Catalytic Olefins Technology Enhances Olefins Producers' Flexibility and Economics

CATALYTIC OLEFINS TECHNOLOGY ENHANCES OLEFINS PRODUCERS’ FLEXIBILITY AND ECONOMICS          

Michael Tallman  

KBR

Michael.tallman@kbr.com

Because the growth in demand for propylene remains high and due to the recent preponderance of light gas crackers with relatively low propylene yields, gaps in meeting future propylene demands are expected.  Low-cost ethane has become available in North America which, in combination with the historically low-cost ethane used in the Middle East, is putting competitive pressure on the world’s liquid crackers.  As such, many producers are considering alternative methods to meet future propylene needs. 

KBR offers commercialized catalytic olefins technologies that can help meet the propylene demand in either grass root or revamp applications, as stand-alone units or in combination with traditional steam crackers.  These technologies can significantly improve the operating margin for olefins producers while providing greater flexibility in the types of feeds suitable for olefins production and in product ratios.  The features and status of these technologies will be discussed, and case study examples using them in grass roots plants and as part of a revamp strategy will be presented.