Development of integrated reformer systems for syngas production

Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) has developed autothermal reformer (ATR) units based on its patented Microlith® technology and demonstrated stable, coke-free operation using JP-8 consisting of up to 70 ppmw sulfur for 1100 h with complete fuel conversion and reforming efficiency of ∼85%. The feasibility of operating ATR reformers with distillate fuels containing higher sulfur (up to 400 ppmw) has also been demonstrated for 55 h, while producing syngas (i.e., H2 and CO) at >80% reforming efficiency and at complete fuel conversion. Reformer test results, demonstrating water neutral operation, catalyst sulfur tolerance, removal of sulfur to <1 ppmv, and maintenance of higher hydrocarbons to levels acceptable for fuel cell stacks, provide a measure of the ATR performance that can be expected under realistic conditions with readily available fuels. The results also give valuable insights to the system design and operation strategy for integrated power generation systems.