Process and apparatus for co-production of steam and nitrogen by catalytic combustion of hydrogen

Abstract

The application provides a hydrogen catalytic combustion process for co-production of water vapor and nitrogen. The application also provides a hydrogen catalytic combustion device for co-production of water vapor and nitrogen. The hydrogen catalytic combustion process and device provided by the application have the advantages of simple process, high energy efficiency, co-production of water vapor and nitrogen, low device investment, high automation degree, low operation cost, high safety and the like compared with traditional multi-stage hydrogen catalytic combustion process and device, and are particularly suitable for popularization and application in industrial scenes with hydrogen source, water vapor and nitrogen, and have good economic and social benefits.

Description

A process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion. Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of hydrogen catalytic combustion, and relates to a process and apparatus for the co-production of water vapor and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion. Background Technology

[0002] Hydrogen and oxygen burn to produce water and generate a large amount of heat energy. This process is clean, efficient, and sustainable, making it an ideal alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Hydrogen catalytic combustion technology typically refers to the low-temperature, flameless combustion of hydrogen and oxygen (or air) under the action of a catalyst. The heat generated can be used directly as a heat source or exchanged with water to produce hot water or high-temperature steam for heating, power generation, or industrial heat supply. Compared to traditional hydrogen boilers, hydrogen catalytic combustion technology offers advantages such as lower combustion temperature, controllable combustion temperature, high energy utilization, and zero nitrogen oxide emissions, making it a hot research and development area in recent years.

[0003] Currently, research in the field of hydrogen catalytic combustion technology is still in its early stages, primarily in laboratories, on a small scale, and for residential heating. Large-scale industrial application is only just beginning. The main challenge lies in the fact that hydrogen is a flammable and explosive substance with a wide explosive limit range in air (approximately 4-75% by volume). Therefore, for safety, the hydrogen concentration must be controlled below the lower explosive limit during the reaction. This means that a single reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the air consumes only a portion of the oxygen (the oxygen concentration drops from 21% to 18.5%). To fully utilize the oxygen in the air, multiple series reactions are required. For example, patents 202310652644.8 and 202411645253.4 disclose a multi-stage series reactor and a multi-point feeding process. While these methods can achieve full utilization of oxygen in the air, they also have the following problems that hinder their promotion and application in industrial production.

[0004] I. Multi-stage series reactors and multi-point feeding processes require each reactor section to be equipped with temperature instruments, pressure instruments, humidity instruments, hydrogen concentration and hydrogen flow rate monitoring instruments, resulting in complex process flow, numerous instruments, large equipment size, high investment and high failure rate.

[0005] 2. In the multi-stage series reactor and multi-point feeding process, although a water distribution tank is set up, as the reaction proceeds in the multi-stage series reactor, the reaction temperature increases step by step. Water will exist in the form of steam and enter the next stage reactor with the mixed gas. The concentration increases step by step and accumulates continuously, which will affect the catalyst activity and lifespan.

[0006] Third, the multi-stage series reactor and multi-point feeding process: the entire reaction system is composed of multiple catalyst beds in series. On the one hand, the catalyst loading and unloading is troublesome, and on the other hand, the resistance of the catalyst bed is increased. This requires the hydrogen and air feedstock to provide higher pressure, resulting in increased power consumption.

[0007] Fourth, in the existing technology, the oxygen in the catalytic combustion device is not completely consumed, the exhaust gas is directly released into the air, there is no function to co-produce nitrogen, no function to recover heat energy, and the energy efficiency ratio is not high.

[0008] In summary, existing technologies and equipment are complex, have low energy efficiency, and cannot co-produce nitrogen, resulting in high investment, high operating costs, cumbersome operation and maintenance, low automation, poor economic benefits, and difficulty in achieving industrialization and commercialization. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art described above, the present invention provides a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, so as to solve the problems existing in the prior art.

[0010] To achieve the above and other related objectives, the first aspect of the present invention provides a process for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by catalytic combustion of hydrogen, comprising the following steps:

[0011] 1) Air and hydrogen are mixed in a gas mixer and the hydrogen concentration is controlled by a hydrogen-to-air ratio control loop to obtain a first mixed gas containing a specific concentration of hydrogen.

[0012] 2) The first mixed gas is introduced into the reactor so that the oxygen in the air reacts with the hydrogen to produce water and heat energy, forming a high-temperature mixed gas;

[0013] 3) The high-temperature mixed gas is introduced into the steam generator for heat exchange, and the water is heated to produce steam. The pressure and temperature of the steam are controlled by the steam pressure and temperature control loop, and steam is output.

[0014] 4) The high-temperature mixed gas after heat exchange in the steam generator is used as the second mixed gas, and any of the following steps are selected for processing:

[0015] 41) The second mixed gas is mixed with the first mixed gas in step 1) and then enters the reactor again to repeat the cycle from step 2) to 41) as the first circulating gas. Under the control of the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop and oxygen concentration control loop, the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the first circulating gas are kept below the set values. A part of the gas in the first circulating gas is output as nitrogen, and the other part of the gas in the first circulating gas is used as the third mixed gas. It exchanges heat with the input water through the gas-water heat exchanger under the humidity control loop so that the water vapor in the third mixed gas condenses into liquid water. The free water is then separated by the gas-water separator and merged with the input water. Under the control of the water level control loop, it returns to the steam generator to make up water.

[0016] 42) The second mixed gas passes through a gas-to-gas heat exchanger and then exchanges heat with the input water in a gas-to-water heat exchanger under a humidity control loop. This causes the water vapor in the second mixed gas to condense into liquid water. The free water is then separated from the second mixed gas by a gas-to-water separator. The remaining second mixed gas is returned to the gas-to-gas heat exchanger as the second circulating gas and exchanges heat with the second mixed gas again. It then becomes the third circulating gas and mixes with the first mixed gas from step 1). Steps 2) to 42) are repeated. Under the control of the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop, and oxygen concentration control loop, the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the third circulating gas are lowered to the set values. A portion of the gas is then extracted as nitrogen output, and the other portion of the gas continues to repeat steps 2) to 42). The free water merges with the input water and returns to the steam generator for water replenishment under the control of the water level control loop.

[0017] A second aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, comprising:

[0018] A gas mixer used to mix air and hydrogen, or air, hydrogen and recirculation gas;

[0019] A reactor used to react oxygen and hydrogen to produce water and heat energy in the first mixed gas obtained by mixing, so as to form a high-temperature mixed gas;

[0020] A steam generator used to heat water in a high-temperature mixed gas to obtain steam output;

[0021] A gas-water heat exchanger used to exchange heat between the second mixed gas and the input water to recover the heat of the second mixed gas and to condense the residual water vapor in the second mixed gas into liquid water;

[0022] A gas-liquid separator used to separate nitrogen from liquid water in a second gas mixture;

[0023] A feed water pump is used to input water and / or return water separated by the gas-water separator, to deliver water to the gas-water heat exchanger for heat exchange, and / or to deliver water to the steam generator to regulate the liquid level in the steam generator.

[0024] A gas circulation pump used to output nitrogen and return the circulating gas to the gas mixer;

[0025] The gas mixer, reactor, steam generator, gas-water heat exchanger, gas-water separator, and gas circulation pump are sequentially fluidly connected; the water supply pump is fluidly connected to the gas-water separator, gas-water heat exchanger, and steam generator respectively.

[0026] As described above, the process and apparatus for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion provided by the present invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0027] (1) Compared with the prior art, the process and apparatus for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion provided by the present invention does not require the use of the existing multi-stage series reaction process. It only requires one reaction stage, one circulation loop and a matching PLC controller to achieve the purpose of co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion. It has the advantages of simple process, co-producing steam and nitrogen, low equipment cost, high degree of automation and high energy efficiency.

[0028] (2) The present invention provides a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, which requires less investment. According to simulation calculations, to achieve complete reaction of hydrogen with oxygen in the air while keeping the hydrogen concentration below the lower explosive limit, the existing multi-stage series reaction process requires 12 reaction stages, each of which requires a set of instruments and valves as well as a matching PLC controller. However, the present invention can achieve complete reaction of hydrogen with oxygen in the air with only one reaction stage and a matching PLC controller (equivalent to one reaction stage in the prior art), and the investment in the apparatus is only one-tenth of that in the prior art.

[0029] (3) The present invention provides a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, which has low operating costs. Since the reaction bed has only one stage, compared with the existing technology of 12 stages of catalyst bed, the pressure drop is only one-twelfth, so the power consumption and operating costs are significantly reduced; on the other hand, since the process of the present invention is simple and involves fewer components such as instruments and valves, the failure rate is low and the maintenance costs are correspondingly reduced.

[0030] (4) The process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion provided by the present invention have significantly improved safety. First, circulating gas is fed in sequence with air and hydrogen. Under normal circumstances, hydrogen and oxygen are maintained at very low concentrations (hydrogen concentration less than 4% and oxygen concentration less than 2%) only in the mixer and reactor inlet. Other equipment and pipelines have almost no hydrogen and oxygen, thus enhancing the safety of the apparatus. Second, the apparatus is equipped with intelligent instrument detection and PLC control, and is equipped with interlock protection for over-temperature, over-pressure, and over-liquid level, as well as physical protection such as safety valves and rupture discs, to ensure that the apparatus can land safely according to the set procedure in an emergency.

[0031] (5) This invention provides a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion. The apparatus is integrated in construction and automated in operation. The apparatus is designed and constructed in a skid-mounted modular manner, facilitating transportation, relocation, and expansion. Furthermore, the apparatus employs a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) control system, featuring functions such as data acquisition, audible and visual alarms, interlock protection, automatic control, parameter tuning, event logging, historical record viewing, and report generation. Configuration software provides users with standard screens and expanded functions, enabling system operations such as process flow diagram display, alarm / event record viewing, historical trend viewing, alarm value setting, control parameter tuning, equipment start / stop, and automatic input / output. One-button start / stop and automated operation are achieved, enabling automated operation and remote monitoring of the apparatus's operating status.

[0032] (6) The present invention provides a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, which has high energy utilization. Because the reactor outlet gas is used to exchange heat with the circulating gas and feed water in sequence, the heat energy generated by the reaction can be fully recovered and utilized, thereby improving the thermal efficiency of the apparatus by more than 30%.

[0033] (7) The present invention provides a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, which is equipped with eight control loops (i.e., hydrogen and air ratio control loop, steam pressure and temperature control loop, pressure control loop, first hydrogen concentration control loop, second hydrogen concentration control loop, oxygen concentration control loop, humidity control loop, and water level control loop) to ensure the safe and stable operation of the apparatus and that the co-produced steam and nitrogen meet the quality standards.

[0034] (8) The process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion provided by the present invention are designed and constructed in a skid-mounted, modular and integrated manner, which facilitates transportation, relocation and expansion, and is beneficial for industrial application and market promotion.

[0035] (9) The present invention provides a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion. It has good economic benefits, co-produces steam and nitrogen, requires less investment, has low operating costs, high safety, and is fully automated. It has good economic and social benefits and is particularly suitable for industrial applications where there is a hydrogen source and both steam (including hot water) and nitrogen are needed. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 shows a process flow diagram of a gas-free heat exchanger for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 shows a process flow diagram of a gas-gas heat exchanger for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to the present invention.

[0038] Figure Labels

[0039] 1: Gas mixer

[0040] 2: Reactor

[0041] 3: Steam generator

[0042] 4: Gas-to-gas heat exchanger

[0043] 5: Gas-water heat exchanger

[0044] 6: Gas-water separator

[0045] 7: Gas circulation pump

[0046] 8: Water pump

[0047] 9: Air Inlet Pipe

[0048] 10: Hydrogen inlet pipeline

[0049] 11: Air pressure reducing valve

[0050] 12: Air regulating valve

[0051] 13: Airflow meter

[0052] 14: Hydrogen pressure reducing valve

[0053] 15: Hydrogen regulating valve

[0054] 16: Hydrogen Flow Meter

[0055] 17: First circulating air pipeline

[0056] 18: First pressure detection instrument

[0057] 19: First hydrogen concentration detection instrument

[0058] 20: Water vapor output pipeline

[0059] 21: Steam regulating valve

[0060] 22: Second pressure measuring instrument

[0061] 23: Temperature measuring instrument

[0062] 24: Water level detection instrument

[0063] 25: Water supply pipeline

[0064] 251: First water supply pipe section

[0065] 252: Second water supply pipe section

[0066] 253: Third water supply pipe section

[0067] 26: First water supply valve

[0068] 27: Water supply inlet branch pipe

[0069] 28: Water supply and output branch pipe

[0070] 29: Second water supply valve

[0071] 30: Humidity measuring instrument

[0072] 31: Water inlet pipe

[0073] 32: First nitrogen output pipeline

[0074] 33: Second nitrogen output pipeline

[0075] 34: Nitrogen output regulating valve

[0076] 35: Oxygen Detection Instrument

[0077] 36: Second hydrogen concentration detection instrument

[0078] 37: Second recirculation air pipeline

[0079] 38: Circulating air regulating valve

[0080] 39: Return water pipe Detailed Implementation

[0081] The following detailed description discloses an embodiment of a process and apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to this application. However, unnecessary detailed descriptions may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters and repetitive descriptions of practically identical structures may be omitted. This is to avoid making the following description unnecessarily lengthy and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the following description is provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this application and is not intended to limit the subject matter of the claims.

[0082] The "range" disclosed in this application is defined by a lower limit and an upper limit. A given range is defined by selecting a lower limit and an upper limit, which define the boundaries of the particular range. The range defined in this way can include or exclude endpoints and can be arbitrarily combined; that is, any lower limit can be combined with any upper limit to form a range.

[0083] Unless otherwise specified, all embodiments and optional embodiments of this application can be combined to form new technical solutions.

[0084] Unless otherwise specified, all technical features and optional technical features of this application may be combined to form new technical solutions.

[0085] Unless otherwise specified, the term "or" is inclusive in this application. For example, the phrase "A or B" means "A, B, or both A and B". More specifically, the condition "A or B" is satisfied by any of the following conditions: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist); A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists); or both A and B are true (or exist).

[0086] The first aspect of this invention provides a process for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, comprising the following steps:

[0087] 1) Air and hydrogen are mixed in a gas mixer and the hydrogen concentration is controlled by a hydrogen-to-air ratio control loop to obtain a first mixed gas containing a specific concentration of hydrogen.

[0088] 2) The first mixed gas is introduced into the reactor so that the oxygen in the air reacts with the hydrogen to produce water and heat energy, forming a high-temperature mixed gas;

[0089] 3) The high-temperature mixed gas is introduced into the steam generator for heat exchange, and the water is heated to produce steam. The pressure and temperature of the steam are controlled by the steam pressure and temperature control loop, and steam is output.

[0090] 4) The high-temperature mixed gas after heat exchange in the steam generator is used as the second mixed gas, and any of the following steps are selected for processing:

[0091] 41) The second mixed gas is mixed with the first mixed gas in step 1) and then enters the reactor again to repeat the cycle from step 2) to 41) as the first circulating gas. Under the control of the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop and oxygen concentration control loop, the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the first circulating gas are kept below the set values. A part of the gas in the first circulating gas is output as nitrogen, and the other part of the gas in the first circulating gas is used as the third mixed gas. It exchanges heat with the input water through the gas-water heat exchanger under the humidity control loop so that the water vapor in the third mixed gas condenses into liquid water. The free water is then separated by the gas-water separator and merged with the input water. Under the control of the water level control loop, it returns to the steam generator to make up water.

[0092] 42) The second mixed gas passes through a gas-to-gas heat exchanger and then exchanges heat with the input water in a gas-to-water heat exchanger under a humidity control loop. This causes the water vapor in the second mixed gas to condense into liquid water. The free water is then separated from the second mixed gas by a gas-to-water separator. The remaining second mixed gas is returned to the gas-to-gas heat exchanger as the second circulating gas and exchanges heat with the second mixed gas again. It then becomes the third circulating gas and mixes with the first mixed gas from step 1). Steps 2) to 42) are repeated. Under the control of the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop, and oxygen concentration control loop, the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the third circulating gas are lowered to the set values. A portion of the gas is then extracted as nitrogen output, and the other portion of the gas continues to repeat steps 2) to 42). The free water merges with the input water and returns to the steam generator for water replenishment under the control of the water level control loop.

[0093] The overall concept of the above process is that hydrogen and oxygen in the air are completely combusted in a catalyst bed, and the resulting heat energy is converted into water vapor. The exhaust gas is dehumidified and used as ordinary nitrogen, and the water produced in the reaction is used as feedwater. Due to the lower explosive limit of hydrogen, the concentration of hydrogen in the air cannot exceed 4% (volume percentage). Therefore, oxygen is initially in excess. As the number of cycles increases, the oxygen concentration gradually decreases, eventually achieving complete stoichiometric consumption of hydrogen and oxygen, leaving the gas leaving the device free of hydrogen and oxygen. As is well known, the main components of air are nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, water, and small amounts of other components. After the oxygen in the air completely reacts with hydrogen, what remains are nitrogen, carbon dioxide, water, and small amounts of other inert gases. If the water is removed, it basically meets the industrial standard for nitrogen. Since water vapor and nitrogen are commonly used industrial gases, this invention has practical significance for the comprehensive utilization of hydrogen, cost reduction and efficiency improvement, energy conservation, and environmental protection.

[0094] Since the lower explosive limit of hydrogen in air is 4% (by volume), in step 1), for safety, the hydrogen concentration must be controlled below the lower explosive limit of hydrogen, that is, the specific concentration of hydrogen must not exceed 4%.

[0095] In step 1), the hydrogen concentration is controlled by adjusting the ratio between the hydrogen flow rate and the air flow rate, wherein the volume ratio between the hydrogen flow rate and the air flow rate is 1:2 to 1:24.

[0096] In step 1), the hydrogen-to-air ratio control loop includes an air regulating valve, an air flow meter, a hydrogen regulating valve, and a hydrogen flow meter. These valves are communicatively connected to a controller to control the hydrogen concentration in the gas mixer. Specifically, the controller sends commands to the air regulating valve and hydrogen regulating valve based on the air flow rate displayed by the air flow meter and the hydrogen flow rate displayed by the hydrogen flow meter, thereby controlling the hydrogen concentration. Controlling the hydrogen and air ratio according to a chemical reaction ensures full utilization of the hydrogen. The air flow rate follows a set value, with the hydrogen flow rate as the baseline.

[0097] In step 2), the reaction temperature is between 10-500℃. The stoichiometric reaction of hydrogen and oxygen ensures the full utilization of hydrogen and effectively consumes oxygen from the air, thereby guaranteeing the removal of oxygen from the output nitrogen and ensuring that the oxygen content in the co-produced nitrogen meets standards.

[0098] In step 2), the reactor operates at a pressure of 0-0.1 MPa (gauge pressure).

[0099] In step 2), the hydrogen concentration in the high-temperature mixed gas emission is no greater than 1 ppm. Since the oxygen and hydrogen in the first mixed gas react to produce water, the remaining gas is primarily nitrogen; that is, the high-temperature mixed gas is predominantly nitrogen and can be approximated as nitrogen. Excessive hydrogen concentration not only wastes hydrogen but also poses safety risks due to the presence of hydrogen in the nitrogen. Therefore, the hydrogen content in the output residual high-temperature nitrogen gas must be strictly controlled.

[0100] In step 3), the water is heated to generate steam, which is then passed through a partition heat exchanger installed in the steam generator. The partition heat exchanger is a conventionally installed heat exchanger.

[0101] In step 3), the temperature at which the water vapor is generated is 100-370°C.

[0102] In step 3), the pressure at which the water vapor is generated is 0.1-21 MPa.

[0103] In step 3), the output flow rate of the water vapor is not less than 10-100000 kg / h.

[0104] In step 3), the steam pressure and temperature control loop includes a steam regulating valve, a second pressure sensor, and a temperature sensor. These three instruments are communicatively connected to the controller to control the steam pressure and temperature output by the steam generator. Specifically, the controller sends commands to the steam regulating valve based on the pressure data displayed by the second pressure sensor and the temperature data displayed by the temperature sensor. The program controls the steam output pressure and temperature while preventing overpressure or overtemperature in the steam generation system, which could damage the equipment.

[0105] In step 41), the second mixed gas is mixed with the first mixed gas in step 1) in a gas mixer.

[0106] In step 42), the third circulating gas is mixed with the first mixed gas in step 1) in a gas mixer.

[0107] In step 41), the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the first circulating gas are lower than the set values ​​by further consuming the oxygen in the first circulating gas and increasing the nitrogen concentration under the control of the pressure control loop, the hydrogen concentration control loop and the oxygen concentration control loop.

[0108] In step 42), the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the third circulating gas are lower than the set values ​​by further consuming the oxygen in the third circulating gas and increasing the nitrogen concentration under the control of the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop and oxygen concentration control loop.

[0109] In step 41) or 42), the pressure control loop includes a first pressure sensor and a nitrogen output regulating valve. Both the first pressure sensor and the nitrogen output regulating valve are communicatively connected to the controller to control the pressure in the reactor. Specifically, the controller sends commands to the nitrogen output regulating valve based on the pressure data displayed by the first pressure sensor. The program controls the pressure of the reaction system, achieving a dynamic balance between the feed gas and the exhaust gas, preventing overpressure in the reaction system and thus avoiding equipment damage.

[0110] Since the pressure of the equipment is crucial to its stable operation and safety, it must be strictly controlled at a reasonable level. The pressure is controlled by installing a first pressure sensor in the reactor, which, together with a nitrogen output regulating valve on the second nitrogen output pipeline, forms a pressure control loop. When the pressure exceeds the set value, the PLC controller automatically increases the circulating gas flow rate.

[0111] In step 41) or 42), the hydrogen concentration control loop includes a first hydrogen concentration control loop and a second hydrogen concentration control loop; the first hydrogen concentration control loop includes a first hydrogen concentration detection instrument and a hydrogen flow meter, which are respectively connected to the controller to control the hydrogen concentration in the reactor; the second hydrogen concentration control loop includes a second hydrogen concentration detection instrument and a hydrogen flow meter, which are respectively connected to the controller to control the hydrogen concentration in the output nitrogen.

[0112] Specifically, in the first hydrogen concentration control loop, the controller sends a command based on the hydrogen concentration data displayed by the first hydrogen concentration detection instrument. The command is then sent through the hydrogen flow meter and the hydrogen regulating valve to control the hydrogen concentration in the mixed gas entering the reactor to be lower than the set value, ensuring that the mixed gas in the reactor operates safely below the lower explosive limit.

[0113] Specifically, in the second hydrogen concentration control loop, the controller sends a command based on the hydrogen concentration data displayed by the second hydrogen concentration detection instrument to control the hydrogen concentration in the mixed gas entering the reactor to be lower than the set value through the hydrogen flow meter and the hydrogen regulating valve. At the same time, the controller can also send a command based on the hydrogen concentration data displayed by the second hydrogen concentration detection instrument to adjust the nitrogen output regulating valve.

[0114] The hydrogen concentration control loop described above uses a controller to ensure that the hydrogen concentration in the emitted nitrogen is below a set value. When the hydrogen concentration exceeds the set value, the controller will automatically reduce the hydrogen feed rate.

[0115] In step 41) or 42), the oxygen concentration control loop includes an oxygen detector and a circulating gas regulating valve. The oxygen detector and the circulating gas regulating valve are respectively communicatively connected to the controller to control the oxygen concentration in the output nitrogen. Specifically, the controller sends a command to control the circulating gas regulating valve to perform recirculation based on the oxygen data displayed by the oxygen detector, and outputs nitrogen through the nitrogen output regulating valve when the oxygen concentration in the nitrogen is lower than the set value.

[0116] When the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas exceeds the standard, the nitrogen gas will be substandard. The oxygen concentration control loop is formed by the oxygen detection instrument installed on the second nitrogen output pipeline and the circulating gas regulating valve installed on the circulating gas pipeline. The controller controls the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas. When the oxygen concentration exceeds the set value, the controller will automatically increase the circulating gas volume.

[0117] If the oxygen and hydrogen content in the first circulating gas in step 41) and / or the third circulating gas in step 42) is lower than the set value (i.e., the nitrogen is qualified), then it is high-purity nitrogen. Open the nitrogen output regulating valve to continuously discharge nitrogen, control the balance of nitrogen entering and leaving the reaction system, and the device switches to continuous operation.

[0118] In step 41) or 42), the humidity control loop includes a humidity detection instrument and a second water supply valve. The humidity detection instrument and the second water supply valve are respectively communicatively connected to the controller to control the humidity (water content) in the water supply cycle. Specifically, the controller sends a command to control the second water supply valve to adjust the humidity (water content) by sending in water and / or free water, thereby recovering heat energy and improving the energy efficiency ratio of the device.

[0119] In step 41) or 42), the water level control loop includes a water level detection instrument and a first water supply valve. The water level detection instrument and the first water supply valve are communicatively connected to the controller to control the water level in the steam generator. Specifically, the controller sends a command to the first water supply valve to adjust the water level based on the water level data displayed by the water level detection instrument. The program controls the water level in the steam generator to maintain a reasonable level, ensuring continuous and stable steam output while preventing overflow or dry burning of the steam generator.

[0120] In step 41) or 42), the hydrogen, air feed and nitrogen discharge are balanced by the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop and oxygen concentration control loop, and the process is switched to a continuous and stable working state; the water content in the circulating gas is controlled by the humidity control loop; and the water level is kept constant by the liquid level control loop of the steam generator, so that steam is continuously and uninterruptedly output.

[0121] In step 41), the number of times the cycle from step 2) to 41) is repeated is 5-20 times, preferably 10-14 times.

[0122] In step 41), the flow rate ratio of the first circulating gas to the third mixed gas is 2-20:1.

[0123] In step 41), the temperature of the first circulating gas is 60-300℃.

[0124] In step 42), the number of times the cycle from step 2) to 42) is repeated is 5-20 times, preferably 10-14 times.

[0125] In step 42), the ratio of the flow rate of the third circulating gas to the flow rate of the gas that continues to circulate is 2-20:1.

[0126] In step 42), the temperature of the third circulating gas is 60-300℃.

[0127] In step 42), the second circulating gas return gas heat exchanger exchanges heat with the second mixed gas. The purpose is twofold: first, to recover the heat energy and improve the energy efficiency ratio of the device; and second, to reduce the temperature of the mixed gas so that the water generated by the reaction can condense into liquid water and be separated from the mixed gas, thereby ensuring the activity and lifespan of the catalyst.

[0128] In step 41) or 42), the output nitrogen gas contains less than 0.8% oxygen and less than 1 ppm hydrogen.

[0129] In step 41) or 42), the nitrogen output temperature is from ambient temperature to 60°C. The ambient temperature is the room temperature of the production workshop.

[0130] In step 41) or 42), the water level in the steam generator is controlled at 10-90%.

[0131] In step 41) or 42), the humidity of the gas-water separation in the gas-water separator is less than the saturated humidity of 60°C.

[0132] A second aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for the co-production of water vapor and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, comprising:

[0133] A gas mixer used to mix air and hydrogen, or air, hydrogen and recirculation gas;

[0134] A reactor used to react oxygen and hydrogen to produce water and heat energy in the first mixed gas obtained by mixing, so as to form a high-temperature mixed gas;

[0135] A steam generator used to heat water in a high-temperature mixed gas to obtain steam output;

[0136] A gas-water heat exchanger used to exchange heat between the second mixed gas and the input water to recover the heat of the second mixed gas and to condense the residual water vapor in the second mixed gas into liquid water;

[0137] A gas-liquid separator used to separate nitrogen from liquid water in a second gas mixture;

[0138] A feed water pump is used to input water and / or return water separated by the gas-water separator, to deliver water to the gas-water heat exchanger for heat exchange, and / or to deliver water to the steam generator to regulate the liquid level in the steam generator.

[0139] A gas circulation pump used to output nitrogen and return the circulating gas to the gas mixer;

[0140] The gas mixer, reactor, steam generator, gas-water heat exchanger, gas-water separator, and gas circulation pump are sequentially fluidly connected; the water supply pump is fluidly connected to the gas-water separator, gas-water heat exchanger, and steam generator respectively.

[0141] In the above-described device, the circulating gas is either the first circulating gas or the third circulating gas.

[0142] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the gas mixer is connected to the air input pipeline and the hydrogen input pipeline respectively. The air input pipeline is provided with an air pressure reducing valve, an air regulating valve and an air flow meter in sequence along the air input direction. The hydrogen input pipeline is provided with a hydrogen pressure reducing valve, a hydrogen regulating valve and a hydrogen flow meter in sequence along the hydrogen input direction.

[0143] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the gas mixer is connected or coupled to the reactor via pipelines.

[0144] In the above-described apparatus, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the reactor is connected or coupled to the steam generator via pipelines. This allows the heat energy generated by the reaction to be transferred to the input water, producing high-temperature steam.

[0145] In the aforementioned apparatus, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the reactor is equipped with a first pressure detection instrument and a first hydrogen concentration detection instrument. By installing the first hydrogen concentration detection instrument at the reactor inlet and forming a cascade control loop with a hydrogen regulating valve, the hydrogen concentration in the mixed gas is controlled. When the hydrogen concentration exceeds the set value, the controller automatically reduces the hydrogen feed rate.

[0146] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the steam generator is connected to a steam output pipeline. Along the steam output direction, a steam output valve, a second pressure detection instrument, and a temperature detection instrument are sequentially arranged on the steam output pipeline. The steam generator is equipped with a water level detection instrument. The steam generator is connected to the water supply pump via a water replenishment pipeline. A first water replenishment valve is provided on the connecting pipeline between the steam generator and the water supply pump.

[0147] The steam temperature is controlled by a cascade control loop consisting of a second pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a water level sensor, and a first water supply valve installed on the steam output pipeline. When the steam temperature needs to be increased, the controller automatically lowers the water level, and vice versa.

[0148] In the above device, as shown in Figure 2, a gas-to-gas heat exchanger is provided between the steam generator and the gas-water heat exchanger for the second mixed gas to exchange heat with the second circulating gas to recover the heat of the second mixed gas and serve as a third circulating gas return gas mixer.

[0149] In one embodiment, the gas-to-gas heat exchanger is connected or coupled to the steam generator and the gas-to-water heat exchanger via pipelines. The gas-to-gas heat exchanger and the gas-to-water heat exchanger enable the high-temperature mixed gas to exchange heat with the low-temperature circulating gas and the input water, thereby recovering thermal energy.

[0150] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the gas-water heat exchanger is connected to the water supply pipeline via a water supply input branch pipe and a water supply output branch pipe. The water supply pipeline is provided with a first water supply pipe section, a second water supply pipe section, and a third water supply pipe section in sequence from the water supply pump to the steam generator. The two ends of the second water supply pipe section are connected to the water supply input branch pipe and the water supply output branch pipe, respectively.

[0151] In one embodiment, a first water supply valve is provided on the first water supply pipe section. The first water supply valve is used to form a water level control loop with a water level detection instrument to automatically control the water level of the steam generator to maintain it within a reasonable range: when the water level is too high as the set value, the water flow is reduced; when the water level is below the set value, the water flow is increased.

[0152] In one embodiment, a second water supply valve is provided on the second water supply pipe section. The second water supply valve is used to form a humidity control loop with a humidity detection instrument to automatically control the water content in the circulating air: when the humidity is higher than the set value, the water volume is reduced (equivalent to increasing the water volume entering the air-water heat exchanger).

[0153] In one embodiment, the water supply input branch pipe is connected to the end of the second water supply pipe section near the feedwater pump, and the water supply output branch pipe is connected to the end of the second water supply pipe section near the steam generator.

[0154] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the gas-liquid separator in the above-mentioned device is equipped with a humidity detection instrument. Since excessive water content in the reaction gas significantly reduces catalyst activity, reaction rate, and catalyst lifespan, it is essential to separate the water generated during the reaction in a timely manner to maintain a low water content in the reaction gas. By installing a humidity detection instrument on the gas-liquid separator and forming a humidity control loop with a second water supply valve, the PLC controller automatically reduces the bypass water flow when the humidity exceeds the standard.

[0155] In the above device, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the gas-water separator is connected to the water supply pump via a return water pipeline. An input water pipeline is connected to the return water pipeline. The return water pipeline is used to return the water separated by the gas-water separator, and the input water pipeline is used to input water.

[0156] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the gas circulation pump is connected to the steam generator via a first nitrogen output pipeline. The gas circulation pump is also connected to a second nitrogen output pipeline. A second hydrogen concentration detector, an oxygen detector, and a nitrogen output regulating valve are sequentially arranged on the second nitrogen output pipeline in the direction away from the gas circulation pump. The second nitrogen output pipeline between the nitrogen output regulating valve and the second hydrogen concentration detector is connected to the gas mixer via a first circulating gas pipeline. A circulating gas regulating valve is provided on the first circulating gas pipeline.

[0157] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figure 2, the gas circulation pump is connected to the gas-water separator via a first nitrogen output pipeline. The gas circulation pump is also connected to a second nitrogen output pipeline. A second hydrogen concentration detector, an oxygen detector, and a nitrogen output regulating valve are sequentially arranged on the second nitrogen output pipeline in the direction away from the gas circulation pump. The second nitrogen output pipeline between the nitrogen output regulating valve and the second hydrogen concentration detector is connected to the gas-gas heat exchanger via a second circulating gas pipeline. The second circulating gas pipeline is equipped with a circulating gas regulating valve. The gas-gas heat exchanger is connected to the gas mixer via a first circulating gas pipeline.

[0158] In the above-described device, the controller is a conventionally used PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). Those skilled in the art will understand that the controller's calculation, comparison, judgment, and instruction output processes can all be implemented using existing integrated circuit modules, programmable logic devices, other hardware, or by installing corresponding software modules. The controller is externally powered. It enables on-site automated control and remote monitoring via the Internet of Things (IoT).

[0159] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the gas mixer is a conventionally used gas mixer, such as a static mixer or a wire mesh mixer.

[0160] In the above-described apparatus, as shown in Figure 1, the reactor is a conventionally used reactor. Specifically, if a catalyst is added to the reactor, when the catalyst is in granular form, the reactor is a fixed bed, a tubular fixed bed, or a fluidized bed; when the catalyst is in powder or slurry form, the reactor is a tubular fixed bed, and the catalyst can be coated on the tube walls of the fixed bed.

[0161] In the aforementioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the steam generator is a conventionally used steam generator, such as a smooth tube, finned tube, corrugated tube, or spiral tube, to increase the heat exchange area. The steam generator can be installed independently or coupled with the reactor to form a single unit.

[0162] In the aforementioned device, as shown in Figure 1, both the gas-water heat exchanger and the gas-gas heat exchanger are conventionally used heat exchangers, such as corrugated plate heat exchangers, finned heat exchangers, and shell-and-tube heat exchangers. They can be used for heat energy recovery.

[0163] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the gas-water separator is a conventionally used gas-water separator, such as a wire mesh type, grid type, louver type, or cyclone type gas-water separator.

[0164] In the aforementioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the gas circulation pump is a conventionally used circulating fan, such as a gas blower, gas compressor, or gas booster pump. A suitable feedwater pump is selected based on the device's steam production capacity and steam pressure requirements.

[0165] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the water pump is a conventionally used water pump, such as a centrifugal pump, vortex pump, multistage pump, positive displacement pump, boiler feed pump, multistage centrifugal pump, metering pump, etc.

[0166] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the air pressure reducing valve, air regulating valve, hydrogen pressure reducing valve, hydrogen regulating valve, water vapor output valve, first water supply valve, second water supply valve, nitrogen output regulating valve, and circulating gas regulating valve are all conventionally used regulating valves.

[0167] In the above device, as shown in Figure 1, the air flow meter and the hydrogen flow meter are both conventionally used gas flow meters.

[0168] In the above-mentioned device, as shown in Figure 1, the first pressure detection instrument, the first hydrogen concentration detection instrument, the second pressure detection instrument, the temperature detection instrument, the water level detection instrument, the humidity detection instrument, the oxygen detection instrument, and the second hydrogen concentration detection instrument are all conventionally used detection instruments.

[0169] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification. The present invention can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this specification can also be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0170] In this invention, the process is the core technology, and the corresponding apparatus is the key technology. Only through their organic combination can the purpose and effect of the invention be achieved. To further understand this invention, detailed embodiments are provided below. It should be noted that the given embodiments should not be construed as limiting conditions of the claims. In the following embodiments, unless otherwise specified, the raw materials or processing techniques are conventional commercially available materials or conventional processing techniques in the art.

[0171] Example 1

[0172] As shown in Figure 1, hydrogen gas is introduced through a hydrogen input pipeline, which is depressurized by a hydrogen pressure reducing valve, and then passes through a hydrogen regulating valve and is monitored by a hydrogen flow meter. Air is introduced through an air input pipeline, which is depressurized by an air pressure reducing valve, and then passes through an air regulating valve and is monitored by an air flow meter. The mixture continuously enters the gas mixer for mixing, and the hydrogen concentration in the mixture is controlled to be less than 4%, thus obtaining a first mixture containing hydrogen gas with a concentration below the lower explosive limit of hydrogen.

[0173] The first mixed gas is introduced into the catalyst bed of the reactor. Under the action of the catalyst, oxygen and hydrogen in the air react to produce water and release heat, forming a high-temperature mixed gas. During the reaction, the pressure and hydrogen concentration data are monitored by the first pressure sensor and the first hydrogen concentration sensor in the hydrogen-to-air ratio control loop. The air and hydrogen flow rates are adjusted by the air regulating valve and the hydrogen regulating valve to control the hydrogen concentration. After the reaction, the reaction pressure is monitored to be less than 0.1 MPa, and the opening and closing of the nitrogen output regulating valve is controlled to prevent hydrogen from mixing with the output nitrogen.

[0174] After a high-temperature mixed gas is introduced into the steam generator, the water in the gas is heated to produce steam. The steam pressure is controlled by a steam pressure control loop to regulate the steam temperature for output. The steam is output through a steam output pipeline. During the output process, pressure data is monitored by a second pressure sensor, temperature data by a temperature sensor, and water level data by a water level control loop. These monitoring devices control the opening and closing of the first water supply valve to allow water to enter through the supply pipeline to maintain the water level and control the opening and closing of the steam output valve to output steam that meets the requirements.

[0175] The high-temperature mixed gas, after heat exchange in the steam generator, is used as the second mixed gas and recirculated through the first circulating gas pipeline. It is then mixed with the first mixed gas in the gas mixer and re-enters the reactor, repeating this cycle 12 times as the first circulating gas. Under the control of pressure, hydrogen, and oxygen concentration control loops, the oxygen in the first mixed gas is further consumed, and the nitrogen concentration is increased. The hydrogen concentration is controlled, and a cycle is formed until the hydrogen content in the first circulating gas is less than 1 ppm and the oxygen content is less than 0.5%. A portion of the gas in the first circulating gas is used as nitrogen. Under the pressure boosting action of the circulating fan of the gas circulation pump, it flows sequentially through the first and second nitrogen output pipelines. Nitrogen is then output through the nitrogen output regulating valve at a temperature of 45°C for plant use.

[0176] Another portion of the gas in the first circulating gas, as the third mixed gas, exchanges heat with the input water through a gas-water heat exchanger under a humidity control loop. This causes the water vapor in the third mixed gas to condense into liquid water. The liquid water, separated in the gas-water separator, is then pumped by the feed water pump and merges with the input water entering through the input water pipeline in the return water pipeline. The humidity control loop controls the circulating gas humidity to be less than the saturation humidity corresponding to 60°C. Under the control of the water level control loop, the circulating gas returns to the steam generator for makeup water, and the water level in the steam generator is controlled to be 50%. The setting and operation of the above parameters are all automatically implemented by the PLC.

[0177] Example 2

[0178] The test was conducted in three groups, as shown in Figure 2. Hydrogen gas was introduced through a hydrogen input pipeline, which was depressurized by a hydrogen pressure reducing valve, and then passed through a hydrogen regulating valve and monitored by a hydrogen flow meter. Air gas was introduced through an air input pipeline, which was depressurized by an air pressure reducing valve, and then passed through an air regulating valve and monitored by an air flow meter. The mixture was continuously introduced into a gas mixer to mix the gases, and the hydrogen concentration was controlled to be less than 4% to obtain a first mixed gas containing hydrogen gas with a concentration below the lower explosive limit of hydrogen.

[0179] The first mixed gas is input as the catalyst bed in the reactor. Under the action of the catalyst, oxygen and hydrogen in the air react to produce water and release heat, forming a high-temperature mixed gas. During the reaction, the pressure and hydrogen concentration data are monitored by the first pressure sensor and the first hydrogen concentration sensor in the hydrogen-to-air ratio control loop. The air and hydrogen regulating valves are controlled to adjust the air and hydrogen flow rates to control the hydrogen concentration. After the reaction, the reaction pressure is monitored to be 0.1 MPa to ensure that the hydrogen concentration is less than 4%. The opening and closing of the nitrogen output regulating valve is controlled to prevent hydrogen from being mixed in with the output nitrogen.

[0180] After a high-temperature mixed gas is introduced into the steam generator, the water in the gas is heated to produce steam. The steam pressure is controlled by a steam pressure control loop to regulate the steam temperature for output. The steam is output through a steam output pipeline. During the output process, pressure data is monitored by a second pressure sensor, temperature data by a temperature sensor, and water level data by a water level control loop. These monitoring devices control the opening and closing of the first water supply valve to allow water to enter through the supply pipeline to maintain the water level and control the opening and closing of the steam output valve to output steam that meets the requirements.

[0181] The high-temperature mixed gas after heat exchange in the steam generator becomes the second mixed gas. After passing through the gas-to-gas heat exchanger, it exchanges heat with the input water in the gas-to-water heat exchanger under the humidity control loop. This causes the water vapor in the second mixed gas to condense into liquid water. The free water is then separated from the second mixed gas by the gas-to-water separator. The remaining second mixed gas becomes the second circulating gas and returns to the gas-to-gas heat exchanger through the second circulating gas pipeline to exchange heat with the second mixed gas. Then, it becomes the third circulating gas and flows back through the first circulating gas pipeline to mix with the first mixed gas in the gas mixer before entering the reactor again. This cycle is repeated 12 times. Under the control of the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop, and oxygen concentration control loop, the oxygen in the first mixed gas is further consumed and the nitrogen concentration in the first mixed gas is increased. The hydrogen concentration is controlled to form a cycle until the hydrogen content in the third circulating gas is less than 1 ppm and the oxygen content is less than 0.5%. A portion of the gas in the third circulating gas is used as nitrogen. Under the action of the gas circulation pump, it flows sequentially through the first nitrogen output pipeline and the second nitrogen output pipeline. Nitrogen is then output through the nitrogen output regulating valve at a temperature of 45°C for plant use. The other portion of the gas in the third circulating gas continues to circulate, consuming the oxygen contained in the high-temperature nitrogen to control the hydrogen concentration and form a circular production process.

[0182] Free water, driven by the feed water pump, merges with the input water from the input water pipeline in the return water pipeline. Based on the humidity data displayed by the humidity detection instrument in the humidity control loop and the liquid level data displayed by the liquid level detection instrument in the liquid level control loop, the first and second water supply valves are opened. The input water flows into the gas-water heat exchanger through the first water supply pipe section and the water supply input branch pipe for heat exchange, condensing into liquid water and recovering heat. Then, it flows through the water supply output branch pipe and the third water supply pipe section to the steam generator for water supply, maintaining the water level in the steam generator to regulate the temperature of the steam for output. The separated liquid water in the gas-water separator is recycled to reduce water waste, or it can be treated for use as drinking water or ultrapure water in the semiconductor electronics industry.

[0183] The various components involved in the above reaction, such as flow meters, detection instruments, and regulating valves, all operate under the control of a PLC controller. The setting and operation of the aforementioned parameters are all automatically implemented through the PLC controller.

[0184] The control and testing results of the three groups of gases are shown in Table 1. From Table 1, the following conclusions can be drawn:

[0185] (1) In all three tests, the hydrogen concentration in the mixed gas at the reactor inlet was 3.85% (volume), which is lower than the hydrogen explosion limit of 4% (volume), indicating that the device was operating in a safe area.

[0186] (2) The steam pressure generated by the device is adjustable from 400KPa to 800KPa to meet different temperature requirements.

[0187] (3) The oxygen content of the produced nitrogen is less than 0.5% (by volume), and hydrogen is undetectable, indicating that this process can not only produce qualified water vapor, but also produce qualified nitrogen.

[0188] (4) Based on the measured temperature data of the mixed gas entering the gas-to-gas heat exchanger tube side, the gas-to-water separator outlet temperature, and the gas-to-gas heat exchanger shell side, the heat recovery rate is calculated to be over 90% on average.

[0189] Table 1

[0190]

[0191]

[0192] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any form or substance. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and additions without departing from the method of the present invention, and these improvements and additions should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, alterations, and equivalent changes made by those skilled in the art based on the above-disclosed technical content without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention are equivalent embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, any modifications, alterations, and evolutions made to the above embodiments based on the essential technology of the present invention still fall within the scope of the technical solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. A process for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, comprising the following steps: 1) Mix air and hydrogen in a gas mixer and control the hydrogen concentration using a hydrogen-to-air ratio control loop to obtain a first mixed gas containing a specific concentration of hydrogen; 2) Pass the first mixed gas into a reactor to allow oxygen in the air to react with hydrogen to generate water and heat energy, forming a high-temperature mixed gas; 3) Pass the high-temperature mixed gas into a steam generator for heat exchange, heating water to produce steam. The pressure and temperature of the steam are controlled by a steam pressure and temperature control loop, and steam is output; 4) The high-temperature mixed gas after heat exchange in the steam generator is used as a second mixed gas. Choose any one of the following steps. Processing steps: 41) The second mixed gas is mixed with the first mixed gas from step 1) and then reintroduced into the reactor as the first circulating gas, repeating steps 2) to 41). Under the control of the pressure control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop, and oxygen concentration control loop, the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the first circulating gas are kept below the set values. A portion of the gas in the first circulating gas is output as nitrogen, and the other portion of the gas in the first circulating gas is used as the third mixed gas. It exchanges heat with the input water through a gas-water heat exchanger under the humidity control loop, so that the water vapor in the third mixed gas condenses into liquid water, which is then passed through a gas-water heat exchanger. The separator separates the free water and merges it with the input water, returning it to the steam generator for makeup water under the control of the water level control loop; 42) The second mixed gas passes through the gas-to-gas heat exchanger and then exchanges heat with the input water in the gas-to-water heat exchanger under the humidity control loop, so that the water vapor in the second mixed gas condenses into liquid water, and then the free water is separated from the second mixed gas by the gas-to-water separator. The remaining second mixed gas is returned to the gas-to-gas heat exchanger as the second circulating gas to exchange heat with the second mixed gas, and then used as the third circulating gas to mix with the first mixed gas in step 1), repeating the cycle from step 2) to 42). Under the control of the force control loop, hydrogen concentration control loop, and oxygen concentration control loop, after the hydrogen and oxygen concentrations in the third circulating gas are lower than the set values, a portion of the gas is extracted as nitrogen output, and the other portion of the gas continues to repeat the cycle from step 2) to 42). The free water merges with the input water and returns to the steam generator for water replenishment under the control of the water level control loop. In step 3), the temperature of the generated steam is 100-370℃; the pressure of the generated steam is 0.1-21MPa; in step 41) or 42), the water level in the steam generator is controlled at 10-90%.

2. The process for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 1, characterized in that, Step 1) includes one or more of the following conditions: A1) The specific concentration of hydrogen is not greater than 4%; A2) The hydrogen concentration is controlled by adjusting the ratio between hydrogen flow rate and air flow rate, and the volume ratio between hydrogen flow rate and air flow rate is 1:2-1:24; A3) The hydrogen and air ratio control loop includes an air regulating valve, an air flow meter, a hydrogen regulating valve, and a hydrogen flow meter, and the air regulating valve, air flow meter, hydrogen regulating valve, and hydrogen flow meter are respectively communicatively connected to the controller to control the hydrogen concentration in the gas mixer.

3. The process for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 1, characterized in that, Step 2) includes any one or more of the following conditions: B1) The reaction temperature is between 10 and 500°C; B2) The reactor operating pressure is between 0 and 0.1 MPa; B3) The hydrogen concentration in the high-temperature mixed gas emission is not greater than 1 ppm.

4. The process for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 1, characterized in that, Step 3) includes any one or more of the following conditions: C1) The output flow rate of the steam is not less than 1-10000 kg / h; C2) The steam pressure and temperature control loop includes a steam regulating valve, a second pressure measuring instrument, and a temperature measuring instrument, wherein the steam regulating valve, the second pressure measuring instrument, and the temperature measuring instrument are respectively connected to the controller to control the steam pressure and temperature output by the steam generator.

5. The process for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 1, characterized in that, Step 4) includes one or more of the following conditions: D1) In step 41) or 42), the pressure control loop includes a first pressure sensor and a nitrogen output regulating valve, which are respectively connected to the controller to control the pressure in the reactor; D2) In step 41) or 42), the hydrogen concentration control loop includes a first hydrogen concentration control loop and a second hydrogen concentration control loop; the first hydrogen concentration control loop includes a first hydrogen concentration sensor and a hydrogen flow meter, which are respectively connected to the controller to control the hydrogen concentration in the reactor. The second hydrogen concentration control loop includes a second hydrogen concentration detection instrument and a hydrogen flow meter. The second hydrogen concentration detection instrument and the hydrogen flow meter are respectively connected to the controller to control the hydrogen concentration in the output nitrogen. D3) In step 41) or 42), the oxygen concentration control loop includes an oxygen detection instrument and a circulating gas regulating valve, which are respectively connected to the controller to control the oxygen concentration in the output nitrogen; D4) In step 41) or 42), the humidity control loop includes a humidity detection instrument and a second water supply valve, which are respectively connected to the controller to control the humidity in the water supply cycle; D5) In step 41) or 42), the water level control loop includes a water level detection instrument and a first water supply valve, which are respectively connected to the controller to control the water level in the steam generator; D6) In step 41), the number of times steps 2) to 41) are repeated is 5-20 times; D7) In step 41), the first cycle... The flow rate ratio of the first circulating gas to the third mixed gas is 2-20:1; D8) In step 41), the temperature of the first circulating gas is 60-300℃; D9) In step 42), the number of times the cycle from step 2) to 42) is repeated is 5-20 times; D10) In step 42), the flow rate ratio of the third circulating gas to the gas continuing to be cycled is 2-20:1; D11) In step 42), the temperature of the third circulating gas is 60-300℃; D12) In step 41) or 42), the oxygen content in the output nitrogen is less than 0.8%, and the hydrogen content is less than 1ppm; D13) In step 41) or 42), the temperature of the output nitrogen is from ambient temperature to 60℃; D14) In step 41) or 42), the humidity of the gas-water separation in the gas-water separator is less than the saturated humidity at 60℃.

6. An apparatus for the co-production of steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion, characterized in that, include: Gas mixer (1) for mixing air and hydrogen, or air, hydrogen and reflux gas. A reactor (2) for reacting oxygen and hydrogen in the first mixed gas to generate water and heat energy to form a high-temperature mixed gas; a steam generator (3) for heating the water in the high-temperature mixed gas to obtain water vapor output; a gas-water heat exchanger (5) for exchanging heat between the second mixed gas and the input water to recover the heat of the second mixed gas and condensing the residual water vapor in the second mixed gas to form liquid water; a gas-water separator (6) for separating nitrogen and liquid water in the second mixed gas; and a water separator for inputting water and / or returning the water separated by the gas-water separator (6) to transport the water. A feed water pump (8) is used to exchange heat with the gas-water heat exchanger (5) and / or to supply the steam generator (3) to adjust the liquid level in the steam generator (3); a gas circulation pump (7) is used to output nitrogen and return the circulating gas to the gas mixer (1); the gas mixer (1), reactor (2), steam generator (3), gas-water heat exchanger (5), gas-water separator (6), and gas circulation pump (7) are in sequential fluid communication; the feed water pump (8) is in fluid communication with the gas-water separator (6), gas-water heat exchanger (5), and steam generator (3) respectively.

7. The apparatus for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 6, characterized in that, The gas mixer (1) is connected to the air input pipeline (9) and the hydrogen input pipeline (10) respectively. The air input pipeline (9) is provided with an air pressure reducing valve (11), an air regulating valve (12), and an air flow meter (13) in sequence along the air input direction. The hydrogen input pipeline (10) is provided with a hydrogen pressure reducing valve (14), a hydrogen regulating valve (15), and a hydrogen flow meter (16) in sequence along the hydrogen input direction. And / or, the reactor (2) is provided with a first pressure detection instrument (18) and a first hydrogen concentration detector. Table (19); and / or, the steam generator (3) is connected to a steam output pipeline (20), and the steam output pipeline (20) is provided with a steam output valve (21), a second pressure detection instrument (22), and a temperature detection instrument (23) in sequence along the steam output direction. The steam generator (3) is provided with a liquid level detection instrument (24). The steam generator (3) is connected to the water supply pump (8) via a water replenishment pipeline (25). A first water replenishment valve is provided on the connecting pipeline between the steam generator (3) and the water supply pump (8). (26); and / or, a gas-to-gas heat exchanger (4) is provided between the steam generator (3) and the gas-to-water heat exchanger (5); and / or, a humidity detection instrument (30) is provided on the gas-to-water separator (6); and / or, the gas-to-water separator (6) is connected to the feed water pump (8) via a return water pipeline (39), and an input water pipeline (31) is provided on the return water pipeline (39); and / or, the gas circulation pump (7) is connected to the steam generator (3) via a first nitrogen output pipeline (32), and the gas circulation pump (7) also A second nitrogen output pipeline (33) is provided. A second hydrogen concentration detector (36), an oxygen detector (35), and a nitrogen output regulating valve (34) are sequentially provided on the second nitrogen output pipeline (33) in the direction away from the gas circulation pump (7). The second nitrogen output pipeline (33) between the nitrogen output regulating valve (34) and the second hydrogen concentration detector (36) is connected to the gas mixer (1) via a first circulating gas pipeline (17). A circulating gas regulating valve (38) is provided on the first circulating gas pipeline (17).And / or, the gas circulation pump (7) is connected to the gas-water separator (6) via a first nitrogen output pipeline (32), and the gas circulation pump (7) is also connected to a second nitrogen output pipeline (33). Along the direction away from the gas circulation pump (7), a second hydrogen concentration detector (36), an oxygen detector (35), and a nitrogen output regulating valve (34) are sequentially arranged on the second nitrogen output pipeline (33). The second nitrogen output pipeline (33) between the nitrogen output regulating valve (34) and the second hydrogen concentration detector (36) is connected to the gas-gas heat exchanger (4) via a second circulating gas pipeline (37). The second circulating gas pipeline (37) is equipped with a circulating gas regulating valve (38). The gas-gas heat exchanger (4) is connected to the gas mixer (1) via a first circulating gas pipeline (17).

8. The apparatus for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 6, characterized in that, The gas-water heat exchanger (5) is connected to the water supply pipeline (25) via the water supply input branch pipe (27) and the water supply output branch pipe (28). The water supply pipeline (25) is provided with a first water supply pipe section (251), a second water supply pipe section (252), and a third water supply pipe section (253) in sequence from the water supply pump (8) to the steam generator (3). The two ends of the second water supply pipe section (252) are connected to the water supply input branch pipe (27) and the water supply output branch pipe (28) respectively.

9. The apparatus for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first water supply pipe section (251) is provided with a first water supply valve (26); and / or, the second water supply pipe section (252) is provided with a second water supply valve (29).

10. The apparatus for co-producing steam and nitrogen by hydrogen catalytic combustion according to claim 8, characterized in that, The water supply input branch pipe (27) is connected to the end of the second water supply pipe section (252) near the water supply pump (8), and the water supply output branch pipe (28) is connected to the end of the second water supply pipe section (252) near the steam generator (3).

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