Patent ID: 7442216
Filing Date: 2008-10-28
Classification: B01D,B01J,C01B,F28D,H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for converting hydrocarbon fuel to hydrogen rich gas, comprising: a container having a top, bottom and substantially vertical sides, wherein the top comprises a manifold; a plurality of connected process units positioned in a spiraling geometry within the container; a ceramic casting that fills the void space inside the container, wherein the plurality of connected process units form a channel through the ceramic castings; wherein the plurality of connected process units comprises an autothermal or steam reforming catalyst bed; a first heat exchanger positioned adjacent to the autothermal reforming catalyst bed; a desulfurization agent bed positioned adjacent to the first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger positioned adjacent to the desulfurization agent bed; a water gas shift catalyst bed positioned adjacent to the second heat exchanger; a third heat exchanger positioned adjacent to the water gas shift catalyst bed; and a carbon monoxide oxidation catalyst bed positioned adjacent to the third heat exchanger.