Development of the Shell-Koppers coal gasification process
The Shell-Koppers process for the gasification of coal under pressure, based on the principles of entrained-bed technology, is characterized by: practically complete gasification of virtually all solid fuels; production of a clean gas without by-products; high throughput; high thermal efficiency and efficient heat recovery; environmental acceptability. There are numerous possible future applications for this process. The gas produced (93-98 vol. % hydrogen and carbon monoxide) is suitable for the manufacture of hydrogen or reducing gas and, with further processing, substitute natural gas (s.n.g.). Moreover, the gas can be used for the synthesis of ammonia, methanol and liquid hydrocarbons. Another possible application of this process is as an integral part of a combined-cycle power station featuring both gas and steam turbines. The integration of a Shell-Koppers coal gasifier with a combined-cycle power station will allow of electricity generation at 42-45 % efficiency for a wide range of feed coals. The development programme includes the operation of a 150 t/day gasifier at Deutsche Shell’s Harburg refinery since November 1978 and of a 6 t/day pilot plant a Royal Dutch Shell’s Amsterdam laboratories from December 1976 onwards. Both facilities run very successfully. With hard coal a conversion of 99% is reached while producing a gas with only 1 vol. % CO 2 . The next step will be the construction and operation of one or two 1000 t/day prototype plants which are scheduled for commissioning in 1983-4. Towards the end of the 1980s large commercial units with a capacity of 2500 t/day are contemplated. The economy, especially of these large size units, is very competitive.