Comparison of pitch conversions from experiments using CSTR and tubular reactors in the CANMET hydrocracking process

Abstract

This paper describes the prediction of pitch conversions for light Arabian vacuum bottoms in the CANMET hydrocracking process at steady state conditions using both a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) and two tubular reactors. A gas-liquid two-phase flow axial dispersion model was used. The model includes an equilibrium model for the product vaporization. The rate constants were derived solely from pitch conversions observed in runs using a CSTR. They were then used in the model to predict pitch conversions at conditions for runs carried out in both tubular reactors of two different length/diameter ratios (pilot plant 1 and pilot plant 2). Pitch conversions predicted by the model are in good agreement with the pilot plant observations.