Integration of a turbine expander with a synthesis gas process - Using process gas as a working fluid

摘要

Synthesis gas production provides an excellent opportunity for integration of a turbine expander since the heat is available at very high temperatures (900-1400 degrees C). This case study considers the integration of a turbine expander with a synthesis gas production process that uses auto-thermal reforming for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Auto-thermal reforming technology is a commercialised technology that is well suited to large scale synthesis gas production processes. A methodology that was previously developed and published by the same author is applied in this case study, resulting in an improved flow sheet with significantly improved power output and thermal efficiency improvement. The new flow sheet comprises a unique power production system that uses synthesis gas as a working fluid and wherein the sequence of compression and expansion are reversed in position, compared to conventional power production systems. A conventional steam cycle is also coupled to this synthesis gas power production system to render a combined synthesis gas and steam power production arrangement.