An apparatus and method for processing different feeds in a fluid
catalytic cracking unit are disclosed which result in improved yields of
C.sub.3, C.sub.4 and gasoline range hydrocarbons as compared to
conventional systems. The process comprises injecting a main hydrocarbon
feed into a catalyst-containing riser reactor through a plurality of main
feed injectors, and injecting a light hydrocarbon feed into the riser
reactor at a location upstream from the main feed injectors and
downstream from a control valve such as a regenerated catalyst slide
valve, the light feed being injected in a region having a high density of
catalyst particles. The light feed is injected in a dispersed way such
the amount of feed injected corresponds to the density of catalyst
particles at that particular point, with greater amounts of feed being
injected at locations having a large number of catalyst particles. Also,
a heavy hydrocarbon feed or a heavy recycle stream from the same FCC unit
can be injected at the same elevation as the main feed injectors but
through separate injectors.