Optimization of Semiregenerative Catalytic Naphtha Reforming Unit to Enhance Octane Number and Reformate Yield

Catalytic naphtha reforming is one of the most important processes in which low quality naphtha is converted into high octane motor gasoline. In this study, a mathematical model was developed and used for investigation of the effect of temperature, pressure, hydrogen to hydrocarbon ratio on the octane number, the yield of product, and the undesirable phenomena of coke deposition in a semi regenerative catalytic reforming unit. The result of the model was compared to the plant data to verify the model accuracy. Then, the model was used to find the optimal condition for the maximum value of octane number and yield of product and the minimum value of coke deposition. The optimum condition of the process was estimated using a genetic algorithm optimization method as an efficient optimization method. In the optimal condition, the octane number and the yield of product improved by 0.3 % and 1.23 %, respectively, and the coke deposition reduced by 2.1 %.