A vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor and hydrogen production method

Abstract

This invention discloses a vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water vapor reforming hydrogen production reactor and a hydrogen production method. The device includes an inlet assembly, a reforming assembly, and an outlet assembly connected sequentially, each externally insulated. A first mixer is installed inside the inlet assembly, and a second mixer is installed inside the reforming assembly. An inlet pipe is mounted on the inlet assembly. The method involves the inlet pipe connecting to the outside through an opening in the insulation assembly. Air enters the inlet assembly through the inlet pipe, reacts inside the reforming assembly to form hydrogen-rich gas, and then exits through the outlet assembly. This reactor integrates heating, mixing, and reforming functions, is quick and convenient to install, has high application reliability, avoids misinstallation or omissions at vehicle manufacturers, has a reasonable internal structure and high space utilization, slows down heat loss to the surrounding environment, and reduces heat loss.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of methanol-water reforming for hydrogen production, and specifically to a vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor and hydrogen production method. Background Technology

[0002] Hydrogen energy plays a crucial role in the energy transition as a clean and ultimate energy source; however, economical, efficient, and safe hydrogen storage and transportation technologies remain one of the main bottlenecks restricting the large-scale application of hydrogen energy. Online hydrogen production technology and equipment offer a solution for hydrogen storage and transportation, as well as hydrogen supply for hydrogen internal combustion engines and hydrogen fuel cells. Online hydrogen production systems using methanol as a feedstock have significant advantages in terms of scalability.

[0003] Methanol has a wide and reliable supply. It can be produced from coal, natural gas, and other sources, or from water electrolysis using surplus wind and solar power to produce hydrogen, which is then reacted with carbon dioxide to produce methanol. Methanol is a liquid fuel at room temperature and pressure. The biggest advantage of liquid fuels is that they can be transported by pipeline on land and across the sea, and can be stored for a long time, achieving safe, efficient, economical, and convenient storage and transportation. Using methanol as a high-density hydrogen storage material, each ton of methanol reformed with water can produce more than 180 kilograms of hydrogen, which has a higher hydrogen storage energy density than high-pressure or low-temperature liquid hydrogen storage methods. The methanol-to-hydrogen route can make good use of existing infrastructure such as gas stations, and its cost advantage is also obvious compared to building hydrogen refueling stations.

[0004] Chinese invention patent (CN115504433A) discloses a fuel-coupled electric heating device for an integrated methanol reforming hydrogen production reactor. This invention addresses the problems of large temperature fluctuations and uneven temperature distribution in the reforming chamber, leading to low catalytic efficiency and low hydrogen production efficiency in methanol reforming hydrogen production, based on catalytic combustion heating. However, this invention requires an additional electric heating auxiliary device, resulting in complex control, high cost, and difficulty in adapting to the complex and variable operating conditions on a vehicle.

[0005] Chinese invention patent (CN110902651B) discloses a self-heating annular methanol reforming hydrogen production reactor. This invention effectively solves the sealing and structural redundancy problems of traditional methanol reforming hydrogen production reactors, and features a fast dynamic response speed and high mass power density. However, this invention does not fully consider the connection between the silicon carbide support and the metal in the intermediate combustion chamber and the outer reforming reaction chamber, which may lead to the risk of silicon carbide support rupture under actual vehicle operating conditions.

[0006] Chinese invention patent (CN112892460B) discloses a self-heating methanol reforming hydrogen production reactor. This invention provides a self-heating methanol reforming hydrogen production reactor that integrates preheating, reforming reaction, and catalytic combustion, exhibiting high integration, strong functionality, and high energy utilization. It effectively solves the defects of uneven heating in traditional tubular reactors and the limitations of microchannel reactors in terms of scalability. However, this invention fails to fully consider the mass and heat transfer characteristics within a limited space, making it difficult to uniformly mix the reaction gases, and the overall hydrogen production efficiency of the reactor falls short of expectations. Furthermore, it fails to insulate the preheating chamber and reaction chamber, resulting in significant heat loss.

[0007] Among the publicly available methanol reforming hydrogen production reactors, none have been found that are suitable for complex on-board operating conditions, have a compact structure, high integration, uniform mixing of reaction gases, and low heat loss. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To address the problems in the background art, this invention provides a vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor and hydrogen production method, which solves the problems that current methanol reforming hydrogen production reactors are not suitable for complex vehicle-mounted operating conditions, have insufficient integration, and suffer from severe heat loss.

[0009] The technical solution adopted in this invention is:

[0010] I. A vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor:

[0011] The vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol reforming hydrogen production reactor includes an inlet assembly, a reforming assembly, an outlet assembly, and a heat preservation assembly.

[0012] The intake assembly, reforming assembly, and exhaust assembly are sequentially connected to form a hollow cylindrical structure. The insulation assembly is wrapped around the outer circumference of the reforming assembly. One end of the insulation assembly is sealed, and the other end is connected to the exhaust assembly. The intake assembly is equipped with an intake pipe, which connects to the outside through a circular opening formed by the semi-circular openings on the outer circumferences of the insulation assembly and the reforming assembly. Air enters the intake assembly through the intake pipe, reacts inside the reforming assembly to form hydrogen-rich gas, and is then discharged from the exhaust assembly.

[0013] The air intake assembly includes an air intake end cap, an air intake secondary end cap, and a first mixer;

[0014] One end of the air inlet end cap is sealed and fitted inside one end of the insulation component. The other end of the air inlet end cap and the air inlet end cap are coaxially assembled and connected to form an air inlet chamber inside the air inlet end cap and the air inlet end cap. The air outlet end of the air inlet end cap is connected to the reforming component.

[0015] An air intake pipe is provided on the side wall at the connection between the air intake end cover and the air intake secondary end cover to connect the air intake chamber to the outside. A first mixer is installed on the end face of the sealed end of the air intake end cover. After the air enters the air intake chamber through the air intake pipe, it is turbulently distributed on the cross section of the air intake secondary end cover by the first mixer.

[0016] The first mixer is mainly composed of at least one perforated plate, and each perforated plate has at least one non-uniform diameter circular through hole on its surface.

[0017] The reforming assembly includes a reforming cylinder, a first nozzle seat, a second nozzle seat, a temperature sensor seat, a methanol concentration sensor seat, a second mixer, a first carrier, and a second carrier;

[0018] The air inlet end of the reforming cylinder is connected to the air outlet end of the air inlet sub-end cover and communicates with the air inlet chamber. The air outlet end of the reforming cylinder is connected to the air outlet assembly and communicates with the air outlet chamber formed inside the air outlet assembly.

[0019] The first nozzle seat, the first carrier, the second mixer, and the second carrier are arranged sequentially along the airflow direction. The first carrier, the second mixer, and the second carrier are installed in the reforming cylinder. The first nozzle seat is installed on a notch in the reforming cylinder wall. The second nozzle seat is installed on a notch in the reforming cylinder wall at the location of the second mixer. The temperature sensor seat is installed along the axial direction on a notch in the reforming cylinder wall between the first carrier and the second mixer. The methanol concentration sensor seat is installed along the axial direction on a notch in the reforming cylinder wall between the second mixer and the second carrier.

[0020] The first nozzle holder has a first nozzle hole and a first nozzle is installed in the first nozzle hole. The second nozzle holder has a second nozzle hole and a second nozzle is installed in the second nozzle hole. The methanol concentration sensor holder has a methanol concentration sensing hole and a methanol concentration sensor is installed in the methanol concentration sensing hole. The temperature sensor holder has a temperature sensing hole and a temperature sensor is installed in the temperature sensing hole.

[0021] The second mixer includes an inlet plate, an outlet plate, a first guide plate, a second guide plate, and a guide arc plate;

[0022] The inlet and outlet plates are arranged sequentially along the airflow direction on the cross-section of the reforming cylinder. A semi-enclosed arc-shaped guide plate is fixedly connected between the inlet and outlet plates. A second guide plate is coaxially arranged at a certain radius of the inlet plate. At the connection between the second guide plate and the inlet plate, a first fan-shaped notch is formed on the surface of the inlet plate in a counterclockwise direction. At the connection between the second guide plate and the second guide plate, a second fan-shaped notch is formed on the surface of the second guide plate in a clockwise direction. Both the first and second fan-shaped notches face the unclosed surface of the arc-shaped guide plate. A first guide plate is arranged between the inlet and outlet plates, and the first guide plate is arranged at a certain angle to the second guide plate. Specifically, the first guide plate and the second guide plate do not contact each other. The first guide plate is inclined at a certain angle and is not perpendicular to the second guide plate. A cavity is formed between the first guide plate and the guide arc plate. Square openings are spaced apart on the first guide plate. A square window is installed on the square opening. Part of the gas enters the cavity formed between the first guide plate and the guide arc plate through the circular through hole on the surface of the air inlet plate. After being guided by the square opening and the square window on the first guide plate, it passes through the circular through hole or the second fan-shaped notch on the surface of the air outlet plate and is discharged. Another part of the gas enters directly through the first fan-shaped notch, passes through the arc-shaped guide arc plate, and is discharged through the circular through hole or the second fan-shaped notch on the surface of the air outlet plate.

[0023] The circular through holes on the surface of the air inlet plate and the circular through holes on the surface of the air outlet plate are eccentric and not on the same straight line. Multiple ventilation holes are evenly distributed circumferentially along the outer edge of the air inlet plate and the air outlet plate to reduce back pressure.

[0024] The thermal insulation component includes an air inlet thermal insulation shell, an air inlet thermal insulation fiber, a first thermal insulation fiber, a second thermal insulation fiber, an air outlet thermal insulation shell, a first thermal insulation shell, a second thermal insulation shell, and an air outlet thermal insulation fiber;

[0025] The first insulating fiber, the second insulating fiber, the first insulating shell, and the second insulating shell are all semi-circular arc-shaped. The first insulating fiber and the second insulating fiber are sealed together to form a circular insulating fiber. The first insulating shell and the second insulating shell are sealed together to form a circular insulating shell. The insulating fiber covers the inner wall of the insulating shell. The insulating fiber wraps around the outer circumference of the reforming cylinder and the air inlet end cap. One end of the air inlet insulating shell is sealed, and the inner wall of the other end is covered with air inlet insulating fiber. The air inlet insulating fiber wraps around the outer surface of the air inlet end cap.

[0026] The air outlet insulation shell is connected to the air outlet component, and the air outlet insulation fiber is wrapped around the inner end face of the air outlet insulation shell;

[0027] The gas outlet assembly includes a gas outlet end cap, a gas outlet pipe, a hydrogen concentration sensor holder, and a hydrogen concentration sensor.

[0028] An outlet cavity is formed inside the outlet end cap. The outlet end cap covers the end face of the outlet end of the reforming cylinder. An outlet pipe for communicating the inner cavity of the reforming cylinder with the outside is installed on the outer end of the outlet end cap. The hydrogen concentration sensor is mounted on the outlet pipe through a hydrogen concentration sensor seat and extends into the outlet pipe.

[0029] The reforming assembly also includes a first liner and a second liner;

[0030] The first liner is disposed between the first carrier and the reforming cylinder, with one side of the first liner in close contact with the first carrier and the other side in close contact with the inner wall of the reforming cylinder. The second liner is disposed between the second carrier and the reforming cylinder, with one side of the second liner in close contact with the second carrier and the other side in close contact with the inner wall of the reforming cylinder.

[0031] The first pad insulates the first carrier, and the second pad insulates the second carrier. The pads also reduce the hard contact between the carrier and the shell under vehicle vibration. The insulation component insulates the intake end cap and the reforming component, slowing down the rate of heat loss to the surrounding environment and reducing the heat loss of the reformer of the present invention.

[0032] Both the first and second supports are made of silicon carbide ceramics and cordierite ceramics. The surface of the first support is coated with a methanol oxidation catalyst, and the surface of the second support is coated with a methanol reforming catalyst.

[0033] The first nozzle, temperature sensor, second nozzle, methanol concentration sensor, and hydrogen concentration sensor are all connected to the reforming controller via wiring harnesses.

[0034] II. Hydrogen production method using a vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor:

[0035] 1) Air enters the air intake assembly through the air intake pipe and is turbulently distributed across the cross-section of the air intake sub-end cover by the first mixer. At this time, the first nozzle sprays methanol solution, and the air carrying small methanol droplets is dispersed throughout the cross-section of the air intake sub-end cover. Then, the air carrying small methanol droplets enters the reforming cylinder through the air intake end of the reforming cylinder. After passing through the porous channels inside the first carrier, the small methanol droplets are oxidized by the methanol oxidation catalyst coated on the first carrier to form the first mixed gas and release heat to heat the first mixed gas to above 300°C. The heated first mixed gas is turbulently turbulent by the second mixer. At this time, the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the first mixed gas, the methanol concentration sensor detects the methanol concentration, and the results are fed back to the reforming controller.

[0036] 2) Based on the feedback received by the reforming controller, the second nozzle is controlled to spray atomized methanol droplets. The sprayed atomized methanol droplets are rapidly evaporated upon encountering the first mixed gas at a temperature above 300°C to form methanol vapor. At this time, the first mixed gas carrying the methanol vapor is turbulent through the second mixer, causing the methanol vapor to be distributed to the cross-section of the reforming cylinder to form a second mixed gas. Finally, the second mixed gas passes through the second carrier and is reformed by the methanol reforming catalyst on the second carrier to form hydrogen-rich gas, which then enters the gas outlet assembly. The hydrogen concentration sensor installed on the hydrogen concentration sensor seat detects the hydrogen concentration in the hydrogen-rich gas and feeds it back to the reforming controller.

[0037] The specific process of the second mixer turbulence is as follows:

[0038] The gas enters the second mixer through the through holes on the inlet plate. After being guided by multiple guide plates, the gas is directed along the circumference of the reforming cylinder to the through holes on the outlet plate, and the gas is distributed across the cross-section of the reforming cylinder.

[0039] This invention employs a dual approach to improve the uniformity of gas mixing. First, the first mixer ensures that the incoming gas carries small droplets of material and distributes them evenly across the cross-section of the intake end cap. Second, the second mixer mixes the first synthesis gas, allowing the first synthesis gas to carry the small droplets of material and disperse them evenly across the cross-section of the reforming cylinder. This ensures that the material passes through the second carrier, resulting in a more complete reaction and higher uniformity of the reaction gas mixing.

[0040] This invention integrates functions such as heating, mixing, and reforming. The entire process, from introducing air to producing hydrogen-rich gas, can be completed within this device. It is quick and convenient to install, has high application reliability, and avoids issues such as incorrect or missing installations at vehicle manufacturers. The internal structure of the system is rationally arranged, and the space utilization rate is high.

[0041] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0042] 1. Compact structure and high integration. This reactor integrates functions such as heating, mixing, and reforming. The entire process, from air introduction to hydrogen-rich gas production, can be completed within this single unit. It also integrates a first nozzle, a second nozzle, a temperature sensor, a methanol concentration sensor, and a hydrogen concentration sensor. During use, the reforming reactor is connected to the reforming control unit and the methanol solution metering unit via a wiring harness. Installation is quick and convenient, with high reliability, avoiding misinstallation or omissions at vehicle assembly plants; the system's internal structure is rationally arranged, maximizing space utilization.

[0043] 2. Dual mixing for high uniformity. The reaction gas exhibits high uniformity through dual measures. First, the first mixer ensures that the incoming gas carries small material droplets, which are evenly distributed across the cross-section of the inlet end cap. Second, the second mixer mixes the first synthesis gas, allowing it to further disperse the material droplets evenly across the reformer cylinder cross-section, facilitating a more complete reaction as the material passes through the second carrier.

[0044] 3. Multiple insulation layers minimize heat loss. The first gasket insulates the first carrier, and the second gasket insulates the second carrier; the insulation components insulate the intake sub-end cap and the reforming components, slowing down the rate at which heat is dissipated into the surrounding environment and reducing the heat loss of the reformer in this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the front of the air intake assembly.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the side of the air intake assembly.

[0048] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the thermal insulation component.

[0049] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the reforming component.

[0050] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the remodeling component.

[0051] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the second mixer component.

[0052] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the air outlet component.

[0053] The diagram shows: 1. Vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor; 2. First nozzle; 3. Temperature sensor; 4. Second nozzle; 5. Methanol concentration sensor; 6. Hydrogen concentration sensor; 11. Inlet assembly; 12. Insulation assembly; 13. Reforming assembly; 14. Outlet assembly.

[0054] 111. Inlet end cap; 112. First mixer; 113. Secondary inlet end cap; 1121. Perforated plate one; 1122. Perforated plate two; 1123. Perforated plate three; 121. Inlet insulation shell; 122. Inlet insulation fiber; 123. First insulation fiber; 124. First insulation shell; 125. Second insulation shell; 126. Second insulation fiber; 127. Outlet insulation fiber; 128. Outlet insulation shell; 131. Reformer cylinder; 132. First 133. Nozzle holder; 134. Second nozzle holder; 135. Second mixer; 136. Temperature sensor holder; 137. Methanol concentration sensor holder; 138. First gasket; 139. First carrier; 130. Second gasket; 131. Second carrier; 1341. Inlet plate; 1342. Guide arc plate; 1343. Guide plate one; 1344. Outlet plate; 1345. Guide plate two; 141. Outlet pipe; 142. Hydrogen concentration sensor holder; 143. Outlet end cap. Detailed Implementation

[0055] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor 1 includes an inlet assembly 11, a reforming assembly 13, an outlet assembly 14, and a heat preservation assembly 12.

[0057] The intake assembly 11, the reforming assembly 13, and the exhaust assembly 14 are connected in sequence to form a hollow cylindrical structure. The insulation assembly 12 is wrapped around the outer circumference of the reforming assembly 13. One end of the insulation assembly 12 is sealed, and the other end of the insulation assembly 12 is connected to the exhaust assembly 14. The intake assembly 11 is equipped with an intake pipe. The intake pipe connects to the outside through a circular opening formed by the semi-circular openings on the outer circumferences of the insulation assembly 12 and the reforming assembly 13. Air enters the intake assembly 11 through the intake pipe, reacts inside the reforming assembly 13 to form hydrogen-rich gas, and is then discharged through the exhaust assembly 14.

[0058] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the intake assembly 11 includes an intake end cap 111, an intake secondary end cap 113, and a first mixer 112;

[0059] One end of the air inlet end cover 111 is sealed and fitted inside one end of the heat insulation component 12, and the other end is coaxially assembled and connected with the air inlet end of the air inlet secondary end cover 113, thereby forming an air inlet chamber inside the air inlet end cover 111 and the air inlet secondary end cover 113. The air outlet end of the air inlet secondary end cover 113 is connected to the reforming component 13.

[0060] An air intake pipe for connecting the air intake chamber to the outside is provided on the side wall at the connection between the air intake end cover 111 and the air intake secondary end cover 113. A first mixer 112 is installed on the end face of the sealed end of the air intake end cover 111. After the air enters the air intake chamber through the air intake pipe, it is turbulently distributed on the cross section of the air intake secondary end cover 113 by the first mixer 112.

[0061] The first mixer 112 is mainly composed of a perforated plate 1121, a perforated plate 2 1122 and a perforated plate 3 1123 welded to the end face of the air inlet end cover 111 at a set angle. Multiple non-equal diameter circular through holes are opened on the surface of the perforated plate 1121, the perforated plate 2 1122 and the perforated plate 3 1123.

[0062] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the reforming assembly 13 includes a reforming cylinder 131, a first nozzle seat 132, a second nozzle seat 133, a temperature sensor seat 135, a methanol concentration sensor seat 136, a second mixer 134, a first carrier 138, and a second carrier 130.

[0063] The air inlet of the reforming cylinder 131 is connected to the air outlet of the air inlet sub-end cover 113 and communicates with the air inlet chamber. The air outlet of the reforming cylinder 131 is connected to the air outlet assembly 14 and communicates with the air outlet chamber formed inside the air outlet assembly 14.

[0064] The first nozzle seat 132, the first carrier 138, the second mixer 134, and the second carrier 130 are arranged sequentially along the airflow direction. The first carrier 138, the second mixer 134, and the second carrier 130 are installed in the reforming cylinder 131. The first nozzle seat 132 is installed on a notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder 131. The second nozzle seat 133 is installed on a notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder 131 at the location of the second mixer 134. The temperature sensor seat 135 is installed along the axial direction on a notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder 131 between the first carrier 138 and the second mixer 134. The methanol concentration sensor seat 136 is installed along the axial direction on a notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder 131 between the second mixer 134 and the second carrier 130.

[0065] The first nozzle holder 132 has a first nozzle hole and a first nozzle 2 is installed on the first nozzle hole. The second nozzle holder 133 has a second nozzle hole and a second nozzle 4 is installed on the second nozzle hole. The methanol concentration sensor holder 136 has a methanol concentration sensing hole and a methanol concentration sensor 5 is installed on the methanol concentration sensing hole. The temperature sensor holder 135 has a temperature sensing hole and a temperature sensor 3 is installed on the temperature sensing hole.

[0066] The first nozzle 2, temperature sensor 3, second nozzle 4, methanol concentration sensor 5, and hydrogen concentration sensor 6 are all connected to the reforming controller via wiring harnesses.

[0067] like Figure 7 As shown, the second mixer 134 includes an air inlet plate 1341, an air outlet plate 1344, a first guide plate 1343, a second guide plate 1345, and a guide arc plate 1342.

[0068] An inlet plate 1341 and an outlet plate 1344 are arranged sequentially along the airflow direction on the cross-section of the reforming cylinder 131. A semi-enclosed arc-shaped guide plate 1342 is fixedly connected between the inlet plate 1341 and the outlet plate 1344. A second guide plate 1345 is arranged coaxially at a certain radius of the inlet plate 1341. At the connection between the second guide plate 1345 and the inlet plate 1341, the guide plate 1345 rotates counterclockwise along the inlet plate 1341. A first fan-shaped notch is formed on the surface of the intake plate 1341 facing upwards. A second fan-shaped notch is formed on the surface of the second guide plate 1345 at the connection between the second guide plate 1345 and the second guide plate 1345, moving clockwise along the second guide plate 1345. Both the first and second fan-shaped notches face the unclosed surface of the arc-shaped guide plate 1342. The first guide plate 1343 is arranged between the intake plate 1341 and the exhaust plate 1344.

[0069] The first guide vane 1343 and the second guide vane 1345 are arranged at a certain angle. Specifically, the first guide vane 1343 and the second guide vane 1345 do not contact each other. The first guide vane 1343 is inclined at a certain angle and is not perpendicular to the second guide vane 1345. A chamber is formed between the first guide vane 1343 and the guide arc plate 1342. Square openings are spaced apart on the first guide vane 1343, and square windows are installed on the square openings. A portion of the gas passes through the surface of the air inlet plate 1341. The circular through-hole enters the chamber formed between the guide plate 1343 and the guide arc plate 1342, and then, after being guided by the square opening and square window of the guide plate 1343, it passes through the circular through-hole or the second fan-shaped notch on the surface of the outlet plate 1344 and is discharged. Another part of the gas enters directly through the first fan-shaped notch, passes through the arc guide arc plate 1342 and is discharged through the circular through-hole or the second fan-shaped notch on the surface of the outlet plate 1344.

[0070] The circular through holes on the surface of the air inlet plate 1341 and the circular through holes on the surface of the air outlet plate 1344 are eccentric and not on the same straight line. Multiple ventilation holes are evenly distributed circumferentially on the outer edges of the air inlet plate 1341 and the air outlet plate 1344 to reduce back pressure.

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, the thermal insulation component 12 includes an air inlet thermal insulation shell 121, an air inlet thermal insulation fiber 122, a first thermal insulation fiber 123, a second thermal insulation fiber 126, an air outlet thermal insulation shell 128, a first thermal insulation shell 124, a second thermal insulation shell 125, and an air outlet thermal insulation fiber 127.

[0072] The first insulating fiber 123, the second insulating fiber 126, the first insulating shell 124, and the second insulating shell 125 are all semi-circular arc-shaped. The first insulating fiber 123 and the second insulating fiber 126 are sealed together to form a circular insulating fiber. The first insulating shell 124 and the second insulating shell 125 are sealed together to form a circular insulating shell. The insulating fiber covers the inner wall of the insulating shell and wraps around the outer circumference of the reforming cylinder 131 and the air inlet end cap 113. One end of the air inlet insulating shell 121 is sealed, and the inner wall of the other end is covered with air inlet insulating fiber 122. The air inlet insulating fiber 122 wraps around the outer surface of the air inlet end cap 111.

[0073] The exhaust insulation shell 128 is connected to the exhaust assembly 14. Exhaust insulation fiber 127 is fixed on the inner end face of the exhaust insulation shell 128. The exhaust insulation fiber 127 wraps around the exhaust end face of the reforming cylinder 131.

[0074] like Figure 8 As shown, the gas outlet assembly 14 includes a gas outlet end cap 143, a gas outlet pipe 141, a hydrogen concentration sensor holder 142, and a hydrogen concentration sensor 6.

[0075] An outlet chamber is formed inside the outlet end cap 143. The outlet end cap 143 covers the end face of the outlet end of the reforming cylinder 131. The outer end of the outlet end cap 143 is equipped with an outlet pipe 141 for communicating the inner cavity of the reforming cylinder 131 with the outside. The hydrogen concentration sensor 6 is mounted on the outlet pipe 141 through the hydrogen concentration sensor seat 142 and extends into the interior of the outlet pipe 141.

[0076] The reforming assembly 13 also includes a first liner 137 and a second liner 139;

[0077] The first liner 137 is disposed between the first carrier 138 and the reforming cylinder 131. One side of the first liner 137 is in close contact with the first carrier 138, and the other side is in close contact with the inner wall of the reforming cylinder 131. The second liner 139 is disposed between the second carrier 130 and the reforming cylinder 131. One side of the second liner 139 is in close contact with the second carrier 130, and the other side is in close contact with the inner wall of the reforming cylinder 131.

[0078] The first pad 137 insulates the first carrier 138, and the second pad 139 insulates the second carrier 130. The insulation component 12 insulates the intake sub-end cover 113 and the reforming component 13, thereby slowing down the rate at which heat is lost to the surrounding environment and reducing the heat loss of the reformer of the present invention.

[0079] The first carrier 138 and the second carrier 130 are both made of silicon carbide ceramic and cordierite ceramic. The surface of the first carrier 138 is coated with a methanol oxidation catalyst, and the surface of the second carrier 130 is coated with a methanol reforming catalyst.

[0080] The hydrogen production method of the vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0081] 1) Air enters the intake assembly 11 through the intake pipe on the side wall at the connection between the intake end cap 111 and the intake secondary end cap 113. After being turbulently distributed across the cross-section of the intake secondary end cap 113 by the first mixer 112, the first nozzle 2 sprays methanol solution. Air carrying small methanol droplets is dispersed throughout the cross-section of the intake secondary end cap 113. The air carrying the methanol droplets then enters the reforming assembly 13. Through the porous channels inside the first carrier 138, methanol is oxidized by the methanol oxidation catalyst coated on the first carrier 138 to form the first... A mixture of gases is generated and heat is released to heat the first mixture to above 300°C. The heated first mixture is turbulent through the second mixer 134. The heated first mixture passes through the through hole on the inlet plate 1341 of the second mixer 134 and enters the interior of the second mixer 134. After being guided by multiple guide plates, the gas is guided along the circumference of the reforming cylinder 131 to the through hole on the outlet plate 1344. At this time, the temperature sensor 3 detects the temperature of the first mixture, the methanol concentration sensor 5 detects the methanol concentration, and the results are fed back to the reforming controller.

[0082] 2) Based on the feedback received by the reforming controller, the second nozzle 4 is controlled to spray atomized methanol aqueous solution droplets. The sprayed atomized methanol droplets are rapidly evaporated upon encountering the first mixed gas at a temperature above 300°C to form methanol vapor. At this time, the first mixed gas carrying methanol vapor is turbulently distributed to the cross-section of the reforming cylinder 131 after passing through the second mixer 134, forming a second mixed gas. Finally, the second mixed gas is reformed by the methanol reforming catalyst on the second carrier 130 to form hydrogen-rich gas. The hydrogen-rich gas enters the gas outlet assembly 14, and the hydrogen concentration sensor 6 installed on the hydrogen concentration sensor seat 142 detects the hydrogen concentration in the hydrogen-rich gas and feeds it back to the reforming controller.

[0083] This invention integrates functions such as heating, mixing, and reforming. The entire process, from air introduction to hydrogen-rich gas production, can be completed within this device. It also integrates a first nozzle, a second nozzle, a temperature sensor, a methanol concentration sensor, and a hydrogen concentration sensor. In use, the reforming reactor is connected to the reforming control unit and the methanol solution metering unit via a wiring harness. Installation is quick and convenient, and the application is highly reliable, avoiding misinstallation or omissions at vehicle manufacturing plants. A dual approach is employed to improve the uniformity of the mixed gas: firstly, the first mixer 112 ensures that the incoming gas carries small material droplets and distributes them evenly across the cross-section of the intake end cap 113; secondly, the second mixer 134 mixes the first syngas, allowing the first syngas to carry the small material droplets and further distribute them evenly across the cross-section of the reforming cylinder 131, so that the material passes through the second carrier 130, resulting in a more complete reaction.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor, characterized in that: The vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol reforming hydrogen production reactor (1) includes an inlet assembly (11), a reforming assembly (13), an outlet assembly (14), and a heat preservation assembly (12). The air intake assembly (11), reforming assembly (13) and air outlet assembly (14) are connected in sequence to form a hollow cylindrical structure. The heat insulation assembly (12) is wrapped around the outer circumference of the reforming assembly (13). One end of the heat insulation assembly (12) is sealed, and the other end of the heat insulation assembly (12) is connected to the air outlet assembly (14). The air intake assembly (11) is equipped with an air intake pipe. The air intake pipe is connected to the outside through a circular opening formed by the semi-circular openings on the outer circumferences of the heat insulation assembly (12) and the reforming assembly (13). Air enters the air intake assembly (11) through the air intake pipe, reacts inside the reforming assembly (13) to form hydrogen-rich gas, and is then discharged by the air outlet assembly (14). The reforming assembly (13) includes a reforming cylinder (131), a first nozzle seat (132), a second nozzle seat (133), a temperature sensor seat (135), a methanol concentration sensor seat (136), a second mixer (134), a first carrier (138), and a second carrier (130). The air inlet of the reforming cylinder (131) is connected to the air outlet of the air inlet sub-end cover (113) and communicates with the air inlet chamber. The air outlet of the reforming cylinder (131) is connected to the air outlet assembly (14) and communicates with the air outlet chamber formed inside the air outlet assembly (14). The first nozzle seat (132), the first carrier (138), the second mixer (134), and the second carrier (130) are arranged sequentially along the airflow direction. The first carrier (138), the second mixer (134), and the second carrier (130) are installed in the reforming cylinder (131). The first nozzle seat (132) is installed on the notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder (131). The second nozzle seat (133) is installed on the notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder (131) at the location of the second mixer (134). The temperature sensor seat (135) is installed along the axial direction on the notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder (131) between the first carrier (138) and the second mixer (134). The methanol concentration sensor seat (136) is installed along the axial direction on the notch in the wall of the reforming cylinder (131) between the second mixer (134) and the second carrier (130). The first nozzle seat (132) has a first nozzle hole and a first nozzle (2) is installed on the first nozzle hole. The second nozzle seat (133) has a second nozzle hole and a second nozzle (4) is installed on the second nozzle hole. The methanol concentration sensor seat (136) has a methanol concentration sensing hole and a methanol concentration sensor (5) is installed on the methanol concentration sensing hole. The temperature sensor seat (135) has a temperature sensing hole and a temperature sensor (3) is installed on the temperature sensing hole. The second mixer (134) includes an air inlet plate (1341), an air outlet plate (1344), a first guide plate (1343), a second guide plate (1345), and a guide arc plate (1342). The inlet plate (1341) and outlet plate (1344) are arranged sequentially along the airflow direction on the cross-section of the reforming cylinder (131). A semi-enclosed arc-shaped guide plate (1342) is fixedly connected between the inlet plate (1341) and the outlet plate (1344). A second guide plate (1345) is arranged coaxially at a certain radius of the inlet plate (1341). At the connection between the second guide plate (1345) and the inlet plate (1341) A first fan-shaped notch is formed on the surface of the air intake plate (1341) in a counterclockwise direction. A second fan-shaped notch is formed on the surface of the second guide plate (1345) in a clockwise direction at the connection between the second guide plate (1345). Both the first and second fan-shaped notches face the unclosed surface of the arc-shaped guide plate (1342). The first guide plate (1343) is arranged on the air intake plate (1342). Between the vent plate (1341) and the outlet plate (1344), the first guide plate (1343) and the second guide plate (1345) are arranged at a certain angle and not perpendicular. A chamber is formed between the first guide plate (1343) and the guide arc plate (1342). Square openings are spaced apart on the first guide plate (1343), and square windows are installed on the square openings. A portion of the gas enters the guide plate through the circular through-holes on the surface of the inlet plate (1341). The cavity formed between the flow plate (1343) and the guide arc plate (1342) is guided by the square opening and square window of the flow plate (1343) and then passes through the circular through hole or the second fan-shaped notch on the surface of the air outlet plate (1344) before being discharged. Another part of the gas enters directly through the first fan-shaped notch, passes through the arc guide arc plate (1342) and is discharged through the circular through hole or the second fan-shaped notch on the surface of the air outlet plate (1344). The circular through holes on the surface of the air inlet plate (1341) and the circular through holes on the surface of the air outlet plate (1344) are eccentric and not on the same straight line. The outer edges of the air inlet plate (1341) and the air outlet plate (1344) are provided with a number of circumferentially spaced ventilation holes to reduce back pressure.

2. The vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intake assembly (11) includes an intake end cap (111), an intake secondary end cap (113), and a first mixer (112). One end of the air inlet end cap (111) is sealed and fitted inside one end of the heat insulation component (12). The other end of the air inlet end cap (111) and the air inlet end cap (113) are coaxially assembled and connected to form an air inlet chamber inside the air inlet end cap (111) and the air inlet end cap (113). The air outlet end of the air inlet end cap (113) is connected to the reforming component (13). An air intake pipe for connecting the air intake chamber to the outside is provided on the side wall at the connection between the air intake end cap (111) and the air intake secondary end cap (113). A first mixer (112) is installed on the end face of the sealed end of the air intake end cap (111). After the air enters the air intake chamber through the air intake pipe, it is turbulently distributed on the cross section of the air intake secondary end cap (113) by the first mixer (112). The first mixer (112) is mainly composed of at least one perforated plate, and each perforated plate has at least one non-equal diameter circular through hole on its surface.

3. The vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The thermal insulation component (12) includes an air inlet thermal insulation shell (121), an air inlet thermal insulation fiber (122), a first thermal insulation fiber (123), a second thermal insulation fiber (126), an air outlet thermal insulation shell (128), a first thermal insulation shell (124), a second thermal insulation shell (125), and an air outlet thermal insulation fiber (127). The first insulating fiber (123), the second insulating fiber (126), the first insulating shell (124), and the second insulating shell (125) are all semi-circular arc-shaped. The first insulating fiber (123) and the second insulating fiber (126) are joined together to form a circular insulating fiber. The first insulating shell (124) and the second insulating shell (125) are joined together to form a circular insulating shell. The insulating fiber covers the inner wall of the insulating shell. The insulating fiber wraps around the outer circumference of the reforming cylinder (131) and the air inlet end cap (113). One end of the air inlet insulating shell (121) is sealed, and the inner wall of the other end is covered with air inlet insulating fiber (122). The air inlet insulating fiber (122) wraps around the outer surface of the air inlet end cap (111). The venting insulation shell (128) is connected to the venting assembly (14), and the venting insulation fiber (127) is wrapped around the inner end face of the venting insulation shell (128).

4. The vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gas outlet assembly (14) includes a gas outlet end cap (143), a gas outlet pipe (141), a hydrogen concentration sensor holder (142), and a hydrogen concentration sensor (6). An outlet cavity is formed inside the outlet end cap (143). The outlet end cap (143) covers the end face of the outlet end of the reforming cylinder (131). The outer end of the outlet end cap (143) is equipped with an outlet pipe (141) for communicating the inner cavity of the reforming cylinder (131) with the outside. The hydrogen concentration sensor (6) is mounted on the outlet pipe (141) through a hydrogen concentration sensor seat (142) and extends into the outlet pipe (141).

5. The vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The reforming assembly (13) also includes a first liner (137) and a second liner (139). The first liner (137) is arranged between the first carrier (138) and the reforming cylinder (131). One side of the first liner (137) is in close contact with the first carrier (138), and the other side is in close contact with the inner wall of the reforming cylinder (131). The second liner (139) is arranged between the second carrier (130) and the reforming cylinder (131). One side of the second liner (139) is in close contact with the second carrier (130), and the other side is in close contact with the inner wall of the reforming cylinder (131). The materials of the first support (138) and the second support (130) are both silicon carbide ceramic and cordierite ceramic. The surface of the first support (138) is coated with a methanol oxidation catalyst, and the surface of the second support (130) is coated with a methanol reforming catalyst.

6. The vehicle-mounted self-heating methanol-water reforming hydrogen production reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first nozzle (2), temperature sensor (3), second nozzle (4), methanol concentration sensor (5) and hydrogen concentration sensor (6) are all connected to a reforming controller via wiring harnesses.

7. A method for producing hydrogen using a hydrogen production reactor according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that: The method includes the following steps: 1) Air enters the air intake assembly (11) through the air intake pipe. After being turbulent by the first mixer (112), it is evenly distributed on the cross-section of the air intake sub-end cover (113). At this time, the first nozzle (2) sprays methanol solution. Air carrying methanol droplets is dispersed throughout the cross-section of the air intake sub-end cover (113). Then, the air carrying methanol droplets enters the reforming cylinder (131) through the air intake end. After passing through the porous channel inside the first carrier (138), the methanol droplets are oxidized by the methanol oxidation catalyst coated on the first carrier (138) to form the first mixed gas. Heat is released to heat the first mixed gas to above 300°C. The heated first mixed gas is turbulent by the second mixer (134). At this time, the temperature sensor (3) detects the temperature of the first mixed gas, the methanol concentration sensor (5) detects the methanol concentration, and the results are fed back to the reforming controller. 2) Based on the result received and fed back by the reforming controller, the second nozzle (4) is controlled to spray atomized methanol droplets. The sprayed atomized methanol droplets are rapidly evaporated into methanol vapor when they encounter the first mixed gas above 300°C. At this time, the first mixed gas carries the methanol vapor and is turbulent through the second mixer (134), so that the methanol vapor is distributed to the cross section of the reforming cylinder (131) to form the second mixed gas. Finally, the second mixed gas passes through the second carrier (130) and is reformed by the methanol reforming catalyst on the second carrier (130) to form hydrogen-rich gas, which then enters the gas outlet assembly (14). The hydrogen concentration sensor (6) installed on the hydrogen concentration sensor seat (142) detects the hydrogen concentration in the hydrogen-rich gas and feeds it back to the reforming controller.

8. The hydrogen production method according to claim 7, characterized in that: The specific process of turbulence in the second mixer (134) is as follows: Gas enters the second mixer (134) through the through hole on the inlet plate (1341). After being guided by multiple guide plates, the gas is guided along the circumference of the reforming cylinder (131) to the through hole on the outlet plate (1344). The gas is distributed to the cross section of the reforming cylinder (131).

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