Multi-tube fuel reformer with augmented heat transfer

摘要

A catalytic reformer assembly including a reactor comprising a plurality of parallel tubes arranged within a tubular housing. A metal substrate, formed preferably as a metal foam lattice, is brazed to the tubes on both their inside and outside surfaces. A catalytic washcoat is applied to the metal substrate within the tubes, defining thereby the tubes as individual catalytic reforming reactors. Endothermic reforming reactions within the tubes are supported by heat from hot combustor exhaust flowing around the tubes in contact with the augmenting heat transfer metal substrates outside the tubes. Radial temperature gradients are small because of excellent heat transfer across the tube walls, resulting in excellent mechanical stability of the washcoat on the metal substrate. Preferably, the tubes are formed of Inconel 625 and the metal substrate is formed of Fecralloy ® , a high temperature alloy having excellent thermal conductivity and oxidation resistance.