RE: What makes Velocys Plc Different5 Dec 2022 16:19
"Velocys’ microchannel FT technology is the most advanced and has been implemented in relatively small project capacities of around 1,400 barrels per day (bpd) (around 19 million gallons per year). In these reactors, thousands of process channels with dimensions in the millimetre range and filled with catalyst are constructed immediately adjacent to water-filled coolant channels. The small-size channels dissipate heat more quickly than in conventional FT reactors making it easier to use more active catalysts (Green Car Congress, 2018). The main challenges with microchannel reactors are the need for many tens of them in a typical plant, and associated utility and catalyst handling facilities, and the requirement for very, very clean boiler feed water. Microchannel vendors argue that their FT process is much cheaper and more productive than conventional designs, however the actual savings are generally overstated. In the context of the overall plant, the FT unit typically represents only 10 – 20% of the total plant cost. More important is the unit performance in terms of syngas conversion and selectivity to the desired end products."