Optimizing Hydrogen Production in Catalytic Naphtha Reforming Process
Key Ideas
  • A study using Aspen HYSYS® focused on improving hydrogen production and reformate quality in Catalytic Naphtha Reforming.
  • Operative conditions like hydrogen/hydrocarbon ratio and temperature were optimized to enhance hydrogen production and quality.
  • The study resulted in significant improvements, with increased Research Octane Number, hydrogen mass fraction, and quality.
  • Comparison with pilot plant data and industrial data showed significant similarities, validating the simulation results.
The article presents a study focused on optimizing the production of hydrogen (H2) in the Catalytic Naphtha Reforming (CNR) process. The research utilized process simulation using Aspen HYSYS® to identify operative transitional modes that could enhance both the quality of reformate and the quantity of hydrogen produced in CNR. By varying the recirculation ratio of hydrogen/hydrocarbon (H2/HC) and the temperature within specific ranges, the study aimed to find the most effective operative transitional route towards improved performance. Through a multi-objective analysis, the study achieved notable results including an increase in Research Octane Number (RON) to 90.72, a hydrogen mass fraction (%m of H2) of 2.9, a quality of recycled hydrogen (yH2)R of 0.87, and a quality of produced hydrogen (yH2)S of 0.9653. The comparison of the simulation data with experimental pilot plant data and full-scale industrial data revealed significant similarities, indicating the accuracy and reliability of the simulation results. Overall, the study showcases the potential for enhancing hydrogen production and reformate quality in CNR through careful optimization of operative conditions.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.