Modeling and Simulation of an Industrial Continuous Naphtha Catalytic Reformer (CCR)
Systematic methods and tools for managing the complexity
Process Simulation and Optimization (T4-9P)
Keywords: Naphtha reforming, gasoline, high RON, continuous catalytic reformer
Nowadays, with worldwide increasing demands of the high qualitative gasoline, it is necessary to establish the new naphtha reforming units and develop the traditional units to the high efficiency processes. In this article, according to the recent progresses in naphtha reforming technology, a modeling and simulation of an industrial continuous catalytic reformer is performed. Suggested method is based on Padmavathi model with some modifications on kinetic constants as well as deactivation rate of the catalyst during the reaction. Current model is based on 25 lumped components (including C6 to C10 hydrocarbons) in three categories of Paraffins, Naphthens and Aromatics, by using 60 reactions. The kinetic parameters of the reactions are tuned using data of the outlet flow rates and temperatures in industrial operating conditions. Results of the model comparing to actual data have a good agreement as 0.98% AARD on the yield of reformate and 3% on RON. The derived model can accept feed ASTM curve instead of composition and estimate molecular composition of the feed. The reformer model could link to HYSYS for further plant simulation and optimization based on benzene content, RON and yield of reformate, LPG and produced hydrogen.
Presented Wednesday 19, 13:30 to 15:00, in session Process Simulation and Optimization (T4-9P).
