In the hydrocracking process, the feedstock is mixed with hydrogen and heated to high temperatures, typically between 260°C to 425°C, at high pressures ranging from 35 to 200 bar. The mixture is then passed over the catalyst, where the large hydrocarbon molecules are broken down into smaller ones. The hydrogenation function of the catalyst helps in saturating the cracked molecules, enhancing stability and preventing the formation of undesirable by-products.
