HYDROCONVERSION PROCESS TO UPGRADE THE TRANSPORT PROPERTIES OF HEAVY AND EXTRA-HEAVY CRUDE OILS AT LOW SEVERITY CONDITIONS.

摘要

The present invention relates to a catalytic hydroconversion process in dispersed phase of extra-heavy and heavy crude oils for upgrading their transport properties, that operates at low severity conditions, in such a way that the obtained product can be transported by conventional pumping to the distribution and refining centers. The main technical contributions of the hydroconversion process in dispersed phase of this invention to upgrade the transport properties of heavy and extra-heavy crudes are: Compact size and can be localized next to the production facilities on ground or offshore. Use of operating conditions at low severity. Reduction of the viscosity and increase of the API gravity at values that allow the transportation by pipeline of heavy or extra-heavy crude. Upgrading of the crude oil properties in a permanent way. Hydrocarbon and gases from production centers are used as supplies. Operation in dispersed phase avoiding plugging problems. Use of low-cost disposable cata lysts at low concentrations.