Refinery operators can increase margins by processing lower-quality feedstocks to produce high-value products, but, for this approach to succeed, operators must optimise the performance of their hydrocracking units. The principal challenge is to balance the cost and the quality of a feedstock against the effects it will have on the hydrocracker's catalyst system. The ultimate aim is to improve refinery margins while using the catalyst fill effectively and prolonging the cycle as much as possible. Managing this requires a clear understanding of the hydrocracker and how it will operate during each cycle. The catalyst choice and the selection of reactor internals influence the efficiency of any hydrocracking process. The catalyst usage has to be managed to derive the best performance in terms of activity and stability, while the right choice of internals promotes efficient distribution of gas and liquids within the reactor.
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