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Calculating column relief loads

 Haribabu Chittibabu, Amudha Valli and Vineet Khanna, Bechtel India PVT Ltd

Dipanjan Bhattacharya, Bechtel Corporation


2010 / Q2

Conventional, steady-state and dynamic simulation techniques are compared in a study of relief loads for failure modes applied to a distillation column.

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Crude oil selection: optimisation by weight or by volume?

 M D Pawde and Sachin Singh, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL)

2010 / Q2

 The LP model should optimise crude and products in their trading units for accurate assessment of crude oil worth and maximisation of gains from product blending.

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Designing for sulphur removal and storage: part 1

 Shamim Gandhi, Wayne Chung and Krish Nangia, Fluor Corporation

2010 / Q2

Selection of technologies for the sulphur block must serve legislative demands and the efficient operation of upstream processes.

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When MTBE outscores ETBE for bioenergy content

 Eelco Dekker, BioMCN

2010 / Q2

If MTBE is produced from biomethanol, its bioenergy content as a fuel additive will be counted twice, according to EU biofuels regulations.

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Microchannel reactors in fueld production

 Derek Atkinson, Oxford Catalysts

Jeff McDaniel, Velocys

2010 / Q2

A demonstration plant aims to confirm the potential for microchannel and other technologies in the distributed production of biofuels

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Hydrotreating in the production of green diesel

 Rasmus Egeberg, Niels Michaelsen, Lars Skyum and Per Zeuthen, Haldor Topsoe

2010 / Q2

A novel scheme enables co-processing of light gas oil and tall diesel to produce a renewable diesel meeting EN 590 specifications.

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Selecting technologies for onshore LNG production

 Saeid Mokhatab, Tehran Raymand Consulting Engineers

2010 / Q2

For optimal design of LNG production plants, selection of the individual units must be made on the basis of an integrated approach.

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Estimation of heat losses from process piping and equipment

 Alireza Bahadori and Hari B Vuthaluru, Curtin University of Technology

2010 / Q2

 An accessible predictive tool calculates surface heat losses from refinery piping and equipment

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