Patent ID: 6887436
Filing Date: 2005-05-03
Classification: B01J,C01B,Y02P

Abstract:
1. A power generation system employing a fast light-off reformer comprising: a catalytic reformer characterized by at least one reactor tube, said reactor tube having an inlet in a first end for receiving a flow of fuel and a flow of air, a reforming catalyst disposed within said reactor tube for converting said fuel and said air to a reformate stream, and an outlet in a second end for discharging said reformate stream; an ignition device disposed within said reactor tube for initiating an exothermic reaction between said fuel and said air and using heat energy generated thereby to provide fast light-off of said reforming catalyst; a control system for selecting fuel and air flow rate and operating said ignition device so as to achieve fast light-off of said reforming catalyst at start-up and to maintain said catalyst at a temperature sufficient to optimize reformate yield; and a power generation system fueled at least partially by reformate provided by said fast light-off reformer, said power generation system having a fuel inlet in fluid communication with said reformer outlet.