Reduce the impact of nickel, vanadium on FCCU operation

The presence of nickel or oxidized vanadium can degrade the operation of a fluid catalytic cracking unit (FCCU), reducing product yield by interfering with proper catalyst operation. These metals typically are found when processing residuals from atmospheric or vacuum distillation units. GE Water & Process Technologies can provide metals passivation programs to resolve these problems.

Nickel contamination of the FCCU leads to excessive hydrogen generation. Passivation using GE technology can reduce hydrogen generation by 40 to 60 percent (based on standard cubic feet per barrel of fresh feed) at the same catalyst addition rates. Such treatment increases gasoline yields and reduces coke production.

Oxidized vanadium destroys the zeolite crystal structure on the FCCU catalyst. This reduces catalyst activity and requires higher catalyst addition rates. The GE vanadium passivation treatment forms a eutectic to reduce the negative impact of the vanadium.