Isomerization Process in Oil Refineries

Isomerization of light paraffinic hydrocarbons is a strategic refining process widely implemented in modern oil refineries. Its main objective is to increase the octane number of light naphtha fractions by converting normal alkanes to branched chain isomers. This conversion is accomplished without increasing the aromatic content or requiring lead-based additives, thus fully complying with environmental regulations and global clean fuel standards. The use of bifunctional metal-acid catalysts, such as Pt/Cl-Al2O3, which provide both the acid and metal functions necessary for the isomerization pathway.
Pt/Cl-Al2O3 catalysts are used as the main catalyst in light naphtha isomerization units to increase the octane number of gasoline, usually from common commercial brands including:
 UOP (Honeywell) – ISOM™ series of catalysts
 Axens – ATIS™ isomerization catalysts
 Criterion (a Shell subsidiary)
 Albemarle Refinery Catalysts

All of these catalysts are supplied in fixed bed form and are widely licensed by OGSCM Group with technical support. For more information, you can click on the diagram of the isomerization reactor.

Chemicals
Hydrogen (H2): Prevents coke deposition and increases catalyst stability, while H2 is usually produced at the isomerization site.
Hydrogen Chloride (HCl):
Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) is a key process chemical used to regulate chloride levels and support catalyst performance in isomerization units operating under UOP technology. This chemical controls the acid performance of the catalyst and is injected into the reactor at the feed inlet of the isomer unit. This product is usually supplied in bulk or in drums (IBC). Our company provides a stable and continuous supply of industrial-grade HCl, ensuring operational reliability for refinery and petrochemical plants. To review detailed product specifications and handling guidelines, please access the datasheet through the link below. long-term supply arrangements, our sales team is available to assist you.

Perchloroethylene (C2Cl4): Used as a chlorinating agent to maintain the acidity and performance of the catalyst during the operation of the isomerization unit. Common commercial brands of C2Cl4 suitable for the isomerization process include:
 Dow chemicals
 Inovyn ChlorVinyls
 AGC Chemicals.
OGSCM supplies high-quality Perchloroethylene (PCE) for refinery and petrochemical applications, particularly for use in UOP licensed isomerization units. With an annual supply capacity of approximately 1,000 metric tons, we ensure stable availability, consistent quality, and full technical documentation for each shipment. Our product complies with the technical requirements commonly applied in UOP isomerization processes and is delivered in approved industrial packaging according to customer specifications.
More information about the above chemical is available on the product pages, which can be found by clicking on the PFD. For pricing and supply inquiries, please contact our sales team.
Main Equipment
A reactor used to hold the isomerization catalyst and provide stable operating conditions under a hydrogen atmosphere.
Known Manufacturers/Suppliers:
 UOP (Honeywell) - Reactor Packages with ISOM™ Units
 Axens - Reactor Systems for ATIS™ Units
 L&T Heavy Engineering
 Doosan Enerbility
 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)

OGSCM offers reliable sourcing and supply solutions for critical reactor equipment and spare parts required in refineries. We are capable of providing key reactor components, including reactor internals, catalyst support systems, distributors, thermowells, manways, nozzles, gaskets, flanges, and associated mechanical and instrumentation parts. With access to qualified manufacturers and a strong international supply network, we support both routine maintenance and project-based requirements. Our focus is on timely delivery, competitive commercial terms, and full technical documentation for every order. For partnership opportunities and quotation requests, our commercial team is ready to assist you.

Heat exchanger used for feed preheating, reactor effluent cooling and heat recovery in the isomerization unit.
Well-known commercial suppliers:
 Alfa Laval (Plate and Shell and Tube Exchangers)
 API Heat Transfer
 Kelvin
 Hisaka
 Tranter

OGSCM group supply heat exchangers and essential spare parts for refinery and petrochemical applications, including tube bundles, tube sheets, gaskets, flanges, nozzles, and expansion joints. With reliable sourcing and competitive terms, we support operational and project-based requirements. Contact our commercial team for a quotation and cooperation opportunities.

Instrumentation for measuring and controlling temperature, pressure, flow and composition throughout the isomerization unit. Well-known brands of precision instruments:
 Emerson (Rosemount, Micromotion)
 Yokogawa
 Honeywell Process Solutions
 Anders+Hauser
 ABB
Supplied as refinery-approved explosion-proof instruments suitable for hazardous areas.

Valves used for process control, isolation and emergency shutdown in hydrocarbon and hydrogen services. Major manufacturers of commercial valves for isomerization units:
 Emerson (Fisher, Vanessa)
 Flowsero (Valtec, Worcester)
 Cameron (SLB)
 Whelan
 Kitz / Neway / L&T Valves
 Zavero
 Evarlasting

OGSCM Group offer comprehensive procurement and services for industrial valves required in refineries. Our services cover a wide range of valve categories such as ball, gate, globe, butterfly, check, control, and safety valves, along with related spare parts and accessories. Through collaboration with established manufacturers and an international sourcing network, we provide dependable delivery schedules, competitive commercial conditions, and complete documentation for each order. Our team is committed to supporting customers’ operational and project needs with responsive and professional service.

“OGSCM Group operate beyond the role of a conventional supplier by delivering high-quality chemical materials and equipment, supported by reliable after-sales service and warranty, professional problem-solving capabilities, and a partnership-driven approach aimed at creating long-term value and sustainable collaboration.”