Different methods of providing refinery hydrogen include recovery from fuel gas and tail gas, dehydrogenation processes, heavy-end gasification, steam reforming and outside purchase. Systematic methods for identifying hydrogen needs and available production are needed in order to optimise site performance and maintain the flexibility to run different crude oils while ensuring maximum equipment utilisation. A methodology for the assessment of hydrogen resources has been developed. The results are presented in a simple, graphical manner, which gives the engineer insights into process design, sensitivity analysis and operations planning. Targets can be set for hydrogen recovery and hydrogen plant production.
Targets also give insights into the effective use of hydrogen purification units.
Methods have been developed for the design of hydrogen distribution networks and to consider means by which refinery throughput and profitability can be increased through manipulation of the hydrogen distribution system. The design methods have been automated and take account of distribution costs associated with pipework and compressors. The hydrogen management method has now been applied in a number of industrial case studies.