Large Continuous ReactorThe large continuous reactor (LCR) is a vertically oriented tubular reactor designed for large liquid throughputs with short residence times and high pressures. It is used primarily for reforming of liquid fuels and alcohols to produce high-pressure hydrogen on demand. It has also been used in the production of renewable distillate fuels from vegetable oils.
Two liquid streams can be simultaneously fed to the LCR. Liquid flow is controlled by Hydro-Pac pumps with discharge pressures of up to 15,000 psig and flow rates ranging from less than 0.1 gal/hr (0.25 lph) up to 24 gal/hr (91 lph) at maximum pressure. The stroke length and hydraulic pressure can be adjusted to provide an even wider range of flow rates at lower discharge pressures.
The LCR is capable of operating at temperatures of 1200°F (649°C) and pressures up to 12,000 psig. Multiple reactor beds of different size and proportion are installed for use in series or parallel flow. A pressurized CO2 trap allows for hydrogen separation during liquid fuel reforming. Volatile products are collected in a chilled condenser, and a slipstream of dry gaseous product is sampled for online analysis. Prior to venting, the dry product gas stream is depressurized and combusted in a thermal oxidizer.