AM-08-28 Improving the Operation of Desulphurization Units Using Advanced Process Control Technology

Description:

In recent years, regulations have come into effect, restricting the sulphur content of both gasoline and diesel products. Low sulphur fuel allows for the effective operation of advanced emission control technologies installed on vehicles and engines. Refiners are currently facing numerous challenges operating new desulphurization process units to meet final product specifications. This paper looks at how advanced process control (APC) technology has been used to help refiners offset the higher costs associated with production of low sulphur fuel. Model predictive controllers allow operations staff to: •Maximize throughput and increase capacity for sulphur reduction •Maintain tighter control of product sulphur concentration •Hold an optimal reactor temperature profile to maximize catalyst life •Reduce energy consumption •Increase flexibility to run different feedstocks. Best practices for implementation of APC on desulphurization units will be discussed, looking at several applications on different process units. Details of how benefits were captured will also be covered.