Modeling of catalytic reforming process with fixed bed catalyst based on industrial data
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https://doi.org/10.32523/2616-6771-2025-150-1-36-51Keywords:
mathematical modeling, oil refining, optimization, resource efficiency, petrochemistry, catalytic reformingAbstract
This study presents the development of a kinetic model of the catalytic reforming process using data from a commercial fixed-bed catalyst plant. Model parameters were determined by minimizing discrepancies between calculated values and industrial data, ensuring high accuracy in predicting reformate composition. The proposed model combines the simplicity of generalized approaches with the benefits of more detailed models, enabling efficient prediction of reformate composition and accounting for key process variables (temperature, pressure, hydrogen/hydrocarbon ratio, and feed rate). Validation was conducted with both laboratory isothermal data and industrial data, confirming its practical applicability. The software developed from this model demonstrated high accuracy, with calculation errors under 3% and less than 1% error in determining aromatic hydrocarbon concentration. These results confirm the model's precision, making it suitable for real-time process control and optimization. The model’s application in industry will not only increase the yield of target products and improve fuel quality but also reduce production costs by optimizing operating modes and extending catalyst life. Given tightening environmental regulations, the model is an important tool for ensuring sustainable development in oil refineries. Future research could enhance its integration with digital control systems and optimize energy efficiency in Kazakhstan’s oil and gas enterprises.
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