Catalyst and engineering innovations improve isomerization economics

As the demand for octane increases worldwide, either as a result of lead reduction or the desire to produce higher yields of premium grade gasoline, refiners are turning to light naphtha isomerization as one of the most cost effective processing routes for incremental octane production. UOP has played a major role in the implementation of this new isomerization capacity, providing technology to 34 refiners since December, 1984. Most refiners have chosen high activity I-8 catalyst for use in either once-through or recycle operations, because of its superior octane-barrel production in either mode of operation. I-7 catalyst is being used by other refiners who wish to minimize capital investment and avoid the cost of new hydrotreating facilities. I-7 catalyst is also being chosen to change out lower activity, less selective zeolitic catalysts in existing isomerization facilities. Not content with current technology, UOP scientists and engineers are striving to further improve the I-8 and I-7 catalyst systems as well as to improve the process design of the isomerization unit. Development objectives are to both increase octane-barrel production as well as reduce capital and processing costs. Current R and D programs nearing the point of commercialization include: low cost sulfur removal technology; modifiedmore » reactor section process design for reduced capital and operating costs; low cost separation scheme for recycle operation; low temperature operation for high octane production once-through; heavy raffinate upgrading. While these developments will reduce the capital cost related to the installation of new isomerization capacity, most of these developments also can be applied to existing isomerization capacity to improve to octane-barrel production and reduce operating costs.« less