Intelligent temperature balancing system for methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of new energy, in particular to a methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber temperature intelligent balancing system which comprises a coil pipe located in a reaction chamber and further comprises a first oil storage tank, a second oil storage tank and a mixing tank. The heat-conducting oil outlet of the first oil storage tank is connected with one heat-conducting oil inlet of the mixing tank through a first pipeline; the heat-conducting oil outlet of the second oil storage tank is connected with the other heat-conducting oil inlet of the mixing tank through a second pipeline; and the other end of the coil pipe is connected with the circulating oil inlet of the second oil storage tank. The second oil storage tank and the mixing tank are additionally arranged, and the proportion of heat conduction oil in the two tanks is adjusted through the intelligent control system, so that the temperature of the heat conduction oil in the coil pipe can be regulated, the temperature of the reaction chamber is accurately controlled, the hydrogen yield is increased, the service life of a catalyst is prolonged, and efficient and safe operation of the system is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of new energy technology, and in particular to energy optimization in the hydrogen production process. Background Technology

[0002] Temperature control in methanol-to-hydrogen reactors (especially the most common methanol steam reforming reactors) is a critical and complex task because the reaction itself is strongly endothermic and needs to be carried out within a precise temperature window (typically between 200°C and 300°C, depending on the catalyst and process design). Temperatures that are too high or too low can severely impact hydrogen yield, selectivity, catalyst lifetime, and safety. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide an intelligent temperature balancing system for a methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber, which monitors and adjusts the temperature in real time to ensure that the reaction chamber temperature remains stable within the optimal range.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] A methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber temperature intelligent balancing system includes a hollow coil located inside the reaction chamber. The system further includes a first oil storage tank, a second oil storage tank, and a mixing tank located outside the reaction chamber. The temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the first oil storage tank is higher than the temperature required for hydrogen production, while the temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the second oil storage tank is lower than the temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the first oil storage tank. The heat transfer oil outlet of the first oil storage tank is connected to one heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank via a first pipeline, and the heat transfer oil outlet of the second oil storage tank is connected to another heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank via a second pipeline.

[0006] One end of the coil is connected to the heat transfer oil outlet of the mixing tank, and the other end is connected to the circulating oil inlet of the second oil storage tank.

[0007] Preferably, the intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber further includes an intelligent control system. A first solenoid valve is provided on the first pipeline, a second solenoid valve is provided on the second pipeline, and a temperature sensor is provided inside the mixing tank. The intelligent control system controls and connects the first solenoid valve, the second solenoid valve, and the temperature sensor.

[0008] Preferably, the mixing tank is equipped with a stirring device, which includes a rotating shaft with blades spirally coiled around the shaft. A funnel-shaped guide plate is connected below the heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank. The top of the rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the bottom of the guide plate via a bearing, and an oil outlet is opened on the side wall of the guide plate.

[0009] Preferably, the width of the blade gradually increases from top to bottom, and the blade has oil guide holes that run through it from top to bottom.

[0010] Preferably, the second oil storage tank is fitted outside the first oil storage tank. The second oil storage tank contains at least two cylindrical partitions, which are divided into a first partition and a second partition. The top of the first partition is connected to the top of the second oil storage tank, and there is a gap between the bottom of the first partition and the bottom of the second oil storage tank. There is also a gap between the top of the second partition and the top of the second oil storage tank, and the bottom of the second partition is connected to the bottom of the second oil storage tank. The electric heater inside the second oil storage tank is located vertically and fixed to the partition. The electric heater inside the first oil storage tank is located horizontally, and its outer edge is connected to the inner wall of the first oil storage tank. The electric heater in the first oil storage tank has a through-hole, and the openings of two adjacent electric heaters are staggered.

[0011] Preferably, the two ends of the coil are connected to the side wall of the reactor, and the remaining part of the coil is spirally wound in the horizontal direction.

[0012] Preferably, there are at least three coils, and each coil is arranged at equal intervals from top to bottom in the reactor, with spherical catalyst balls filling the spaces between two adjacent coils.

[0013] Preferably, the distance between two adjacent coils is greater than the outer diameter of the catalyst ball.

[0014] Preferably, a feed inlet is provided at the bottom of the reaction chamber, and a guide plate is provided between the feed inlet and the coil. The guide plate is funnel-shaped, with its outer diameter gradually increasing from top to bottom, and multiple small holes are provided on the guide plate.

[0015] Beneficial effects: Existing technologies typically only have a first oil storage tank, where the heated heat transfer oil directly enters the coil. The temperature of the heat transfer oil in the coil is the same as that in the first oil storage tank, making adjustment difficult. This invention adds a second oil storage tank and a mixing tank. An intelligent control system adjusts the ratio of heat transfer oil between the two tanks, thereby enabling temperature control of the heat transfer oil in the coil. This achieves precise temperature control of the reaction chamber, improves hydrogen yield and catalyst lifespan, and ensures efficient and safe system operation. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0017] The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber includes a first oil storage tank, a second oil storage tank, and a mixing tank located outside the reaction chamber. The temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the first oil storage tank is higher than the temperature required for hydrogen production, while the temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the second oil storage tank is lower than that of the first oil storage tank. The heat transfer oil outlet of the first oil storage tank is connected to one heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank via a first pipeline, and the heat transfer oil outlet of the second oil storage tank is connected to the other heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank via a second pipeline. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber also includes a hollow coil located inside the reaction chamber. One end of the coil is connected to the heat transfer oil outlet of the mixing tank, and the other end is connected to the circulating oil inlet of the second oil storage tank. Existing technologies typically only have a first oil storage tank, where the heated heat transfer oil directly enters the coil, resulting in the heat transfer oil temperature in the coil being the same as the temperature in the first oil storage tank, making adjustment difficult. This invention adds a second oil storage tank and a mixing tank. By adjusting the ratio of heat transfer oil in the two tanks through an intelligent control system, the temperature of the heat transfer oil in the coil can be regulated, thereby achieving precise control of the reaction chamber temperature, improving hydrogen yield and catalyst life, and ensuring efficient and safe operation of the system.

[0018] The intelligent temperature balancing system for a methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber also includes an intelligent control system. A first solenoid valve is installed on a first pipeline, a second solenoid valve is installed on a second pipeline, and a temperature sensor is installed inside the mixing tank. The intelligent control system controls the first solenoid valve, the second solenoid valve, and the temperature sensor. Based on the temperature inside the mixing tank collected by the temperature sensor, the intelligent control system adjusts the opening and closing of the first and second solenoid valves. This invention controls the flow rate of heat transfer oil through the opening and closing of solenoid valves, resulting in a simple structure and high stability. The temperature sensor is preferably fixed to the inner wall of the mixing tank. The intelligent control system monitors the temperature changes in the reaction chamber in real time and dynamically adjusts the ratio of heat transfer oil between the two tanks to ensure temperature stability.

[0019] Yes, the mixing tank is equipped with a stirring device, which includes a rotating shaft with spirally coiled blades. A funnel-shaped guide plate is connected below the heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank. The top of the rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the bottom of the guide plate via a bearing, and the guide plate has an oil outlet on its side wall. When the heat transfer oil enters the mixing tank, the guide plate directs the oil flow, causing it to drip from the outlet onto the blades. This drips drive the spiral blades to rotate, which then fling the oil outwards, resulting in a more uniform mixture of the heat transfer oil from the first and second storage tanks. The blade width gradually increases from top to bottom, lowering the center of gravity of the stirring device and making rotation more stable. The blades are made of a special high-temperature resistant and corrosion-resistant alloy, ensuring long-term stable operation in high-temperature heat transfer oil environments. The blades have through-holes that allow some oil to pass through and drip onto the lower blades. The distance from the oil outlet to the central axis of the guide plate is different from the distance from the oil guide hole to the central axis, thus preventing oil dripping from the guide plate from directly passing through the oil guide hole. Preferably, the distance from the oil guide hole to the central axis is greater than the distance from the oil outlet to the central axis of the guide plate, and the distance from the oil guide hole to the central axis gradually increases from top to bottom. The oil guide hole design ensures that the heat transfer oil is evenly distributed layer by layer, improving mixing efficiency.

[0020] The first oil storage tank is equipped with an electric heater for heating the heat transfer oil during off-peak hours. The second oil storage tank is equipped with an electric heater for preheating the heat transfer oil. A mixing tank is used to regulate the temperature of the heat transfer oil to the level required for hydrogen production. This invention can utilize surplus electricity during off-peak hours (low electricity prices) to superheat and store the heat transfer oil at a suitable temperature. During peak hours (high electricity prices), the preheated heat transfer oil can be used to provide heat for the hydrogen production system, thereby reducing peak electricity costs. Preferably, the second oil storage tank is fitted outside the first oil storage tank, thus using the second oil storage tank to insulate the first oil storage tank. The oil storage tanks have a hollow cavity, and at least three plate-shaped electric heaters are installed within the hollow cavity. The second oil storage tank is equipped with at least two cylindrical baffles, namely a first baffle and a second baffle. The top of the first baffle connects to the top of the second oil storage tank, and there is a gap between the bottom of the first baffle and the bottom of the second oil storage tank. Similarly, there is a gap between the top of the second baffle and the top of the second oil storage tank, and the bottom of the second baffle connects to the bottom of the second oil storage tank. This baffle design effectively separates the heat transfer oil, enhancing heat exchange efficiency and ensuring uniform heat distribution. The electric heater inside the second oil storage tank is vertically positioned and fixed to the baffles. Multiple independent heat exchange zones are formed between the baffles, allowing for efficient heat transfer through the circulating flow of the heat transfer oil. Crucially, the baffles divide the second oil storage tank into several relatively independent areas, enabling layered insulation of the first oil storage tank. The heat transfer oil inlet of the second oil storage tank is located on its outer wall. The heat transfer oil outlet of the second oil storage tank is located on its top. This baffle design not only optimizes heat utilization but also improves the structural stability of the tank, ensuring safe and reliable long-term operation. The electric heater inside the first oil storage tank is located horizontally. Preferably, the outer edge of the electric heater is connected to the inner wall of the first oil storage tank. The electric heater has a through-hole that allows heat transfer oil to pass through. The openings of two adjacent electric heaters are staggered, i.e., not directly opposite each other. The heat transfer oil flows in a spiral pattern between the electric heaters, significantly increasing the heat exchange area and resulting in more uniform heat transfer. The heat transfer oil outlet of the first oil storage tank is located on its top, and the heat transfer oil inlet is located on its bottom. Preferably, the tops of the first and second oil storage tanks share a common portion, and the bottom of the second oil storage tank protrudes beyond the bottom of the second heat storage tank, creating a concave structure at the bottom of the first oil storage tank. This structure elevates the first oil storage tank, facilitating the connection and maintenance of the oil pipeline, and also allows for the formation of an additional insulation layer at the bottom of the first oil storage tank, reducing heat loss. Alternatively, an auxiliary heating device such as a burner or heater can be installed in the recessed area to accelerate the heating rate of the heat transfer oil in the second oil storage tank while reducing the consumption of electrical energy.

[0021] Preferably, the two ends of the coil are connected to the sidewall of the reactor, and the remaining part of the coil is spirally wound horizontally. The two ends of the coil can be adjacent. The coil is first folded in half to make the two ends adjacent, and then bent into a spiral shape. During bending, the gap between the two parts of the coil and the gap between the spirals are maintained; this gap is smaller than the outer diameter of the catalyst ball, thus preventing the catalyst ball from falling off. There are at least three coils, each arranged at equal intervals from top to bottom in the reactor, with spherical catalyst balls filling the spaces between adjacent coils. This invention optimizes the structure of the coil, which, while maintaining the temperature inside the reactor, can also serve as a support bed for the catalyst balls. The coil design not only improves temperature uniformity but also enhances catalytic efficiency, ensuring a stable and efficient reaction process. The catalyst balls are evenly distributed between the coils, maximizing the contact area and promoting complete reaction. The synergistic effect of the coil and the catalyst balls significantly improves the overall reaction performance, achieving the dual advantages of high efficiency and low energy consumption.

[0022] The distance between two adjacent coils is greater than the outer diameter of the catalyst ball, allowing the catalyst ball to rotate or shift between the coils. After methanol and water vapor pass through the reaction chamber, the methanol and water vapor push the catalyst ball to rotate or shift, thus achieving full contact between the catalyst ball and the reactants and improving reaction efficiency. The dynamic movement of the catalyst ball also prevents localized overheating and extends its service life. The feed inlet of the reaction chamber is preferably located at the bottom, forming a structure where methanol and water vapor enter from below. An exhaust port is located at the top of the reaction chamber to promptly discharge the gases generated in the reaction and maintain stable internal pressure. The exhaust port is equipped with a filter to ensure that the emitted gases meet environmental standards. The reaction chamber walls use double-layer insulation material to effectively reduce heat loss and further improve energy efficiency. The optimized positions of the feed inlet and exhaust port create a smooth airflow path, promoting uniform reaction. A baffle plate is located at the bottom of the reaction chamber to guide the methanol and water vapor to distribute evenly and avoid excessively high local concentrations. The baffle plate is preferably funnel-shaped, with its outer diameter gradually increasing from top to bottom, and has multiple small holes with uniformly distributed diameters to ensure uniform airflow.

[0023] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention, based on the technical solution and inventive concept of the present invention, should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber temperature intelligent balancing system, comprising a hollow coil located within the reaction chamber, characterized in that, It also includes a first oil storage tank, a second oil storage tank, and a mixing tank located outside the reaction room. The temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the first oil storage tank is higher than the temperature required for hydrogen production, and the temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the second oil storage tank is lower than the temperature of the heat transfer oil stored in the first oil storage tank. The heat transfer oil outlet of the first oil storage tank is connected to one heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank through a first pipeline, and the heat transfer oil outlet of the second oil storage tank is connected to the other heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank through a second pipeline. One end of the coil is connected to the heat transfer oil outlet of the mixing tank, and the other end is connected to the circulating oil inlet of the second oil storage tank.

2. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an intelligent control system, wherein a first solenoid valve is provided on the first pipeline, a second solenoid valve is provided on the second pipeline, and a temperature sensor is provided inside the mixing tank. The intelligent control system controls and connects the first solenoid valve, the second solenoid valve, and the temperature sensor.

3. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mixing tank is equipped with a stirring device, which includes a rotating shaft with blades spirally coiled around it. A funnel-shaped guide plate is connected below the heat transfer oil inlet of the mixing tank. The top of the rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the bottom of the guide plate via a bearing. An oil outlet is opened on the side wall of the guide plate.

4. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 3, characterized in that, The width of the blades gradually increases from top to bottom, and there are oil guide holes running through the blades from top to bottom.

5. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second oil storage tank is fitted outside the first oil storage tank. The second oil storage tank contains at least two cylindrical partitions, namely a first partition and a second partition. The top of the first partition is connected to the top of the second oil storage tank, and there is a gap between the bottom of the first partition and the bottom of the second oil storage tank. There is also a gap between the top of the second partition and the top of the second oil storage tank, and the bottom of the second partition is connected to the bottom of the second oil storage tank. An electric heater inside the second oil storage tank is located vertically and fixed to the partition. An electric heater inside the first oil storage tank is located horizontally, and its outer edge is connected to the inner wall of the first oil storage tank. The electric heater in the first oil storage tank has a through-hole, and the openings of two adjacent electric heaters are staggered.

6. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 1, characterized in that, The two ends of the coil are connected to the side wall of the reactor, and the remaining part of the coil is spirally wound in the horizontal direction.

7. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 6, characterized in that, There are at least three coils, which are arranged at equal intervals from top to bottom in the reactor. The space between two adjacent coils is filled with spherical catalyst balls.

8. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 6, characterized in that, The distance between two adjacent coils is greater than the outer diameter of the catalyst ball.

9. The intelligent temperature balancing system for the methanol-to-hydrogen reaction chamber according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the reaction chamber has a feed inlet, and a guide plate is installed between the feed inlet and the coil. The guide plate is funnel-shaped, and its outer diameter gradually increases from top to bottom. There are multiple small holes on the guide plate.