FIELD: plate- type reforming units. SUBSTANCE: reforming unit is essentially stack of heat-conducting plates with catalytic strips in-between that has inner and outer reagent receivers. Catalytic strip is in direct contact with heat-conducting plates so that its temperature does not actually differ from that of heat-transfer plate; mechanical design of the latter is such that almost isothermal conditions are ensured in plate plane. As an alternative, one or more catalysts may be used and distributed along flow direction in plane of heat-transfer plates. Unit may function as steam reforming or partially oxidizing facility. In case of steam reforming heat energy required for steam reforming is supplied from outside due to radiation and/or heat transfer to heat-conducting plates. Reaction products are carbon oxide, hydrogen, steam, and carbon dioxide. In case of partial oxidation some portion of natural gas is oxidized in the environment of combustion catalyst and reforming catalyst. Reaction products are carbon oxide, hydrogen, steam, and carbon dioxide, Since catalytic strip is in direct thermal contact with heat-conducting plate, excess temperature cannot build up inside stack. Mechanical design of plate may vary to make it suited to various modifications of receivers where one or more inlets and outlets may be provided for reagent admission, preheating, and discharge. EFFECT: reduced space requirement, enhanced efficiency. 36 cl, 8 dwg
