Reactor and its production method

Abstract

Reactor (1) comprising a reactor vessel (2) and within the reactor vessel (2): - a vertically mounted plate pack (3), - a distributor (7) connected to the plate pack (3), - at least one inlet (8) through which the distributor (7) is connected to a respective coolant inlet (11) of the reactor vessel (2), - a manifold (9) connected to the plate pack (3), - at least one outlet (10) through which the manifold (9) is connected to a respective coolant outlet (12) of the reactor vessel (2), such that flow paths are formed for the coolant, and wherein at least one outlet (10) is curved so that the outlet (10) rotates about an axis (13) of the reactor vessel (2) by at least 180°.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a reactor and a method for manufacturing such a reactor. The reactor can be used in particular for methanol synthesis.

[0002] Pillow plate reactors are known for applications such as methanol synthesis. In these reactors, a chemical reaction can be carried out under cooling. Pillow plate reactors consist of a stack of pillow plates through which a cooling medium flows. A catalyst can be arranged between the pillow plates, along which a reaction gas can be passed. This allows the reaction gas to be converted. Simultaneously, the reaction gas can be cooled by the cooling medium flowing within the pillow plates. The cooling medium can be introduced into the pillow plates via a distributor and discharged from the pillow plates via a collector. The distributor and collector are typically integrated into a cooling circuit via inlet and outlet lines, respectively. Reactors for partial oxidations with thermoplate modules are known from WO 2005 / 0090608.

[0003] During operation, components of a pillow plate reactor can expand considerably. Not all components have the same coefficient of thermal expansion, and not all components are exposed to the same temperature. Therefore, the individual components of a pillow plate reactor typically expand to different degrees. This can lead to stresses and ultimately to damage. In particular, the reactor shell of a pillow plate reactor can expand differently than the plate pack. This can cause significant stresses in the pipes that carry the coolant to and from the pillow plates. Examples of reformer gas piping for combustion chambers that can compensate for different thermal expansions are known from German patent applications DE 10 2013 109 209 A1 and WO 02 / 098789 A1.

[0004] Due to the pressures that need to be taken into account, a flexible solution using a flexible hose is not possible or only possible with great effort.

[0005] The problems described also occur in reactors that resemble a pillow plate reactor, but depending on the definition of the term pillow plate reactor, cannot be considered as such.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to reduce the effects of thermal expansion in a reactor in a simple way.

[0007] These problems are solved with a reactor and a process according to the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims. The features described in the claims and in the description can be combined with one another in any technologically meaningful way.

[0008] According to the invention, a reactor is presented. The reactor defined in claim 1 comprises a reactor vessel. Furthermore, the reactor comprises the following elements, each arranged within the reactor vessel: a vertically mounted plate pack formed by several cooling plates through which a cooling fluid can flow, wherein gaps are formed between the cooling plates in which a catalyst is arranged, so that a reaction gas can flow through the gaps and thereby come into contact with the catalyst, a distributor connected to the plate pack on an underside, at least one inlet line via which the distributor is connected to a respective cooling fluid inlet of the reactor vessel, a collector connected to the plate pack on an upper side, and at least one outlet via which the collector is connected to a respective cooling fluid outlet of the reactor vessel.

[0009] Flow paths for the cooling fluid are formed, each leading from one of the cooling fluid inlets through the corresponding supply line, the distributor, one of the cooling plates, the collector and one of the outlets to the corresponding cooling fluid outlet, wherein the at least one outlet is curved in such a way that the outlet rotates around an axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°.

[0010] A reactor is understood to be a device designed to carry out a chemical reaction. The reactor described here is preferably designed for methanol synthesis. However, the specific chemical reaction for which the reactor is actually designed and used is irrelevant to the reactor's functionality and advantages described below. The described reactor can be used for a multitude of conceivable chemical reactions in which a reaction gas is reacted with a catalyst under cooling conditions.

[0011] The reactor comprises a reactor vessel. The reactor vessel is preferably designed as a pressure vessel. The reactor vessel preferably includes a reactor jacket, which can also be referred to as a pressure jacket. Inside the reactor vessel, a reaction gas can undergo a chemical reaction under pressure. For example, the reaction gas can be introduced into an interior of the reactor vessel via a reaction gas inlet, undergo a chemical reaction within the interior of the reactor vessel, and be discharged from the reactor vessel through a reaction gas outlet. Due to the chemical reaction taking place within the reactor vessel, the reaction gas at the reaction gas outlet generally has a different chemical composition than at the reaction gas inlet. In the case of methanol synthesis, the reaction gas is preferably a synthesis gas, which is composed of carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide on the one hand and hydrogen on the other.

[0012] A catalyst is arranged inside the reactor vessel. The catalyst can initiate and / or accelerate the chemical reaction. The reaction gas can be passed over the catalyst within the reactor vessel. By selecting the catalyst material, the reactor can be configured for a specific chemical reaction. In the case of methanol synthesis, the catalyst is preferably a copper-zinc catalyst.

[0013] Within the reactor vessel, the reaction gas can be cooled, particularly during the chemical reaction. This is especially useful in the case of an exothermic chemical reaction. Cooling can be achieved via a plate pack consisting of several cooling plates. The cooling plates are preferably arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart such that gaps form between them. The catalyst is preferably located within these gaps. This allows the reaction gas to flow through the spaces between the cooling plates and come into contact with the catalyst.

[0014] Cooling via the cooling plates is achieved by circulating a cooling fluid through them. The cooling fluid can be liquid or gaseous. Preferably, the cooling fluid is provided in a liquid state and evaporates during cooling. The cooling fluid is preferably H₂O. The use of the chemical symbol H₂O is intended to clarify that the cooling fluid can also be gaseous. Therefore, the cooling fluid can be water or steam. In the case of H₂O as the cooling fluid, it can also be referred to as boiler feedwater when it is introduced into the reactor. Upon exiting the reactor, the cooling fluid can be in the form of steam. However, for the described cooling function, neither the chemical composition nor the state of matter of the cooling fluid is generally important.

[0015] The cooling plates, through which the cooling fluid flows, each have at least one cooling channel through which the cooling fluid can flow. The cooling channel can have several branches. For example, the cooling plates can each be formed by two sheets joined together at several connection points, such as spot welds. The connection points are preferably arranged distributed over the surface of the cooling plate, particularly at regular intervals, so that the connection points form a grid. The cooling fluid can flow between the sheets between the connection points. To facilitate this, the sheets can be bent in such a way that contact between the sheets exists only at the connection points. Outside the connection points, the at least one cooling channel is formed between the sheets.

[0016] The cooling plates designed as described can also be called pillow plates. The reactor described can accordingly be called a pillow plate reactor. However, the precise definition of a pillow plate or pillow plate reactor is irrelevant. Here, the reactor is defined, regardless of these terminologies, by its explicitly stated characteristics.

[0017] The panel stack is stored upright. In upright storage, the panel stack is supported on one of its undersides. For example, the panel stack can be placed on supports on its underside. Because the panel stack is stored upright, thermal expansion of the panel stack occurs upwards.

[0018] The counterpart to the described upright mounting of the plate pack is a suspended mounting. The fact that the plate pack of the described reactor is described as upright mounting therefore means, in particular, that the plate pack of the described reactor is not suspended. In a suspended mounting, the plate pack is supported at one end. For example, a plate pack could be suspended by connecting it to the reactor vessel at its top via a support, especially using brackets. In a suspended plate pack, thermal expansion of the plate pack would occur downwards.

[0019] Upright storage is particularly advantageous compared to suspended storage at low steam production rates. Furthermore, upright storage allows for optimal utilization of the catalyst space-to-tank space ratio, as it provides mechanical support from below.

[0020] The following describes the elements of the reactor through which the cooling fluid can be introduced into and discharged from the cooling plates.

[0021] A distributor is attached to the underside of the plate pack. The distributor is connected to a cooling fluid inlet of the reactor vessel via at least one supply line. The cooling fluid can thus be introduced into one of the cooling fluid inlets, guided through the corresponding supply line to the distributor, and distributed to the cooling plates via the distributor. The distributor is connected to the cooling channels of the cooling plates for this purpose. The cooling fluid within the distributor is preferably liquid, in particular liquid water.

[0022] The reactor can have one or more supply lines. In the case of a single supply line, the supply line connects the single coolant inlet to the distributor. In the case of multiple supply lines, each supply line connects a coolant inlet to the distributor. The reactor has exactly one coolant inlet per supply line.

[0023] A collector is attached to the top of the plate pack. The collector is connected to a cooling fluid outlet of the reactor vessel via at least one branch. The cooling fluid can thus be collected from the cooling plates via the collector, directed through one of the branches to the corresponding cooling fluid outlet, and discharged through it. The collector is connected to the cooling channels of the cooling plates for this purpose. The function of the collector is therefore the opposite of that of the distributor. Within the collector, the cooling fluid is preferably gaseous, especially water vapor. The collector can therefore also be referred to as a vapor collector.

[0024] The reactor can have one or more downpipes. In the case of a single downpipe, the downpipe connects the single coolant outlet to the collector. In the case of multiple downpipes, each downpipe connects a coolant outlet to the collector. The reactor has exactly one coolant outlet per downpipe.

[0025] The fact that the distributor is located on the underside of the plate pack and the collector on the top refers to the intended orientation of the reactor.

[0026] The cooling fluid can be introduced from outside the reactor vessel into the corresponding supply line via the cooling fluid inlet(s). The cooling fluid can thus pass through the reactor jacket at the cooling fluid inlet(s). The cooling fluid can be discharged from the reactor vessel through the corresponding outlet(s). The cooling fluid can therefore pass through the reactor jacket at the cooling fluid outlet(s). However, the cooling fluid only enters the interior of the reactor vessel to the extent that it reaches the supply line(s), distributor, cooling plates, collector, and outlet(s). The cooling fluid does not come into contact with the reaction gas inside the reactor vessel.Heat exchange occurs only between the reaction gas and the cooling fluid, similar to a heat exchanger, particularly in the area of ​​the cooling plates.

[0027] Flow paths for the cooling fluid are thus formed, each leading from one of the cooling fluid inlets through the corresponding supply line, the distributor, one of the cooling plates, the collector, and one of the outlets to the corresponding cooling fluid outlet. In the case of a single supply line, all flow paths run together from the single cooling fluid inlet through the supply line to the distributor. In the case of multiple supply lines, each flow path leads from one of the cooling fluid inlets through the corresponding supply line to the distributor. In each case, the flow paths divide among the cooling plates in the distributor. Each flow path runs through exactly one of the cooling plates. The flow paths are collected in the collector. In the case of a single outlet, all flow paths run together from the collector to the single cooling fluid outlet. In the case of multiple outlets, each flow path leads from the collector to the corresponding cooling fluid outlet.

[0028] Outside the reactor vessel, the cooling fluid can be drawn from the cooling fluid outlet(s) and cooled. The cooling fluid can then be reintroduced into the cooling fluid inlet(s). In this way, a cooling circuit can be formed. The flow paths then lead outside the reactor vessel from the at least one cooling fluid outlet to the at least one cooling fluid inlet, thus closing the flow paths. In the case of a cooling circuit, the cooling fluid can therefore be reused completely or partially. However, this is not necessary. It is also conceivable that fresh cooling fluid is always introduced into the at least one cooling fluid inlet and that the cooling fluid drawn from the at least one cooling fluid outlet is disposed of.

[0029] The cooling fluid can be cooled outside the reactor vessel by a cooling device. The cooling device is preferably designed as a steam drum. The cooling device need not be part of the described reactor. However, it is preferred that the reactor has a cooling device for cooling the cooling fluid, which is arranged outside the reactor vessel and which is connected on one side to the cooling fluid inlet(s) and on the other side to the cooling fluid outlet(s). This cooling device is integrated into the flow paths. Alternatively, instead of using a separate cooling device, the cooling fluid can also be cooled outside the reactor vessel by the ambient air.

[0030] The cooling fluid can circulate in the cooling circuit without a pump. This is particularly possible when water is used as the cooling medium because the density difference between liquid and gaseous water vapor creates a natural circulation. This natural circulation is based on the thermosiphon effect. However, it is also conceivable that the cooling circuit includes a pump, especially outside the reactor.

[0031] All reactor components that can come into contact with the catalyst are preferably made of steel, particularly stainless steel. This prevents the catalyst from attacking the material of these components. Components in contact with the reactor vessel, on the other hand, are preferably made of a chromium-molybdenum alloy. Corrosion-resistant steel is particularly preferred because it avoids iron oxide as a catalyzed byproduct.

[0032] The cooling plates are preferably made of steel, preferably stainless steel.

[0033] The manifold is preferably made of steel, particularly stainless steel. The downpipe is preferably made of a chromium-molybdenum alloy and / or steel, particularly stainless steel. For example, a section of the downpipe connected to the manifold can be made of steel, while the remaining part of the downpipe is made of a chromium-molybdenum alloy. This meets both of the previously described material requirements. The steel section connected to the manifold is preferably designed as a straight pipe, which is oriented particularly parallel to the axis of the reactor vessel. It has been found that such a location for the material transition between the steel and the chromium-molybdenum alloy is particularly advantageous with regard to the flexibility of the downpipe.To minimize the effects of thermal expansion, the area of ​​differing materials across the height of the reactor vessel should be kept as small as possible. Furthermore, the material separation should preferably be located not only as close as possible to the plate pack, but also within a straight section of pipe. This optimizes the stress state. Material separation within a straight pipe section is advantageous because a straight pipe section exhibits a simpler stress state compared to a curved pipe section. This is particularly true for a straight pipe section parallel to the axis of the reactor vessel, as primarily axial forces act in such a section instead of shear forces, especially compared to a pipe section perpendicular to the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0034] The manifold is preferably made of steel, particularly stainless steel. The supply line is preferably made of a chromium-molybdenum alloy and / or steel, particularly stainless steel. For example, a section of the supply line connected to the manifold can be made of steel, while the remaining part of the supply line is made of a chromium-molybdenum alloy. This allows the two previously described material requirements to be met. The steel section connected to the manifold is preferably designed as a straight pipe, which is oriented particularly parallel to the axis of the reactor vessel. It has been found that such a location for the material transition between the steel and the chromium-molybdenum alloy is particularly advantageous with regard to the flexibility of the supply line. This is especially true if the material transition is located close to the plate pack.

[0035] The discharge pipe preferably has a diameter in the range of 2 to 25 cm, particularly in the range of 4 to 15 cm. The supply pipe preferably has a diameter in the range of 2 to 25 cm, particularly in the range of 4 to 15 cm.

[0036] In the described reactor, the effects of thermal expansion are particularly low. This is achieved by curving the at least one outlet such that it rotates around an axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°, preferably at least 270°, and particularly preferably at least 360°. Particularly preferably, the at least one outlet is curved such that it rotates around the axis of the reactor vessel by 360° to 1080°. This means that the outlet completes one to three complete rotations around the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0037] In the case of a single discharge, this discharge is curved such that it rotates around the axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°. In the case of multiple discharges, each discharge is curved such that it rotates around the axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°. In the case of multiple discharges, each discharge is preferably designed according to the preferred embodiments of the single discharge described herein.

[0038] The axis of the reactor vessel extends vertically. The collector, the plate pack, and the distributor are arranged on the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0039] The fact that the deflection completely surrounds the axis of the reactor vessel means that, when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the axis of the reactor vessel, it completely encloses the axis of the reactor vessel, i.e., on all sides. If the deflection only surrounds the axis of the reactor vessel by 180° to 360°, a corresponding definition applies. In that case, the deflection does not completely enclose the axis of the reactor vessel when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the axis of the reactor vessel. In the case of 180°, the deflection only partially encloses the axis of the reactor vessel when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0040] The discharge pipe does not need to circumnavigate the axis of the reactor vessel at a constant distance. In a preferred embodiment, the discharge pipe is annular or spiral in shape. However, this is not necessary. In particular, the discharge pipe can also have straight sections.

[0041] In both ring-shaped and spiral-shaped configurations of the discharge pipe, a circular shape can result when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the axis of the reactor vessel. This occurs when the axis of the reactor vessel coincides with an axis of the ring-shaped or spiral discharge pipe. This is preferred.

[0042] The fact that the duct runs around an axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180° says nothing about its vertical path. The beginning and end of the duct can be at the same height or spaced apart vertically. Between the beginning and end, the duct—at least as far as the definition under consideration here is concerned—can rise, fall, or remain at a constant height.

[0043] The fact that the discharge tube rotates around an axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°, preferably by at least 270°, and particularly preferably by 360°, can alternatively also be expressed by the fact that when viewed in a projection onto a plane perpendicular to an axis of the reactor vessel, the orientation of the derivative changes by at least 180°, preferably by at least 270°, particularly preferably by 360°, or the derivative, when viewed in a projection onto a plane perpendicular to an axis of the reactor vessel, revolves around the axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°, preferably by at least 270°, particularly preferably by 360°, or the derivative, when viewed in a projection onto a plane perpendicular to an axis of the reactor vessel, encloses the axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°, preferably by at least 270°, particularly preferably by 360°.

[0044] The previously described preferred forms of the derivation also apply accordingly to these alternative formulations.

[0045] Regardless of the chosen wording, the effects of thermal expansion are particularly low due to the described design of the derivative. Such thermal expansions can, in particular, cause the beginning and end of the derivative to shift relative to each other in the vertical direction.

[0046] The circumferential design of the downpipe distributes this change in height over a comparatively large length, thus minimizing its impact on the downpipe's performance. In particular, this design allows for optimal distribution of the forces caused by thermal expansion. This is based on the understanding that the downpipe length is longer with the described circumferential design than with a direct, straight connection between the collector and the cooling fluid outlet. This can be illustrated particularly well using a spiral downpipe where one axis of the spiral coincides with the axis of the reactor vessel. If the beginning and end of such a spiral downpipe diverge along the axis of the spiral or the reactor vessel, the individual coils of the spiral are only pulled apart to a relatively small extent.For the described functionality to work, it is not essential that the derivative be exactly spiral-shaped. The same function is fulfilled analogously if the derivative has any shape that meets the described definition. In particular, straight sections of the derivative do not affect the described functionality, or only to a minor extent.

[0047] It has been found that the described advantages are already achieved to a reasonable extent when the discharge pipe rotates 180° around the axis of the reactor vessel. This provides flexibility in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The more the discharge pipe rotates around the axis of the reactor vessel, the greater its length can be. Therefore, the described advantages are achieved to a greater extent the more the discharge pipe rotates around the axis of the reactor vessel. It is therefore preferred that the discharge pipe rotates around the axis of the reactor vessel by at least 270°, and even more preferably by at least 360°.

[0048] The described design of the drainage system allows for a particularly easy reduction of the effects of thermal expansion. This is especially true compared to flexible solutions using a flexible hose. The described drainage system can be designed as a pipe. Accordingly, it can easily withstand high pressures, which would not be the case with a hose, for example. Preferably, the drainage system is designed to withstand a pressure of at least 100 bar.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment of the reactor, the at least one discharge is formed with several straight pipe sections and at least one curved pipe section.

[0050] As previously described, a particularly low impact of thermal expansion can also be achieved with such a design. Furthermore, a design with several straight pipe sections and at least one curved pipe section offers the advantage of being particularly easy to manufacture. This is especially true compared to a spiral-shaped pipe. Such a pipe can be most easily manufactured in a single bending operation. However, this operation must be carried out very precisely so that the beginning and end of the pipe have exactly the desired relative position to each other in the finished pipe.

[0051] The derivative of the present embodiment, however, can be produced by holding the pipe sections together and connecting them, in particular by welding or flange-fitting them. This can be carried out as a multi-stage process by which the derivative is obtained step by step. A new adjustment can be made in each step. This allows any inaccuracies in previous steps to be compensated for.

[0052] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the individual pipe sections are standard parts. Such pipe sections are particularly readily available and inexpensive.

[0053] The curved pipe sections can, in particular, have an elbow shape. Such a pipe section has the shape of a ring segment. The curved pipe section is preferably curved by 30° to 180°, particularly by 90°. A pipe section curved by 90° has the shape of a quarter ring. Such pipe sections, in particular, are available as standard parts.

[0054] In another preferred embodiment, the reactor has several of the downpipes, with each downpipe carrying only a portion of the flow paths.

[0055] It was previously described that the reactor comprises at least one outlet through which the collector is connected to a respective cooling fluid outlet of the reactor vessel. In the present embodiment, this is the case, as the reactor comprises at least two such outlets. Preferably, exactly two outlets are provided.

[0056] Each of the branches carries only a portion of the flow paths. Therefore, the cooling fluid always passes through exactly one branch on its way from the manifold to one of the cooling fluid outlets, and not several branches in succession.

[0057] The drain lines are dimensioned to ensure compliance with specifications for the volumetric flow rate and flow velocity of the cooling fluid. These specifications can be chosen, in particular, to allow the cooling fluid to circulate within the cooling circuit without a pump. These specifications determine the total cross-sectional area required for all drain lines. If at least two drain lines are used, this total cross-sectional area is distributed across multiple lines. Therefore, a comparatively small cross-sectional area is sufficient for each individual line. This is advantageous because a large cross-sectional area generally requires a correspondingly thick wall to achieve the desired pressure resistance. However, a line with a thick wall is less flexible than one with a thinner wall.By dividing the system into at least two leads, the leads can therefore be particularly flexible, which further helps to compensate for thermal expansions particularly well.

[0058] The branches are preferably designed symmetrically to each other. This allows for a particularly uniform flow.

[0059] In another preferred embodiment of the reactor, the at least two lines are curved in the same direction and offset from each other and connected to the collector.

[0060] In this embodiment, the at least two leads are arranged in a particularly space-saving manner.

[0061] In another preferred embodiment of the reactor, the at least one cooling fluid outlet is arranged at a distance above the collector.

[0062] The fact that the duct runs around an axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180° says nothing about its path in the vertical direction. The beginning and end of the duct can be at the same height or spaced apart in the vertical direction. In the present embodiment, this is limited to the beginning and end of the duct being spaced apart in the vertical direction. It has been found that this further reduces the effects of thermal expansion. If the beginning and end of the duct are spaced apart in the vertical direction, a greater length of the duct can be achieved more easily than if the beginning and end were at the same height.

[0063] In another preferred embodiment of the reactor, the at least one outlet leaves a free space around the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0064] The open space makes the plate pack particularly easy to access. This space also makes it especially easy to add, empty, or replace the catalyst between the cooling plates.

[0065] In a further preferred embodiment of the reactor, the at least one feed line is curved such that, when viewed in a projection onto a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel, the orientation of the feed line changes by at least 135°, preferably at least 150°, in a first section of the feed line, and the orientation of the feed line changes by at least 45°, preferably at least 60°, in a second section of the feed line adjoining the first section in the direction of the distributor, wherein the at least one feed line in the first section is curved in the opposite direction to the second section.

[0066] In the present embodiment, the effects of thermal expansion are particularly minimal. This is achieved by the curved shape of the supply line as described. It is particularly preferred that the supply line initially runs horizontally, then curves by 180° in the first section, then curves by 90° in the opposite direction to the first section in the second section, and finally runs vertically upwards. The supply line preferably lies in a single plane. However, advantages can also be achieved if the path of the supply line deviates from this ideal case. It has been found that advantageous results can be achieved, in particular, if the supply line changes its orientation by at least 45° in the first section, especially by 60° to 110°, and by at least 135° in the second section, especially by 150° to 210°.

[0067] In the case of a single supply line, this supply line is curved as described. In the case of multiple supply lines, each supply line is curved as described.

[0068] The axis of the reactor vessel extends in a vertical direction. The collector, the plate pack, and the distributor are preferably arranged on the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0069] The described curvature refers to a projection onto a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel. This says nothing about how the supply line runs outside this plane. The beginning and end of the supply line can be offset from each other with respect to this plane. However, for the sake of simplicity, it is preferred that the supply line be planar. In particular, it is preferred that the supply line be located within a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel. This definition disregards the cross-sectional area of ​​the supply line.

[0070] The supply line does not need to be curved with a constant radius of curvature. In a preferred embodiment, this is indeed the case in the first section and / or the second section. However, the supply line can also be partially straight in the first section and / or the second section.

[0071] The fact that the at least one supply line is curved such that, when viewed in a projection onto a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel, the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 135°, preferably at least 150°, in a first section of the supply line, and the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 45°, preferably at least 60°, in a second section of the supply line adjoining the first section in the direction of the distributor, wherein the at least one supply line is curved in the opposite direction to the second section, can alternatively also be expressed by the fact that the at least one supply line is curved in a first section by at least 135°, preferably at least 150°, with respect to a first axis of curvature and in a second section adjoining the first section in the direction of the distributor is curved in the opposite direction to the first section by at least 45°, preferably at least 60°, with respect to a second axis of curvature, wherein the first axis of curvature and the second axis of curvature are each perpendicular to a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel, or the at least one supply line is curved such that the supply line in a first section curves around a first axis by at least 135°, preferably at least 150°, and in a second section adjoining the first section in the direction of the distributor curves around a second axis by at least 45°, preferably at least 60°, with respect to the first section,where the first axis and the second axis are each perpendicular to a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0072] The preferred designs described above also apply to these alternative formulations.

[0073] The described design of the at least one supply line minimizes the effects of thermal expansion. Such thermal expansion can cause the beginning and end of the supply line to shift vertically relative to each other. The described design distributes this change in height over a comparatively long length of the supply line, thus minimizing its impact. In particular, this design effectively distributes the forces caused by thermal expansion. This is based on the understanding that the supply line length is longer with this design than with a direct, straight connection between the distributor and the coolant inlet. This is primarily due to the opposing curvature in the first and second sections of the supply line.

[0074] It has been found that the described advantages are already achieved to a meaningful extent if, when viewed in a projection onto a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel, the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 135° in the first section and by at least 45° in the second section. Since the curvature in the two sections is opposite, the supply line is bent by a total of 90° across both sections. However, unlike a simple 90° bend, the described supply line has a loop-like shape. This results in a comparatively long supply line, which allows for particularly good compensation of thermal expansion.

[0075] The more the supply line deviates from a simple 90° bend, the greater its possible length. Therefore, the advantages described are achieved to a greater extent the more the supply line changes its orientation in the first section and in the second section. It is therefore preferred that, when viewed in a projection onto a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel, the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 150° in the first section and by at least 60° in the second section. Even with a combination of 150° and 60°, the supply line is bent by a total of 90° through both sections. This is also generally preferred. In this way, the supply line can be routed along the shortest path perpendicular to the shell wall of the reactor vessel without further bending.Furthermore, this allows the supply line to meet the distributor perpendicularly. This simplifies the connection of the supply line to the distributor. Additionally, the supply line can be connected to the distributor with a straight pipe section. A material separation can be arranged within this straight pipe section. This is advantageous with regard to the stress state because, in a pipe section parallel to the axis of the reactor vessel, primarily axial forces act instead of shear forces, especially compared to a pipe section arranged perpendicular to the axis of the reactor vessel.

[0076] Such a design also simplifies the further design of the feed line. It is therefore preferred that, when viewed in a projection onto a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel, the orientation of the feed line changes by a first angle in the first section and by a second angle in the second section, the first angle being 60° to 120°, particularly 90°, greater than the second angle. The first angle is at least 135°, particularly at least 150°. The second angle is at least 45°, particularly at least 60°.

[0077] The described design of the supply line allows for a particularly easy reduction of the effects of thermal expansion. This is especially true compared to flexible solutions using a flexible hose. The described supply line can be designed as a pipe. Accordingly, the supply line can easily withstand high pressures, which would not be the case with a hose, for example. Preferably, the supply line is designed to withstand a pressure of at least 100 bar.

[0078] In the present embodiment, the effect of thermal expansion can be particularly well compensated for, on the one hand, by the described design of the discharge in the upper region of the reactor vessel, and on the other hand, by the described design of the inlet in the lower region of the reactor vessel. The former is particularly advantageous in the upright configuration considered here, because the plate pack expands thermally upwards. Therefore, thermal expansion is less significant in the lower region of the reactor vessel. Nevertheless, it is also advisable in the upright configuration to take this, albeit smaller, thermal expansion into account. In the present embodiment, this can be achieved by the described design of the inlet.

[0079] In the first section, the supply line need not be continuously curved, as long as the previously stated definition is met that the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 135°, preferably at least 150°, along its length. The first section may also include a straight section. In the second section, the supply line need not be continuously curved, as long as the previously stated definition is met that the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 45°, preferably at least 60°, along its length. The second section may also include a straight section. In particular, it is possible for the first section and / or the second section to form a straight section at a transition between the first and second sections.

[0080] In another preferred embodiment of the reactor, the at least one feed line is formed with at least one straight pipe section and several curved pipe sections.

[0081] The supply line could be formed by a single bending operation. However, this would have to be carried out very precisely so that the beginning and end of the finished supply line have exactly the desired relative position to each other. It is significantly simpler to assemble the supply line from several pipe sections. By using at least one straight pipe section and several curved pipe sections, the desired configuration of the supply line can be achieved.

[0082] The supply line of the present embodiment can be produced by holding the pipe sections together and connecting them, in particular by welding or flange-fitting them. This can be carried out as a multi-stage process by which the supply line is obtained step by step. A new adjustment can be made in each step. This allows any inaccuracies in previous steps to be compensated for.

[0083] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the individual pipe sections are standard parts. Such pipe sections are particularly readily available and inexpensive.

[0084] The curved pipe sections can, in particular, have an elbow shape. Such a pipe section has the shape of a ring segment. The curved pipe section is preferably curved by 30° to 180°, particularly by 90°. A pipe section curved by 90° has the shape of a quarter ring. Such pipe sections, in particular, are available as standard parts.

[0085] In another preferred embodiment of the reactor, exactly one of the feed lines is provided, with all flow paths passing through the one feed line.

[0086] It was previously described that the reactor comprises at least one supply line through which the distributor is connected to a respective cooling fluid inlet of the reactor vessel. In the present embodiment, this is the case, as the reactor has exactly one such supply line. Each of the flow paths runs through this single supply line. Thus, the cooling fluid always passes through this single supply line on its way from the cooling fluid inlet to the distributor.

[0087] The supply line is dimensioned to ensure compliance with specifications for the volume flow rate and flow velocity of the cooling fluid. These specifications can be chosen, in particular, to allow the cooling fluid to circulate within the cooling circuit without a pump. These specifications determine the required cross-sectional area of ​​the supply line. It has been found that this can be achieved with a single supply line.

[0088] The requirements for the inlet(s) and outlet(s) differ. This is particularly true if the cooling fluid flows through the inlet(s) in a liquid state and through the outlet(s) in a gaseous state. The cooling fluid has a lower density in the gaseous state than in the liquid state. Therefore, one inlet may suffice, even if two outlets are advantageous. It is therefore preferred that there be exactly one inlet and at least two outlets.

[0089] In another preferred embodiment of the reactor, the at least one cooling fluid inlet is arranged at a distance downwards from the distributor.

[0090] The described curvature of the supply line allows for particularly effective bridging of such a distance between the coolant inlet and the manifold. If the manifold and coolant inlet were at the same height, the supply line would need to have one or more additional curved sections beyond the described bends in the first and second sections to connect the manifold to the coolant inlet. While this is possible, it is not the preferred solution.

[0091] If the discharge and inlet lines are designed as described, the advantages can be achieved equally with both vertical and vertical mounting of the plate pack. Therefore, it is not necessary to restrict the described reactor to vertical mounting if both the discharge and inlet lines are designed as described. As a further aspect of the invention, a reactor is presented which comprises a reactor vessel and which includes within the reactor vessel: a plate pack formed by several cooling plates through which a cooling fluid can flow, wherein gaps are formed between the cooling plates in which a catalyst is arranged, so that a reaction gas can flow through the gaps and thereby come into contact with the catalyst, a distributor connected to the underside of the plate pack, at least one inlet line via which the distributor is connected to a respective cooling fluid inlet of the reactor vessel, a collector connected to the top of the plate pack, at least one outlet via which the collector is connected to a respective cooling fluid outlet of the reactor vessel,

[0092] Flow paths for the cooling fluid are formed, each leading from one of the cooling fluid inlets through the corresponding supply line, the distributor, one of the cooling plates, the collector, and one of the outlets to the corresponding cooling fluid outlet, wherein the at least one outlet is curved such that the outlet rotates around an axis of the reactor vessel by at least 180°, and wherein the at least one supply line is curved such that, when viewed in a projection onto a plane containing the axis of the reactor vessel, the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 135°, preferably at least 150°, in a first section of the supply line, and the orientation of the supply line changes by at least 45°, preferably at least 60°, in a second section of the supply line adjoining the first section in the direction of the distributor.and wherein at least one supply line in the first section is curved in the opposite direction to the second section.

[0093] The advantages and features of the previously described reactor are applicable and transferable to the reactor described here, and vice versa. In the reactor described here, the plate pack can be mounted vertically or vertically. Other mounting configurations are also conceivable.

[0094] As a further aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a reactor designed as described is presented. The method comprises a) Providing the reactor vessel, the plate pack, the distributor, the at least one inlet, the collector and the at least one outlet; b) Assembling the reactor vessel, the plate pack, the distributor, the at least one inlet, the collector and the at least one outlet to the reactor. where the at least one derivative in step a) is provided by the following substep: a1) Producing the at least one conduit by holding several pipe sections together and connecting them, in particular by welding them together or by flanged them together.

[0095] The described advantages and features of the reactor are applicable and transferable to the process, and vice versa. The reactor is preferably manufactured by the described process.

[0096] It is particularly preferred in this method that the at least one branch is formed with several straight pipe sections and at least one curved pipe section. In this case, standard components can be used as pipe sections. However, the shape of the pipe sections is not critical for the described method.

[0097] In step a1), the downpipe can be constructed step by step. This refers in particular to the fact that the pipe sections are sequentially connected to one another, especially by welding or flanges. Holding the sections together can also be done sequentially. Thus, each additional pipe section is held against the already completed part of the downpipe and connected to it, especially by welding or flanges. It is also possible to hold several or even all of the pipe sections together and only then weld them. The order in which the individual welds are made is irrelevant. Holding the sections together can be done manually or with the aid of holding devices. Holding the sections together can be facilitated by temporarily connecting adjacent pipe sections with individual spot welds.This can also be called stapling.

[0098] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the at least one supply line in step a) is provided by the following substep: a2) Producing the at least one supply line by holding several pipe sections together and connecting them, in particular by welding them together or flanged them together.

[0099] The same applies to step a2).

[0100] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. The figures show a particularly preferred embodiment, to which, however, the invention is not limited. The figures and the size relationships shown therein are only schematic. They show: Fig. 1: a reactor according to the invention in a side sectional view, Fig. 2a to 2d: the collector and the discharges of the reactor made of Fig. 1 in four different representations, Fig. 3: the distributor and the supply line of the reactor made of Fig. 1 .

[0101] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a reactor 1 with a reactor vessel 2. Inside the reactor vessel 2, the reactor 1 has a vertically mounted plate pack 3. The vertical mounting of the plate pack 3 is indicated by supports 18 on a lower surface 5 of the plate pack 3. The plate pack 3 is formed by several cooling plates 4. Fig. 1 One of the cooling plates 4 is visible. The remaining cooling plates 4 are arranged parallel to it within the plane of the drawing. Gaps are formed between the cooling plates 4, in which a catalyst is arranged, allowing a reaction gas to flow through the gaps and come into contact with the catalyst. The reaction gas can, for example, be introduced into the reactor vessel 2 through an inlet (not shown) below the plate pack 3, flow through the gaps from bottom to top, and be released from the reactor vessel 2 through an outlet (not shown) above the plate pack 3. As the reaction gas flows through the gaps between the cooling plates 4, it can be cooled by the cooling plates. For this purpose, the cooling plates 4 are designed to allow a cooling fluid to flow through them.

[0102] In order for the cooling fluid to flow through the cooling plates 4, the reactor 1 has the following elements inside the reactor vessel 2: a distributor 7 connected to the underside 5 of the plate package 3, a supply line 8 via which the distributor 7 is connected to a cooling fluid inlet 11 of the reactor vessel 2, a collector 9 connected to the top 6 of the plate package 3, two outlets 10 via which the collector 9 is connected to a respective cooling fluid outlet 12 of the reactor vessel 2.

[0103] This creates flow paths for the cooling fluid, each leading from the cooling fluid inlet 11 via the supply line 8, the distributor 7, one of the cooling plates 4, the collector 9, and one of the outlets 10 to the corresponding cooling fluid outlet 12. Only a portion of the flow paths runs through each of the two outlets 10. The two cooling fluid outlets 12 are each positioned at a distance above the collector 9.

[0104] The cooling fluid can be guided through the interior of the reactor vessel 2 via these flow paths from the cooling fluid inlet 11 to one of the two cooling fluid outlets 12. In this way, the cooling fluid is separated from the rest of the interior of the reactor vessel 2, in which the reaction gas can flow. The cooling fluid therefore does not come into contact with the reaction gas. Only heat exchange between the cooling fluid and the reaction gas is possible.

[0105] Furthermore, in Fig. 1 An axis 13 of reactor vessel 2 is shown.

[0106] In Fig. 2a bis 2d The collector 9 and the two branches 10 of reactor 1 are shown enlarged. Fig. 2a shows a perspective view. Fig. 2b shows a side view from the same perspective as Fig. 1 . Fig. 2c shows a side view rotated by 90°. Fig. 2d shows a top view.

[0107] This can be recognized by the Fig. 2a bis 2d , that the two leads 10 are each curved such that they each orbit the axis 13 of the reactor vessel 2 by 360°. This is particularly evident from the perspective view of the Fig. 2a to be recognized as well as from the top view of the Fig. 2d . At the in Fig. 2d In the view shown perpendicular to the axis 13 of the reactor vessel 2, the orientation of the respective derivation 10 changes by approximately 360° along the course of this derivation 10.

[0108] This can be recognized by the Fig. 2a bis 2d It is also shown that the two branches 10 are each formed with several straight pipe sections 14 and several curved pipe sections 15. The two branches 10 are curved in the same direction and offset from each other and connected to the collector 9. The two branches 10 can each be produced by holding the pipe sections 14 and 15 together and connecting them, in particular by welding or flange them together.

[0109] Especially the top view of the Fig. 2d It can be seen that the two diverts 10 each leave a free space 19 around the axis 13 of the reactor vessel 2.

[0110] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the distributor 7 and the supply line 8 from Fig. 1 The perspective of Fig. 3 is the same as with Fig. 1 The one in Fig. 3 The visible course of the supply line 8 corresponds to its course when viewed as a projection onto a plane containing the axis 13 of the reactor vessel 2. It can be seen that the supply line 8 is curved such that in a first section 16 of the supply line 8, its orientation changes by 180°, and in a second section 17 of the supply line 8, which connects to the first section 16 in the direction of the distributor 7, its orientation changes by 90°. In the first section 16, the supply line is curved in the opposite direction to the second section 17. The extent of the first section 16 and the second section 17 is indicated by a dashed line. The supply line 2 is also formed with several straight pipe sections 14 and several curved pipe sections 15.The supply line 8 can be produced by holding the pipe sections 14,15 together and connecting them, in particular by welding them together or flanged them together. Bezugszeichenliste

[0111] 1 Reactor 2 Reactor vessel 3 Plate pack 4 Cooling plate 5 Bottom 6 Top 7 Distributor 8 Inlet 9 Collector 10 Outlet 11 Cooling fluid inlet 12 Cooling fluid outlet 13 Axis 14 Straight pipe section 15 Curved pipe section 16 First section 17 Second section 18 Support 19 Free space

Claims

1. Reactor (1) comprising a reactor vessel (2) and, inside the reactor vessel (2): - a plate assembly (3) which is mounted upright and which is formed by a plurality of cooling plates (4) through which a cooling fluid can flow, wherein between the cooling plates (4) intermediate spaces, in which a catalyst is arranged, are formed such that a reaction gas can flow through the intermediate spaces and come into contact with the catalyst, - a distributor (7) which is attached to the plate assembly (3) on an underside (5) of the plate assembly (3), - at least one supply line (8), via which the distributor (7) is connected to a respective cooling fluid inlet (11) of the reactor vessel (2), - a collector (9) which is attached to the plate assembly (3) on a top side (6) of the plate assembly (3), - at least one discharge line (10), via which the collector (9) is connected to a respective cooling fluid outlet (12) of the reactor vessel (2), wherein flow paths for the cooling fluid are formed, the flow paths in each case leading from one of the cooling fluid inlets (11) through the corresponding supply line (8), the distributor (7), one of the cooling plates (4), the collector (9) and one of the discharge lines (10) to the corresponding cooling fluid outlet (12), and wherein the at least one discharge line (10) is curved in such a way that the discharge line (10) runs around an axis (13) of the reactor vessel (2) by at least 180°, wherein the collector (9), the plate assembly (3) and the distributor (7) are arranged on the axis (13) of the reactor vessel (2).

2. Reactor (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one discharge line (10) is formed with a plurality of rectilinear pipe pieces (14) and at least one curved pipe piece (15).

3. Reactor (1) according to either of the preceding claims, which has a plurality of the discharge lines (10), wherein in each case only a portion of the flow paths runs through each of the discharge lines (10).

4. Reactor (1) according to Claim 3, wherein the at least two discharge lines (10) are curved in the same direction and are attached offset from one another to the collector (9).

5. Reactor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one cooling fluid outlet (12) is arranged spaced apart upwards from the collector (9).

6. Reactor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one discharge line (10) leaves a clearance (19) free around the axis (13) of the reactor vessel (2).

7. Reactor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one supply line (8) is curved in such a manner that, when viewed in a projection onto a plane containing the axis (13) of the reactor vessel (2), an orientation of the supply line (8) in a first portion (16) of the supply line (8) changes over the course of the supply line (8) by at least 135°, and in a second portion (17) of the supply line (8), which adjoins the first portion (16) in the direction of the distributor (7), an orientation of the supply line (8) changes over the course of the supply line (8) by at least 45°, and wherein the at least one supply line (8) is curved in the first portion (16) in the opposite direction to the second portion (17).

8. Method for producing a reactor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a) providing the reactor vessel (2), the plate assembly (3), the distributor (7), the at least one supply line (8), the collector (9) and the at least one discharge line (10), b) mounting the reactor vessel (2), the plate assembly (3), the distributor (7), the at least one supply line (8), the collector (9) and the at least one discharge line (10) for the reactor (1), wherein the at least one discharge line (10) in step a) is provided by the following sub-step: a1) producing the at least one discharge line (10) by holding a plurality of pipe pieces (14,15) together and connecting them to one another.

9. Method according to Claim 8, wherein the at least one supply line (8) in step a) is provided by the following sub-step: a2) producing the at least one supply line (8) by holding a plurality of pipe pieces (14,15) together and connecting them to one another.

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