Fate of inorganic matter in entrained-flow slagging gasifiers: Pilot plant testing

• 1 MWth entrained-flow slagging gasification testing
• Char and fly ash collected in-situ and downstream
• Slag collected on probe sheaths, refractory liners and downstream
• Validation data for CFD models and insight on inorganic matter transformations

The focus of this paper is on the behavior of inorganic fuel components since the end goal is to develop a CFD model which includes inorganic matter transformations. Using CanmetENERGY's 1 MWth gasifier, five gasification tests have been completed with three different coal fuels and a limestone as fluxant. The refractory liner from the upper section of the gasifier was removed for analysis after each test. The liners were made of sintered alumina or castable alumina–chromia refractory. Carbon conversions and cold gas efficiencies for the gasification tests ranged within 97.0–99.6% and 33.7–61.9%, respectively. Solid samples from the refractory liners, in-situ gas sampling probe sheaths and impingers, the slag tap, the slag pot, quench discharge water and scrubber water were collected and characterized. Char and fly ash samples indicate that most of the inorganic matter melted and formed spheres. Devolatilization and interaction with the gasifier refractory affected the composition of slag collected from the gasifier. Signs of refractory spalling/erosion were detected. The slag layers formed on the alumina liners are smooth with some rivulets and spotting. The slag layers formed on the alumina–chromia liners are rough and bubbly. Slag penetration fractions were determined for all liners.