Fluid catalytic cracking is one of the most important processes for converting low-value heavy oils into valuable gasoline and lighter product.
Catalytic reformer feed controls are commonly set up as flow control loops, and are configured to fail open so that a valve failure will protect the furnace radiant section tubes. A valve with poor control characteristics in this service can cause swings in the amount of conversion through the unit, reduced unit throughput, increased coke laydown, and melt radiant tubes, all of which could cause difficulties controlling the outlet temperature of the furnaces and potentially shorten reactor life.
