Thermal jacket for hot-wall dehydrogenation reactors

Abstract

A system, apparatus, and method for transferring heat associated with an interface corresponding to a reactor. In some aspects, the system includes a sleeve comprising a body portion defining a channel extending from a first end of the body portion to a second end. The channel is configured to define a flow path extending through a flange connected to a tube by a weld point; and a lip portion extending radially away from the first end and configured to be disposed between the flange and the reactor.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to European Patent Application No. 19220101.0, filed on December 30, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a sleeve for use with a reactor, and more specifically, but not limitingly, to a sleeve for isolating components associated with a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor. Background Technology

[0004] Dehydrogenation reactors are used to produce olefins from hydrocarbons (such as paraffin) by dehydrogenating them in the presence of a catalyst for generating double bond structures. Such processes are highly endothermic and require operating temperatures of 500°C and above. Furthermore, the flow entering the dehydrogenation reactor is typically sonic, necessitating the presence of critical flow orifices upstream of the reactor. While critical flow orifices generate sonic flow in the system, they also generate impingement flow downstream that can damage the piping. Therefore, the inlet piping of the dehydrogenation reactor must be able to withstand high temperatures, wide temperature variations during operation, and vibrational stresses from the impingement flow.

[0005] Dehydrogenation reactors can have hot or cold wall designs. Cold wall designs typically use covered internal refractory linings that can lead to failures and corrosion, resulting in downtime and reduced reactor yield. Hot wall designs are generally inefficient for endothermic reactions such as dehydrogenation. For example, hot wall designs require significant heat to maintain the tube walls at the desired temperature. Hot wall designs also experience large cyclic thermal stresses associated with the dehydrogenation process, which can cause cracking in connecting pipes and in fittings and welds that connect the pipes to the dehydrogenated compound inlet. Failures in the pipes, fittings, and / or welds can lead to downtime and reduced reactor yield. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure generally relates to systems, apparatus, and methods for isolating one or more components of a reactor, such as a dehydrogenation reactor. For example, to isolate the components from the effects of the reaction process, such as thermal or pressure effects, a sleeve is configured to be arranged in the reactor inlet pipe to allow convective heat transfer downstream of the sleeve and reduce the exposure of the pipe and associated connections to thermal cycling. Schematically, the sleeve may include a body portion defining a channel configured to be inserted into the pipe and reactor flange for defining a flow path through the flange of the reactor. This allows the connections that attach the pipe to the flange to be isolated from thermal oscillations because forced convection of the fluid is applied to the sleeve, not the flange. The sleeve may also include a lip portion extending remotely from the body portion, configured to be arranged between the flange and the reactor to connect the flange to the reactor. Accordingly, the sleeve can reduce heat transfer from the dehydrogenation process to the reactor flange, pipe, and connections. Thus, compared to conventional systems without a sleeve, the sleeve can allow for longer extension lengths for hot-walled pipes, enhancing safety and operability, and reducing maintenance work during turnaround or due to pipe failure.

[0007] Some embodiments of this system include a sleeve having a main body portion that defines a channel extending from a first end of the main body portion to a second end. The channel of the main body portion is configured to define a flow path extending through a flange connected to a tube via a welded joint. The sleeve also includes a lip portion extending radially away from the first end and configured to be disposed between the flange and the reactor. In some such embodiments, the lip portion extends between the first end and the second end connected to the first end of the main body portion. Additionally or alternatively, the channel of the main body portion may be defined by a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end and orthogonally oriented to the plane of the lip portion.

[0008] In some of the above embodiments of this system, the main body portion defines a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end. Additionally or alternatively, the lip portion may be configured to be disposed between the flange and the reactor port, such that a first portion of the main body portion is disposed within a channel of the flange, and a second portion of the main body portion is disposed within a channel of a tube connected to the flange via an interface. In some embodiments, the lip portion is further configured to be disposed between the flange and the reactor port, such that the channel of the main body portion defines a flow path between the tube and the reactor port.

[0009] In some of the embodiments of this system described above, the system also includes a reactor, a flange, a tube, or a combination thereof. A flange may define a passage extending from a first end of the flange to a second end of the flange. Additionally or alternatively, the flange may be coupled to a port of the reactor via its first end. In some such embodiments, the flange is a weld neck flange or a lap joint flange. In some embodiments, a tube defines a passage connecting to a second end of the flange. Additionally or alternatively, the reactor may include a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor and / or the welded interface may include a metal weld.

[0010] In some of the above embodiments of this system, the main body includes a first portion disposed within a flange channel and a second portion disposed within a pipe channel. In some such embodiments, the first end and the second end of the main body may be disposed outside the flange channel. Additionally or alternatively, the maximum lateral dimension of the channel of the main body may be less than or equal to 90% of the maximum lateral dimension of the flange channel. Some embodiments of this method (e.g., isolating the interface between reactor components) include implementation at a sleeve comprising a main body (extending from the first end to the second end of the main body) and a lip portion extending radially away from the first end: receiving the reactor output by means of the first end of the sleeve disposed between the two reactor components; transferring the reactor output from the first end through the channel of the main body to the second end by means of the sleeve; and conducting heat from the reactor output by means of the sleeve to isolate the connection interface between the components.

[0011] In some of the above embodiments of this method, the method may further include attaching a sleeve to a portion of the reactor and arranging the body portion of the sleeve within each portion of the component. In some embodiments, the component may include at least a flange and a tube, and the reactor output may include exhaust gas. Additionally or alternatively, the method may further include defining flow paths from the reactor to a port, to an inlet to a channel in the body portion, to an outlet to a channel in the body portion, and to a tube, and guiding exhaust gas from the reactor through the channel in the body portion to a location downstream of the connection interface.

[0012] In some of the above embodiments of this method, the method may further include arranging a lip portion between the flange and the port such that a first portion of the body portion is arranged within a channel of the flange, and a second portion of the body portion is arranged within a channel of the tube. In some such embodiments, the first portion of the body portion defines an inlet to a channel of the body portion, the second portion of the body portion defines an outlet to a channel of the body portion, and / or the inlet and outlet are arranged outside the channel of the flange. Additionally or alternatively, the reactor may be a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor, and the connection interface may include a metal weld.

[0013] As used herein, various terms are used only for the purpose of describing a particular implementation and are not intended to limit the implementation. For example, ordinal terms used to modify elements such as structures, components, operations (e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc.) as used herein do not in themselves indicate any priority or order of said element relative to another element, but merely distinguish that element from another element with the same name (for the purpose of using ordinal terms). The term "connection" is defined as a link, but is not necessarily direct or mechanical; the two objects "connected" may be integral. Unless otherwise expressly required by this disclosure, the term "a" is defined as one or more. The term "about," as used herein, may allow for a degree of variability in value or range, for example, within 10%, 5%, or 1% of a specified limit of a specified value or range, and includes the exact specified value or range.

[0014] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the term "approximately" is defined as being largely, but not necessarily entirely, specified (and includes specified; for example, substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel). In any disclosed embodiment, the term "approximately" may be replaced by the specified "within [percentage]", where percentage includes 0.1, 1, or 5%. Unless otherwise stated, the expression "approximately X to Y" has the same meaning as "approximately X to approximately Y". Similarly, unless otherwise stated, the statement "approximately X, Y, or approximately Z" has the same meaning as "approximately X, approximately Y, or approximately Z".

[0015] The phrase “and / or” means both or both. For illustration, A, B, and / or C includes: A alone, B alone, C alone, combinations of A and B, combinations of A and C, combinations of B and C, or combinations of A, B, and C. In other words, “and / or” is an inclusive “or”. Furthermore, the phrase “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” or “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” includes: A alone, B alone, C alone, combinations of A and B, combinations of A and C, combinations of B and C, or combinations of A, B, and C.

[0016] Within the scope of this invention, at least 15 embodiments are described. Embodiment 1 relates to a system for transferring heat associated with an interface corresponding to a reactor. The system includes a sleeve comprising a body portion defining a channel extending from a first end of the body portion to a second end, the channel being configured to define a flow path extending through a flange connected to a tube via a weld point; and a lip portion extending radially away from the first end and configured to be disposed between the flange and the reactor. Embodiment 2 is the system of Embodiment 1, wherein the lip portion extends between the first end and the second end connected to the first end of the body portion; and the channel of the body portion defines a longitudinal axis orthogonal to the lip portion. Embodiment 3 is the system of any one of Embodiments 1 to 2, wherein the body portion defines a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end. Embodiment 4 is the system of any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the lip portion is configured to be disposed between the flange and the port of the reactor such that a first portion of the body portion is disposed within the channel of the flange, and a second portion of the body portion is disposed within the channel of the tube connected to the flange via the interface. Example 5 is a system of any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the lip portion is further configured to be disposed between the flange and the port of the reactor, such that the channel of the body portion defines a flow path between the tube and the reactor port. Example 6 is a system of any of the foregoing embodiments, further comprising a reactor; and the flange defines a channel extending from a first end of the flange to a second end of the flange, the flange being connected to the port via the first end of the flange; and the tube defines a channel of the tube and is connected to the second end of the flange. Example 7 is a system of any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the reactor comprises a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor; and the interface comprises a weld point. Example 8 is a system of any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the body portion comprises a first portion disposed within a channel of the flange and a second portion disposed within a channel of the tube; and the first end and the second end of the body portion are disposed outside the flange channel. Example 9 is a system of any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the channel of the body portion has a maximum lateral dimension less than or equal to 90% of the maximum lateral dimension of the flange channel. Example 10 is a system of any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the flange is a necked butt-welded flange or an lap flange.

[0017] Example 11 is a method for isolating the interface between two components of a reactor. The method includes receiving the reactor output via a sleeve disposed between the two components, the sleeve including a body portion and a lip portion extending radially away from a first end, the body portion defining a channel extending from a first end of the body portion to a second end; and transmitting the reactor output from the first end through the channel of the body portion to the second end via the sleeve; conducting heat from the reactor output via the sleeve; and isolating the connection point of the two components via the sleeve. Example 12 is the method of Example 11, further including coupling the sleeve to a port of the reactor; and arranging the body portion of the sleeve within the two components; wherein the two components include a flange and a tube; and the reactor output includes exhaust gas. Example 13 is the method of Example 12, further including defining a flow path from the reactor to the port, to an inlet of the channel to the body portion, to an outlet of the channel to the body portion, and to the tube; and guiding the exhaust gas from the reactor through the channel of the body portion to a location downstream of the connection. Example 14 is a method of any one of Examples 11 to 13, further comprising arranging a lip portion between a flange and a port, such that a first portion of the body portion is arranged within a channel of the flange, and a second portion of the body portion is arranged within a channel of the tube; wherein the first portion of the body portion defines an inlet of a channel of the body portion; the second portion of the body portion defines an outlet of a channel of the body portion; and the inlet and outlet are arranged outside the channel of the flange. Example 15 is a method of any one of Examples 11 to 15, wherein the reactor is a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor; and the connector includes a weld.

[0018] The terms “comprising” (and any form thereof), “having” (and any form thereof), and “including” (and any form thereof) are all open-ended connecting verbs. Thus, an apparatus that “comprising,” “having,” or “including” one or more elements possesses, but is not limited to, the one or more elements. Similarly, a method that “comprising,” “having,” or “including” one or more steps possesses, but is not limited to, the one or more steps. Any implementation of any system, method, or article of manufacture may include or substantially include—rather than include / have / include—any of the described steps, elements, and / or features. Therefore, in any claim, the terms “consisting of” or “substantially consisting of” may replace any of the open-ended connecting verbs listed above to change the scope of a given claim from the scope when an open-ended connecting verb is used. Furthermore, a device or system configured in a certain way is configured at least in this manner, but may also be configured in a manner different from that specifically described. Unless expressly prohibited by the nature of this disclosure or the implementation, one or more features of one implementation may be applied to other embodiments even without description or illustration.

[0019] Some details relating to the implementation have been described above, while others are described below. Other embodiments, advantages, and features of this disclosure will become apparent after reviewing the entire application, including the following sections (description of drawings, detailed description, and claims). Attached Figure Description

[0020] The following figures are exemplary and not limiting. For the sake of brevity and clarity, each feature of a given structure is not always labeled in every figure in which the structure appears. The same reference numerals do not necessarily indicate the same structure. Rather, the same reference numerals can be used to indicate similar features or features with similar functions, and different reference numerals can also be used in this way.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an isolation system used in the dehydrogenation process.

[0022] Figure 2A This is a stereoscopic view of an example of an isolation system.

[0023] Figure 2B and 2C They are Figure 2A Top and side views of the set.

[0024] Figure 2D This is a side cross-sectional view of an example of the system's set.

[0025] Figure 2E and 2F These are three-dimensional images of other examples of the set.

[0026] Figure 3A and 3B These are side cross-sectional views of the sleeve and flange of the isolation system, respectively, representing a first example and a second example of the flange.

[0027] Figure 4A This is an example of a sleeve and pipes connected to an isolation system. Figure 3A A side cross-sectional view of the flange.

[0028] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A top view of the sleeve and tube.

[0029] Figure 5A This is a side view of an example dehydrogenation reactor.

[0030] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A magnified cross-sectional view of a portion of the surface.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of an example of a method for isolating interfaces between reactor components. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Reference Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of an isolation system for heat transfer associated with a reactor interface, and is designated 100. Although referred to herein as isolation system 100, system 100 may also be referred to as a heat transfer system, thermal jacket assembly, hot-wall dehydrogenation assembly, reactor assembly, or hot-wall dehydrogenation system. Figure 1 As shown, system 100 includes a sleeve 110, a flange 140, a pipe 150, a reactor 160, or a combination thereof. Components of system 100 (e.g., 110, 140, 150, and / or 160) can be coupled (e.g., contacted, mounted, and / or secured) to at least one other component of system 100. In some embodiments, multiple components of system 100 can be coupled to form a flow path for system 100. For example, sleeve 110 can be coupled to reactor 160 and flange 140. Flange 140 can be coupled to sleeve 110, reactor 160, and / or pipe 150. Schematably, flange 140 can be coupled to reactor 160 via one or more fasteners, such as bolts or screws, and to pipe 150 via fasteners 170, such as welds. In some embodiments, system 100 includes one or more additional components, such as one or more pumps, gravity separators, turbines, valves, catalysts, combinations thereof, etc., as illustrative and non-limiting examples (not shown for convenience).

[0033] Sleeve 110 includes a first end 112 and a second end 114. As shown, the first end 112 is opposite to the second end 114. Sleeve 110 may be coupled to one or more other components of system 100 (e.g., 140, 150, 160). For example, sleeve 110 may be directly or indirectly coupled to or mounted to flange 140, pipe 150, and / or reactor 160. In some embodiments, sleeve 110 may be sandwiched between at least two components of system 100. Schematably, the first end 112 may be coupled to one component (e.g., reactor 160). Optionally, the second end 114 may be coupled to another component (e.g., pipe 150). Sleeve 110 can facilitate heat transfer. Schematably, sleeve 110 may be a cast or forged metal configured to thermally isolate one or more components of system 100 from exposure to thermal cycles. In a non-limiting example, sleeve 110 comprises cast iron.

[0034] The sleeve 110 may include a body portion 120 (e.g., a body) and a lip portion 130 (e.g., a lip). In some embodiments, the body portion 120 and the lip portion 30 are integral, such that the body portion and the lip portion cooperate to define the sleeve 110. Schematably, the lip 130 may be at least partially defined by a first end portion 112, and the body 120 may be at least partially defined by a second end portion 114. Additionally or alternatively, the body portion 120 may be at least partially defined by the first end portion 112 of the sleeve 110. For example, the body portion 120 may extend from the first end portion 112 to the second end portion 114. In some embodiments, the sleeve 110 may not include a lip (e.g., 130).

[0035] Flange 140 includes a first end 142 and a second end 144 opposite to the first end 142. Flange 140 may be configured to connect two or more components of the coupling system 100. For example, flange 140 may connect reactor 160 and / or sleeve 110 to pipe 150. Schematic, the first end 142 may be connected to reactor 160, and the second end 144 may be connected to pipe 150. Additionally or alternatively, flange 140 may be connected to sleeve 110. Schematic, the first end 142 of flange 140 may be connected to the first end 112 of sleeve 110, for example, connected to or in contact with lip 130.

[0036] The conduit 150 includes a first end 152 and a second end 154 opposite to the first end 152. The conduit 150 may be configured to carry a fluid (e.g., a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof) through a flow path of system 100 (e.g., from the first end 152 to the second end 154). The conduit 150 may be configured to connect to one or more other components of system 100. In some embodiments, the conduit 150 is connected to sleeve 110 and / or flange 140. For example, the first end 152 may be connected to the second end 114 of sleeve 110. Additionally or alternatively, the first end 152 may be connected to the second end 144 of flange 140. In some embodiments, the conduit 150 is in fluid communication with sleeve 110, flange 140, and / or reactor 160. The conduit 150 may include a straight pipe, a bend (e.g., an inlet cactus fitting), or any suitable conduit of system 100. In some embodiments, system 100 includes two tubes (e.g., 150) joined together by a first flange (e.g., 140) and a second flange (e.g., 140). In such an arrangement, a sleeve 110 may be coupled to the first flange, the second flange, or both, to transfer heat away from the tubes (e.g., 150) and the flanges (e.g., 140). In embodiments with two sleeves, a first end (e.g., 112) of the first sleeve (e.g., 110) may be coupled to a first end (e.g., 112) of the second sleeve (e.g., 110) to define at least a portion of the flow path.

[0037] Reactor 160 may define a chambered body in which a reaction (e.g., a chemical reaction) occurs. For example, reactor 160 may include a catalytic reactor for hot-wall dehydrogenation. In some embodiments, reactor 160 includes a fixed-bed catalytic reactor. Reactor 160 includes a first end 162 (e.g., a first side) and a second end 164 (e.g., a second side). Reactor 160 also includes at least one port, such as a representative port 166. Port 166 may include an inlet or outlet of reactor 160. Port 166 is configured to receive or supply fluid or gas. For example, port 166 may allow reactor 160 to be in fluid communication with one or more other components of system 100 (e.g., 110, 140, 150). Schematic, port 166 may be coupled to flange 140 and / or sleeve 110 to define a flow path (e.g., the flow path of 100).

[0038] System 100 includes one or more interfaces between its components (e.g., 110, 140, 150, 160), referred herein as one or more connection points. Connection points may include mechanical interfaces between components, such as points or portions where components of system 100 contact each other. Two components may be coupled directly or indirectly via interfaces. For example, two components, such as flange 140 and sleeve 110, may contact at an interface, such as an interface formed by a first end 142 of flange 140 and a lip portion 130 of sleeve 110. As another example, two components may be coupled indirectly via connectors, which, as an illustrative and non-limiting example, are fasteners (e.g., nuts and bolts, screws, pins, straps, clips, and / or similar fasteners), adhesives, threaded fasteners (e.g., male-female connectors), welds (e.g., from welding, soldering, brazing, etc., of metals or thermoplastic materials), or combinations thereof. Schematic, the tube 150 and flange 140 are joined together by a connector 170, such as a weld. In some embodiments, the tube 150 and flange 140 may be in contact while being joined together by the connector 170.

[0039] In some embodiments, sleeve 110 includes a body portion 120 defining a channel extending from end 112 to a second end 114. Sleeve 110 may also include a lip 130 extending radially away from the first end 112 and disposed between flange 140 and reactor 160. In such embodiments, sleeve 110 (e.g., channel) may define a flow path extending through flange 140 connected to tube 150 via a connector 170 such as a weld point. In one specific embodiment, lip portion 130 is also disposed between flange 140 and port 166 such that the channel of body 120 defines a flow path between tube 150 and port 166.

[0040] For reference Figure 1The sleeve 110 is configured to thermally isolate the flange 140 and the connector 170. In embodiments where the reactor is a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor, the temperature of the flow path of system 100 may vary and may change from high to low temperature after a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes), generating increased periodic thermal stress in the components of the system. Therefore, the sleeve 110 reduces the stress acting on the flange 140 and the connector 170, allowing these components to comprise materials other than specialized high-temperature materials or alloys. This correspondingly reduces damage / failure, lowers production costs, and allows for greater operational flexibility of system 100.

[0041] Now refer to the two pictures Figures 2A to 2F This shows various views of an example of set 210. For example, Figure 2A A three-dimensional view of set 210 is shown. Figure 2B Showing the front view of sleeve 210, Figure 2C A side view of sleeve 210 is shown. Figure 2D A sectional view of sleeve 210 is shown, and Figure 2E and 2F Perspective views of other examples of the sleeve are shown. Sleeve 210 may include or correspond to sleeve 110. Sleeve 210 may be configured to provide insulation for one or more other components in an isolation system (e.g., system 100).

[0042] The sleeve 210 includes a body portion 220 and a lip portion 230. The body portion 220 and the lip portion 230 may respectively include or correspond to the body portion 120 and the lip portion 130. As shown, the lip portion 230 is defined at a first end 212, and the body portion 220 extends from the first end 212 to a second end 214. The lip portion 230 may extend radially away from the body portion 220 at the first end 212. For example, the body 220 may extend in a first direction angled relative to the extension direction of the lip portion 230. Schematably, the body 220 may extend in a direction substantially orthogonal to the lip 230. As described, the body portion 220 and the lip portion 230 are integral (e.g., cast or forged together), while in other embodiments, the body 220 and the lip 230 may be formed as separate components, joined together by a suitable means, such as welding.

[0043] The main body portion 220 includes a first end portion 222, a second end portion 224, an inner surface 228, and an outer surface 229. As shown, the first end portion 222 is opposite to the second end portion 224. The first end portion 222 of the main body portion 220 may include or correspond to the first end portion 212 of the sleeve 210. Additionally or alternatively, the second end portion 224 of the main body portion 220 may include or correspond to the second end portion 214 of the sleeve 210. As shown, the inner surface 228 and the outer surface 229 extend from the first end portion 222 to the second end portion 224. In some embodiments, the inner surface 228 and the outer surface 229 may be opposing surfaces of the main body portion 220. The inner surface 228 may define an opening at each of the first end portion 222 and the second end portion 224. For example, the inner surface 228 defines a first opening 223 at the first end portion 222 and a second opening 225 at the second end portion 224. In such an implementation, the body portion 220 (e.g., inner surface 228) defines a channel 226 extending from a first opening 223 to a second opening 225 to define at least a portion of a flow path or a longer flow path of the system (e.g., 100). Illustratively, the channel 226 may define a portion of a flow path extending through a flange, such as flange 140. As shown, the body portion 220 comprises a straight-round hollow cylindrical member; however, in other implementations, the body portion may be shaped and sized to define a channel (e.g., 226) of any suitable shape, such as polygonal (e.g., square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, and / or similar shapes), elliptical, and / or similar shapes. Additionally or alternatively, the body portion 220 may include one or more bends or curves such that the longitudinal axis of the channel (e.g., 226) is not in a single plane. It should also be noted that the body portion 220 may include one or more heat-dissipating features, such as fins, ridges, etc., extending from the inner surface 228 to the channel 226.

[0044] The lip portion 230 includes a first end portion 232, a second end portion 234, a first surface 236, and a second surface 238. The first surface 236 and the second surface 238 may each extend from the first end portion 232 to the second end portion 234. As shown, the first surface 236 may include a surface of the lip portion 230 opposite to the second surface 238. In some embodiments, the lip portion 230 defines an annular member extending from the body portion 220 at the first end portion 222. The term "annular member" is not limited to a circle but may include any member defined by a region between two concentric shapes. In some embodiments, the lip portion 230 extends radially away from the first end portion 222. For example, the first end portion 232 of the lip portion 230 may contact or engage with the first end portion 222 of the body portion 220 and extend radially away from the body portion to the second end portion 234. In some embodiments, the lip portion 230 extends away from the body portion 220 along a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the channel 226. In other embodiments, the lip portion 230 may extend radially away from any suitable portion (e.g., the central portion) of the body portion 220. In the depicted embodiment, the first end portion 222 and the second end portion 224 of the lip portion are rounded; however, each end portion of the lip portion 230 may define any suitable shape, such as a polygon (e.g., a square, rectangle, hexagon, octagon, and / or similar shape), an ellipse, an irregular shape, a combination thereof, and / or similar shapes. It should also be noted that the lip 230 may include one or more heat-dissipating features, such as fins, ridges, etc., extending outward from the lip 230 (e.g., extending outward from the first surface 236, the second surface 238, the edge surface between the first surface 236 and the second surface 238, or a combination thereof).

[0045] In some embodiments, the lip portion 230 is configured to be disposed between one or more components of the system (e.g., 100). For example, the lip portion 230 may be disposed between a flange (e.g., 140) and a port (e.g., 166) of a reactor (e.g., 160). In such embodiments, the body portion 220 may extend through an opening in the flange or reactor to define a portion of the flow path of the system. In some embodiments (e.g., where the lip portion 230 extends from the central portion of the body portion 220), as described herein and at least referred to... Figure 2FAs shown, a lip portion 230 may be disposed between two components, and a body portion 220 may extend through the two components to reduce stress acting on the components. As described above, the body portion 220 may conversely define the flow rate of flanges, a portion of a tube, a connection between a flange and a tube (e.g., 170), etc. Accordingly, the sleeve 210 may reduce forced convection acting on one or more components or connections of the system. In some embodiments, the lip portion 230 may define one or more openings (e.g., through holes) extending from a first surface 236 to a second surface 238. The one or more openings may be configured to receive one or more fasteners to engage the sleeve 210 with one or more other components, such as flanges or reactors. In some embodiments, the one or more openings may be circular; however, the lip portion 230 may define one or more openings of any suitable size and shape to facilitate engagement of the sleeve 210.

[0046] In some embodiments, sleeve 210 includes a body portion 220 defining a channel 226 extending from a first end 222 to a second end 224. Sleeve 210 also includes a lip portion 230 extending radially away from the first end 222 and configured to be disposed between a flange and a reactor. In such an embodiment, channel 226 is configured to define a flow path extending through a flange coupled to a tube via a connection (e.g., a weld point). In one specific embodiment, lip 230 is also disposed between a flange and a port of the reactor, such that channel 226 defines a flow path between the tube and the port.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, the lip portion 230 extends between a first end 232 and a second end 224 connected to a first end 222 of the body portion 220. In some such embodiments, a channel 226 defines a longitudinal axis orthogonal to the surface of the lip portion 230. In some embodiments, the body portion 220 defines a first opening 223 at the first end 222 and a second opening 225 at the second end 224.

[0048] Now refer to Figure 2D The image shows a longitudinal section of sleeve 210. The longitudinal section is obtained along a plane that bisects and is parallel to the longitudinal axis of channel 226. As shown, sleeve 210 includes a body portion 220 extending between a first end portion 222 and a second end portion 224, and a lip portion 230 extending radially away from the body portion 220 at the first end portion 222. In some embodiments, sleeves 210 (e.g., 220 and 230) may be shaped and sized to facilitate the isolation of one or more other components (e.g., 140, 150, 160) and / or connectors (e.g., 170) of the system (e.g., system 100).

[0049] The sleeve 210 may include a first distance D1 defining the maximum lateral dimension of the channel 226 along a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the channel 226. The first distance D1 may be measured from opposite sides of the inner surface 228 of the body portion 220. In some embodiments, the first distance D1 corresponds to the diameter of the channel 226. The sleeve 210 may also include a second distance D2 defining the maximum lateral dimension measured between opposite sides of the outer surface 229. Schematically, the second distance D2 may correspond to the outer diameter of the body portion 220. The second distance D2 may be greater than the first distance D1. In some embodiments, the first distance D1 is greater than or equal to any one of the following or between any two of the following: 450, 475, 500, 525, 550, 575, 600, 625, 650, 675, or 700 millimeters (mm) (e.g., approximately 584 mm). In some embodiments, the second distance D2 is greater than or equal to any one of the following or between any two of the following: 475, 500, 525, 550, 575, 600, 625, 650, 675, 700, or 725 millimeters (mm) (e.g., approximately 604 mm). D2 can be obtained by: D1 + (twice the thickness of the body portion 220). In some embodiments, the thickness can be 3 to 15 mm.

[0050] In the depicted embodiment, the sleeve 210 also includes a third distance D3 defining the maximum lateral dimension of the lip portion 230 measured between opposite sides of the second end 224. In some embodiments, the third distance D3 corresponds to the diameter of the lip portion 230. As shown, the third distance D3 is greater than the first distance D1 and the second distance D2, such that the lip portion forms an overhang. For example, D3 may correspond to the maximum lateral dimension of the sleeve 210. In some embodiments, the third distance D3 corresponds to the size of the face covering the flange (e.g., 140) and the size of a designated gasket to be arranged in the sleeve.

[0051] The sleeve 210 may also include a first length L1 defined between a first end 222 and a second end 224 of the body portion 220. Schematic, the first length L1 (e.g., the body length) corresponds to the length of the body portion 220. In some embodiments, the first length L1 extends in the same plane as the first distance D1, the second distance D2, and the third distance D3, and in a direction perpendicular to the distances (e.g., D1 to D3).

[0052] In some embodiments, a first length L1 (e.g., body length) is greater than or equal to at least one of a first distance D1, a second distance D2, and a third distance D3. For example, the body length L1 is greater than or equal to any one of or between any two of the following: 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1000 mm. In some embodiments, L1 may be limited by a liner arranged in the tube (e.g., between the tube and the sleeve) to a bend in the tube (e.g., 150) connected to the sleeve, by means of desired flow characteristics, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the sleeve 210 may include a second length L2 (e.g., 229) defined by a distance (e.g., thickness) measured between a first surface 236 and a second surface 238 of the lip portion. In some embodiments, the second length L2 (e.g., lip thickness) corresponds to the thickness of the lip portion 230. As shown, the body length L1 is greater than the lip thickness L2. In some embodiments, the body length L2 is greater than or equal to any one of the following or between any two of the following: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15 mm. The sleeve may also include a third length L3 of the sleeve 210 from the first end 212 to the second end 214, such as the maximum length.

[0053] Reference Figure 2E An isolator 290 (e.g., an isolating ring) is connected to sleeve 210. Isolator 290 may include ceramic, ceramic wool, other materials, or combinations thereof. Isolator 290 may have a length less than or equal to L1. Alternatively, isolator 290 may have a length greater than or equal to L1. (See reference...) Figure 2F The image shows a sleeve 210 having two body portions 220 and a lip portion 230. The two body portions 220 may include a single body to which the lip portion 230 is attached (e.g., fixed), for example by welding the lip portion 230 to the body portion 220. Additionally or alternatively, the lengths of each of the two body portions 220 may be the same or different.

[0054] Now refer to Figures 3A to 3B This shows an example of the components of a system that are connected together. For example, such as... Figures 3A to 3B The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of an example sleeve 310 connected to various examples of flange 340. Schematic, Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of sleeve 310, which is attached to flange 340 (e.g., a necked butt-welded flange), is shown. Figure 3B A sleeve 310 is shown attached to a second example (e.g., an overlapping flange) of flange 340. The first and second examples of flange 340 may include or correspond to flange 140.

[0055] Sleeve 310 may include or correspond to sleeve 110 or 210. For example, sleeve 310 includes a body portion 320 extending from a first end 312 to a second end 314 and a lip portion 330 extending radially away from the body portion at the first end 312. Body portion 320 may include or correspond to body portions 120, 220, and lip portion 330 may include or correspond to lip portions 130, 230. In some embodiments, sleeve 310 does not include lip portion 330. Body portion 320 includes an inner surface 328 and an outer surface 329. As shown, the first end 312 of sleeve 310 may be coupled to the first end 342 of flange 340. Thus, the first end 312 of sleeve and the first end 342 of flange 340 may each be coupled to another component of the system (e.g., a reactor). The second end 314 of sleeve 310 may be located at the end opposite to the first end 312.

[0056] Flange 340 includes a first end portion 342 and a second end portion 344. As shown, flange 340 extends from the first end portion 342 to the second end portion 344 opposite to the first end portion 342. Flange 340 may also define a channel 346 (e.g., a second channel) extending from the first end portion 342 to the second end portion 344. In some embodiments, lip portion 330 may be coupled to the first end portion 342 of flange 340 such that body portion 320 extends through flange 340 to define at least a portion of a flow path.

[0057] The channel 346 of the flange 340 may include a fourth distance D4 defining the maximum lateral dimension of the channel 346 along a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the channel 346. In some embodiments, D4 may correspond to the diameter of the channel 346. As shown, the fourth distance D4 of the channel 346 is greater than or equal to the second distance D2 of the sleeve 310, such that the body portion 320 can be inserted into the flange 340. In such embodiments, the channel 346 may be shaped similarly to the body portion 320 of the sleeve 310. In some embodiments, a gap (e.g., a flange gap and / or a gap between the sleeve and the tube diameter) separates the outer surface 329 of the sleeve 310 from the inner surface of the flange 340 (which defines the channel 346). For example, the flange gap may be defined as the distance between the outer surface 329 of the body portion 320 and the sidewall of the flange defining the channel 346. In some embodiments, the flange gap may be greater than or equal to any one of the following or between any two of the following: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 mm. Thus, the flange gap allows the sleeve 210 to thermally expand during system operation, with little or no contact force between the sleeve 310 (e.g., body portion 320) and the flange 340. In some embodiments, the flange gap (and / or the gap between the sleeve and the tube) may be at least partially or completely filled with an insulating type material (e.g., bio-durable fibers, polycrystalline fibers, refractory ceramic fibers, ceramic wool, mineral wool, glass fiber, etc.). For example, the flange gap may include ceramic wool filling. In some embodiments, as an illustrative, non-limiting example, the insulating type material may have a ring or cylindrical shape.

[0058] The flange 340 may include a fourth length L4 defined by a distance measured between a first end 342 and a second end 344 of the flange 340. L4 (e.g., flange length) may correspond to the length of the channel 346. In such an embodiment, L1 (e.g., body length) is greater than L4 (e.g., flange length). Accordingly, when the sleeve 310 is engaged with the flange 340, the body portion 320 may extend beyond the second end 344. Schematally, when the body 320 extends from the first end 342 to the second end 344, the surface of the lip portion 330 may abut against the first end 342 of the flange. In such an embodiment, the sleeve 310 includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion including a portion of the body portion 320 configured to be disposed within the channel 346 of the flange 340 when the sleeve 310 is engaged with the flange 340, and the second portion including a portion of the body portion 320 configured to be disposed outside the channel 346 when the sleeve 310 is engaged with the flange 340. In such an implementation, the first length L1 (e.g., the body length) is greater than the fourth length L4 (e.g., the flange length). Thus, the sleeve 310 can define the flow path of the system (e.g., 100) bypassing the flange 340 and allow the sleeve 310 to reduce a portion of the energy transfer (e.g., heat transfer) from the system (e.g., the reactor) to the flange 340. Therefore, in a system (e.g., 100) with high temperature fluctuations, cyclic thermal stresses acting on components (e.g., flange 340, pipe, or connector-weld joint) can be reduced. In some implementations, the flange 340 defines a channel 346 extending from a first end 342 of the flange 340 to a second end 344 of the flange 340. In one specific implementation, the flange 340 is coupled to a port (e.g., 166) of a reactor (e.g., 160) via the first end 342 of the flange 340. In some implementations, the channel 326 of the body portion 320 includes a maximum lateral dimension (e.g., D1) less than or equal to 90% of the maximum lateral dimension (e.g., D4) of the channel 346 of the flange 340. In some embodiments, flange 340 is a necked butt weld flange or a lap flange.

[0059] Now refer to Figures 4A to 4B The image shows various views of the sleeve 310 and flange 340 connected to the tube 350 via connector 370. Figure 4A A side sectional view of the sleeve 310, which connects to the flange 340 and the tube 350, is shown. Figure 4BA partial top sectional view of the sleeve and tube is shown. Tube 350 may be coupled to flange 340 and / or sleeve 310 to define at least a portion of the flow path of the system (e.g., 100). As shown, in a first configuration, sleeve 310, flange 340, and tube 350 are coupled to define at least a portion of the flow path. In the first configuration, one or more other components (e.g., reactor 160) may be coupled to a first end 312 of the sleeve and / or a second end 354 of the tube 350 to further define the flow path.

[0060] Tube 350 may include or correspond to tube 150. Tube 350 may include a first end 352, a second end 354, an inner surface 358, and an outer surface 359. Tube 350 (e.g., inner surface 358) may also define a channel 356. As shown, the first end 352 is opposite to the second end 354, and each of the inner surface 358 and the outer surface 359 extends from the first end 352 to the second end 354. The inner surface 358 and the outer surface 359 may be opposing surfaces of tube 350. In some embodiments, the inner surface 358 of tube 350 may define an opening at each of the first end 352 and the second end 354. Schematably, tube 350 defines a first opening at the first end 352 and a second opening at the second end 354. In such an embodiment, channel 356 (e.g., a third channel) is defined by the inner surface 358 between the first opening and the second opening of tube 350. As shown, tube 350 is a straight hollow cylindrical member (e.g., a straight tube); however, tube 350 can be of any size and shape. For example, tube 350 may include one or more bends (e.g., a long-radius elbow). Additionally or alternatively, tube 350 may be narrowed (e.g., a bell-shaped cone).

[0061] The tube 350 may include a fifth distance D5 defining the maximum lateral dimension of the channel 356 obtained along a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the channel 356. In some embodiments, the tube 350 is coupled to the flange 340 such that the channel 346 of the flange 340 is aligned (e.g., coaxial) with the channel 356 of the tube 350. For example, a first end 352 of the tube 350 may be coupled to a second end 344 of the flange 340 to define a flow path. In some embodiments, the channel 356 has a maximum lateral dimension that is substantially equal to the maximum lateral dimension of the channel 346. As shown, the fifth distance D5 of the channel 356 is greater than the second distance D2 of the sleeve 310 such that the body portion 320 (e.g., of 310) can be inserted into and / or pass through the flange 340.

[0062] In some embodiments, a gap 374 separates the sleeve 310 and the tube 350 so that the body portion 320 and the tube 350 do not contact each other. For example, the gap 374 may be defined as the distance between the outer surface 329 of the body portion 320 and the inner surface 358 of the tube 350. Additionally or alternatively, a gap 376 (e.g., a flange gap) may separate the body portion 320 from the flange 340. In the depicted embodiments, the gap 374 is approximately equal to the flange gap 376; however, in other embodiments, the gap 374 may be larger or smaller than the flange gap 376. For example, in some embodiments, the sleeve 310 may be narrowed at a first end 312 so that the gap 374 is larger than the flange gap 376. Thus, as fluid moves from the tube 350 to the sleeve 310, the flow through the flow path does not produce significant backflow. In other embodiments, the second portion of the body portion 320 is long enough that the sleeve 310 does not need to be narrowed. In the embodiment described, when the sleeve 310 is inserted into the tube 350, the length of the second portion allows for a gradual expansion rate of the fluid to properly isolate one or more components.

[0063] The connector 370 is configured to attach the tube 350 to the flange 340 and / or the sleeve 310. For example, a first end 352 of the tube 350 and a second end 344 of the flange 340 may form a connection point (e.g., a joint) attached by the connector 370. In some embodiments, the tube 350 and the flange 340 may be metal (e.g., steel), and the connector 370 may include a weld. Schematably, the first end 352 of the tube 350 may be connected to the second end 344 of the flange by, for example, thermal welding, ultrasonic welding, and / or similar welding (e.g., 370). As shown, when the tube 350 is attached to the flange 340, the sleeve 310 may be arranged within the flange 340, or alternatively, when the sleeve 310 is attached to the flange 340, the tube 350 may be arranged around the sleeve 310. For example, when the lip 330 is attached to the first end 342, the body 320 may be arranged in the channel 346 and / or the channel 356. In one embodiment, when the sleeve 310, flange 340, and tube 350 are joined together, the body 320 extends into the channel 356 of the tube 350 to cover the connector 370 (from the inside). In such an embodiment, a first portion of the body 320 is disposed in the channel 346 of the flange 340, and a second portion of the body 320 is disposed in the channel 356 of the tube 350. Accordingly, the sleeve 310 and tube 350 may define flow paths such that the flow paths bypass the flange 340 (e.g., fluid does not flow through the flange 340, nor through the sleeve 310). Thus, the sleeve 310 may insulate the flange 340, tube 350, and connector 370 from heat (e.g., forced convection, thermal expansion, or other thermal stresses). In such an embodiment, welds (e.g., 170, 370) may be used to join the tube 350 and flange 340 without weld cracking due to heat from the reactor. In some embodiments, the body length (e.g., L1) of sleeve 310 can be customized such that the second portion of body 320 extends sufficiently far into channel 356 to isolate connector 370 without contacting tube 350. Illustratively, the body length L1 can be limited in embodiments of system 100 where tube 350 includes bends or narrowings (e.g., a cactus geometry at the inlet of a dehydrogenation reactor).

[0064] In some embodiments, tube 350 defines channel 356 and is coupled to a second end 344 of flange 340. In some embodiments, body portion 320 includes a first portion disposed in channel 346 of flange 340 and a second portion disposed in channel 356. In one specific embodiment, lip portion 330 is configured to be disposed between flange 340 and another component of system 300 (e.g., another flange or port 166 of reactor 160) such that the first portion of body portion 320 is disposed in channel 346 of flange 340, and the second portion of body portion 320 is disposed in channel 356 of tube 350 coupled to flange 340 via an interface (e.g., 370). In such embodiments, the interface may include a weld.

[0065] In some embodiments, one or more connectors 378 may connect the sleeve 310 to the tube 350 and / or flange 340. For example, Figure 4B The connector 378 may include a weld (e.g., a tack weld) that attaches the outer surface (e.g., 329) of the body portion 320 to the inner surface 358 of the tube 350. The connector 378 can be used to attach the outer surface 329 of the body 320 to the flange 340. In some embodiments, the connector 378 may attach the body 320 to the tube 350, attach the body 320 to the flange 340, or attach the body 320 to both the tube 350 and the flange 340 (e.g.,...). Figure 4A (as shown) or combinations thereof. In such a configuration, sleeve 310 may or may not be connected to tube 350 or flange 340 via lip 330 of sleeve 310. As shown, connector 378 comprises four connectors equidistantly spaced around body 320; however, any suitable number of connectors may be used, and the spacing need not be equal. In some embodiments, each connector 378 may include welds (e.g., tack welds, thermal welds, ultrasonic welds, and / or similar welds), fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws), etc. In some embodiments, insulating material (e.g., ceramic wool) may be arranged in voids 374 and / or voids 376 to enhance flow characteristics and provide isolation. In one specific embodiment, one or more connectors may be configured to define a chamber or cavity comprising insulating material and / or an insulating element (e.g., insulating element 290). In one embodiment, the insulating material may be arranged in one or more cavities 374, 376, the insulating element (e.g. 290) is arranged at the end of the body 320 (in cavities 374 and / or 376), and one or more connectors 378 are arranged at the end of the body 320 and hold the insulating element (e.g. 290).

[0066] Reference Figures 5A to 5B This illustrates an example of a system used in operations that insulate one or more components of the system. For example... Figure 5AThis is a side view of a reactor 460 (e.g., a dehydrogenation reactor) having inlet and outlet pipes including one or more tubes, particularly showing a first tube 450a, a second tube 450b, and a first flange 440a and a second flange 440b. For example, the inlet pipe may include a cactus-shaped pipe 466. An enlarged view shows a portion of the inlet pipe of the reactor 460 having two sleeves 410a and 41b, labeled 462, wherein each sleeve is coupled to the respective first flange 440a and second flange 440b and extends through the flanges into a portion of the first tube 450a and the second tube 450b. The reactor 460 may include or correspond to reactor 160 and may include one or more ports (e.g., 166). The first flange 440a, the second flange 440b, and the first tube 450a, the second tube 450b may respectively include or correspond to flanges 140, 340 and tubes 150, 350. Additionally or alternatively, sleeves 410a, 410b may include or correspond to sleeves 110, 210, 310. In some embodiments, the flow path of the system is connected to chamber 488 of reactor 460 where a reaction (e.g., a chemical reaction) occurs.

[0067] As shown, the system may include a first tube 450a (e.g., a hot-wall tube) and a second tube 450b (e.g., a cold-wall tube) disposed upstream of chamber 488. In such an embodiment, a flow (e.g., of gas) may enter the first tube portion and be supplied to the second tube portion. Each of the first tube 450a and the second tube 450b may be coupled to a corresponding first flange 440a and second flange 440b. For example, a first end 452a of the first tube 450a is coupled to the first flange 440a, and a first end 452b of the second tube 450b is coupled to the second flange 440b. Each flange may be coupled to sleeves 410a and 410b, respectively, and the first flanges 440a and the second flanges 440b may be coupled together such that the first sleeves 410a and the second sleeves 410b define a portion of the flow path of the system. In some embodiments, a first end 412a of the first sleeve 410a is coupled to a first end 412b of the second sleeve 410b. In one embodiment, a gasket may be disposed between the first sleeve 410a and the second sleeve 410b and / or between the respective sleeve and the flange. A portion of each sleeve 410a or 410b may extend through its respective first flange 440a or second flange 440b such that the flow path deviates from the interface between the first tube 450a and the second tube 450b and the first flange 440a and the second flange 440b. In some embodiments, at least one sleeve 410a and / or sleeve 410b may define a gap between the outer surface of the sleeve and the respective first tube 450a or second tube 450b in which the sleeve is disposed. As described above, an insulating material (e.g., ceramic wool) may be disposed in the gap to enhance flow characteristics and further isolate components of the system.

[0068] Now refer to Figure 5B A detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the inlet conduit of a reactor 460 having two sleeves 410a and 410b, each of which is respectively coupled to a first flange 440a or a second flange 440b and extends through the flange into a portion of a first tube 450a or a second tube 450b. In some such embodiments, the first sleeve (e.g., 410a) and the second sleeve (e.g., 410b) are arranged in their respective flanges to define a flow path around the flanges and prevent system component failure. In the depicted embodiment, the lengths L1a and L1b of the first sleeve 410a and the second sleeve 410b may be different due to the geometry (e.g., bends, narrowings, or linings) of the first tube 450a and the second tube 450b. Schematic, L1a of the first sleeve 410a is limited by bends in the first tube 450a (e.g., bends, narrowings, or linings). Figure 5B (as shown), and the L1b of the second set 410b is limited by the need for the set to extend beyond the refractory lining 480 or by the refractory cover 482 of the internal refractory material in the second tube 450b. For example, the length L1a of the first set 410a may be less than the length L1b of the second set 410b.

[0069] In some embodiments, a first flange (e.g., first flange 440a) may be coupled to a second flange (e.g., second flange 440b) such that the first ends of the first flange and the second flange contact to form an interface. In some embodiments, a lip portion 430a of sleeve 410a and / or a lip portion 430b of sleeve 410b may be disposed between the interface of the first flange (first flange 440a) and the second flange (second flange 440b) to help secure the sleeve to the flange. In other embodiments, the sleeve (e.g., 410a and / or 410b) may not include a lip portion and may be coupled to the first flange 440a or the second flange 440b and / or the first tube 450a or the second tube 450b via one or more connectors 478. In any embodiment, gaps (e.g., flange gaps or tube gaps) may be filled with a insulating material, such as bio-durable fibers, polycrystalline fibers, refractory ceramic fibers, mineral wool, glass fibers, etc.

[0070] As described above, the sleeve is configured to thermally insulate the flanges, pipes, and / or interfaces (e.g., connectors or welds). In embodiments where the reactor is a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor, the temperature of the system's flow path can vary and may change from a high temperature to a low temperature after a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes), generating cyclic thermal stresses in the system's components. Therefore, the sleeve can reduce the stress acting on the flanges and / or connectors, allowing these components to comprise materials other than specialized high-temperature materials or alloys. Accordingly, this reduces production costs and allows for greater flexibility in system operation.

[0071] Reference Figure 6 This illustrates a method 600 for an interface between two components of an isolating reactor. Method 600 can be used in system 100, 400, or system 100 or... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The method 600 is implemented at, by, or through one or more components of the system. Method 600 includes receiving the reactor output in 602 via a sleeve disposed between two components of the system. The sleeve may include or correspond to sleeves 110, 210, 310, and the reactor may include or correspond to reactors 160, 460. For example, the sleeve may include a body portion defining a channel extending from a first end of a body portion to a second end, and a lip portion extending radially away from the first end of the body portion. Method 600 includes transferring the system output from the first end through the channel of the body portion to the second end via the sleeve in 604. In some embodiments, method 600 includes defining a flow path from the reactor to a port, an inlet to the channel to the body, an outlet to the channel to the body, and to a pipe. Method 600 also includes conducting heat from the reactor output via the sleeve in 606 and isolating the connection point of the two components via the sleeve in 608. For example, the sleeve may cover the connection of the system from the reactor output and / or inlet such that the flow path through the sleeve bypasses the components of the system. In some implementations, method 600 includes arranging a sleeve to isolate the flow path from the connector.

[0072] In some embodiments, method 600 includes positioning a lip portion between a flange and a port such that a first portion of the body portion is positioned within a channel of the flange, and a second portion of the body portion is positioned within a channel of the tube. In some such embodiments, the first portion of the body portion defines an inlet to the channel, and the second portion of the body portion defines an outlet to the channel. In one specific embodiment, the inlet and outlet are positioned outside the channel of the flange.

[0073] In some embodiments, method 600 may include coupling a first component of the system to another component of the system. Indicatively, a sleeve may be coupled to a port of a reactor. Additionally or alternatively, method 600 may also include arranging the body of the sleeve within two components. For example, the two components may include a flange and a tube. In some embodiments, components of the system may be coupled to each other via connectors (e.g., welds) at connection points. For example, method 600 may include welding a first component of the system to a second component of the system.

[0074] In other embodiments, method 600 may include receiving an input instead of an output. In some embodiments, the reactor is a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor. In such embodiments, the reactor output may include exhaust gas. In such embodiments, method 600 may include defining a flow path from the inlet of a pipe, to the outlet of a channel, to a port, and to the reactor. Method 600 may also include guiding the exhaust gas from the pipe through the channel to a location downstream of the connection point. Accordingly, method 600 may conduct heat from the exhaust gas from the reactor.

[0075] The foregoing descriptions and examples provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary configurations. While certain configurations have been described above with some degree of specificity or reference to one or more individual configurations, those skilled in the art can make numerous changes to the disclosed configurations without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the various illustrative configurations of the methods and systems are not intended to limit them to the specific forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and configurations other than those shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted configuration. For example, elements may be omitted or combined into a single structure, connections may be replaced, or both. Furthermore, where appropriate, aspects of any of the foregoing examples may be combined with aspects of any other example described to form further examples having comparable or different characteristics and / or functions and solving the same or different problems. Similarly, it should be understood that the foregoing benefits and advantages may apply to one configuration or may apply to several configurations. Therefore, the individual embodiments described herein should not be construed as limiting, and embodiments of this disclosure may be appropriately combined without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. The prior description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed embodiments. Various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be endowed with the broadest possible scope consistent with the principles and novel features defined by the appended claims. The claims are not intended to include, nor should be construed as including, limitations of means plus or steps plus function, unless the phrases “means for…” or “steps for…” are used respectively in a given claim.

Claims

1. A system for transferring heat associated with an interface corresponding to a reactor, the system comprising: A flange is connected to the pipe via a weld point, the flange defining a flange channel, and the length of the flange channel is defined by a distance measured between a first end and a second end of the flange channel; A sleeve includes a main body portion defining a channel extending from a first end of the main body portion to a second end of the main body portion, the channel being configured to define a flow path extending through a flange; and A lip portion extending radially away from the first end and configured to be disposed between the flange and the reactor, wherein: The main body includes a first portion disposed within a channel of the flange and a second portion disposed within a channel of the tube; and The first end and the second end of the main body extend through the entire length of the flange channel and through the first and second ends of the flange channel.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The lip portion extends between a first end and a second end, the first end of the lip portion being connected to the first end of the main body portion; and The channel of the main body portion defines a longitudinal axis orthogonal to the lip portion.

3. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The main body portion defines a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The lip portion is configured to be disposed between the flange and the port of the reactor, such that a first portion of the main body portion is disposed within a channel of the flange, and a second portion of the main body portion is disposed within a channel of a tube connected to the flange via an interface.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The lip portion is also configured to be disposed between the flange and the port of the reactor, such that the channel of the body portion defines the flow path between the tube and the port of the reactor.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising: The reactor; and The flange defines a channel extending from a first end of the flange to a second end of the flange and is coupled through the first end of the flange to a port of the reactor; and The tube defines a passage for the tube and is connected to the second end of the flange.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The reactor includes a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor; and the interface includes a weld point.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The main body includes a first portion disposed within a channel of the flange and a second portion disposed within a channel of the tube; and The first end and the second end of the main body portion are arranged outside the channel of the flange.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The channel of the main body has a maximum lateral dimension that is less than or equal to 90% of the maximum lateral dimension of the channel of the flange.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The flange is a necked butt-welded flange or a lap flange.

11. A method for isolating an interface between two components of a reactor using the system of claim 1, the method comprising: The reactor's output is received through a sleeve arranged between two components of the reactor; The output of the reactor is transmitted from the first end through a channel in the main body to the second end via the sleeve. Heat from the reactor output is conducted through the sleeve; and The sleeve isolates the connection point between the two components.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Connect the sleeve to the port of the reactor; and The main body of the sleeve is arranged within the two components; and in: The two components include a flange and a tube; and The reactor's output includes exhaust gases.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: Define the flow path from the reactor to the port, to the inlet of the channel to the main body, to the outlet of the channel to the main body, and to the pipe; and The exhaust gas from the reactor is guided through the channel of the main body to a location downstream of the connector that connects the pipe to the flange.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, further comprising: The lip portion is arranged between the flange and the port of the reactor, such that a first portion of the main body portion is arranged within the channel of the flange, and a second portion of the main body portion is arranged within the channel of the tube; and in: The first part of the main body defines the entrance to the channel of the main body; The second part of the main body defines the exit of the channel of the main body; and The inlet and the outlet are located outside the channel of the flange.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The reactor is a hot-wall dehydrogenation reactor; and... The connector includes a weld.

Images