Mathematical Modeling and Optimization of Syngas Production Process: A Novel Axial Flow Spherical Packed Bed Tri-Reformer

Abstract

Abstract A recently proposed approach for the production of syngas is Tri-reforming process. Significant preferences of tri-reforming over conventional reformers are high methane conversion in a single unit, in situ heat generation, carbon dioxide consumption and adjustable outlet H2/CO ratio. In this work, a one dimensional mathematical model was developed for a novel axial-flow spherical packed bed tri-reformer. The results of reforming model were compared with the process data obtained from conventional Lurgi-steam reformer (CSR). Effects of feed flow rate, inlet temperature and length per radius (L/R) of the reactor on outlet hydrogen yield, methane conversion and H2/CO ratio were also studied. To maximize the outlet hydrogen yield, operation conditions and L/R ratio of the reactor were optimized applying differential evolution (DE) method. Obtained results were then compared with non-optimized condition. High methane conversion (99.68 %), high hydrogen yield (1.896) and much lower pressure drop were the superiorities of the presented reactor to the previous configurations.