Design, Modeling, and Validation of a Flame Reformer for LNT External By-Pass Regeneration

Experimental results are presented for a technique of converting Diesel fuel to a gas stream rich in carbon monoxide and hydrogen suitable for Lean NO_x Trap (LNT) regeneration. The device is relatively simple and relies upon a premixed, rich flame to generate gas with 4.5% H₂ and 10% CO. The device, referred to as a flame reformer, offers a number of advantages over other methods of reductant generation for bypass regeneration LNT systems. Specifically, the device offers rapid dynamic response, potential lower cost, with a similar level of performance to other proposed methods of reductant generation.