Process for operating a steam reformer, reformer using this process and process for operating a fuel cells system

摘要

The unit is heated from a cold start. In a first phase, at pressure below normal working level, POX (partial oxidation of hydrocarbon) operation of the reformer (1) is initiated. Resultant gas is passed via the hydrogen separation stage (4) in the catalytic burner (11a, 11b, 11c) for catalytic combustion there, with oxidant gas. In the second phase the reformer is changed over to reforming duty. The pressure is raised to normal working pressure. An Independent claim is included for the corresponding reformer plant.