초록 ▼

A reformer reactor 10 for producing a hydrogen-rich gas includes a first zone 18, a second zone 20, a third zone 22, a fourth zone 24 and a product gas collection space 40. The zones are sequentially adjacent. A flow path P1 is provided for directing flow of a reaction stream in diverging directions

A reformer reactor 10 for producing a hydrogen-rich gas includes a first zone 18, a second zone 20, a third zone 22, a fourth zone 24 and a product gas collection space 40. The zones are sequentially adjacent. A flow path P1 is provided for directing flow of a reaction stream in diverging directions from the first zone 18 into the second zone 20, the flow of the reaction stream continuing in the same general diverging directions through the second zone 20 and into and through the third and fourth zones 22,24. Directing the flow in diverging directions permits flow into and through a zone over more than just a single cross-sectional geometry of the zone or a single cross-section of the flow path transverse to the direction of flows. This configuration can be used to require a lower pressure for flowing the reaction stream so as to reduce the parasitic requirements of the reactor. This configuration can also be used to increase throughput of the reactor.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A reformer reactor for producing hydrogen gas from hydrocarbons comprising:(a) a first zone having a partial oxidation reaction vessel, the vessel having an opening for emission of reactants into the first zone;(b) a second zone adjacent the first zone, the second zone

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A reformer reactor for producing hydrogen gas from hydrocarbons comprising:(a) a first zone having a partial oxidation reaction vessel, the vessel having an opening for emission of reactants into the first zone;(b) a second zone adjacent the first zone, the second zone containing a first catalyst suitable for promoting an endothermic reaction;(c) a first partition separating the first and second zones, the first partition having a plurality of spaced openings to permit the flow of the reaction stream therethrough; and(d) a flow path for directing flow of a reaction stream in diverging directions from the first zone into the second zone, the flow of the reaction stream continuing in the same general diverging directions through the second zone and the reactor being configured such that during operation, heat from the reaction stream after partial oxidation reaction is transferred to the first catalyst sufficient to support a temperature to promote steam reforming in the presence of the first catalyst, wherein the number, size, and spacing of the partition openings is selected to control the flow rate and uniformity of the reaction stream from the first zone and into the second zone.