Systems, devices, and methods for reactor feed distribution systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems, devices, and methods for reactor feed distribution systems. In some aspects, multi-segmented conduits and orifice plates. The multi-segmented conduit includes a first conduit segment defining a first passageway and a second conduit segment defining a second passageway. The second conduit segment includes a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis, a second portion extending along a second longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis, and a curved portion connecting the first portion to the second portion. The orifice plate is configured to be positioned at an inlet or a first outlet of the first conduit segment. The orifice plate includes a maximum lateral dimension that is less than a minimum lateral dimension of each of the first passageway and the second passageway.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to European Patent Application No. 20150570.8, filed on 7 January 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to inlet piping networks for reactors, and more specifically, but not limited to, hydrocarbon feed inlets for dehydrogenation reactors. Background Technology

[0004] Critical flow orifices are typically located upstream of the dehydrogenation reactor to generate a sonic flow entering the reactor. Sonic flow allows control of the system by varying the flow rate upstream of the critical flow orifice, regardless of downstream pressure changes. While sonic flow orifices can control the system's flow rate, using multiple orifices can introduce significant pressure drops (e.g., up to 90%) and temperature losses into the system. To maintain the operating temperatures of highly endothermic dehydrogenation processes (e.g., 500°C and above), additional energy is used to offset the temperature and pressure losses at the critical flow orifice. For example, conventional methods increase the outlet temperature of heaters located upstream of one or more reactors. However, conventional methods are not energy efficient and increase reactor operating costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure generally relates to systems, apparatus, and methods for reactor feed distribution systems. For example, a system may include one or more pipe sections and orifice plates. The orifice plates are configured and / or positioned to induce sonic flow within the system, prevent energy loss, or both. For illustration, one or more pipe sections may include a single pipe section or a multi-section pipe having a first pipe section, a second pipe section, and an orifice plate. The orifice plate may be located at the inlet or outlet of a pipe section. When one or more sections comprise a multi-section pipe, the orifice plate may be located at the inlet or outlet of the first pipe section, and the maximum lateral dimension of the orifice plate may be less than the minimum lateral dimension of each passage in the first and second pipe sections. In some embodiments, the first pipe section may include a nozzle portion, a throat portion, a diffuser portion, or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the second pipe section may include a first portion, a second portion, and a bend that cooperate to reduce or limit pressure loss in the multi-section pipe. Therefore, compared with conventional systems, the present disclosure, comprising one or more pipe sections and an orifice plate, provides a highly efficient and energy-saving system for minimizing thermodynamic losses at the inlet of a dehydrogenation system in terms of both temperature and pressure losses.

[0006] Some embodiments of the system include a multi-sectioned conduit and an orifice plate. The multi-sectioned conduit includes a first conduit section and a second conduit section. The first conduit section defines a first passageway configured to transport fluid from a first inlet of the first conduit section to a first outlet of the first conduit section. The second conduit section defines a second passageway configured to transport fluid from a second inlet of the second conduit section to a second outlet of the second conduit section. The second conduit section includes a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis, a second portion extending along a second longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis, and a curved portion connecting the first portion to the second portion. The orifice plate is configured to be positioned at the first inlet or the first outlet. The orifice plate includes a maximum lateral dimension that is less than a minimum lateral dimension of the first passageway and the second passageway.

[0007] In some of the foregoing embodiments, the curved portion of the second conduit section includes a deflection angle that is less than 60 degrees (e.g., 45.5 degrees) or an angle of a standard long-radius elbow. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the orifice plate is positioned at the first outlet. In some such embodiments, the system further includes a dehydrogenation reactor, and the multi-sectioned conduit is positioned upstream of the dehydrogenation reactor, thereby defining a flow path from the first conduit section, through the orifice plate, through the second conduit section, to an inlet of the dehydrogenation reactor. In some embodiments, the first conduit section includes a hot-wall conduit, the second conduit section includes a hot-wall conduit, or both the first conduit section and the second conduit section include hot-wall conduits. Additionally or alternatively, the first conduit section can be tapered such that a cross-sectional area of the first passageway increases as the first passageway extends from the first inlet to the first outlet.

[0008] Some embodiments of the system include an inlet piping network for a reactor. The inlet piping network includes a multi-sectioned conduit. The multi-sectioned conduit includes a first conduit having an inlet and an outlet and defining a passageway configured to transport fluid from the inlet to the outlet to define a flow path of the first conduit. The first conduit includes a nozzle portion, a diverging portion, and a throat portion. The nozzle portion extends from the inlet and includes a taper that decreases a cross-sectional area of the passageway from an upstream end of the nozzle portion to a downstream end of the nozzle portion. The diverging portion extends from the outlet and includes a taper that increases the cross-sectional area of the passageway from an upstream end of the diffuser portion to a downstream end of the diffuser portion. The throat portion extends between the downstream end of the nozzle portion and the upstream end of the diffuser portion. The multi-sectioned conduit includes a second conduit in fluid communication with the first conduit. In some embodiments, the inlet piping network further includes an orifice plate. The orifice plate can be coupled to the downstream end of the diffuser portion.

[0009] In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present system, the inner diameter of the passage at the throat portion is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the passage at the downstream end of the nozzle portion. Additionally or alternatively, the inner diameter of the passage is substantially constant in the throat portion. In some embodiments, the first conduit comprises a hot-walled conduit, the second conduit comprises a hot-walled conduit, the distance between the inlet of the first conduit and the reactor is between 10-15 meters, or a combination thereof.

[0010] Some embodiments include a plurality of dehydrogenation reactors arranged in parallel and in communication with a multi-zone conduit. In some such embodiments, the multi-zone conduit is positioned upstream of the plurality of dehydrogenation reactors, defining a flow path from the first conduit zone, through the orifice plate or converging-diverging nozzle, through the second conduit zone, to the inlet of the dehydrogenation reactors. Additionally or alternatively, the orifice comprises a maximum lateral dimension that is less than a minimum lateral dimension of the passage, and / or the second conduit comprises an elbow conduit having a deflection angle of less than or equal to 50 degrees.

[0011] Some embodiments of the present method (e.g., embodiments that perform a dehydrogenation process) include receiving a fluid having hydrogen through a first conduit, reducing a pressure of the fluid through the first conduit, and delivering the fluid through the first conduit to an orifice plate or converging-diverging nozzle. The present method further includes inducing a sonic flow of the fluid through the orifice plate or converging-diverging nozzle, receiving the fluid through a second conduit, and delivering the fluid through the second conduit to a dehydrogenation reactor.

[0012] In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present method, the method can further include, prior to reducing the pressure of the fluid through the first conduit, compressing the fluid through the first conduit. Additionally or alternatively, the method can further include generating a shock wave in the fluid through the second conduit. In some embodiments, delivering the fluid to the dehydrogenation reactor includes delivering the fluid to a plurality of dehydrogenation reactors arranged in parallel. Additionally or alternatively, in some of the foregoing methods, the fluid comprises an alkane. In some such embodiments, the method can include converting the alkane to an alkene through the dehydrogenation reactor.

[0013] As used herein, the various terminology is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the embodiments. For example, as used herein, ordinal terms such as first, second, third, etc., are employed merely for purposes of description and are not intended to indicate any sequence, relative position, or order of use. The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The two items that are “coupled” can be unitary with each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless this disclosure explicitly states otherwise. The term “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly that which is specified (and includes that which is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed embodiment, the term “substantially” can be replaced with “within a specified ‘percentage’ range,” where the percentage includes 0.1%, 1%, 5%, and 10%.

[0014] The term “about” as used herein can allow for a degree of variability in a value or range, for example, within 10%, within 5%, or within 1% of a stated limit of a value or range, and includes the exact stated value or range. The term “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly that which is specified (and includes that which is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed embodiment, the term “substantially” can be replaced with “within a specified ‘percentage’ range,” where the percentage includes 0.1%, 1%, or 5%; and the term “approximately” can be replaced with “within 10% of a specified value.” Unless otherwise stated, the expression “substantially X to Y” has the same meaning as “substantially X to substantially Y.” Likewise, unless otherwise stated, the expression “substantially X, Y, or substantially Z” has the same meaning as “substantially X, substantially Y, or substantially Z.” The phrase “and / or” means and or or. To illustrate, A, B, and / or C includes: individual A, individual B, individual C, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C. In other words, “and / or” operates as an inclusive or. Furthermore, the phrase “A, B, C, or a combination thereof’ or “A, B, C, or any combination thereof’ includes: individual A, individual B, individual C, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0015] Throughout this document, values expressed in a range format should be interpreted in a flexible manner to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. For example, a range of "about 0.1% to about 5%" or "about 0.1% to 5%" should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values and the range of values from about 0.1% to about 5%, but also the individual values 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%, and the sub-ranges 0.1% to 0.5%, 1.1% to 2.2%, 3.3% to 4.4%. The terms "comprise," "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "have," "has," "having," or the like are open-ended links that are intended to mean that there are articles beyond those listed. Thus, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," "contains" or "containing," or the like, are open-ended and do not exclude other components, steps, or objects. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a" or "the" component includes a plurality of such components unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Similarly, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" are open-ended and do not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and vice versa. Similarly, unless otherwise required by context, "comprising," "including," containing" or "having" will be understood to be open terms that also mean "consisting essentially of" or "consisting of."

[0016] In the context of the present invention, at least fifteen embodiments are now described. Embodiment 1 is an inlet feed system for a reactor. The inlet feed system includes a multi-sectioned conduit having a first conduit section defining a first passageway configured to convey fluid from a first inlet of the first conduit section to a first outlet of the first conduit section, and a second conduit section defining a second passageway configured to convey fluid from a second inlet of the second conduit section to a second outlet of the second conduit section. The second conduit section includes a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis; a second portion extending along a second longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis; and a curved portion connecting the first portion to the second portion; and an orifice plate configured to be located at the first inlet or the first outlet, the orifice plate including a maximum lateral dimension that is less than a minimum lateral dimension of each of the first passageway and the second passageway. Embodiment 2 is the system of embodiment 1, wherein the curved portion of the second conduit section includes a deflection angle of less than 60 degrees; or the orifice plate is located at the first outlet; and optionally, the first conduit section includes a hot-walled conduit, the second conduit section includes a hot-walled conduit, or both the first conduit section and the second conduit section include hot-walled conduits. Embodiment 3 is the system of any one of embodiments 1-2, further comprising a dehydrogenation reactor; and wherein the multi-sectioned conduit is located upstream of the dehydrogenation reactor, defining a flow path from the first conduit section, through the orifice plate, through the second conduit section, to the dehydrogenation reactor inlet; or wherein the first conduit section is tapered such that a cross-sectional area of the first passageway increases as the first passageway extends from the first inlet to the first outlet.

[0017] Example 4 is an inlet piping network for a reactor. The inlet piping network includes a multi-sectioned pipe including a first pipe including an inlet and an outlet and a second pipe in fluid communication with the first pipe, the first pipe defining a passageway configured to convey fluid from the inlet to the outlet to define a flow path of the first pipe, the first pipe including: a nozzle portion extending from the inlet, the nozzle portion having a taper that decreases a cross-sectional area of the passageway from an upstream end of the nozzle portion to a downstream end of the nozzle portion; a diffuser portion extending from the outlet, the diffuser portion having a taper that increases the cross-sectional area of the passageway from an upstream end of the diffuser portion to a downstream end of the diffuser portion; and a throat portion extending between the downstream end of the nozzle portion and the upstream end of the diffuser portion. Example 5 is the inlet piping network of Example 4, wherein an inner diameter of the passageway at the throat portion is substantially equal to an inner diameter of the passageway at the downstream end of the nozzle portion. Example 6 is the inlet piping network of any one of Examples 4-5, wherein the inner diameter of the passageway is substantially constant in the throat portion. Example 7 is the inlet piping network of any one of Examples 4-6, wherein the first pipe includes a hot-walled pipe. Example 8 is the inlet piping network of Example 7, wherein the second pipe includes a hot-walled pipe. Example 9 is the inlet piping network of any one of Examples 4-8, wherein a distance between the inlet of the first pipe and the reactor is between 10-15 meters. Example 10 is the inlet piping network of any one of Examples 4-9, further comprising a plurality of dehydrogenation reactors arranged in parallel, each dehydrogenation reactor in communication with the multi-sectioned pipe; and wherein the multi-sectioned pipe is upstream of the plurality of dehydrogenation reactors, defining a flow path from the first pipe, through an orifice plate or converging-diverging nozzle, through the second pipe, to the dehydrogenation reactor inlets. Example 11 is the inlet piping network of Example 10, wherein the orifice plate includes a maximum lateral dimension that is less than a minimum lateral dimension of the passageway. Example 12 is the inlet piping network of any one of Examples 4 to 11, wherein the second pipe includes an elbow pipe having a deflection angle less than or equal to 50 degrees.

[0018] Example 13 is a method of performing a dehydrogenation process, the method comprising receiving a hydrogen-containing fluid through a first conduit; reducing a pressure of the fluid through the first conduit; transporting the fluid through the first conduit to an orifice plate or a converging-diverging nozzle; inducing a sonic flow of the fluid through the orifice plate or the converging-diverging nozzle; receiving the fluid through a second conduit; transporting the fluid through the second conduit to a dehydrogenation reactor. Example 14 is the method of Example 13, further comprising compressing the fluid through the first conduit prior to reducing the pressure of the fluid through the first conduit; or generating a shock wave in the fluid through the second conduit. Example 15 is the method of any of Examples 13-14, wherein transporting the fluid to the dehydrogenation reactor comprises transporting the fluid to a plurality of dehydrogenation reactors arranged in parallel; or the fluid comprises an alkane, and the method further comprises converting the alkane to an alkene through the dehydrogenation reactor.

[0019] Any implementation of any system, method, and article of manufacture can be none other than, or consist essentially of, or consist of the described steps, elements, and / or features, without the recitation of which the described steps, elements, and / or features are not essential to the practice of the particular aspect. Accordingly, the terms "comprising," "consisting essentially of," and "consisting of" to the extent they can be recited in any of the claims, are not to be construed as precluding any alternative implementation of the given claim. Furthermore, the term "wherein" can be used in place of "where" in any of the claims. Moreover, an apparatus or system configured to perform one or more steps of a method is at least so configured, but can also be configured in other ways. One or more features of an implementation can be employed in other implementations even if not described or illustrated in the context of that implementation.

[0020] Some details associated with implementations are described above, and others will be described below. Other implementations, advantages, and features of the present disclosure will become apparent in the whole of this application, when the following sections are reviewed: DETAILED DESCRIPTION, including the , the SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS, and the CLAIMS. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following drawings are included to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, by way of non-limiting example. For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structure is not always labeled in every figure in which the structure appears. Identical reference numerals can not denote the same structure in different figures. Instead, they can be used to denote similar or analogous structures or features that serve the same or a similar function, or different structures or features that serve different functions.

[0022] Figure 1is a side view of an example of a dehydrogenation system including a reactor.

[0023] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of an example of an inlet assembly.

[0024] Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of another example of an inlet assembly.

[0025] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of another example of an inlet assembly.

[0026] Figure 4A and 4B is an illustrative example of a system including multiple reactors.

[0027] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method of performing a dehydrogenation process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Referring to Figure 1 A side view of an example of a dehydrogenation system including a reactor is shown and designated 100. The system 100 can be configured to reduce pressure loss and temperature loss associated with a feed inlet of the reactor 150. The reactor 150 can define a body having a chamber in which a reaction (e.g., a chemical reaction) occurs. In some embodiments, the reactor 150 includes a fixed bed catalytic reactor. The reactor 150 includes one or more inlets 152 and one or more outlets 154. The reactor 150 can define a portion of a flow path of the system 100 from the inlet 152, through the reaction chamber, to the outlet 154. In some embodiments, the reactor 150 also includes a port 156 coupled to the inlet 152 and / or the outlet 154 and configured to receive or deliver fluid of the system 100 from or to one or more other components. For example, as described herein, the port 156 can enable the reactor 150 to be in fluid communication with one or more other components of the system 100. Additionally or alternatively, the reactor can include a piping network 158 (e.g., a reactor piping network or a cactus piping network), which in certain configurations can connect the inlet 152 to the port 156.

[0029] The system 100 includes one or more inlet paths (e.g., cactus piping 101) configured to each deliver a fluid to the reactor 150. For example, the system 100 can include a first inlet 102, a second inlet 104, and a third inlet 106. Each inlet can be configured to deliver a separate fluid to the reactor 150. For example, the first inlet 102 can carry a hydrocarbon feed such as propane, n-butane, isobutane, isopentane, and the like as illustrative, non-limiting examples, the second inlet 104 can be configured to carry air, and the third inlet 106 can be configured to carry a reducing gas or steam. In some embodiments, the inlets 102, 104, 106 can be arranged in a cactus orientation such that one or more pipes converge at a port of the reactor 150. For example, the first inlet 102 and the third inlet 106 are angularly disposed relative to the second inlet 104 in a cactus configuration to improve mixing of the fluids into the reactor 150. The system 100 can also include one or more outlet paths to carry fluid away from the reactor 150. In some embodiments, the system 100 can include a compressor 105 configured to increase or decrease a flow rate of the system 100. As shown, the compressor 105 is located downstream of the reactor 150, however, in some embodiments, the compressor 105 can be an upstream feed pump, a downstream compressor, or both or can include an upstream feed pump, a downstream compressor, or both.

[0030] The at least one inlet (e.g., 102) includes a feed inlet assembly (e.g., assembly 110) located upstream of the reactor 150 to define a portion of a flow path of the system 100. For example, the assembly 110 is located upstream of the reactor 150 such that fluid passes through the assembly 110 to the reactor 150. The assembly 110 and the reactor 150 can be coupled together in any suitable manner such as one or more fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, rivets, and the like), welding, friction, other intermediary parts, and the like. As an illustrative, non-limiting example, the assembly 110 is coupled to a reactor piping 158. The piping 158 can provide a portion of a flow path from the inlet (e.g., 102) to the reactor 150. For example, fluid can be carried from the inlet assembly 110 to the piping 158, to the port 156, to the reactor 150. To illustrate, the piping 158 can include or correspond to the cactus piping 101. In some embodiments, the system 100 includes one or more additional components such as one or more pumps, compressors, heaters, gravity separators, turbines, valves, catalysts, combinations thereof, or the like as illustrative, non-limiting examples, which are not shown for convenience.

[0031] Assembly 110 includes one or more conduits configured to deliver fluids, such as hydrocarbon feed, to reactor 150. Although referred to herein as assembly 110, assembly 110 can also be referred to herein as a feed assembly, an inlet assembly, a feed piping network, an inlet piping network, a feed inlet, a feed inlet system, or an inlet feed system. Assembly 110 can be configured to adequately distribute the flow of fluids and to minimize thermodynamic losses of the system. In some implementations, assembly 110 can be a hot wall design and / or a cold wall design.

[0032] An example block diagram of one of the inlet conduits (e.g., a hydrocarbon feed inlet) is shown at 108. Although assembly 110 is shown and described with reference to a hydrocarbon feed inlet, assembly 110 can be used on one or more other inlet conduits of reactor 150, such as an air inlet (e.g., 104), a reducing gas inlet (e.g., 106), or both. As shown at 108, assembly 110 includes a first conduit 120, a second conduit 130, and an orifice 140 (e.g., an orifice plate). First conduit 120, second conduit 130, and orifice 140 can be coupled together to define a portion of a flow path of system 100. For example, a portion 111 of the flow path of system 100 can be defined as from first conduit 120, to orifice 140, to second conduit 130. To illustrate, conduits 120, 130, and orifice 140 are each configured to carry fluids through a respective portion of flow path 111. Further, the flow path of system 100 can be defined at least as from first conduit 120, through second conduit 130, to reactor 150. Although first conduit 120 and second conduit 130 are described and depicted as separate components, first conduit 120 and second conduit 130 can be unitary such that first conduit 120 corresponds to a first portion of the conduit and second conduit 130 corresponds to a second portion of the conduit.

[0033] First conduit 120 includes a first end 122 and a second end 124. As shown, first end 122 is opposite second end 124. First conduit 120 can carry fluids (e.g., liquids, gases, or combinations thereof) from first end 122 to second end 124. First conduit 120 includes one or more walls that define a passageway 126 extending between first end 122 and second end 124 to transport fluids (e.g., hydrocarbon feed). As shown, first conduit 120 can be coupled to one or more other components of assembly 110 (e.g., second conduit 130 and / or orifice 140). Additionally or alternatively, first conduit segment 120 can include one or more features, such as a nozzle portion, a throat portion, a diverging portion, or other features as described herein with reference to FIGS. 2-5. Figure 2A 、 2B and Figure 3 further described.

[0034] The second conduit 130 includes a first end 132 and a second end 134. As shown, the first end 132 is opposite to the second end 134. The second conduit 130 includes one or more walls that define a passage 136 extending between the first end 132 and the second end 134 for conveying fluid (e.g., hydrocarbon feed). In some embodiments, the second conduit 130 may include one or more features, such as a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis, a second portion extending along a second longitudinal axis angled relative to the first longitudinal axis, and a bend connecting the first portion to the second portion, as at least referred to herein. Figure 2A , 2B and Figure 3 Further description. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the second conduit 130 is located downstream of the first conduit 120 to define the flow path of the inlet assembly 120. For example, a first end 132 of the second conduit 130 is connected to a second end 124 of the first conduit 120. In some embodiments, one or more intermediate components may be located between the first conduit 120 and the second conduit 130. Additionally or alternatively, the second conduit 130 may be connected to the reactor 150. For example, a second end 134 of the second conduit 130 may be connected to the reactor 150 (e.g., reactor port 156).

[0035] Orifice 140 is configured to induce sonic flow within system 100 downstream of orifice 140 during operation of system 100. To illustrate, orifice 140 (e.g., orifice plate) can restrict fluid flow (e.g., reduce pressure) such that the mass flow of system 100 can be controlled independent of pressure changes downstream of orifice 140. For example, orifice 140 can define a flow neck of system 100, such as a portion of system 100 in which the diameter of the flow path of system 100 is at a minimum and the fluid velocity is at a maximum. As shown, orifice 140 is positioned within passage 126 at second end 124 of conduit 120. In other embodiments, orifice 140 can be positioned at any location within passage 126 of conduit 120 and / or passage 136 of conduit 130, as further described herein. In some embodiments, orifice 140 can be coupled to conduit 120 or conduit 130 externally of passages 126, 136. For example, orifice 140 can be positioned within or coupled to conduit 120. To illustrate, orifice 140 can be coupled to conduit 120 at first end 122, at second end 124, or between ends 122, 124. Orifice 140 can be configured to obtain sonic flow at a percentage of a start-up feed stream of system 100. To illustrate, as an illustrative, non-limiting example, orifice 140 can be configured to obtain sonic flow at at least 75% (e.g., 80%) of a start-up feed stream of system 100.

[0036] During operation, one or more fluids are delivered through each inlet (e.g., 102, 104, 106) to the reactor 150, where at least one fluid can undergo a chemical reaction (e.g., dehydrogenation). The inlets (e.g., 102, 104, 106) can deliver the respective fluids to the reactor 105 to enable the chemical reaction. For example, during operation, a first fluid in the first inlet 102 can be directed through the second conduit 130 at the first conduit 120 and into the reactor 150. Further, as the first fluid enters the reactor 150, the first fluid can flow through the orifice 140 to create a sonic velocity flow of the first fluid downstream of the orifice. As the first fluid passes through the assembly 110, the first fluid can be at sonic conditions without creating a large pressure drop in temperature. Generally, during dehydrogenation, a velocity reduction associated with a smaller pressure drop is undesirable because conversion in the reactor (e.g., 150) is known to be inversely proportional to pressure. However, the energy conservation from the reduced thermodynamic losses of the first fluid passing through the assembly 110 can compensate for the adverse effect on conversion in the reactor 150. For example, the compressor capacity of the compressor 105 can increase superlinearly (e.g., because the compressor pressure drop is a function of flow squared), and the increase in compressor suction pressure can exceed the drop in conversion until a certain point (e.g., a stonewall limit), thus, the assembly 110 improves the efficiency of the system 100 despite the reduction in conversion. After the chemical reaction of the system 100, an output is provided via one or more outlets 154.

[0037] The orifice 140 can be positioned within the system 100 to increase the pressure drop and velocity of the fluid (e.g., 112) through the reactor (e.g., 150). For example, positioning the orifice 140 closer to the first end 122 of the first conduit 120 can increase the pressure drop and velocity of the fluid (e.g., 112) through the reactor compared to positioning the orifice 140 closer to the second end 124. Thus, based on the compressor or reactor type, the orifice 140 can be positioned relative to the first end 122 of the first conduit 120, the second end 124 of the first conduit, the first end 132 of the second conduit 130, the bend of the second conduit, or other features to maximize the efficiency of the system (e.g., 100).

[0038] The size and shape of the assembly 110 can be determined based on one or more operating parameters of the system 100, such as a dehydrogenation system (e.g., fluid type, number of reactors, flow rate, etc.) to minimize thermodynamic losses of the system. In some embodiments, the assembly 110 can include a first portion of a hot wall design and a second portion of a cold wall design. For example, in non-limiting embodiments, the first conduit 120 can correspond to a hot wall conduit, and the second conduit 130 can, but need not, correspond to a cold wall conduit. When the first conduit 120 corresponds to a hot wall conduit, the first conduit 120 can include a hot wall design (e.g., a hot wall conduit) such that the first conduit 220 is externally heated. In some such embodiments, the first conduit 120 does not include a refractory lining. In another example, the first conduit 120 and the second conduit 130 can correspond to hot wall conduits, and optionally, one or more components downstream of the first and second conduits can correspond to a cold wall design.

[0039] In some embodiments, the system 100 includes an assembly 110, such as a multi- section conduit, that includes a first conduit section (e.g., 120) defining a first passageway 126 configured to convey fluid from a first inlet (e.g., at 122) of the first conduit section to a first outlet (e.g., at 124) of the first conduit section, and a second conduit section (e.g., 130) defining a second passageway 136 configured to convey fluid from a second inlet (e.g., at 132) of the second conduit section to a second outlet (e.g., at 134) of the second conduit section. The second conduit section can include a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis, a second portion extending along a second longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis, and a curved portion connecting the first portion to the second portion, as described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3. Figure 2A 、 2B and Figure 3 are further described. In some such embodiments, the system 100 includes an orifice plate 140 that can be located at the first inlet (e.g., 122) or the first outlet (e.g., 124). In at least some of the foregoing embodiments, the orifice plate 140 includes a maximum lateral dimension that is less than a minimum lateral dimension of the first passageway (e.g., 126) and the second passageway (e.g., 136).

[0040] In comparison to conventional feed inlets, system 100 advantageously includes pipes 120, 130 and orifices 140 that are configured to cooperate with one another to minimize thermodynamic losses in assembly 110 caused by temperature drop and pressure drop. In such embodiments, the pressure drop and mass flow of fluid through system 100 can be minimized, as described herein, in a manner that is not possible in conventional cold-wall design systems that would suffer from failure of the refractory lining in sonic flow regions. In some embodiments, system 100 includes a multi-segmented pipe for the hydrocarbon feed inlet of a dehydrogenation reactor to prevent energy losses caused by significant pressure loss and temperature loss in the inlet orifice. For example, assembly 110 can produce a sonic flow through the inlet (e.g., 102) such that the flow of fluid can be controlled independent of downstream pressure drops or pressure changes associated with the dehydrogenation reactor, thereby distributing an equal amount of fluid to each reactor. Further, assembly 110 minimizes thermodynamic losses (e.g., pressure and temperature) of the sonic fluid to produce a more efficient reaction process while still maintaining the flow distribution of fluid through one or more reactors in the system.

[0041] Referring to Figures 2A-2B FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an inlet assembly of a system such as a dehydrogenation system. Figure 2A FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view diagram of a first example of an inlet assembly. Figure 2B FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second example of an inlet assembly. Inlet assemblies 210a, 210b can include or correspond to assembly 110. In some embodiments, assemblies 210a, 210b can be configured to provide improved energy efficiency for pipe flow in a dehydrogenation system such as system 100.

[0042] Referring to Figures 2A-2BAs shown, the first conduit 220 includes a first distance Dl (e.g., diameter) that defines a transverse dimension of the passage 226 taken along a plane that is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the passage 226. The first distance Dl can be measured from opposite sides of an inner surface of the first conduit 220. In some embodiments, the first distance Dl corresponds to a diameter of the passage 226. For example, Dl can be a maximum transverse dimension, such as a maximum transverse inner diameter of the first conduit 220. To illustrate, the maximum transverse inner diameter of the first conduit 220 can be at the second end 224.

[0043] In some embodiments, the first conduit 220 and / or the second conduit 230 can include or be coupled or connected to one or more flanges 208. For example, a flange (e.g., 208) can be at one end of a conduit to connect the conduit (e.g., 220, 230) to another component, such as another conduit. For example, as shown, a first flange (e.g., 208) can be between the orifice 240 and the first end 222 of the first conduit 220. Additionally or alternatively, a second flange (e.g., 208) can be between the second end 234 and the reactor piping 258 of the inlet (e.g., 102). Figure 2A

[0044] In some embodiments, the first conduit 220 can be tapered at one end (e.g., 222). To illustrate, the first conduit 220 can be tapered such that a dimension, such as a diameter, of the passage 226 increases from the first end 222 to the second end 224. For example, the cross-sectional area of the passage 226 of the first conduit 220 increases as the passage 226 extends from the first inlet (e.g., 222) to the first outlet (e.g., 224). Thus, the cross-sectional area of the first conduit 220 can increase as the first conduit (e.g., passage 226) extends from the first end 222 to the second end 224. In this way, the velocity of the fluid (e.g., hydrocarbon feed) can decrease as the fluid travels from the first end 222 to the second end 224 of the first conduit 220.

[0045] ​The second conduit 230 can include a first end 232, a second end 234, a passageway 236, and a bend 238. As shown, the second conduit 230 extends from the first end 232 to the second end 234. The first end 232 and the second end 234 can include or correspond to the first end 132 and the second end 134, respectively. As shown, the passageway 236 extends between the first end 232 and the second end 234 to transport fluid from the first end 232 to the second end 234. The passageway 236 can include or correspond to the passageway 136. As shown, the second conduit 230 is in fluid communication with the first conduit 220. For example, the first end 232 of the second conduit 230 can be coupled to the second end 224 of the first conduit 220 to define at least a portion of the flow path of the assembly 210a, 210b. In some embodiments, the second conduit 230 is coupled (e.g., directly coupled or indirectly coupled) to a reactor (e.g., 150). To illustrate, the flow path of the system can be defined as from the first conduit 220, through the second conduit 230, to an inlet (e.g., port) of the reactor (e.g., 150).

[0046] The second conduit 230 includes a second distance D2 that defines a transverse dimension such as a maximum transverse dimension of the passageway 236 taken along a plane that is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the passageway 236. D2 can be measured from opposite sides of an inner surface of the conduit 230. In some embodiments, D2 corresponds to an inner diameter of the passageway 236.

[0047] The bend 238 can correspond to a portion of the second conduit 230 that is curved or angled. The bend 238 can include a corner (e.g., edge) or a smooth corner (e.g., curve) that creates an oblique shock within fluid flowing through the second conduit 230. With reference to Figure 2BThe bend 238 can include a first portion 250 of the second conduit 230 extending along a first longitudinal axis 251 and a second portion 252 extending along a second longitudinal axis 253 disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal axis 251 is disposed at an angle 254 relative to the second longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the angle 254 is greater than or equal to, or between, any of the following angles: 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, or 80 degrees (°) (e.g., between 20° and 45.5°). The bend 238 can also include a transition portion 256, such as a curved portion, connecting the first portion 250 to the second portion 252. To illustrate, the transition portion 256 can include a portion of the second conduit 230 that includes a curved portion (or edge) that transitions from the first portion 250 to the second portion 252. In some embodiments, the transition portion 256 can include a deflection angle (e.g., the angle 254) that is less than 60° (e.g., 45.5°) or a standard long-radius elbow angle. In some embodiments, the second conduit can include an elbow conduit (e.g., 45° short-radius or 45° long-radius). Although reference has been made to a bend 238, the bend 238 can include a bend 238a, a bend 238b, or a bend 238c. Figure 2B Various aspects of the bend 238 are described, but these aspects can be included in the assembly 210a of Figure 2A Since the second conduit 230 can be positioned just upstream of the reactor (e.g., 150), the fluid exiting the second conduit can expand into the larger chamber of the reactor. The bend 238 can induce a shock wave in the fluid based on the angle 254 to restore the effective pressure ratio of the system. In this way, the inlet assembly can operate at a higher efficiency.

[0048] Referring to Figures 2A-2B The orifice 240 can include a body 242 defining a bore 244 through which fluid can pass. The body 242 can be coupled to the first conduit 220 and / or the second conduit 230 to restrict fluid flow within the flow path of the assembly 210a, 210b. In some embodiments, the body 242 can be coupled to the flange 208. The orifice 240 can be sized and shaped such that fluid flow through the bore 244 will induce a sonic flow (e.g., choked flow) in the fluid. For example, the orifice 240 is configured to obtain a sonic flow at a percentage of the start-up feed flow of the system. To illustrate, the orifice 240 can be configured to obtain a sonic flow at at least 75% (e.g., 80%) of the start-up feed flow of the system, as an illustrative, non-limiting example. In this way, the orifice 240 can produce post-sonic operation under normal operating conditions of the reactor (e.g., 150), allowing for uniform distribution of feed throughout the operating range of the system.

[0049] In some embodiments, orifice 240 can define a single hole (e.g., 244) having a third distance D3 that defines a maximum lateral dimension of hole 244. In some embodiments, D3 corresponds to a diameter of hole 244. To illustrate, orifice 240 can define an orifice plate (e.g., concentric, eccentric, segmented, quarter edge, square edge, tapered, and the like). In some embodiments, distance D3 is greater than or equal to, or between any two of, 300, 310, 320, 340, 350, 360, 370, 380, 390, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, or 450 millimeters (mm) (e.g., between 350 mm and 406 mm). Distance D3 can include a flow neck of assemblies 210a, 210b. To illustrate, distance D3 (e.g., the maximum lateral dimension of hole 244) is less than the minimum lateral dimension of passage 226 of first conduit 220 and the minimum lateral dimension of passage 236 of conduit 230. The size of hole 244 can be set such that orifice 240 can induce a sonic flow at less than a percentage (e.g., 95%) of the start-up flow of the system. In this manner, orifice 240 can be selected based on operating system parameters (e.g., the number of fluids, reactors, the velocity of the fluids, the desired flow rate, and the like). In other embodiments, orifice body 242 can define multiple holes to induce a sonic flow.

[0050] Referring to Figure 2A , orifice 240 can be located upstream of first conduit 220. For example, orifice 240 can be coupled or connected to first end 222. In this manner, the fluid flowing through first conduit 220 can be controlled regardless of pressure changes downstream of first conduit 220. To illustrate, orifice 240 can define a flow neck of assembly 210a to induce a sonic flow in the fluid flowing through first conduit 220. In other embodiments, orifice 240 can be coupled between first end 222 and second end 224 within passage 226 of first conduit 220.

[0051] Referring now to Figure 2B , orifice 240 can be located downstream of end 222 of conduit 220. For example, orifice 240 can be interposed between conduit 220 and conduit 230 such that, during operation of the system, the fluid attains a sonic flow within passage 236 of conduit 230. To illustrate, orifice 240 can be coupled or connected to end 224 of conduit 220 and / or end 232 of conduit 230. In such embodiments, the fluid can recover pressure as it flows through conduit 230 in order to minimize the pressure drop caused by orifice 240. In some embodiments, bend 238 of second conduit can cause the sonic fluid to form multiple waves (e.g., expanding fans) as it passes through bend 238 such that the pressure of the sonic fluid increases as it flows through second conduit 230.

[0052] Positioning orifice 240 at the second end 224 of the first conduit 220 and / or the first end 232 of the second conduit 230 allows for mass flow of fluid, resulting in a low pressure drop. Therefore, the fluid velocity may decrease due to the lower pressure drop. As described above, refer to... Figure 1 The decrease in conversion rate due to the lower pressure drop of the fluid can be overcome by increasing the capacity of the compressor (e.g., 105), and the increase in compressor suction pressure can outpace the decrease in conversion rate until a certain point (e.g., a limit point). When orifice 240 is positioned closer to the first end 222 of the first conduit 220 than the second end 224, the pressure drop and velocity of the fluid through the reactor (e.g., 150) may increase. Therefore, based on the compressor type and / or reactor type, orifice 240 may be positioned relative to the first end 222 of the first conduit 220, the second end 224 of the first conduit, the first end 232 of the second conduit 230, the bend 238 of the second conduit, or other features to maximize the efficiency of the system. Although each of the first conduit 220 and the second conduit 230 is described and depicted as a separate component, it should be understood that the first conduit 220 and the second conduit 230 of the system may be integral, such that conduit 220 corresponds to the first portion of the conduit and conduit 230 corresponds to the second portion of the conduit.

[0053] In some embodiments, the inlet assembly (e.g., 210a, 210b), such as a multi-segment conduit, includes a first conduit segment (e.g., 220) and a second conduit segment (e.g., 230). The first conduit segment defines a first channel 226 configured to deliver fluid from a first inlet (e.g., 222) to a first outlet (e.g., 224) of the first conduit segment. The second conduit segment (e.g., 230) defines a second channel 236 configured to deliver fluid from a second inlet (e.g., 232) to a second outlet (e.g., 234) of the second conduit segment. In some such embodiments, the second conduit segment 230 includes a first portion 250 extending along a first longitudinal axis 251, a second portion 252 extending along a second longitudinal axis 253 angled relative to the first longitudinal axis 251, and an interface portion (e.g., 238) connecting the first portion 250 to the second portion 252. The orifice plate 240 may be located at a first inlet (e.g., 222) or a first outlet (e.g., 224). For example, an orifice (e.g., 240) may be coupled to a first inlet. In other embodiments, an orifice (e.g., 240) may be coupled to a first outlet. In some embodiments, the orifice plate 240 includes a maximum lateral dimension smaller than the minimum lateral dimension of each of the first channel 226 and the second channel 236.

[0054] The interface portion (e.g., 238) of the second pipe segment (e.g., 230) includes a deflection angle 254 that is less than a particular angle, such as less than 60 degrees (e.g., 45.5 degrees) or the angle of a standard long-radius elbow. In some embodiments, an orifice plate (e.g., 240) is located at the first outlet (e.g., 224). The inlet assembly can be coupled to a dehydrogenation reactor (e.g., 150). In such embodiments, the multi-segment pipe is located upstream of the dehydrogenation reactor, defining a flow path from the first pipe segment (e.g., 220), through the orifice plate (e.g., 240), through the second pipe segment (e.g., 230), to the dehydrogenation reactor inlet. The first pipe segment (e.g., 220) and the second pipe segment (e.g., 230) can include hot-walled pipes. Additionally or alternatively, the first pipe segment (e.g., 220) can be tapered such that a cross-sectional area of the first passageway (e.g., 226) increases as the first passageway extends from the first inlet (e.g., 222) to the first outlet (e.g., 224).

[0055] Reference is now made to Figure 3 , which shows a cross-sectional view of an example of an inlet assembly 310 of a dehydrogenation system. The system can include or correspond to one or more components of system 100. For example, inlet assembly 310 can include or correspond to assembly 110, 210. As shown, assembly 310 includes a first pipe 320, a second pipe 330, which can include or correspond to first pipe 120, 220 and second pipe 130, 230, respectively.

[0056] The first pipe 320 can include a first end 322, a second end 324, and a passageway 326. As shown, the first pipe 320 can extend from end 322 to end 324 to define passageway 326. Further, the first pipe 320 includes one or more portions, such as a nozzle portion 360, a diverging portion 370, and a throat portion 380. Nozzle portion 360, diverging portion 370, and throat portion 380 each define a portion of first pipe 320 between end 322 and end 324. In some embodiments, nozzle portion 360, diverging portion 370, and throat portion 380 are unitary such that these components define the flow path of first pipe 320. In other embodiments, nozzle portion 360, diverging portion 370, and throat portion 380 can be coupled together in any suitable manner to define the flow path of first pipe 320. In some embodiments, first pipe 320 and / or second pipe 330 can include one or more flanges 308 at an end (e.g., 322, 324, 332, 334) of the pipe to connect the pipe to another component (e.g., a reactor piping network, a port, or a reactor, etc.).

[0057] Nozzle portion 360 includes an upstream end 362 and a downstream end 364. As shown, the shape of nozzle portion 360 (e.g., conical) can cause the fluid to increase in pressure as it flows from upstream end 362 to downstream end 364. For example, the diameter of passage 326 at upstream end 362 is greater than the diameter of the passage at downstream end 364 (e.g., D3). To illustrate, nozzle portion 360 can include a frustoconical portion of first conduit 320. In some embodiments, upstream end 362 includes or corresponds to first end 322 of first conduit 320; however, in other embodiments, the upstream end of nozzle portion 360 is located downstream of the first end of the first conduit. As shown, nozzle portion 360 can, but is not required to, be coupled to flange 308.

[0058] Diffuser portion 370 includes an upstream end 372 and a downstream end 374. As shown, diffuser portion 370 extends from end 372 to end 374 to define a portion of the flow path of first conduit 320. The shape of diffuser portion 370 (e.g., conical) can cause the fluid to decrease in pressure as it flows from end 372 to end 374. For example, the diameter of passage 326 at end 372 (e.g., D3) is less than the diameter of the passage at end 374. In some embodiments, the decrease in the diameter of passage 326 of diffuser portion 370 from upstream end 372 to downstream end 374 is linear (e.g., decreases at a constant rate). To illustrate, diffuser portion 370 can include a frustoconical portion of first conduit 320. In some embodiments, diffuser portion 370 (e.g., diffuser) is located downstream of nozzle portion 360. To illustrate, the flow path of first conduit 320 can flow from nozzle portion 360 to diffuser portion 370. In some embodiments, downstream end 374 includes or corresponds to second end 324 of first conduit 320; however, in other embodiments, the downstream end of diffuser portion 370 is located upstream of the second end of the first conduit. In the foregoing embodiments, the fluid can recover pressure as it flows through diffuser portion 370 to minimize thermodynamic drop in the system.

[0059] In some embodiments, the length of diffuser portion 370 (e.g., from end 372 to end 374) is less than the length of nozzle portion 360 (e.g., from end 362 to end 364). In this manner, the recovery of pressure from diffuser portion 370 can be reasonably limited to correspond to the suction pressure of the compressor limit (e.g., limit point). For example, the diffuser portion can be any suitable length such that the recovery of pressure corresponds to maximum efficiency when the compressor is operating at the limit point (e.g., choke limit).

[0060] The throat portion 380 includes an upstream end 382 and a downstream end 384. As shown, the throat portion 380 extends from the upstream end 382 to the downstream end 384 to define a portion of the flow path of the first conduit 320. In some implementations, the throat portion 380 is cylindrical. For example, the diameter of the passage 326 (e.g., D3) can be constant from the upstream end 382 to the downstream end 384 of the throat portion 380. However, in some implementations, the throat portion can taper (e.g., less than 4.2 degrees) from the upstream end 382 (toward the downstream end 384) or from the downstream end 384 (toward the upstream end 382). The throat portion 380 can define a length measured from the upstream end 382 to the downstream end 384 that is greater than or equal to a certain length, such as a length greater than or equal to 700 millimeters (mm) (e.g., 740 mm). However, the throat portion 380 can be any suitable length such that the boundary layer of the fluid flowing through the first conduit 320 is contained within the throat portion and critical flow is produced.

[0061] In some implementations, the throat portion 380 is downstream of the nozzle portion 360. In this manner, the throat portion 380 can ensure critical flow of the fluid by maintaining the boundary layer of the fluid. The throat portion 380 can be interposed between the nozzle portion 360 and the diverging portion 370. For example, the upstream end 382 of the throat portion 380 can be coupled to or correspond to a downstream portion (e.g., 364) of the nozzle portion 360. Additionally or alternatively, the downstream end 384 of the throat portion 380 can be coupled to or correspond to an upstream portion (e.g., 372) of the diverging portion 370. In some such implementations, the diameter of the passage 326 at the downstream end 364 of the nozzle portion 360 is substantially equal to the diameter of the passage 326 at the throat portion 380 (e.g., at the upstream end 382). In some implementations, the first conduit 320 defines a flow path from the first end 322, through the nozzle portion 360, through the throat portion 380, through the diverging portion 370, and to the second end 324. In this manner, an orifice (e.g., 140, 240) is not needed to produce a sonic flow within the assembly 310. However, in some implementations, the assembly 310 can include an orifice based on the particular application of the system 300. In implementations of the assembly 310 that include an orifice, the size and positioning of the orifice can be determined in a manner similar to the orifices 140, 240.

[0062] Examples

[0063] As an illustrative example, Table 1 (below) shows that the first conduit 320 can be used in place of the orifice 240 to produce an equal mass flow of the system.

[0064] Table 1

[0065]

[0066]

[0067] In Table 1, the mass flow of fluid through an inlet assembly (e.g., 110, 210a, 210b, 310) is shown. As shown in the table, for each test, the physical properties of the fluid were constant, while the minimum diameter of the inlet assembly was different. As shown in Cases Al and A2, both inlet assembly 210 and inlet assembly 310 can be used to obtain a mass flow by varying the diameter of the respective inlet assembly. To illustrate, in Case A2, the diameter D3 of the throat portion 380 was 320 millimeters to produce a mass flow of 57,574.63 (kg / hr), while in Case Al, the diameter D3 of the orifice 240 was 370 millimeters to produce the same mass flow. In Cases Bl and B2, the diameter D3 of the inlet assemblies 210, 310 can be modified to increase the mass flow through each inlet assembly, demonstrating the range of mass flux variation possible in the same system due to various aspects related to the flow balance distribution. As shown in the table, increasing the diameter D3 results in an increase in the mass flow rate. Cases Cl and C2 illustrate the optimal flow rate for a particular dehydrogenation process and show that each system can be customized based on the required operating system parameters.

[0068] End Example

[0069] The second conduit 330 can include a first end 332, a second end 334, a passageway 336, and a bend 338. As shown, the second conduit 330 extends from the first end 332 to the second end 334 to define the passageway 336, which is configured to transport fluid within the second conduit 330. The first end 332, the second end 334, and the passageway 336 can include or correspond to the first end 132, 232; the second end 134, 234; and the passageway 136, 236, respectively. As shown, the second conduit 330 is in fluid communication with the first conduit 320. The second conduit 330 can include the bend 338 such that the second conduit 330 is curved or angled. The bend 338 can include or correspond to the bend 238. While each of the first conduit 320 and the second conduit 330 are described and depicted as separate components, in some embodiments, the first conduit 320 and the second conduit 330 can be unitary such that the first conduit 320 corresponds to a first portion of the conduit and the second conduit 330 corresponds to a second portion of the conduit. In some embodiments, the second conduit 330 can, but need not, be coupled to the flange 308.

[0070] In some embodiments, the system includes a multi-sectioned conduit including a first conduit section (e.g., 320) and a second conduit section (e.g., 330). The first conduit section defines a first passageway 326 configured to transport fluid from a first inlet (e.g., 322) of the first conduit section to a first outlet (e.g., 324) of the first conduit section. The second conduit section defines a second passageway 336 configured to transport fluid from a second inlet (e.g., 332) of the second conduit section to a second outlet (e.g., 334) of the second conduit section. In some such embodiments, the second conduit section includes a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis, a second portion extending along a second longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis, and a connecting portion configured to connect the first portion to the second portion.

[0071] In some embodiments, the connecting portion (e.g., 338) of the second conduit section (e.g., 330) includes a deflection angle of less than 60 degrees. The multi-sectioned conduit (e.g., 310) can be positioned upstream of a dehydrogenation reactor (e.g., 150), thereby defining a flow path from the first conduit section (e.g., 320), through the second conduit section (e.g., 330), to the dehydrogenation reactor inlet (e.g., 152).

[0072] In some embodiments, the first conduit section (e.g., 320) includes a hot- walled conduit and / or the second conduit section (e.g., 330) includes a hot-walled conduit. Additionally or alternatively, the first conduit section (e.g., 320) can be tapered such that a cross-sectional area of the first passageway (e.g., 326) increases as the first passageway extends from the inlet (e.g., 322) to the outlet (e.g., 324).

[0073] In some embodiments, the system includes a multi-segmented conduit (e.g., 310) including a first conduit 320 having an inlet (e.g., 322) and an outlet (e.g., 324) and defining a passageway 326 configured to transport fluid from the inlet to the outlet to define a flow path of the first conduit. The first conduit 320 includes a nozzle portion 360, a diverging portion 370, and a throat portion 380. In some embodiments, the nozzle portion 360 extends from the inlet (e.g., 322) and includes a taper that decreases a cross-sectional area of the passageway 326 from an upstream end (e.g., 362) of the nozzle portion 360 to a downstream end (e.g., 364) of the nozzle portion 360. The diverging portion 370 extends from the outlet (e.g., 324) and includes a taper that increases the cross-sectional area of the passageway 326 from an upstream end (e.g., 372) of the diverging portion 370 to a downstream end (e.g., 374) of the diverging portion 370. The throat portion 380 extends between the downstream end (e.g., 364) of the nozzle portion 360 and the upstream end (e.g., 372) of the diverging portion 370. Additionally, a second conduit 330 can be in fluid communication with the first conduit 320.

[0074] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of the passageway 326 at the throat portion 380 is substantially equal to an inner diameter of the passageway 326 at the downstream end (e.g., 364) of the nozzle portion. Additionally or alternatively, the first conduit 320 and the second conduit 330 include hot- walled conduits. In some of the foregoing embodiments, a distance between the inlet (e.g., 322) of the first conduit 320 and the reactor (e.g., 150) is between 10-15 meters. Some embodiments include multiple dehydrogenation reactors arranged in parallel and in communication with the multi-segmented conduit (e.g., 310). In some embodiments, the second conduit 230 includes an elbow conduit having a deflection angle less than or equal to 50 degrees.

[0075] Reference is now made to Figures 4A-4B , which shows various aspects of one or more components of a dehydrogenation system 400. Figure 4A A schematic diagram showing an example of an unbalanced dehydrogenation assembly 400, and Figure 4B A schematic diagram showing a second example of a balanced dehydrogenation assembly 460. The systems 400, 460 can include or correspond to one or more components of the dehydrogenation system 100.

[0076] Each of systems 400 and 460 includes an inlet assembly 410 and one or more reactors 450. Assembly 410 and reactor 450 may respectively include or correspond to assemblies 110, 210, 310 and reactor 150. As shown, assembly 410 (e.g., an inlet manifold) may be located upstream of multiple dehydrogenation reactors 450. Assembly 410 can control the flow rate of fluid flowing into each reactor 450. For illustration, the flow rate of fluid can be controlled upstream of assembly 410 to uniformly distribute fluid to each reactor 450 of systems 400 and 460.

[0077] The energy stored in inlet assembly 410 can cause changes in the distribution of fluid to dehydrogenation reactor 450. Therefore, the catalyst dosage and temperature profile of one dehydrogenation reactor (e.g., 450) can vary relative to another dehydrogenation reactor (e.g., 450) in systems 400, 460; however, the improved efficiency of the system may outweigh the problems associated with flow distribution. For example, as described herein, the suction pressure of the actuator (e.g., compressor, pump, etc.) can be optimized by reducing the pressure drop within inlet assembly 410 to improve the efficiency and energy conservation of dehydrogenation systems 400, 460. In this way, inlet assembly 410 can minimize thermodynamic losses and reduce operating costs while improving efficiency. Therefore, inlet assembly 410 can be configured to provide improved energy efficiency for inline flow in dehydrogenation systems 400, 460.

[0078] like Figures 4A-4B As shown, the dehydrogenation reactors 450 can be arranged in parallel. In some embodiments, the dehydrogenation reactors may include or correspond to... Fixed-bed dehydrogenation reactors. However, any other suitable reactors may be used in systems 400, 460. Although the depicted embodiments show five dehydrogenation reactors (e.g., 450), systems 400, 460 may include any suitable number of reactors, such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 or more. An inlet assembly 410 (e.g., a header) is located upstream of all dehydrogenation reactors 450; however, in other embodiments, multiple inlet assemblies (e.g., 410) may be used, such that the inlet assemblies are located upstream of the respective reactors to individually control the flow rate of the reactors. Alternatively, although dehydrogenation systems 400, 460 are each depicted with a single inlet assembly 410, in other embodiments, each reactor 450 may be coupled downstream of the corresponding inlet assembly.

[0079] Although it has been referenced Figure 1 , Figures 2A-2B , Figure 3 and Figures 4A-4B The blocks have described various aspects of this embodiment, but it should be understood that the operation of the embodiment is not limited to...Figure 1 、 Figures 2A-2B 、 Figure 3 and Figures 4A-4B the particular order illustrated. As such, various aspects described herein can be provided using an order other than the order described Figure 1 、 Figures 2A-2B 、 Figure 3 and Figures 4A-4B the order illustrated. As such, various aspects described herein can be provided using an order other than the order described

[0080] Referring now to Figure 5 , a method 500 of operating a dehydrogenation system is shown. The method 500 can be performed at, by, or with the system 100 or one or more components such as the inlet assembly 110, 210a, 210b, 310, or 410. For example, the method 500 can include operating a dehydrogenation system having an inlet assembly 110, 210a, 210b, 310, or 410 and a reactor 150.

[0081] At 502, the method 500 includes receiving a fluid having hydrogen through a first conduit. The first conduit can include or correspond to the first conduit 120, 220, 320. For example, the first conduit can include a nozzle portion, a diffuser portion, and a throat portion. In another example, the first conduit can be coupled to or include an orifice such as the orifice 140, 240. At 504, the method 500 also includes reducing a pressure of the fluid through the first conduit. In some approaches, the pressure of the fluid can be reduced with the nozzle portion or the orifice. For example, reducing the pressure of the fluid can include transporting the fluid through a tapered portion of the first conduit. In some implementations, the fluid is compressed through the first conduit prior to reducing the pressure of the fluid through the first conduit.

[0082] At 506, the method 500 can include transporting the fluid through the first conduit to an orifice plate or a converging-diverging nozzle. The orifice plate can include or correspond to the orifice 140, 240. For example, the orifice can include an orifice body and an aperture. In some implementations, transporting the fluid to the orifice plate includes transporting the fluid through the aperture of the orifice. The converging-diverging nozzle can include or correspond to the nozzle portion 360, the diverging portion 370, the throat portion 380, or a combination thereof. At 508, the method 500 can also include inducing a sonic flow of the fluid through the orifice plate or the converging-diverging nozzle. For example, inducing the sonic flow can include transporting the fluid through a flow neck of the system defined by the orifice plate. In other implementations, a nozzle portion (e.g., a converging-diverging nozzle) can be used to induce the sonic flow of the fluid.

[0083] At 510, the method 500 includes receiving the fluid through a second conduit. The second conduit can include or correspond to the second conduit 130, 230, 330. For example, the second conduit can include a first end, a second end, a channel, and a bend. The first end of the second conduit can receive the fluid from the second end of the first conduit. In some embodiments, the second conduit receives the fluid in a sonic state (e.g., choked flow). Further, in some embodiments, the method 500 can include generating a shock wave in the fluid through the second conduit. At 512, the method 500 includes delivering the fluid to a dehydrogenation reactor through the second conduit. The dehydrogenation reactor can include or correspond to the dehydrogenation reactor 150. In some embodiments, the fluid is delivered to the dehydrogenation reactor by the second end of the second conduit. In some embodiments, delivering the fluid to the dehydrogenation reactor includes delivering the fluid to a plurality of dehydrogenation reactors arranged in parallel to each other. In such embodiments, the fluid can be equally distributed to each reactor. Some embodiments of the method 500 can also include converting the fluid through the dehydrogenation reactor. For example, the fluid can include an alkane, and some methods can include converting the alkane to an alkene through the dehydrogenation reactor.

[0084] While various aspects and advantages of the present application have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to particular methodologies, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods and steps such as those specifically disclosed herein, but in its fullest reasonable sense, as it can include any process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, method, or step analogous to those specifically and explicitly disclosed herein. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to cover within their scope all processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps analogous to those specifically and explicitly disclosed herein.

[0085] The above specification provides a complete description of the structure and use of the illustrative configurations. Although certain configurations have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, one skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the configurations disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the various illustrative configurations of the methods and systems are not intended to limit the present disclosure to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and configurations other than the ones shown can include some or all of the features of the depicted configurations. For example, elements can be omitted, combined, substituted, or rearranged. Also, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above can be combined with aspects of any of the other examples to form a further example having comparable or different attributes and / or functions. Similarly, it will be appreciated that the benefits and advantages of the above-described embodiments can apply equally to a configuration or to several configurations. Accordingly, the individual embodiments described herein are not to be interpreted as being limited and are intended to be combined with each other in appropriate circumstances, without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0086] The foregoing description of the disclosed implementations provides enough information to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosed implementations. Various modifications to these implementations will be readily apparent to, and can be made by, one of ordinary skill in the art with access to the present teachings. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein, but rather, is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features to a claimed herein. The claims are not intended to include or be limited to the means or steps plus function limitations or step plus function limitations, unless such limitations are specifically recited in the claims.

Claims

1. An inlet feed system for a reactor, the inlet feed system comprising: a multi-sectioned conduit comprising: a first conduit section defining a first passageway configured to convey fluid from a first inlet of the first conduit section to a first outlet of the first conduit section; and a second conduit section fluidically connected to the first outlet of the first conduit section and defining a second passageway configured to convey fluid from a second inlet of the second conduit section to a second outlet of the second conduit section, the second conduit section comprising: a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis; a second portion extending along a second longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis; and a curved portion connecting the first portion to the second portion; an orifice plate configured to be positioned at the first inlet or the first outlet, the orifice plate comprising orifices having a maximum lateral dimension that is less than a minimum lateral dimension of each of the first passageway and the second passageway; and wherein the reactor is a dehydrogenation reactor in fluid communication with a second conduit, and wherein the curved portion of the second conduit section comprises a deflection angle of less than 60 degrees.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: the first conduit section comprises a hot-walled conduit, the second conduit section comprises a hot-walled conduit, or both the first conduit section and the second conduit section comprise hot-walled conduits.

3. The system of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the multi-sectioned conduit is positioned upstream of the dehydrogenation reactor, thereby defining a flow path from the first conduit section, through the orifice plate, through the second conduit section, to an inlet of the dehydrogenation reactor; or wherein the first conduit section is tapered such that a cross-sectional area of the first passageway increases as the first passageway extends from the first inlet to the first outlet.

4. An inlet piping network for a reactor, the inlet piping network comprising: a multi-sectioned conduit comprising: a first conduit comprising a first inlet and a first outlet, the first conduit defining a first passageway configured to convey fluid from the first inlet to the first outlet to define a flow path of the first conduit, the first conduit comprising: a nozzle portion extending from the first inlet, the nozzle portion having a taper that decreases a cross-sectional area of the first passageway from an upstream end of the nozzle portion to a downstream end of the nozzle portion; a diffuser portion extending from the first outlet, the diffuser portion having a taper that increases the cross-sectional area of the first passageway from an upstream end of the diffuser portion to a downstream end of the diffuser portion; and a throat portion extending between the downstream end of the nozzle portion and the upstream end of the diffuser portion; and a second conduit in fluid communication with the first outlet of the first conduit, ​ wherein the second conduit defines a second passageway configured to transport fluid from a second inlet of the second conduit to a second outlet of the second conduit, the second conduit comprising: a first portion extending along a first longitudinal axis; a second portion extending along a longitudinal axis disposed at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis; and a curved portion connecting the first portion to the second portion; and a plurality of dehydrogenation reactors arranged in parallel, each dehydrogenation reactor in communication with the multi-segment conduit; and wherein the multi-segment conduit is positioned upstream of the plurality of dehydrogenation reactors, thereby defining a flow path from the first conduit segment, through the converging-diverging nozzle, through the second conduit segment, to an inlet of the dehydrogenation reactors, wherein the second conduit comprises an elbow conduit having a deflection angle less than or equal to 50 degrees.

5. The inlet pipe network of claim 4, wherein, an inner diameter of the passageway at the throat portion is equal to an inner diameter of the passageway at a downstream end of the nozzle portion.

6. The inlet pipe network of any one of claims 4-5, wherein, an inner diameter of the passageway is constant in the throat portion.

7. The inlet pipe network of any one of claims 4-5, wherein, the first conduit comprises a hot-walled conduit.

8. The inlet pipe network of claim 7, wherein, the second conduit comprises a hot-walled conduit.

9. The inlet pipe network of any one of claims 4-5, wherein, a distance between the inlet of the first conduit and the dehydrogenation reactors is between 10-15 meters.

10. A method of performing a dehydrogenation process utilizing the inlet pipe network of claim 4, the method comprising: receiving a fluid having hydrogen through the first conduit; reducing a pressure of the fluid through the first conduit; transporting the fluid through the first conduit to the converging-diverging nozzle; initiating a sonic flow of the fluid through the converging-diverging nozzle; receiving the fluid exiting the first conduit through the second conduit; transporting the fluid exiting the second conduit to the plurality of dehydrogenation reactors through the second conduit.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: compressing the fluid through the first conduit prior to reducing the pressure of the fluid through the first conduit; or generating a shock wave in the fluid through the second conduit.

12. The method of any one of claims 10-11, wherein: transporting the fluid to the dehydrogenation reactors comprises transporting the fluid to the plurality of dehydrogenation reactors; or the fluid comprises an alkane, and the method further comprises converting the alkane to an alkene through the dehydrogenation reactors.

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