Development and application of rigorous process models in optimization of hydroconversion processes

PETR 62

R. P. Verma, vermarp@iocrd.co.in, K. Basak, kaushikbasak@yahoo.com, Sk. Shabina, shabinask@iocrd.co.in, and U. Manna, mannau@iocrd.co.in. R&D Centre, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Sector 13, Faridabad, 121007, India
Owing to the present and future requirements of environ-friendly fuels and lubes, hydroconversion processes have gained immense importance. Hydroconversion processes involve different types of complex reactions, e.g. hydrodesulphurization, hydrodenitrification, hydrodearomatisation, hydrocracking, hydroisomerisation, etc. Each of these types of reactions follows several mechanisms depending upon the feed molecules and operating conditions. To meet refinery targets, it has become imperative to apply rigorous process models extensively for improved operation and sustained profitability of hydroconversion processes. The mathematical models should represent various reaction mechanisms and follow process chemistry closely. At Indian Oil R&D Centre, rigorous kinetic models have been developed for hydrocracking and deep diesel hydodesulphurization (DHDS) / hydrotreating (DHDT), which are applied for performance monitoring, optimization & troubleshooting and catalysts selection, etc. for the commercial units in the refineries. In this paper, these process models have been discussed, followed by case studies on their application for optimization of hydroconversion processes, leading to benefits to the refiners.