Combustion modelling of sequential combustion in steam-methane reformation (SMR) furnace using adiabatic flamelet generated manifold

Abstract

Hydrogen as an energy vector of the future is being explored by many. Steam-methane reformation proves itself as a major source of hydrogen that is to play a major role in the electrification of the energy sector and decarbonization efforts. Detailed design and design optimization of SMR furnaces are required to maximize the production within a plant. Unit-operation level process of a cogeneration plant, producing both energy and hydrogen, have been studied by other researchers. Sequential combustion of natural gas/methane within the furnace of an SMR unit placed downstream of a power generating gas turbine is analysed within the present work using computational fluid dynamics. Flamelet generated manifolds as a means of combustion modelling for a large-eddy simulation is used to analyse the flow features, flame structure and the vortex-flame interaction. The fuel rich case features a stable flame although with a lower temperature, and the fuel lean case features an unstable flame. The outcomes of this study may be utilized by designers to study factors that bottle-neck production in the furnace. © 2023 Elsevier Ltd