Used lube oil processing - the Plug Flow Reactor (PFR)
We offer a superior alternative for ULO processing, with a demonstration plant currently in operation.
Technology (patented)
FFS International developed the PFR for the pre-treatment of used lube oil (ULO). The advantages of the technology are:
- Up to 92% of product has <100 ppm metals from typical ULO
- Sulphur <0.225%
- No high ash tarry underflow. Whole product stream has lower SG than feed
- Annual production per unit +10 kt/yr – demonstration plant currently at 1 ton/hr
- Energy consumption estimated at ±200 kW/ton product
- Uses only electricity and water
- Single point off-gas stream a potential energy source within process plant
Final product uses
The PRF was designed to produce ULO hydrogenation feedstock, but the product is suitable for many uses, including:
- Feedstock for hydrogenation to base oil
- Feedstock for NMP extraction
- Bleaching
- Feedstock to refinery (as VGO)
- Furnace fuel
- Diesel (MDO) extruder
- Blend stock
- Total loss lube (cutter bar lube)
- Explosives manufacture
Our processed ULO has been successfully integrated into an existing hydrogenation plant to base oil.
Benefits over cracking plants or thin film evaporators
The installation of a PFR would provide the following benefits over the current standard cracking plants or thin film evaporators:
- Product yield increase by ±30%
- Eliminate ‘Difficult to sell’ bottom products
- No chemical consumption
- Higher energy efficiency
- Lower running costs
