Patent ID: 7815699
Filing Date: 2010-10-19
Classification: B01D,B01J,C01B,H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A method of operating a primary reactor during a start sequence having a beginning and an end, which steps comprise: performing lean combustion within the primary reactor during a first phase of the start sequence, wherein the first phase has a beginning and an end, and wherein the air flow rate at the beginning of the first phase is greater than the air flow rate at the end of the first phase, and wherein the air flow rate continuously decreases throughout the first phase of the start sequence; and performing autothermal reforming within the primary reactor during a second phase of the start sequence, wherein the second phase has a beginning and an end, and wherein the step of performing lean combustion within the primary reactor during the first phase of the start sequence further comprises the steps of: supplying a stream of air to the primary reactor from a compressor, initially at a maximum flow rate of the compressor, wherein the flowrate of air fluctuates in response to changes in the magnitude of the total pressure within the primary reactor; supplying a stream of fuel to the primary reactor at a flow rate predetermined to produce an air to fuel ratio equal to or greater than stoichiometric; mixing the air and fuel streams together to form a combustible air-fuel mixture; and combusting the air-fuel mixture within the primary reactor.