Simulation, sensitivity analysis and optimization of a commercial continuous catalytic naphtha reformer

In this study, a 20-lumped kinetics model for naphtha catalytic reforming reactions is used to simulate an industrial Continuous Catalytic Reforming (CCR) process. Fair agreement between the calculated and operating data is obtained. The key process variables affecting the aromatics yield are analyzed in detail to guide the selections of operating conditions. Based on the kinetics model and the process variable analyses, process optimization is also studied and the optimization project is then tested in the actual industrial unit about one month. The testing results validate that the aromatics yield increases about 0.49 percent in weight averagely, which is close to the calculated value by process optimization. The optimization project obtained by mathematic computation is proved to be believable and can bring great profits of more than 5,000,000 yuan annually. © 2013 Asian Network for Scientific Information.