Method for decreasing SMR tube temperature

摘要

A method for decreasing steam methane reformer (SMR) tube temperature is provided. The method can include the steps of introducing a hydrocarbon containing feed to be reformed to a plurality of SMR tubes in the presence of steam under conditions effective to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide, monitoring the temperature of at least a plurality of the tubes within the SMR during operation, comparing the monitored temperature against a first predetermined value, and introducing an effective amount of water to a reformer tube when the monitored temperature of the reformer tube is at or above the predetermined value, such that the temperature of the reformer tube is reduced.

主权项

1. A method for decreasing steam methane reformer (SMR) tube temperature within an SMR furnace having a plurality of reformer tubes (SMR tubes), the method comprising the steps of:
a) introducing, via a reforming mixture inlet, a reforming mixture comprising steam and a hydrocarbon containing feed to each reformer tube under reforming conditions effective to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide; b) monitoring the temperatures of at least a plurality of the SMR tubes during operation of the SMR furnace; c) comparing each of the monitored temperatures against a first predetermined value; and d) introducing, via a liquid water inlet, an effective amount of water to a selected reformer tube when the monitored temperature of the selected reformer tube is at or above the predetermined value, such that the temperature of the selected reformer tube is reduced independently of the remaining SMR tubes, wherein the water introduced in step d) is in liquid form upon introduction to the selected reformer tube.