Catalytic Reforming and Isomerization

Question 1

What does catalytic reforming do

Answer 1

converts low-octane napthas into high-octane gasoline blending components called reformates

Question 2

Typical feed in catalytic reforming

Answer 2

heavy naphtha streams from the crude tower, coker, and cracking & hydrocracking units

Question 3

T/F: Change in the boiling point of the feed is relatively small as the hydrocarbon molecular structures are rearranged with only a minor amount of cracking.

Answer 3

True

Question 4

Desirable reactions in catalytic reforming (4)

Answer 4

1. Paraffins are isomerized and to some extent converted to naphthenes. Then, these naphthenes will be converted to aromatics.
2. Olefins are saturated to form paraffins which then react as in (1).
3. Naphthenes are converted to aromatics.
4. Aromatics are left essentially unchanged.

Question 5

Undesirable reactions

Answer 5

1. Dealkylation of side chains on naphthenes and aromatics to form butane and lighter paraffins
2. Cracking of paraffins and naphthenes to form butane and lighter
   paraffins