Method for stable operation of a steam reforming system

A method for regulating and stably operating a steam reforming system whose capacity utilization level is regulatable, with the steam reforming system comprising a steam reformer, a hydrogenating and desulfurizing unit positioned upstream of the steam reformer and configured for feedstock desulfurization, and a firing unit of the steam reformer, the method comprising:

• establishing a mandated capacity utilization level for a production system with automated regulation of the following continuously monitored parameter ratios:
• a hydrogen-to-feedstock ratio in the hydrogenating unit;
• a steam-to-carbon ratio in the steam reformer;
• and
• a fuel-to-air ratio in the firing unit of the steam reformer;
• calculating setpoint values for molar flow rates of a hydrogen stream and a feedstock stream to be introduced into the hydrogenating and desulfurizing unit, wherein the setpoint values produce a desired hydrogen-to-feedstock ratio as a function of the mandated capacity utilization level;
• raising the capacity utilization level of the steam reforming system by initiating adjustment of a molar flow rate of the hydrogen stream to the respective setpoint value in advance of the feedstock stream;
• and
• lowering the capacity utilization level of the steam reforming system by initiating adjustment of a molar flow rate of the feedstock stream to the respective setpoint value in advance of the hydrogen stream.