Optimizing bitumen upgrading scheme – modeling and simulation approach

摘要

The present study focuses on modeling and simulation of the bitumen upgrading andrnrefining schemes using the HYSYS modeling software in conjunction with pilot plantrnexperimental data obtained at CanmetENERGY, as well as any available commercialrnoperation data. Two existing upgrading schemes were investigated: coking-based andrnhydroconversion-based, which are commonly used by oil sands companies. The majorrnupgrading units, such as atmospheric and vacuum distillation columns, coker/hydroconverter,rnand hydrotreaters, were depicted in detail and the commercial operating conditions for each ofrnthem were identified.rnThe coking-based upgrading scheme was simulated under various operating scenarios.rnUsing existing data, mass balance was performed and a synthetic crude oil yield close torn82wt% was achieved based on the initial diluted bitumen feedstock. The hydroconversionbasedrnupgrading scheme was also studied in this work by replacing the coker with arnhydroconverter (an ebullated bed reactor) and by utilizing commercially available data underrndifferent operating conditions.