HYGAS Process development

The HYGAS Process is a high-temperature, high-pressure, fluidized-bed process designed to maximize production of methane gas from all types of coal as a supplement to America's gas supplies. The Institute of Gas Technology conceived the process and the U.S. Energy Research and Development Administration and the American Gas Association are currently funding it. Experimental process development is proceeding in a pilot plant which feeds 3 tons/hr of coal to produce a nominal 1.5 X 10/sup 6/ ft/sup 3/ of pipeline-quality gas per day. Development studies using a Montana lignite containing 1 percent S have been completed. The gasification of Illinois No. 6 bituminous (ca.3 percent S) coal has been demonstrated and current work is directed toward gasification of a subbituminous coal from the Rosebud seam.