Abstract: In a process for converting C.sub.1 to C.sub.4 oxygenates to hydrocarbons by contacting the oxygenates with a crystalline zeolite conversion catalyst and wherein a byproduct water effluent stream is produced, the improvement which comprises, regulating the operating temperature of a gaseous/liquid hydrocarbon/water phase separator from which said byproduct water effluent stream issues so that the total byproduct water chemical oxygen demand is reduced.

Abstract: An improved MTG process for converting lower aliphatic C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 oxygenates, such as methanol, to gasoline boiling range hydrocarbons is disclosed which is capable of obtaining improved cycle average gasoline yields and improved catalyst life by programming the methanol WHSV from high values at essentially quantitative methanol conversion at the start of a cycle to low values at essentially quantitative methanol conversion at the end of a cycle.

Abstract: A catalytic conversion process for reacting lower aliphatic C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 oxygenates, such as methanol, to produce gasoline boiling range hydrocarbons. Improved cycle average gasoline yield is sustained without a substantial reduction in cycle average gasoline octane number by selectively programming the conversion reactor inlet temperature during a process cycle.

Abstract: A reactor bed, particularly one designed for converting alcohols to gasoline, is provided with a section downstream of the catalyst bed filled with high heat capacity thermal absorptive material. When the circulation of recycled gas to the system is temporarily suspended automatic valves terminate the injection of alcohol feedstock and begin the injection of inert gases such as methane into the system, thereby avoiding the formation of a hot spot which would subsequently damage the catalyst and equipment downstream.

Abstract: Gasoline product yield is enhanced in a fixed bed methanol-to-gasoline process by splitting the conversion reactor into a series of smaller conversion reactors such that the total amount of catalyst normally present in the single conversion reactor is present in equal quantities in the smaller conversion reactors. The smaller conversion reactors operate sequentially with the next conversion reactor beginning operation only when the preceeding conversion reactor is catalytically exhausted. The by-passing of one or more of the catalyst beds prevents premature deactivation of the catalyst beds downstream of the point at which the reaction products are removed.

Abstract: A methanol-to-gasoline conversion process in which the conversion is conducted in a number of reactors which are fed directly by the charge, preferably in equal proportions. A diluent gas, preferably recycled light hydrocarbons separated from the product, is passed in sequence through each of the beds to carry away the heat of reaction. In this way, a high effective recycle ratio is maintained in each bed although the actual recycle ratio for the entire system is low.

Abstract: A method and means for disposing of undesired heat in the conversion of lower alcohols and their derivatives to higher boiling gasoline hydrocarbons in a crystalline zeolite fluidized bed.