Beschreibung:
<jats:p> The operational characteristics of the fluid catalytic cracking process are determined by a complex interaction between the energy balance arising from the reactor and regenerator units and the pressure distribution, which determines the recirculation of the solid catalyst. In addition, there are both lumped and distributed parameter elements which, together with the non-linearities arising from the kinetics of reaction and combustion (as a result of regenerating the catalyst), cause unexpected behaviour patterns. Using a detailed dynamic model of the process, it is possible to resolve many of these problems and, in particular, show the important role played by combustion in the freeboard region of the regenerator. Such information is particularly useful in relation to the design of the regenerator since the mode of operation can have a significant effect on per formance, especially with respect to stability. </jats:p>