APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING THE ACCURATECALCULATION OF A STEAM-CARBON RATIO IN A HYDROCARBON REFORMER

摘要

Systems and methods for accurately calculating a steam-carbon ratio in a reformer or the like are shown and described. In one embodiment, a control valve regulates the amount of water entering the process side of a heat exchanger upstream of the reformer. A steam/process outlet directs steam from the heat exchanger t o the reformer. A level control device operates the control valve to maintain the water at a constant level. A meter upstream of the heat exchanger measures the amount o f water entering the heat exchanger. By maintaining a constant water level in the process portion of the heat exchanger, the reading on the meter equates to the amoun t of steam directed from the heat exchanger to the reformer or vaporizer. With this reading, the steam-carbon ratio at the reformer can be accurately counted. In another embodiment of the present invention, a process gas inlet incorporates an elongated body extending at least partially through the process portion of the heat exchanger. Openings spaced apart along the length of the body distribute the process gas along the length of the heat exchanger. In still another embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dividers is spaced apart along a width of the process portion of the heat exchanger. The dividers are positioned to receive the process gas as it rises from the process gas inlet, and to disperse the process gas along the width of the heat exchanger.