Process Overview
Renewable Diesel is a drop-in replacement fuel for diesel from fossil fuel. It is made from renewable feedstock such as vegetable oils, animal fats and waste oil. In the first step, the feedstock is first pre-treated to remove phospholipids (gums) using acid. The gums are removed in a centrifuge and then neutralized with caustic. Any soap formed during neutralization is then removed through centrifugation. The pre-treated feed is then taken to a Hydro-deoxygenation step where oxygen is moved by reacting with hydrogen. The feed (triglycerides and free fatty acids) undergoes hydrogenation in this step to get converted to straight chain hydrocarbons and water. Any oxygen in the feed is also removed by converting it to water or CO2 in the Hydrodeoxygenation step. The straight chain hydrocarbons has poor cold flow properties and hence will need to be isomerized using Hydrogen in the isomerization step. Through isomerization straight chain hydrocarbons are converted to branched chain hydrocarbons. Product from the isomerization step is then taken to a Purification step using distillation columns where the Renewable Diesel product is separated from light gases such as propane and water.
Process Schematic
RVN advantage
RVN Technical Team has the expertise and experience to select the best available technology for Renewable Diesel process. We work with all licensors to evaluate which technology offering suits the client’s objectives best and works well within the project constraints. We also put together engineering designs for all process steps including the balance of plant equipment such as utilities, tank farm, unloading and loading. RVN can lead/support project execution from the conceptual design stage all the way to the detailed engineering stage. RVN works with partners that can provide procurement, construction and startup services. In short, RVN can help turn conceptual ideas into fully operational projects making commercially successful products in a safe and environmentally friendly process.