High temperature pressure regulation of synthesis gas - Parallel methanol synthesis reactor

This was a particularly challenging application where the reaction pressure for a high-throughput methanol catalyst testing unit had to be regulated with extremely high precision (60 bars +/-0,1 bars). Because the mixture contains condensable gases, the valve has to operate at elevated temperatures (180°C). The reactor operates for long time-on-stream (typically months) and is in continuous operation.

Badger Meter provided a fast-actuating valve for this application, with high-temperature seals which provide excellent hydrogen sealing as well as chemical resistance to the methanol and steam found in the reaction product. ILS has made a custom-adapter, which allows for the system pneumatics to be maintained at ambient temperature while the valve body is maintained isothermally at the desired temperature.

It should be noted that extremely stable pressure control is realized even though this is only a 1-step pressure drop of 60 bars over this valve.