Apparatus and process for upgrading heavy hydrocarbons

US12384976B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Exxon Mobil Technology and Engineering Company · US

Inventors

• Eric B. Shen · Jalan Pedongkelan, US
• Anjaneya S. Kovvali · Herndon, US
• Aruna Ramkrishnan · Bound Brook Junction, US
• Arun Sharma · Missouri City, US
• Samuel J. Cady · Morristown, US
• Stephen H. Brown · Lebanon, US
• Rustom M. Billimoria · Lower Saucon Township, US
• Brenda A. Raich · Annandale, US
• Bryan A. Patel · Arlington, US
• Phillip K. Schoch · Bound Brook Junction, US
• John Della Mora · North York, CA

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 14, 2020
• Grant date: Aug 12, 2025
• Expiry date: Jul 3, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C10G2300/42
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for partial upgrading of heavy hydrocarbon feeds to meet transport specifications, such as pipeline transport specifications. The systems and methods can allow for one or more types of improvement in heavy hydrocarbon processing prior to transport. In some aspects, the systems and methods can produce a partially upgraded heavy hydrocarbon product that satisfies one or more transport specifications while incorporating an increased amount of vacuum gas oil and a reduced amount of pitch into the partially upgraded heavy hydrocarbon product. In other aspects, the systems and methods can allow for increased incorporation of hydrocarbons into the fraction upgraded for transport, thereby reducing or minimizing the amount of hydrocarbons requiring an alternative method of disposal or transport. In still other aspects, the systems and methods can allow for reduced incorporation of external streams into the final product for transport while still satisfying one or more target properties.