Process Technology Quick Reference Cards
Cat Reforming
Chapter from the Process Technology Quick Reference Cards.
CATALYTIC REFORMING
Process Objective
Convert low-octane naphtha to high-octane reformate (gasoline blending component) and produce hydrogen as a valuable byproduct.
Key Operating Variables
| Variable | Typical Range | Effect / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WAIT/WABT | 800-980°F | Higher T → more conversion, more aromatics, faster deactivation |
| Pressure | 50-350 psig | Lower P → higher octane but faster coking (CCR enables lower P) |
| LHSV | 1-3 hr⁻¹ | Lower LHSV → more conversion |
| H2/HC Ratio | 2-8 mol/mol | Higher ratio → less coking, more H2 recycle cost |
| Feed RONC | 40-60 | Heavier naphtha (C7-C10) gives best octane uplift |
Process Configurations
CCR (Continuous Catalyst Regeneration): UOP Platforming, Axens Aromizing — continuous regen allows low P (50-100 psig), high severity, long run lengths
Semi-Regenerative: Fixed bed, periodic shutdown for regen — higher P (200-350 psig), lower severity, 6-24 month cycles
Products & Yields
Reformate (C5+ liquid): 75-90 vol% yield, 95-105 RON
Hydrogen: 500-1,800 SCF/BBL net production (major source of refinery H2)
LPG: 5-15 vol% (C3/C4 from cracking)
Fuel Gas: 2-5 wt% (C1/C2)
Common Troubleshooting
Low octane: check WABT, feed quality, catalyst activity (chloride, coke)
High ΔP: coke accumulation, scale — check reactor ΔP trend
Low H2 purity: recycle gas leak, poor separator performance
Catalyst loss (CCR): check regenerator, fines carryover
Chloride management: critical for CCR — water/chloride balance controls acidity
Source: Process_Tech_Quick_Reference_Cards_v1.xlsx · sheet “Cat Reforming”
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