Air Liquide Process & Construction, Inc.

Albertus J Ekelmans

A method for producing a chemical reaction is provided. This method includes providing at least two helical tubes, wherein the helical tubes comprise: a first axis and a second axis; wherein the first axis and the second axis are normal to each other; a cross-sectional shape of a predetermined contour; and an inlet end and an outlet end. The method includes reforming a first gas stream and a second gas stream into a third gas stream in the presence of a catalyst. The method includes surrounding a heat source with the helical tubes are, and operating the tube with an average catalyst temperature of above 500 F. An apparatus for producing a chemical reaction is also provided. This apparatus comprises at least two helical tubes, wherein the helical tubes comprise: a first axis and a second axis; wherein the first axis and the second axis are normal to each other; a cross-sectional shape of a predetermined contour; an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein the helical tubes contain a catalyst capable of reforming a first gas stream and a second gas stream into a third gas stream. The helical tubes are designed to surround a heat source, and the tube operates with an average catalyst temperature of above 500 F.

Coiled reformer catalyst tube for compact reformer

A reactor vessel for subjecting a first gas and a second gas to a chemical reaction to produce a third gas is provided. The reactor vessel includes a catalyst bed, an inlet for receiving the first gas and the second gas, and a first outlet for discharging the third gas. The first outlet includes a selective microporous conduit to separate the third gas from products of incomplete reaction or unreacted first gas and unreacted second gas. A second outlet for discharging one or more of the following: unseparated third gas is also included in this invention. The products of incomplete reaction, unreacted first gas, or unreacted second gas are removed from the system. At least one helical tube is disposed within the reactor vessel and in direct contact with the catalyst bed. The helical tube has an inlet end communicating with a hot gas source, and an outlet end exhausting cooled gas. Indirect heat exchange between the helical tube and the first and second gas, promoted by the catalyst, generates the third gas.

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Houston, TX, United States of America

Albertus J Ekelmans