Applications of process and kinetic models to optimize the operation of Hydrocracker

摘要

Objectives: The main objective of applications of process and kinetic models in developing the Real-Time Optimization(RTO)strategies for hydrocracking process was to help refinery operation to maximize contribution of the plant to the business profit,providing best in class performance,optimizing the plant operation,enhancing safety and reliability.Methods: The process and kinetic models were developed and incorporated in real-time optimization framework and successfully implemented on hydrocracking process to enhance the yield of high value products.The dynamic model of the process was developed using plant identification techniques and integrated with real-time optimization applications.Finally,a closed-loop quality control system was established to keep the product specifications on targets.Results: The applications of process and kinetic models within the framework of Real-Time Optimization helped to optimize key process operating variables by shifting the unit margin towards the optimum and operations were better placed to challenge targets and operating conditions,driving the plant toward a more profitable operating regime,bringing the higher benefits.The application of process and kinetic models resulted in improving the yield of diesel and gasoline and increasing the feed rate subject to unit constraints and catalyst run length.In addition,the use of process and kinetic models together with data reconciliation system adjusted the reactors bed inlet temperature to maintain a desired WABT and protected against constraints such as hydrogen quench and delta temperature limits and improved the catalyst life by maintaining the specified reactor bed temperature profile.Conclusion: The applications of process and kinetic models within the framework of real-time optimization brought substantial benefits to the refinery.Of particular mention are the benefits in improvement of the basic data for planning,improvement in process understanding and monitoring,providing economic focus on unit operation,allowing the use of process and kinetic models for off-line and on-line studies,active constraint tracking and pushing and also the monitoring of heat exchangers fouling and compressor efficiency in real-time.It is envisaged that these applications will be extended to other processing units to optimize the overall operation of the refinery.