INTEGRATED FUEL PROCESSOR APPARATUS AND ENCLOSURE AND METHODS OF USING SAME

摘要

A fuel processor (115) for converting hydrocarbons (104) to a hydrogen-rich reformate (108) containing water and combustible gas is enclosed in an enclosure (105) containing a collection vessel (140) for receiving water (118) separated from the reformate. The vessel is open to the enclosure interior (155) and has a drain (132) for directing water out of the enclosure. The enclosure has a ventilator (160) for evacuating combustible gas (185) and directing the gas (176) to a combustor when high levels of combustible gas are present. A gas detection sensor (180) monitors the interior and a processor (175) receives data from the sensor to control the removal of combustible gas. The apparatus may include separators (120), (146) for separating water from the reformate and fuel cell exhaust. The vessel (140) is connected to a process water tank (165) for receiving process water. Methods for manufacturing the apparatus and separating water from a reformate stream for safe disposal are disclosed.