Project Management Aspects of an FCC Revamp

The revamp (or erection of a new unit) requires successful execution of each phase of the project  

In many cases, a refiner decides to revamp a cat cracker and employ a new technology without first identifying the unit s mechanical and process limitations. Sometimes money is spent to relieve a constraint and the unit hits another constraint almost immediately. Failure to perform a proper constraint analysis of the existing operation can result in focusing on the wrong issues for the revamp. In addition, the revamp goals must match the refinery s overall objectives. 

The refiner should identify economic opportunities internally before approaching a technology licensor. For example, what is the primary consideration more conversion, higher throughput, or both At times, a refiner may prefer to do the work internally, as opposed to hiring external resources, but all possible options should be explored. 

It may often be more economical to purchase the desired product from another refiner than to produce it internally. The market place can be a less expensive source of incremental supply than the refiner s own in-house production capabilities. 

Prior to a mechanical upgrade, the refiner must ensure that, given existing mechanical limitations, the unit s performance has reached its full potential with catalyst and operational changes. It is much easier to determine the effects of the mechanical upgrade with a well- 

---