Interactive computer program simulating hydrodemetallation and hydrodesulphurization of residual oil

Abstract

The simulation program presented makes it possible to calculate the demetallation (HDM) and desulphurization (HDS) conversions of heavy oils on catalysts under hydrogen pressure for various combinations of temperature, pressure and liquid hourly space velocity (LHSV). The simulation pattern presupposes that the computer is fed with HDM, HDS, T, p and LHSV data from at least one (test) run. This set of test data functions as a ‘fingerprint’ of the catalyst-oil-hydrogen-reactor system used. Included in the program is a routine for calculating the lifetime of the catalyst up to the point of maximum metal uptake. This calculation is performed at the simulated demetallation level from data on density, volumetric flow rate and metal content of oil, mass of catalyst in the reactor and maximum possible metal uptake of the catalyst. As the program is interactive, the user supplies the data requested by the computer in a question-answer situation. The program is applicable in the ranges 320–420 °C, 5–15 MPa and LHSV 0.5–3.0 h −1. The test values of HDS and HDM should lie between 10 and 100 wt%.