A method of minimizing the formation of polymers and other heavy molecular weight
products upon heating of a hydrocarbon stream in a hydroconversion process is described.
Specifically, sufficient hydrogen-containing gas is added to the hydrocarbon stream
before heating to reduce its fouling tendency. The hydrogen-containing gas is added
in an amount less than about 500 standard Cubic Feet per Barrel (SCFB). preferably
less than about 100 SCFB and more preferably less than about 50 SCFB.
