| Description |
Historically, firing hydrogen fuel was only economical in certain applications outside of the power industry. Unlike other fossil fuels, hydrogen does not naturally exist as H2 and is commonly produced in hydrogen reformers and considered an energy carrier and not an energy source. Steam-methane reforming (SMR) accounts for approximately 95% of the hydrogen fuel produced in the United States (U.S.) due to lower natural gas costs, lower energy demand from production and relatively low quantity of heavy residuals. Interests in hydrogen firing continues to grow on a global scale, particularly in the power and refinery industry, as a viable CO2 emissions reduction approach. The U.S. Department of Energy has developed concepts called H2@Scale and H2Hubs which focus on wide-spread production and utilization. With large corporations formally announcing their ambitions for net zero greenhouse gases by 2050 or sooner, hydrogen firing has become an attractive solution. Increased hydrogen firing on an existing combustion system will have unique challenges and require important design considerations when compared to other fuels. These unique challenges include a higher flame temperature, higher flame speed, lower heating value on a volume basis and a reduction in combustion air requirements. This presentation will explore the industries interests in hydrogen firing, an overview of hydrogen as a fuel, impacts to balance of plant equipment, impacts to burner and boiler components, and emission considerations. Since hydrogen has a small molecular weight and higher flame speed, safety considerations will also be presented. We will also explore recent research and development to improve approaches in NOx reduction. |
