Winkler coal gasifier

The original fluidized-bed reactor was the Winkler coal gasifier (patented 1922), followed in 1940 by the Esso cracker that has now been replaced by riser reactors with zeolite catalysts. 

None of these current processes has a distinct advantage over the other two in all situations of coal gasification. However, we believe that the Winkler is best suited for the production of methanol because it yields a clean gas with a low inerts content. Other advantages include the plant s low environmental impact, the minimal coal preparation required and the simple construction of the Winkler gasifier. 

The H S containing stream from the acid gas removal unit is sent to the sulfur recovery unit to produce molten sulfur. Figure 6 is a typical process flow diagram of synthesis gas production for methanol via coal gasificiation by the Winkler gasifier. 

Fig. 19.15. Lurgi dry bottom gasifier. Comparative Study of Coal Gasification Processes—Koppers-Totzek, Lurgi[ and Winkler," Koppers Co., Pittsburgh, PA.)...

HTW [High-Temperature Winkler] A process for gasifying coal, using oxygen and steam in a fluidized bed. An improved version of the Winkler process, differing from it by being operated... 

Combustion occurs over a larger range in the gasifier which is almost homogeneous in temperature at about 1,000°C. Because of the nature of the fluidised bed there is a relatively high level of unconverted carbon present in the ash. The ash and unconverted coal (char) exit the bottom of the vessel. This gasifier is represented by gasifiers of the Winkler type. 

So far only the Koppers - Totzek, Texaco and Lurgi gasifiers, and probably the Winkler process in some smaller installations, have been used in ammonia plants, but the successful demonstration of the Shell process in other applications make it a potential candidate for ammonia production, too. Additional processes in different stages of technical development are the HTW and the Dow process. Information on the status and the development in the gasification of coal can be obtained from [541], [545], [548] -[554],... 

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