Catalytic reforming
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A catalytic reforming process (also called the UOP Platforming ™ Process) converts a feed stream containing paraffins, Olefins and naphthene into aromatics to be used either as a motor fuel blending stock, or as a source for specific aromatic compounds, namely Benzene, Toluene & Xylene for use in petrochemicals production. The product stream of the reformer is generally referred to as a reformate. Reformate produced by this process has a very high octane rating. Significant quantities of hydrogen are also produced as a byproduct. Catalytic reforming is normally facilitated by a bifunctional catalyst that is capable of rearranging and breaking long-chain hydrocarbons as well as removing hydrogen from naphthenes to produce aromatics. This process is different from steam reforming which is also a catalytic process that produces hydrogen as the main product.
The need for a reformer is felt because of the rising standards of the fuel, which is getting more stringent by the day. The exact limitations on the various aspects of a fuel is dependent on the environmental norms of a country. Nonetheless the idea is to have RON (Research Octane Number) as high as possible at the same time keeping the Olefins, Benzene & Aromatics under the specified limits.
The different types of reformers are classified as a fixed-bed type, semi-regenerative type, cyclic type and the continuous regenerative type. This classification is based on the ability of the unit to operate without bringing down the catalyst for Regeneration.
