The Powerforming Process

Powerforming is a version of the platinum reforming process. Basically there are two types of unit semi-regenerative and cyclic. The choice of unit and the exact process conditions used will depend to a large extent on the particular application. However, certain generalizations regarding each of the two types can be made. 

A schematic flow plan of a typical semi-regenerative Powerformer is shown 

The common practice in semi-regenerative Powerformers is to desulfurize the reactor feed. This reduces the deactivation rate of the Powerforming catalyst, 

When the feed is desulfurized, the Hydrofining unit is commonly integrated with the Powerformer to conserve heat. The stripper on the hydrofiner product which removes HjS is combined with the Powerformer absorber used to recover C4+ from the tail gas. This tower is termed an absorber stripper. Powerformer tail gas is used to strip HjS from the hydrofiner product. The hydrofiner product in turn serves to absorb the C4 + from this tail gas and return it to the Powerformer. 

Requirements for desulfurizing the feed are much the same as in the semi-regenerative process. While the continuous regeneration facilities would permit operation with higher sulfur feeds, extensive HjS corrosion results, making feed 

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