Features

In methanol plants the secondary reformer is an oxygen-fired reformer and operates downstream the tubular reformer.

Applications

In the secondary reformer hydrogen is consumed during the partial oxidation. In a tubular reformer a surplus of hydrogen is generated. By combination of these two process steps, a balanced synthesis gas can be produced, and the water formed by combustion is contained within the system. The balanced synthesis gas and the retention of combustion water are key elements for the process efficiency.

The secondary reformer system includes the following main elements:

Vessel and refractory
Topsoe uses a very stable multi-layer refractory lining to protect the pressure vessel from the hot gases reacting in the reformer. Topsoe has more than 60 refractory-lined reformer references worldwide.

CTS burner
The burner is the key element for the oxygen-fired reformer. The burner mixes the hydrocarbon and oxygen feedstocks. Careful design of the burner nozzles ensures a flow pattern with efficient mixing that protects the refractory and burner from the hot flame core. This advanced proprietary burner was introduced to the industry in 1992. The operating quality of the CTS burner has been demonstrated in more than 25 units.

Catalysts
For oxygen-fired secondary reformers, the thermal stability of the catalyst is of great importance. For this application, Topsoe has developed the RKS-2-7H and RKS-2P catalysts with high thermal resistance and stable activity.