Panel:
Amit Gupta, Heurtey Petrochem Solutions
Bill McLaughlin, ExxonMobil Product Solutions Company
Ethan Spielvogel, Marathon Petroleum Corp.
Randy Stier, Valero Energy Corporation
Vivek Sundaram, LyondellBassel Industries
We are producing petroleum products in the current environment in which emissions reduction is demanded amidst rising consumer demand. The panel discussion will focus on safe operation and optimization of process fired heaters, including limitations with existing technologies to reduce emissions, and challenges with emerging technologies, e.g., hydrogen firing and electrification.
For many facilities, cyclic reformers play a pivotal role in refining operations, offering flexibility in upgrading naphtha into high-octane reformate and a continuous source of hydrogen. While cyclic reformers offer a distinct advantage over semi-regen reformers with regards to turnaround timing, this comes at a cost. This presentation tackles key operational challenges and reliability issues, such as iron contamination, ammonium chloride fouling, on-oil exotherms, reactor hot spots, regeneration section corrosion and the functionality of motor-operated valve (MOV) interlocks.
By providing a comprehensive approach to enhancing cyclic reformer reliability, this presentation reinforces the importance of proactive maintenance, process optimization, and robust safety measures. These strategies provide crucial insights to aid operators in maximizing unit performance while minimizing operational risks.