Two-stage isomerization of saturated C6 hydrocarbons

This invention relates to an improved process for the isomerization of saturated C hydrocarbons. More particularly, this invention relates to a two stage process for the isomerization of saturated C hydrocarbons. A process and/or system is provided for isomerizing a hydrocarbon feedstock comprising saturated Chydrocarbons by contacting the hydrocarbon feedstock, in the presence of hydrogen and optionally a chloride, with a first isomerization catalyst composition in a first isomerization reactor defining a first reaction zone operated at a first reaction temperature, withdrawing a first intermediate stream comprising cyclohexane and n-hexane from the first reaction zone, separating the first intermediate stream, via a first separator, into a first product stream comprising cyclohexane and a second intermediate stream comprising n-hexane, contacting the second intermediate stream, in the presence of hydrogen and optionally a chloride, with a second isomerization catalyst composition in a second isomerization reactor defining a second reaction zone operated at a second reaction temperature greater than the first reaction temperature, and withdrawing from the second reaction zone a second product stream comprising isohexane.