The development of an integrated multistage fluid bed retorting process. Quarterly report, October--December 1993

It is now well accepted that fluidized bed pyrolysis of oil shale at near-zero hydrogen partial pressure will generate higher than Fischer assay oil yields. This enhancement varies according to shale type, but for most shales, it can be significant. It has been shown that fluidized bed pyrolysis of eastern and western US oil shales can enhance oil yields by 50% and 10% above Fischer assay, respectively. In addition, fluidized bed technology offers the advantages of rapid pyrolysis kinetics (short solid residence time), total use of mined shale, and thermal efficiency. The Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) has developed a commercial retorting concept, KENTORT 2, which is based on fluidized bed technology. This process has been successfully demonstrated in a 3-inch diameter, 5-lb/hr system at the CAER using eastern US oil shale. This report summarizes the progress made on the development of an integrated multistage fluidized bed retorting process during the period of October 1, 1993 through December 31, 1993. The KENTORT 2 process includes integral fluidized bed zones for pyrolysis, gasification, and combustion of the oil shale. The purpose of this program is to design and test the KENTORT 2 process at the 50-lb/hr scale. Retort shake-down testsmore » were performed this quarter, and during one of these tests, oil was generated for the first time in the 50-lb/hr system. Minor equipment problems were also identified and a remediation plan was implemented.« less