This publication applies to steam reformers that are operated with natural gas, refinery off-gas, naphtha, and other light hydrocarbon streams. It specifically applies to large volume hydrogen production plants, defined for this publication as a production capability of 373,000 scfh (10 000 Nm3/hr) (9 MMSCFD or 241,000 Nm3D) or greater.
This publication covers operation, maintenance, and certain design aspects of steam reformers relative to the potential safety hazards of the combustion process inherent to these units. Emphasis is placed on operational guidance and features that provide safeguards against such hazards such as furnace control philosophies, safety interlocks, and inspection routines. The publication is not intended to address the details of design, installation, and construction of steam reformers.