Quantitative Risk Assessment of Steam Reforming Process by Hydrogen Generator, Using PHAST Model

Abstract

This study applied a risk assessment technique to the steam reforming process in hydrogen production facilities to generate baseline data for preparing safety protocols in related workplaces. To this end, consequence analysis (CA) was conducted using DNV-PHAST v.8.9., focusing on the reforming process, which operates at the highest temperature and pressure among related processes. This study predicted jet fire damage resulting from the total failure of a 65 mm syngas pipe at the rear end of the reformer, with a projected flame length of up to 23.6 m based on a radiant heat of 5 kW/m2. As per the assessment, a vapor cloud explosion (VCE) caused damage of up to 42.6 m at an overpressure of 0.07 bar (1 psi), while a flash fire had an impact range of approximately 12.7 m based on hydrogen’s LFL (lower flammable limit). This quantitative risk assessment of the general steam reforming process provides valuable basic data for the design and operation of related facilities.

Keywords

• hydrogen
• steam reforming process
• quantitative risk analysis
• PHAST
• jet fire
• vapor cloud explosion