Description

The Methane partial oxidation Pilot Plant developed by Vinci Technologies is a micro-reactor system dedicated to the study of catalytic partial oxidation of methane under controlled conditions. The unit is designed to investigate methane conversion pathways for syngas and hydrogen production. It is built around tubular fixed-bed reactors operating in down-flow mode, suitable for high-temperature and high-pressure operation. Two interchangeable reactors allow flexibility in catalyst volume and reaction severity. The pilot plant enables precise control of methane, oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen feed rates using mass flow controllers. A liquid feed system allows water or liquid reactants to be vaporized and co-fed with gases. The reactor is equipped with multi-zone electric furnaces to manage highly exothermic reactions and control temperature profiles. Operating temperatures can reach up to 950 °C with pressures up to 20 barg. Downstream cooling and phase separation systems enable recovery of gaseous and liquid products. On-line sampling to gas chromatography supports detailed product analysis. Advanced automation and safety systems ensure stable, reproducible, and safe operation. Overall, this pilot plant provides a robust experimental platform for catalyst development, reaction optimization, and scale-up studies in methane oxidation processes.