Reforming feed selection Which stream is generally used as the feed for catalytic reforming to produce high-octane reformate and hydrogen?

Introduction / Context:
Catalytic reforming boosts octane for gasoline blending and supplies hydrogen for hydrotreating. The choice of feed determines product quality, severity, and catalyst life.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard platforming/CCR reformer conditions.
• Focus on mainstream refinery routing.
• Goal is to name the normal feedstock.

Concept / Approach:
Reforming targets naphtha-range molecules (C6–C8 mostly). Typical feed is straight-run or hydrotreated naphtha, not heavier distillates like AGO/VGO or residues, which are routed to FCC/hydrocracking/residue conversion instead.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Typical refinery flow diagrams show naphtha splitter → hydrotreating → reformer → reformate + H2.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• AGO/VGO: Usually to FCC/hydrocracker.
• Reduced crude: To vacuum distillation/thermal or residue conversion units.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “gas oil” is acceptable feed; reformers do not target those boiling ranges.

Final Answer:
Naphtha or straight-run gasoline