Gasifier fluidization

A method of producing synthesis gas, the method comprising:

• introducing a feed material to be gasified into an indirect gasification apparatus comprising at least one fluidized component operable as a fluidized bed, and selected from the group consisting of fluidized bed pyrolyzers and seal pots, wherein the gasification apparatus is configured to convert at least a portion of the feed material into a gasifier product gas comprising synthesis gas;
• maintaining fluidization of the at least one fluidized component by introducing a fluidization gas thereto, wherein the fluidization gas comprises steam, and at least one component other than steam, wherein the fluidization gas comprises at least 50 volume percent of the at least one other component;
• and
• converting at least a portion of the synthesis gas into Fischer-Tropssch hydrocarbons via Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.