In order to benchmark naphtha reforming catalysts and compare their performance, Axens selected hte for a qualification project in 2016. The overall aim of this project was to measure activity, yields and stability of the catalysts at constant octane output in order to rank performance of commercial naphtha reforming catalysts.
hte used one of its 16-fold small-scale high throughput reactor system which is ideally suited for operation of both industrial semi-regenerative and continuous catalyst regeneration (CCR) reforming conditions. The testing technology developed by hte in recent years includes unique features such as a parallel adjustable temperature profile, operation at a constant research octane number (RON), and enhanced online analytics.
Axens rated the project outcome positively and hte is now qualified to offer independent testing of commercial naphtha reforming catalysts to refineries.
“We are very proud to be qualified by Axens for independent catalyst evaluation in the field for naphtha reforming. We see this project as a statement that our high throughput technology can support refineries and catalyst suppliers to generate industrially relevant high-quality data,” comments Wolfram Stichert, CEO at hte.