Abstract: Disclosed are a process for converting low value hydrocarbon streams to hydrogen and/or synthesis gas products and a transport reactor useful in the conversion process. In the transport reactor, carbon produced is deposited on a circulating inert particulated carrier. The carbon deposited is partially oxidized to supply heat for the endothermic reactions. Reaction effluent gas leaving the transport reactor can be processed to remove particulate matter, sulfur compounds, and acid gases; condense the steam; and separate hydrogen from carbon monoxide to produce a purified hydrogen and/or syngas product. The present process has the flexibility to continuously handle all types of low value hydrocarbon feeds substantially without process disruption.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and related apparatus for desurging and degassing a liquid stream having hydrocarbon, aqueous and gaseous components, such as from at least one production well. Within the method, the liquid stream is introduced into a vessel or degasser unit through a sparger device which is disposed therein, to distribute the flow of the liquid stream into the vessel, as well as to partially degas the liquid. Upon exiting the sparger device, the liquid passes downward through a body of packing elements within the vessel to further degas the liquid and also to desurge the flow of the liquid stream. Thereafter, any separated gas is removed from an upper portion of the vessel and the degassed liquid is removed through a lower portion of the vessel. The degassed liquid can then be passed to an oil-water separator, such as a vortex separation tank.