Kelly G Knopp

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Kelly G. Knopp

Introduction

Kelly G. Knopp is a prominent inventor based in Bartlesville, OK (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of petroleum engineering, particularly in the refining of heavy slurry oil fractions. With a total of 4 patents to her name, her work has had a substantial impact on the industry.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents focuses on the refining of heavy slurry oil fractions. This invention aims to upgrade heavy slurry oil containing catalyst fines from a catalytic cracking operation. The viscosity of the slurry oil is lowered through a hydrovisbreaking process step. In a preferred embodiment, an admixture of the fines containing slurry oil and a metal-containing resid oil fraction, resulting from crude distillation, is passed through the hydrovisbreaker. The effluent from the hydrovisbreaker is then separated into higher and lower boiling fractions, with the lower boiling fraction being passed through a cracking unit to convert it into lower molecular weight hydrocarbon products.

Another notable patent by Knopp involves catalyst regeneration. This invention includes catalytic regenerators, nozzle designs, and processes suitable for introducing regeneration air into a catalytic cracking unit. These innovations substantially reduce erosion-induced nozzle failures and include at least one nozzle that has a planar surface generally parallel to the nozzle's longitudinal axis.

Career Highlights

Kelly G. Knopp has built a successful career at Phillips Petroleum Company, where she has been able to apply her innovative ideas and technical expertise. Her work has not only advanced the company's objectives but has also contributed to the broader field of petroleum engineering.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Knopp has collaborated with notable colleagues, including William C. Rahlwes and Paul A. Aegerter, Jr. These collaborations have fostered an environment of innovation and have led to the development of groundbreaking technologies in the industry.

Conclusion

Kelly G. Knopp's contributions to the field of petroleum engineering through her patents and collaborative efforts highlight her role as a leading inventor. Her work continues to influence advancements in refining processes and catalyst regeneration.