Simulated Distillation of a Heavy Gasoil and FCC Feed according to IP 480

Significance of the Topic

The determination of the boiling range distribution by simulated distillation according to IP 480 is a key analytical tool for characterizing middle distillates and heavy feeds in petroleum refining. It provides reliable data for process control, product quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study demonstrates the performance of the Bruker Simulated Distillation Analyzer on two sample types, heavy gasoil and FCC feed, in line with the IP 480 standard. It aims to evaluate reproducibility, accuracy, and operational robustness under routine laboratory conditions.

Methodology

Samples were prepared as 2–3 % mass‐by‐volume solutions in carbon disulfide. A calibration mixture of n-paraffins and polywax was used to correlate retention times with boiling points. A 1 µL injection was performed with helium carrier gas at 19 mL/min. The GC oven was programmed from 35 °C to 430 °C at 10 °C/min, and both injector and detector temperatures were ramped to ensure full analyte elution. Baseline and solvent signals were corrected via a CS2 blank, then area normalization yielded percentage elution versus boiling point.

Used Instrumentation

• Bruker Simulated Distillation Analyzer based on a Bruker GC system
• COC Cool On-Column injector with full electronic flow control
• Flame ionization detector with electronic flow control
• Bruker CP-8410 autosampler
• CompassCDS chromatography software with SimDist plug-in

Main Results and Discussion

The analyzer met IP 480 reproducibility criteria for both heavy gasoil and FCC feed. Standard deviations remained below 0.5 °C across initial boiling point, 1 %–99 % volume cuts, and final boiling point. Solvent subtraction effectively removed background, yielding clear chromatograms for accurate boiling range calculations. Calibration with n-alkanes showed linear retention behavior and robust peak resolution.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Simulated distillation following IP 480 offers rapid, automated profiling of boiling ranges with high precision. Key applications include:

• Quality control of middle distillates and lubricating base oils
• Feedstock qualification and blending strategies
• Compliance with industry and environmental standards
• Process monitoring in refinery operations

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging developments may integrate mass spectrometric detection for compositional analysis, extend temperature programs for very heavy fractions, and apply machine learning for predictive retention modeling. Enhanced automation and data connectivity will drive higher throughput and real-time process feedback.

Conclusion

The Bruker Simulated Distillation Analyzer for IP 480 demonstrates excellent reproducibility and operational robustness for boiling range distribution of heavy gasoil and FCC feed. It fulfills standard requirements and offers significant benefits for both refinery quality control and research laboratories.

Reference

IP 480, 2007 Determination of boiling range distribution by gas chromatography method Part 1 Middle distillates and lubricating base oils