In this study, the hydrogen preheater of a pilot plant is simulated using CFD technique. The results show that the design of preheater is not appropriate for raising hydrogen temperature to desired value. Simulations show that the flow regime through the system is laminar. Effects of free convection of gas in the system are taken into account and some back mixing flow fields are found. Furthermore, results reveal that the pressure drop is negligible even through packed section. Different insulations with various thicknesses/properties are investigated to control heat consumption. Finally, it is discovered that the use of only one heater at the end section of preheater is sufficient to reach desirable hydrogen temperature. Additional heaters cause energy consumption and they would not be effective.
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