Abstract: A hydrocracking process with improved distillate selectivity is operated at limited conversion without liquid/gas separation between the denitrogenation and hydrocracking catalyst beds or liquid recycle. Conversion is held to a maximum of 50 volume percent to lower boiling products. Relatively mild conditions, especially of pressure, may be employed.

Abstract: An improved process for hydrocracking petroleum residuals wherein total conversion and the yield of lower boiling range products are increased. The hydrocracking is accomplished in the presence of a hydrogen donor solvent and molecular hydrogen. The conversion is accomplished at a pressure within the range from about 1500 to about 2500 psig and at a temperature within the range from about 800.degree.to about 850.degree. F. Operation at these conditions is essential to achieving the increased conversion and the increased yield of lower boiling liquid products.While the present invention has been described and illustrated by reference to particular embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the same lends itself to variations not necessarily illustrated herein. For this reason, then, references should be made solely to the appended claims for purposes of determining the true scope of the present invention.