AM-98-50 THE ISAL TM PROCESS: A REFINER’S OPTION TO MEET RFG SPECIFICATIONS

Description:

In response to future gasoline specifications, which demand a reduction in aromatics, olefins, benzene, sulfur, RVP and T90, refiners worldwide must modify the traditional operating modes of their refineries. Such a task implies the need for new hydroprocessing catalysts and modes of operation of catalytic reformers and isomerization units as well as the search for new technologies that can accomplish hydroprocessing requirements. The purpose is to maximize profitability in the refining industry. The ISALTM process, jointly developed by INTEVEP (Research and Technological Support Center of Petroleos de Venezuela) and UOP, uses a conventional fixed-bed technology and a novel zeolitic-type catalyst to improve naphtha quality that uses a selective hydrotreating that reduces sulfur, nitrogen and olefins according to the refiner needs with minimal octane and yield losses. This paper discusses some of the advantages of the ISALTM process with respect to conventional hydrotreating and catalyst performance in the upgrading of FCC naphtha cuts.