Simulation and design of fluid catalytic‐cracking riser‐type reactors

Abstract

Abstract Two‐phase flow, heat transfer, and reaction in fluid catalytic‐cracking riser‐type reactors are studied using a 3‐D mathematical model. This study was carried out based on the model of Theologos and Markatos, which incorporates a detailed ten‐lump reaction kinetics scheme and accounts for gradual feedstock vaporization inside the reactor. Predictions obtained using the new model are compared against industrial reactor operating data. A design study was also carried out to illustrate that the model developed is capable of predicting feed‐injector geometry effects on overall reactor performance. It shows that by increasing the number of feed‐injection operating nozzles at the bottom of the reactor, selectivity of primary products is improved.