Methods of using integrated fuel processor apparatus and enclosure

Abstract

An integrated fuel processor apparatus and enclosure for converting hydrocarbon fuel to a hydrogen rich gas. The integrated apparatus includes a fuel processor for producing a hydrogen-rich reformate that contains water and a combustible gas component. The fuel processor is enclosed in a gas impermeable enclosure that has a collection vessel for receiving water separated from the reformate stream. The collection vessel has a drain for directing the water out of the enclosure. The collection vessel is open to the interior of the enclosure so that combustible gases that are entrained in the water can evaporate to the interior of the enclosure. The enclosure has a ventilator for evacuating the combustible gases from within the enclosure. Where high levels of combustible gases are present, the ventilator is configured to direct the gases to a combustor. A gas detection sensor is included in the enclosure to monitor the interior of the enclosure. A processor receives data from the sensor and controls the removal of the combustible gases. The apparatus can further include a separator for separating the water from the hydrogen-rich reformate and directing the water into the collection vessel. The apparatus can include a separator for receiving and separating product water from a fuel cell exhaust stream and directing the product water to the collection vessel. In addition, collection vessel is connected to the outlet of a process water tank for receiving process water from the tank. Methods for manufacturing an apparatus for separating water from a reformate stream for safe disposal and methods for separating water from a reformate stream for safe disposal are disclosed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.