Inspectioneering

Hydrocracking Unit

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Hydrocracking Units, also known as Hydrocrackers, are types of process equipment used in petroleum refining. Hydrocrackers use hydrogen and a catalyst to break down heavy crude oil molecules into various distillates and gasoline. It is also useful for converting high-sulfur materials into low-sulfur fuels, making them more useful.

The cracking process begins when heavy oils are sent from the fluidized catalytic cracking unit (FCCU), the coker unit, and atmospheric or vacuum distillation tower to the hydrocracker. There are two main chemical reactions that occur once the oil gets there. The first is distilling heavy hydrocarbons into lighter unsaturated hydrocarbons. The second reaction involves saturating these lighter hydrocarbons with hydrogen.

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Articles about Hydrocracking Unit
March/April 2022 Inspectioneering Journal

This study found that a machine learning model was able to predict degradation rates for a hydrocracker unit more accurately and with a smaller margin of error compared to current industry practices.

March/April 2022 Inspectioneering Journal

The influence of sensitization on creep response of hydrocracker feed fractionator fired heater tubes made of AISI Type 347 stabilized steel after service exposure of around 20 years is investigated.

March/April 2018 Inspectioneering Journal

Hot spots – localized areas of overheating in pressure equipment – can lead to deformation or even loss of process containment. It is important to understand the effects of elevated temperature caused by hot spots on the mechanical integrity of...

September/October 2017 Inspectioneering Journal

Amine systems that scrub H2S from hydrogen-rich gas experience rapid fouling of the heat transfer equipment, especially in a hot summer. Learn how temporary cooling solutions can improve process conditions during critical periods of the year with no...

Authors: Massimo Capra
Online Article

Inspectioneering recently had the opportunity to chat with Barney Smith, Turnaround Manager at Aggreko, a global leader in power, heating, cooling, and oil-free compressor rental solutions. Our discussion focused on catalyst cooling during...

Authors: Jeremiah Wooten
Partner Content

Are you truly prepared for your next Turnaround? Effective work processes are required to successfully plan, manage, review and supervise plant turnarounds. Inspection planning and work scope selection are critical aspects of any turnaround...

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