Abstract: A process for thermal treatment of solid particles in a fluidized bed wherein the solid particles by thermal treatment form a lighter weight fraction and a heavier weight fraction, relative to the total contents of the bed. The process is characterized by use of a selective heavier particle discharge conduit in the sloping bed support and maintenance of a discrete fluid fueled flame in close proximity to and above the opening to the heavier particle discharge conduit. This forms a higher temperature zone in and surrounding the flame, at least about 100.degree. F. higher than the remainder bed temperature. Circulation of solid particles through the flame and its surrounding higher temperature region is promoted both by directing of fluidization gas jets in the fluidized bed support and by the jetting action of the upwardly flowing heavier particle discharge gas.

Abstract: A process for thermal treatment of solid particles in a fluidized bed wherein the solid particles by thermal treatment form a lighter weight fraction and a heavier weight fraction, relative to the total contents of the bed. The process is characterized by use of a selective heavier particle discharge conduit in the sloping bed support and maintenance of a discrete fluid fueled flame in close proximity to and above the opening to the heavier particle discharge conduit. This forms a higher temperature zone in and surrounding the flame, at least about 100.degree. F. higher than the remainder bed temperature. Circulation of solid particles through the flame and its surrounding higher temperature region is promoted both by directing of fluidization gas jets in the fluidized bed support and by the jetting action of the upwardly flowing heavier particle discharge gas.

Abstract: In the methanation of feed gas comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen in multiple stages, the feed gas, cold recycle gas and hot product gas is mixed in such proportions that the mixture is at a temperature sufficiently high to avoid carbonyl formation and to initiate the reaction and, so that upon complete reaction of the carbon monoxide and hydrogen, an excessive adiabatic temperature will not be reached. Catalyst damage by high or low temperatures is thereby avoided with a process that utilizes extraordinarily low recycle ratios and a minimum of investment in operating costs.

Abstract: An aqueous coal slurry is preheated, subjected to partial oxidation and vaporization by injection of high pressure oxygen and is introduced into a top section of a hydrogasifier in direct contact with hot methane-containing effluent gases where vaporization of the slurry is completed. The resulting solids are reacted in the hydrogasifier and the combined gases and vapors are withdrawn and subjected to purification and methanation to provide pipeline gas. The amount of oxygen injected into the slurry is controlled to provide the proper thermal balance whereby all of the water in the slurry can be evaporated in contact with the hot effluent gases from the hydrogasifier.