(45a) Optimizing Cracker Operations. Selection of Downstream Configuration

Optimization of cracker operation depends at least as much on the market requirement as it does on the feedstock and operating conditions. This paper will introduce proprietary software that allows the user to combine market elements, feedstock and operating conditions to quickly predict the profitability of a cracker/downstream processing complex. It starts by defining the feedstock, cracker configuration and technology, and continues to include various downstream processing units, capacities and technologies. The result is a quick estimate of the IRR and NPV of the complex. It is equally applicable to gas, liquid and combinations there-of.