No abstract

In the development of a catalytic hydrotreating process for heavy residua, it is important to evaluate product qualities and yields, and catalyst activity and life. The pilot plant test, therefore, is sufficient for this purpose. The authors have used "microreactors" for exploratory testing and screening of catalysts, "bench-scale test units" to e valuate catalyst performance over its expected life course, by obtaining kinetic data and studying process variables, and "pilot plants", simulating actual process flow and configuration for process configuration, by direct simulation of commercial operations. The test units were equipped with many devices to accomodate sludge and asphaltenec residua, as well as to increase unit reliability and to facilitate long run operations.