Importance

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Abstract

According to typical inventive practice, an algorithm controls a reformer in order to produce a pure hydrogen stream for a hydrogen-using device. The inventive algorithmic feedback control maintains the permeate hydrogen stream at a permeate pressure setpoint. Pressure measurements are performed of the permeate hydrogen stream. Control data (e.g., including a “lookup” table) establishes at least three output levels (scaled from zero output to maximum output) of the permeate hydrogen stream and, for each output level, five variable setpoints (air flow rate, hydrocarbon flow rate, and steam flow rate preceding the reformer reaction; steam flow rate preceding the water-gas shift reaction; shaft rotational speed in the energy recovery device). The pressure signals and the control data are processed to determine the optimal output level and the associated variable setpoints. Control signals are sent to adjust the variables to the determined variable setpoints.

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First Claim