SelGaKat - Method for increasing the energy efficiency by selective gas quality measurement taking into account the hydrogen content using a catalytic reference combustion chamber

Initial situation:

Combustion control is crucial for the optimum operation of industrial combustion processes, such as thermal process plants, gas turbines and CHP units. The amount of heat supplied and the combustion air ratio are important control variables here, for which knowledge of the gas properties (Wobbe index, calorific value, minimum air requirement) is usually required. In the course of the energy transition, biogas, hydrogen or ammonia can be added to natural gas. The continuous assessment of the gas quality poses a considerable challenge for conventional measurement methods if, for example, hydrogen is added to the natural gas. Modern measurement methods must have high accuracy and a short response time while being cost-effective and low-maintenance. In the SelGaKat project, a method was systematically developed that determines the gas quality by selective catalytic conversion.

Project targets:

  • Investigation and selection of suitable catalysts
  • Development of a process for selective oxidation and determination of the combustion properties
  • Construction and testing of a measuring system to determine the Wobbe index, calorific value, density and minimum air requirement

Innovative approaches:

  • Staged selective oxidation of the combustion gas to determine the hydrogen content in the combustion gas
  • Dynamic adaptation of the calculation models for calorimeter-type measurement methods

Benefits for the industry:

  • Cost-effective, continuous measuring device for integration into the process control system
  • Increase in energy efficiency and reduction of CO2 emissions

Funded by:

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