Description

The GtL lab-scale pilot plant is a fully integrated, skid-mounted unit designed for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis and process development. It converts synthesis gas (H₂, CO, CO₂) into liquid hydrocarbons and chemicals under controlled conditions. At its core is a Vinci-Technologies proprietary tubular fixed-bed reactor with a total volume of approximately 2 liters, designed to generate industrially representative data. Its tubular geometry and high height-to-diameter ratio ensure efficient heat transfer and precise temperature control. The reactor operates in downflow, isothermal mode at pressures up to 45 barg and temperatures up to 350 °C, using industrial-shaped catalyst extrudates. An internal thermowell with multiple thermocouples provides axial temperature profiling. The reactor is integrated with a multi-zone isothermal split-tube furnace to ensure a  uniform temperature profile. An upstream gas mixing and preheating system ensures homogeneous feed composition, while the gas feed section includes high-pressure H₂, CO, CO₂, N₂, and effluent recirculation lines with mass flow control. Downstream separation systems allow efficient recovery of waxes, liquids, water, and gas products, with weighed recovery vessels enabling accurate mass balance. The pilot plant is fully automated via a SCADA-based control and supervision system, providing a robust and flexible platform for catalyst testing and GTL process optimization.