Benzene reduction
KBC was appointed by an independent European oil and gas company to perform a benzene-reduction study. Specifically, KBC was engaged to help define the configuration of the future heavy-naphtha processing units.
The challenge
The primary challenge was to meet the customer's objective of achieving full independence from third-party reformate processing.
Solution
KBC drew on its experience in developing process models that use
test-run data to reflect actual operation. Using Petro-SIM software,
these models integrated new and existing process units to allow for an
assessment of various modes of operation.
We produced pre-design documentation and then developed two options for comparison and ranking:
- Removal of benzene precursors from naphtha feedstock;
- Benzene removal from reformate products.
Capital investment and operational costs associated with the refinery
configuration were calculated. Detailed economic models were then
produced to estimate return on investment.
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