Hyvahl is an efficient process for upgrading atmospheric and vacuum residues via catalytic hydrogenation. It features 15 to 25% conversion to atmospheric distillates, with the remaining product being valued either as a low to very low sulfur fuel oil or as an excellent feed for Residue FCC (RFCC) units. In the latter case, the Hyvahl product is characterized by a low metal (Ni and V) content, a low Con Carbon and a higher hydrogen-to-carbon mole ratio, thus affording major savings in RFCC catalyst consumption and remarkable improvements in product yields and quality.

Three Hyvahl units, one operating on atmospheric residue and two on vacuum residue, are in operation and have successfully demonstrated (more than fifteen years of cumulative operation) the combination of the permutable reactor system with very efficient dual catalysts.