Abstract: In a process for producing a hydrogen-containing gas, a hydrocarbon feed gas and steam are introduced into a reaction vessel containing a complex metal oxide and steam-hydrocarbon reforming catalyst thereby forming a combustible gas mixture comprising hydrogen. A regeneration gas comprising greater than 0.1 volume % oxygen up to and including 2 volume % oxygen is introduced into the reaction vessel to displace at least a portion of the combustible gas mixture from the reaction vessel. Subsequently, additional regeneration gases may be introduced into the reaction vessel. Numerous means for providing various regeneration gases are presented.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for continuation of combustion with an oxy-fuel combustion system when the supply of oxygen is temporally reduced or stopped. Air or oxygen enriched air and fuel are introduced into the device being heated in place of the oxy-fuel mixture to effect combustion and maintain the heating level in the furnace. Water cooling of the furnace gases is used to reduce the volume of exhaust gases when operating in the air or oxygen enriched air mode.