Catalyst vendors differ in their philosophies for catalyst stacking vs homogeneous systems. Which is best?
Answers
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24/07/2007
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A:
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Paul Robinson, Chevron Technology Marketing, clgllc@chevron.com
As usual, it depends, since each hydrocracker is unique in design, feed, product and operating goals/limitations. Multiple catalyst-layered systems can provide an advantage. However, these loadings can easily become overly complex and create opportunities for improper loading and poor startup. They also can present operability and safe operating challenges, since each catalyst layer can perform and respond differently. This all but eliminates options for catalyst reuse. Homogeneous or blended catalyst systems provide a predictable, more stable operation day in, day out. In addition, these systems simplify catalyst loading and much better facilitate catalyst reuse. Having said this, many of our hydroprocessing units use a stacked system.
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