AM-17-38 Understanding Catalytic Solutions for Increasing Middle Distillate Yields

Description:

With the continued interest in processing domestic crude sources as well as opportunity feed sources, refiners are exploring ways to maximize their middle distillate production. Several domestic feed sources have reduced the demand on the ULSD hydrotreater making it significantly easier to treat to ULSD however; other new feed sources are presenting processing issues that were not previously considered. A critical element in every approach to increasing diesel yield is the proper design and selection of a catalyst system for each specific hydroprocessing unit. This approach to increasing diesel yields, requires a detailed understanding of feed and operating conditions such that the hydrotreater can be operated at optimum conditions for the unit cycle. Challenges in terms of understanding the species of sulfur and nitrogen present, hydrogen consumption, coupled with the chemistry required, will be discussed in order to provide some guidance and understanding in order to maintain product quality with existing assets and minimal investment.