For fixed-bed platforming process with radial flow reactors, maintaining low moisture concentration within the hydrogen re-cycle gas is critical to the efficient operation of this catalytic process. Increased moisture concentration results in coke formation within the 3-stage reactors using platinum and radium catalyst. Such coking reduces the operating period for the catalyst beds between regeneration cycles, with direct financial implications for refinery production efficiency.
Moisture measurements in both gas and liquid phases are required at different stages of the process, and the Liquidew I.S and QMA601 are recommended.