Abstract: A process is provided for preparing synthesis gas by partial oxidation of a hydrocarbon-containing fuel in the absence of moderator gas. A hydrocarbon-containing fuel and an oxidiser are supplied through a reactor mix type burner to a gasification zone under oxygen blast conditions. At least the rim(s) of the burner internal(s) separating the fuel from the oxidiser at the rim tip(s) is (are) made of, or lined with, a ceramic material or a noble metal or a noble metal alloy.

Abstract: A method is presented for stabilizing the flame on the tips of burner internals in a process for preparing synthesis gas by partial oxidation of a gaseous hydrocarbon-containing fuel. The method comprises supplying a gaseous hydrocarbon-containing fuel, a moderator gas and an oxidizer through a burner to a reactor, and adjusting the mass flow of the moderator gas such that the moderator gas concentration does not exceed a predetermined limit. The process conditions are effected such that the flame contacts the burner internal tips. In case of flame-lifting from the burner internal tips, the velocities and mass flows of the fuel and/or oxidizer and/or moderator gas are re-adjusted in such a manner that the flame is restabilized on the burner internal tips.