The generation of hydrogen, carbon monoxide and synthesis gas can be carried out with different proven Linde processes depending on the feedstock and the products.
Besides steam reforming in Linde's own steam reformer furnaces and partial oxidation based on the Texaco process, gas generation is also possible with the tandem reformer or by using the CO shift conversion reactor.
Generation of synthesis gas from light hydrocarbons and steam.
The raw materials natural gas and naphtha are endothermically converted with steam to synthesis gas with a high hydrogen content in catalytic tube reactors fired from the outside. Process heat is used for steam production.
Generation of synthesis gas from heavy hydrocarbon and oxygen.
Heavy feed stocks from residual oil to asphalt and coal are exothermically partially combusted with oxygen to synthesis gas with a high carbon monoxide content in a non-catalytic partial oxidation. Process heat is used for steam production.
Generation of synthesis gas though a combination of steam reforming and partial oxidation.
A mixture of hydrocarbons and steam is first reformed in tube reactors and then partially combusted with oygen.The escaping synthesis gas heats the tube reactors. This way, the process heat from the partial oxidation is utilized for steam reforming.
Generation of hydrogen from carbon monoxide and steam.
Carbon monoxide and steam in synthesis gas are exothermically converted to carbon dioxide and water in a catalytic fixed-bed reactor. A cooled reactor (Linde isothermal reactor) or an adiabatic reactor at various temperature levels can be used is.