Catalytic Naphtha Reforming Catalysis and Process Design Fundamentals

Increasing demand for higher octane fuels and aromatics for downstream petrochemical units make the Catalytic Naphtha Reformer a critical process within the refinery. Additionally, in many refineries, the reforming unit is the sole source of hydrogen supplied to the hydrotreaters responsible for the production of low sulfur transportation fuels. The Catalytic Naphtha Reformer converts low octane naphtha, primarily containing paraffins and naphthenes to both an aromatic-rich stream and to hydrogen. This high octane aromatic-rich stream can be blended as a key component of the gasoline pool or further refined to recover the aromatics as benzene, toluene, and xylene. At the heart of this catalytic reforming process is a specialized, precious-metal catalyst.

This presentation explores the fundamentals of the catalytic reforming unit by presenting a simplified view of the process, the basics of the reforming catalyst composition, and the critical chemistry that makes it all work. Go on a journey through the reformer and see how the reforming catalyst converts low octane naphtha into high‑value, high octane reformate and hydrogen.