A continuous-time Markov chain has been used to establish the residence time distribution (RTD) model in a new type entrained-flow gasifier, which is called entrained-flow gasifier with opposed multi-burner. According to the measurement results of the flow fields in the gasifier, the state transfer diagram of Markov chain formed in the case of the flow fields are simplified. The results show that this method is feasible in modeling the flow system which consists of ideal mixing cells and plug flow regions. The flow pattern of the gasifier is closed to continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). The simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental data. The established model has been applied to forecast the RTD in the industrial gasifier. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.