Innovative Value Capture from Shale: Integrated Naphtha Processing in a Modular Condensate Refinery

Recent increases in hydraulic fracturing operations have produced a significant amount of condensate liquids, particularly in the United States. Conversion of these light liquids into finished products for sale at maximum value is being considered in remote locations and via expansion of existing facilities.  

The quality of many condensates is such that minimal hydrotreatment is required, but significant upgrading of the paraffinic naphtha is required to meet gasoline specifications.  A condensate refinery is therefore expected to include reforming and isomerization of naphtha along with naphtha and diesel hydrotreating.  The market seeks technology with minimal capital investment as installation in remote locations could be a significant factor.  UOP proposes to handle these issues with construction of modular units featuring minimal equipment count, which have been optimized in consideration of the feed properties and product quality targets. In this presentation, novel unit integration flowschemes will be discussed.