Radiative heat transfer via fins in a steam reformer

US8071247B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ClearEdge Power, LLC · US

Inventors

• Bob Sorensen · Hillsboro, US
• Craig E. Evans · West Linn, US
• Brian Sonnichsen · Portland, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 28, 2010
• Grant date: Dec 6, 2011
• Expiry date: Oct 28, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02P20/10
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Embodiments are disclosed that relate to increasing radiative heat transfer in a steam reformer from an exterior shell which includes a diffusion burner to an interior reactor via angled fins coupled to the exterior shell. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides a steam reformer, comprising an exterior shell which includes a diffusion burner and angled fins, the angled fins extending away from an inner surface of the exterior shell and downward toward the diffusion burner. The steam reformer further comprises an interior reactor positioned at least partly within the exterior shell.