Characteristics of Hydrotreating Reaction in VRDS Units Located along the Yangtze River and Overall Solution for Long-cycle Running

The VRDS feedstock processed in refineries along the Yangtze River has special characteristics, including high Fe and Ca content, and low sulfur and high nitrogen content. Depending upon feedstock properties and operating conditions, some approaches have been developed by the SINOPEC Research Institute of Petroleum Processing (RIPP), which include installing the decalcification facility, developing new guard catalysts and HDCCR catalysts, implementing a new catalyst grading approach, developing a highly efficient distribution technology and applying RICP process in some refineries. The application effects have revealed that the integrated technology, which can be conducive to the long-cycle operation developed by RIPP, can maximize the deposits uptake capacity of the guard reactor and the activity of grading catalysts.