Syngas, or synthesis gas, combines carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen (H2), and other trace gases. The compression of syngas involves reducing its volume while increasing its pressure. Here are the general steps to compress syngas:
Understand the requirements: Determine the desired pressure level and the flow rate of syngas that needs to be compressed. This information will help you select the appropriate equipment.
Select a compressor: Choose a compressor that is suitable for handling syngas. Centrifugal compressors and reciprocating compressors are commonly used for gas compression. Consider factors such as the required pressure ratio, flow rate, gas properties, and efficiency when selecting a compressor.
Prepare the syngas: Syngas may contain impurities and contaminants that could damage the compressor or affect its performance. Pre-treat the syngas to remove particulates, moisture, sulfur compounds, or other impurities. This may involve using filtration, scrubbing, or drying equipment. Gasification of municipal solid waste (MSW) with subsequent utilization of syngas in gas engines/turbines and solid oxide fuel cells can substantially increase the power generation of waste-to-energy facilities and optimize the utilization of wastes as a sustainable energy resource. However, purification of syngas to remove multiple impurities such as particulates, tar, HCl, alkali chlorides and sulfur species is required. This study investigates the feasibility of high-temperature syngas purification from MSW gasification, focusing on catalytic tar reforming and desulfurization. Syngas produced from a downdraft fixed-bed gasifier is purified by a multi-stage system. The system comprises a fluidized-bed catalytic tar reformer, a filter for particulates and a fixed-bed reactor for dechlorination and desulfurization with overall downward cascading of the operating temperatures throughout the system. Novel nanostructured nickel catalysts supported on alumina and regenerable Ni-Zn desulfurization sorbent loaded on honeycomb are synthesized. Complementary sampling and analysis methods are applied to quantify the impurities and determine their distribution at different stages.
Compressor setup: Install the selected compressor in a suitable location, following the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines. Ensure the compressor is connected to the syngas source and any necessary pre-treatment equipment.
Compress the syngas: Start the compressor and adjust its settings to achieve the desired compression ratio. The compression process will reduce the volume of syngas while increasing its pressure. The specific procedures and controls will depend on the type of compressor used.
Cooling: Compressing syngas generates heat, which needs to be dissipated to avoid damage to the compressor and ensure efficient operation. Employ cooling mechanisms, such as intercoolers or heat exchangers, to remove excess heat during compression.
Storage and distribution: Once the syngas is compressed, it can be stored in suitable containers, such as high-pressure cylinders or tanks. If the compressed syngas needs to be transported, ensure proper safety measures and follow applicable regulations.
It's important to note that compressing syngas can be a complex process, and the specific requirements and equipment may vary depending on the scale and application. It is recommended to consult with experts or engineers experienced in gas compression to ensure safe and efficient syngas compression.
