Regenerative thermal oxidizer, system including regenerative thermal oxidizer, and method of operating regenerative thermal oxidizer

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a regenerative thermal oxidizer comprising at least a first transfer chamber and at least a second transfer chamber wherein the first transfer chamber comprises a first bed and the second transfer chamber comprises a second bed; at least one reaction chamber in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber and the second transfer chamber, where the exhaust gas can be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer to flow through the first bed to the reaction chamber or through the second bed to the reaction chamber; and one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets being used for introducing an oxygen-containing gas into the heat accumulating type thermal oxidizer, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets are positioned between at least a portion of the first bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber or between at least a portion of the second bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the priority of European patent application No. 22164241.6 filed on March 24, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a regenerative thermal oxidizer, a system including the regenerative thermal oxidizer, and a method of operating a regenerative thermal oxidizer. Background Art

[0004] Several types of regenerative thermal oxidizers (RTO) are known in the art. RTOs are typically used for the oxidation (combustion) of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaust gas streams. RTOs typically include two separated beds in fluid communication with a common reaction chamber. Exhaust gas is introduced into the RTO to flow through one of the beds to preheat the exhaust gas. In the reaction chamber, the VOCs are oxidized, and the resulting flue gas flows through the other of the beds and transfers heat energy to the bed. After a specific period of time, the gas flow is switched so that the waste is introduced into the RTO to flow through the bed previously heated by the flue gas, and the flue gas generated in the reaction chamber is directed through the bed previously used to preheat the exhaust gas. Due to the design of the RTO, a large amount of (heat) energy can be recovered.

[0005] For a typical RTO, the exhaust gas stream to be oxidized will be mixed with air and diluted before entering the RTO. The exhaust gas usually contains combustible compounds such as VOCs, hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide and carbon monoxide. In some countries, the minimum dilution of the exhaust gas is to maintain the lower explosion limit of the mixture (exhaust gas and air) below 25%. For example, BS-EN 12753 requires this. Especially when the exhaust gas contains hydrogen, the amount of air required for diluting the exhaust gas is considerable. In some countries, the dilution is set by regulations, in others it is determined according to good engineering practice.

[0006] Therefore, known RTOs are bulky, expensive to operate and require measuring equipment for measuring or determining the lower explosion limit.

[0007] One object of the present disclosure is to provide an RTO with a smaller volume. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an RTO with low manufacturing cost. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an RTO with low operating cost. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an RTO with reduced energy consumption. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an RTO with reduced carbon dioxide and / or nitrogen oxide emissions. Summary of the invention

[0008] One or more of the above objects are solved by combining the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are provided in the corresponding dependent claims. The features of an independent claim can be combined with the features of one or more claims dependent thereto, and the features of one or more dependent claims can be combined with each other.

[0009] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a regenerative thermal oxidizer is proposed. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least a first transfer chamber. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least a second transfer chamber. The first transfer chamber may include a first bed. The second transfer chamber may include a second bed. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least one reaction chamber. The reaction chamber may be in fluid communication with the first transfer chamber. The reaction chamber may be in fluid communication with the second transfer chamber. Exhaust gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer to flow through the first bed to the reaction chamber. Alternatively or in addition, exhaust gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer to flow through the second bed to the reaction chamber. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets for introducing oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned or disposed between at least a portion of the first bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber. Alternatively or in addition, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned or disposed between at least a portion of the second bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.

[0010] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a system is proposed. The system may include a regenerative thermal oxidizer. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may be any regenerative thermal oxidizer disclosed herein. For example, the regenerative thermal oxidizer includes at least a first transfer chamber. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least a second transfer chamber. The first transfer chamber may include a first bed. The second transfer chamber may include a second bed. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least one reaction chamber. The reaction chamber may be in fluid communication with the first transfer chamber. The reaction chamber may be in fluid communication with the second transfer chamber. The system may include an exhaust pipe for connecting an exhaust source to at least the first transfer chamber and / or at least the second transfer chamber. The system may include an oxygen-containing gas pipe for connecting an oxygen-containing gas source to the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The system may include a controller. The controller may be configured to direct the exhaust gas through the first bed to the reaction chamber via the exhaust pipe so that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed. The exhaust gas may include at least one oxidizable compound. The controller may be configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via the oxygen-containing gas conduit such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed.

[0011] The system may include any of the regenerative thermal oxidizers disclosed herein.

[0012] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a method of operating a regenerative thermal oxidizer is provided. The method may include: directing exhaust gas through a first bed of a first transfer chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer to a reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed. The exhaust gas may include at least one oxidizable compound. The method may include: directing an oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed.

[0013] Any regenerative thermal oxidizer disclosed herein may be operated by this method. Any system disclosed herein may be operated by this method.

[0014] According to the present disclosure, exhaust gas containing compounds to be oxidized (e.g., pollutants) can be directed toward a reaction chamber of a regenerative thermal oxidizer without diluting the exhaust gas with air prior to entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer. Oxygen required to oxidize the compounds to be oxidized can be introduced separately into the regenerative thermal oxidizer. By introducing the exhaust gas and oxygen separately into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, significantly smaller gas volumes flow through the bed of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, thereby increasing the efficiency of preheating the exhaust gas.

[0015] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may comprise a bed that is preheated from a previous oxidation cycle to preheat the input gas (e.g., exhaust gas). Thus, (thermal) energy may be regenerated. Compounds of the input gas may be oxidized at an elevated temperature (e.g., at least 500° C.).

[0016] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may comprise a first transfer chamber and a second transfer chamber. Each of the transfer chambers may be a half chamber, i.e. at least one side of the chamber may be open. The first transfer chamber and the second transfer chamber may be (partially) separated by a wall. The wall may extend in the regenerative thermal oxidizer (preferably towards the reaction chamber).

[0017] The first transfer chamber may include a first bed. The second transfer chamber may include a second bed. Each of the beds disclosed herein may include a packing. For example, the packing may be a structured packing or a random packing. Each of the beds disclosed herein may include a ceramic material. The exhaust gas may flow through the bed to exchange (heat) energy with the bed. For example, when the temperature of the exhaust gas is lower than the temperature of the bed, the exhaust gas is heated or preheated when flowing through the bed.

[0018] The first transfer chamber may be in fluid communication with the reaction chamber fluid of the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The second transfer chamber may be in fluid communication with the reaction chamber fluid of the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The reaction chamber (reaction chamber) may be a reaction chamber (reaction room). For example, the transfer chambers may be (physically) separated from each other. One side of each of the transfer chambers may be open toward the reaction chamber. Preferably, the first transfer chamber, the second transfer chamber and the reaction chamber may be designed so that a fluid (e.g., a gas) may flow from the first transfer chamber to the reaction chamber. The fluid may flow from the reaction chamber to the second transfer chamber. Preferably, inside the regenerative thermal oxidizer, the fluid cannot flow from the first transfer chamber to the second transfer chamber without passing through the reaction chamber.

[0019] The transfer chamber may be designed so that a fluid (e.g., a gas or a liquid) is directed from outside the regenerative thermal oxidizer through the bed of the transfer chamber to the reaction chamber, and / or the transfer chamber may be designed so that a fluid (e.g., a gas or a liquid) is directed from the reaction chamber through the bed of the transfer chamber to outside the regenerative thermal oxidizer.

[0020] The oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas may be oxidized in the reaction chamber. The oxidation of the oxidizable compounds may occur by a chemical reaction of the oxidizable compounds with oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas.

[0021] The temperature in the reaction chamber may be at least 500° C., preferably at least 600° C., more preferably at least 700° C., more preferably at least 800° C. Alternatively or in addition, the temperature in the reaction chamber may be at most 1500° C., preferably at most 1300° C., more preferably at most 1100° C. In particular, the temperature in the reaction chamber may be between 800° C. and 1300° C.

[0022] As mentioned above, the exhaust gas may contain one or more oxidizable compounds. Preferably, the exhaust gas contains at least two different oxidizable compounds, more preferably at least three different oxidizable compounds, more preferably at least five different oxidizable compounds, more preferably at least ten different oxidizable compounds, more preferably at least twenty different oxidizable compounds. The different oxidizable compounds may differ in at least one chemical or physical property. For example, the different oxidizable compounds may have different chemical compositions and / or the different oxidizable compounds may have different boiling points.

[0023] Specific examples of oxidizable compounds include at least one hydrocarbon, at least one volatile organic compound (VOC), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), hydrogen (H2) and / or carbon monoxide (CO). Preferably, the exhaust gas contains at least one sulfur-containing compound or elemental sulfur. The sulfur-containing compound or elemental sulfur can be an oxidizable compound in the exhaust gas.

[0024] The waste gas may be a gas that has been treated or pretreated in a previous gas treatment unit. For example, the waste gas may be the tail gas of a sulfur recovery unit. The sulfur recovery unit may adopt or include a Claus process. Generally, the waste gas may be any gas containing an oxidizable compound, preferably the oxidizable compound is a pollutant. The waste gas may include exhaust gas and / or purge gas from a sulfur pit. In addition, the exhaust gas and / or purge gas from the sulfur pit may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer separately from the waste gas.

[0025] The source of the waste gas may be a gas processing unit, such as a sulphur recovery unit. The source of the waste gas may be an outlet or exhaust of a gas processing unit.

[0026] Preferably, the oxygen-containing gas comprises at least 5% by volume of oxygen (O2), more preferably at least 10% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 15% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 20% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 25% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 30% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 35% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 40% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 50% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 60% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 70% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 80% by volume of oxygen, more preferably at least 90% by volume of oxygen. For example, the oxygen-containing gas can be air. The air can be the air surrounding the regenerative thermal oxidizer and / or the system. The oxygen-containing gas source can be the surrounding or environment of the regenerative thermal oxidizer and / or the system.

[0027] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets for introducing oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer. One or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned between at least a portion of the first bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber. For example, one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be holes or nozzles in the wall of the first transfer chamber. Alternatively, one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be holes or nozzles in the wall of the reaction chamber.

[0028] The first oxygen-containing gas inlet may be positioned or arranged such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the first transfer chamber and / or enters the reaction chamber.

[0029] As the exhaust gas flows through the first bed of the first transfer chamber to the reaction chamber, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned or arranged downstream (in the direction of fluid flow therein) of at least a portion of the first bed. In other words, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of or after at least a portion of the first bed.

[0030] When the exhaust gas flows from the reaction chamber through the first bed of the first transfer chamber, one or all of the first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be closed. When one or all of the first oxygen-containing gas inlets are closed, no oxygen-containing gas may enter the regenerative thermal oxidizer via one or all of the first oxygen-containing gas inlets.

[0031] The distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the first bed may be less than 2.00 m, preferably less than 1.50 m, more preferably less than 1.00 m, more preferably less than 0.80 m, more preferably less than 0.60 m, more preferably less than 0.40 m, more preferably less than 0.20 m. Alternatively or in addition, the distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the first bed may be at least 0.05 m, preferably at least 0.10 m, more preferably at least 0.15 m.

[0032] Alternatively, one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned between at least a portion of the second bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber. For example, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be holes or nozzles in the wall of the second transfer chamber. Alternatively, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be holes or nozzles in the wall of the reaction chamber. The one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets between at least a portion of the second bed and a portion of the reaction chamber may be designed and / or positioned and / or arranged to be similar to or equal to the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets between at least a portion of the first bed and a portion of the reaction chamber.

[0033] For example, the distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the second bed may be less than 2.00 m, preferably less than 1.50 m, more preferably less than 1.00 m, more preferably less than 0.80 m, more preferably less than 0.60 m, more preferably less than 0.40 m, more preferably less than 0.20 m. Alternatively or in addition, the distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the second bed may be at least 0.05 m, preferably at least 0.10 m, more preferably at least 0.15 m.

[0034] Preferably, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets are positioned closer to the reaction chamber than the inlet of the exhaust gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer. More preferably, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets are positioned closer to the reaction chamber than the inlet of the exhaust gas into the first transfer chamber or into the second transfer chamber.

[0035] Typically, the portion of the reaction chamber may be any portion of the reaction chamber. Preferably, the distance between the portion of the reaction chamber and at least a portion of the bed (e.g., the first bed and / or the second bed) may be at least 0.20 m, preferably at least 0.40 m, more preferably at least 0.60 m, more preferably at least 0.80 m, more preferably at least 1.00 m, more preferably at least 1.20 m, more preferably at least 1.50 m, more preferably at least 2.00 m. Alternatively or in addition, the distance between the portion of the reaction chamber and at least a portion of the bed (e.g., the first bed and / or the second bed) may be at most 2.50 m, preferably at most 2.00 m, more preferably at most 1.50 m, more preferably at most 1.20 m, more preferably at most 1.00 m, more preferably at most 0.80 m, more preferably at most 0.60 m, more preferably at most 0.40 m. The distance between a portion of the reaction chamber and at least a portion of a bed (eg, the first bed and / or the second bed) can be about 2.00 m, about 1.50 m, about 1.00 m, or about 0.50 m.

[0036] Generally, the distance may be the shortest distance between two objects or elements or points (eg, the length of the space between the two objects or elements or points).

[0037] Typically, the oxygen-containing gas can be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer so that the oxygen-containing gas is introduced into the bed (e.g., the first bed or the second bed). Alternatively or in addition, the oxygen-containing gas can be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer so that the oxygen-containing gas is introduced outside the bed (e.g., the first bed or the second bed).

[0038] Typically, a portion of a bed (e.g., a portion of a first bed or a portion of a second bed) can be any portion of a bed. The portion of the bed can be an upper portion or a lower portion of the bed. The portion of the bed can be located between an upper portion and a lower portion of the bed. For example, the portion of the bed can be a portion of the outermost portion of the bed in a downstream direction. For example, the portion of the bed can be a portion of the outermost portion, upper half, or lower half of the bed in the downstream direction. Furthermore, the portion of the bed can be a portion of the outermost portion of the bed in an upstream direction. Furthermore, the portion of the bed can be a portion of the outermost portion, upper half, or lower half of the bed in the upstream direction.

[0039] When the exhaust gas flows through the bed (e.g., the first bed and / or the second bed) to the reaction chamber, the exhaust gas can be preheated. At the same time, the bed can be cooled. When the gas (e.g., flue gas generated by oxidizing the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas in the reaction chamber) flows from the reaction chamber through the bed (e.g., the first bed and / or the second bed), the gas can be cooled. At the same time, the bed can be heated.

[0040] The oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas may be used to oxidize the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas. Preferably, the oxygen in the oxygen-containing gas may not be used to ignite the burner.

[0041] An oxygen-containing gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer to provide oxygen in the reaction chamber. In the reaction chamber, the oxygen may oxidize the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas.

[0042] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets for introducing oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets being positioned between at least a portion of the first bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber. In addition, the thermal oxidizer may include one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets for introducing oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, the one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets being positioned between at least a portion of the second bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber. The portion of the reaction chamber may be a portion or the same portion of the reaction chamber.

[0043] The one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may correspond to the first transfer chamber, preferably to the first bed.The one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets may correspond to the second transfer chamber, preferably to the second bed.

[0044] When the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets are opened to introduce oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, the one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets may be closed so that no oxygen-containing gas is introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer. When the one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets are opened to introduce oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be closed so that no oxygen-containing gas is introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer.

[0045] Preferably, only one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets are opened at a certain point in time.Only one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets may be opened at a certain point in time.

[0046] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include a heater. The one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned or arranged closer to the first bed than the heater. Preferably, the distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the first bed may be less than the distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and the heater. The distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the first bed may be at least 0.10 m, preferably at least 0.20 m, more preferably at least 0.30 m, more preferably at least 0.50 m less than the distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and the heater.

[0047] The distance between the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and the heater may be at least 0.10 m, preferably at least 0.20 m, more preferably at least 0.30 m, more preferably at least 0.40 m, more preferably at least 0.50 m, more preferably at least 0.75 m, more preferably at least 1.00 m, more preferably at least 1.50 m, more preferably at least 2.00 m.

[0048] The one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned similarly or identically to the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets relative to the heater and / or relative to the second bed.

[0049] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least a third transfer chamber. The third transfer chamber may include a third bed. The reaction chamber may be in fluid flow communication with the third transfer chamber. The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets for introducing oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned between at least a portion of the third bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.

[0050] The third transfer chamber can be designed and / or positioned similarly or identically to the first transfer chamber and / or the second transfer chamber. The one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets can be designed and / or positioned similarly or identically to the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and / or the one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets. The third bed can be designed and / or positioned similarly or identically to the first bed and / or the second bed.

[0051] For example, the third transfer chamber may be a half chamber.The first transfer chamber, the second transfer chamber and the third transfer chamber may be (partially) separated by a wall, at least two walls or at least three walls.

[0052] The one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned between at least a portion of the third bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.The one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets may be holes or nozzles in a wall of the third transfer chamber.

[0053] The distance between the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the third bed may be less than 2.00 m, preferably less than 1.50 m, more preferably less than 1.00 m, more preferably less than 0.80 m, more preferably less than 0.60 m, more preferably less than 0.40 m, more preferably less than 0.20 m. Alternatively or in addition, the distance between the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the third bed may be at least 0.05 m, preferably at least 0.10 m, more preferably at least 0.15 m.

[0054] The one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets may be positioned closer to the reaction chamber than the inlet of the exhaust gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer.

[0055] The distance between the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the third bed may be less than the distance between the third oxygen-containing gas inlet and the heater. The distance between the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets and at least a portion of the third bed may be less than the distance between the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets and the heater by at least 0.10 m, preferably at least 0.20 m, more preferably at least 0.30 m, more preferably at least 0.50 m.

[0056] The distance between the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets and the heater may be at least 0.10 m, preferably at least 0.20 m, more preferably at least 0.30 m, more preferably at least 0.40 m, more preferably at least 0.50 m, more preferably at least 0.75 m, more preferably at least 1.00 m, more preferably at least 1.50 m, more preferably at least 2.00 m.

[0057] The one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets may correspond to the third transfer chamber. When the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets are opened to introduce oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, the one or more first second oxygen-containing gas inlets and the one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets may be closed.

[0058] Each transfer chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least two oxygen-containing gas inlets. Preferably, each transfer chamber of the regenerative hot chamber includes at least three oxygen-containing gas inlets. More preferably, each transfer chamber of the regenerative hot chamber includes at least four oxygen-containing gas inlets.

[0059] For example, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may include at least two first oxygen-containing gas inlets. The one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets may introduce oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer. Each of the first oxygen-containing gas inlets may correspond to the first transfer chamber. The first oxygen-containing gas inlet may include at least three first oxygen-containing gas inlets or at least four first oxygen-containing gas inlets.

[0060] Similarly, one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets may include at least two second oxygen-containing gas inlets, at least three second oxygen-containing gas inlets or at least four second oxygen-containing gas inlets. Similarly, one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets may include at least two third oxygen-containing gas inlets, at least three third oxygen-containing gas inlets or at least four third oxygen-containing gas inlets.

[0061] Each transfer chamber in the transfer chamber can have a circular or polygonal (e.g., rectangular or square) cross section. One or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets, second oxygen-containing gas inlets and / or third oxygen-containing gas inlets can be evenly or non-uniformly distributed along the circumference of the corresponding transfer chamber. For example, when one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets include two, three or four first oxygen-containing gas inlets, two, three or four first oxygen-containing gas inlets can be evenly or non-uniformly distributed along the circumference of the first transfer chamber. The oxygen-containing gas inlets of one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets and / or one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets can be similarly or equally positioned at the corresponding transfer chamber.

[0062] Each of the transfer chambers may include more than one transfer chamber. For example, the first transfer chamber, the second transfer chamber and / or the third transfer chamber may include at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five or at least ten transfer chambers.

[0063] As mentioned above, the system may include a regenerative thermal oxidizer.The exhaust gas conduit may connect the exhaust gas source with at least the first transfer chamber and at least the second transfer chamber.

[0064] The exhaust pipe may be any suitable pipe for connecting the exhaust gas source with the first transfer chamber and the second transfer chamber so that the exhaust gas source is in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber and the second transfer chamber. In addition, the exhaust pipe may connect the exhaust gas source with the third transfer chamber so that the exhaust gas source and the third transfer chamber are in fluid flow communication. The exhaust pipe may include one or more valves. Depending on the valve position of the one or more valves, different sections of the exhaust pipe may be opened or closed.

[0065] For example, the exhaust pipe may connect only one of the transfer chambers, so that the exhaust source is in fluid flow communication with one transfer chamber at a certain point in time. At the same point in time, the other transfer chambers may not be in fluid flow communication with the exhaust source.

[0066] The oxygen-containing gas pipe can be any suitable pipe for connecting the oxygen-containing gas source with the first transfer chamber and the second transfer chamber so that the oxygen-containing gas source is in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber and the second transfer chamber. In addition, the oxygen-containing gas pipe can connect the oxygen-containing gas source with the third transfer chamber so that the oxygen-containing gas source and the third transfer chamber are in fluid flow communication. The oxygen-containing gas pipe can include one or more valves. Depending on the valve position of the one or more valves, different sections of the oxygen-containing gas pipe can be opened or closed.

[0067] For example, the oxygen-containing gas pipe may connect only one of the transfer chambers, so that the oxygen-containing gas source is in fluid flow communication with one transfer chamber at a certain point in time. At the same point in time, the other transfer chambers may not be in fluid flow communication with the oxygen-containing source.

[0068] As the exhaust gas flows toward the reaction chamber through a bed (e.g., the first bed or the second bed or the third bed) of a transfer chamber (e.g., the first transfer chamber or the second transfer chamber or the third transfer chamber), the exhaust gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer upstream of at least a portion of the bed, and oxygen-containing gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer upstream of at least a portion of the bed.

[0069] The system may include a controller. The controller may be a hardware component configured to control the overall operation of the regenerative thermal oxidizer and / or the system. The controller may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a microprocessor and a memory. Programs executable by the microprocessor may be stored in the memory. It is readily understood by those skilled in the art that the controller may be implemented in various hardware forms. The functions of the regenerative thermal oxidizer and / or the system may be controlled by the controller.

[0070] The controller may be configured to direct the exhaust gas through the first bed to the reaction chamber via the exhaust pipe. The exhaust gas may be preheated by the first bed. At the same time, the bed may be cooled. Preferably, the controller is configured to control the valve position of the valve of the exhaust pipe to direct the exhaust gas to the reaction chamber.

[0071] The controller may be configured to direct only waste gas (preferably from a waste gas source) through the first bed to the reaction chamber. In other words, the controller may be configured not to direct other gases other than the waste gas through the first bed toward the reaction chamber, i.e., only the waste gas flows through the first bed. Preferably, the controller does not direct oxygen-containing gas through the first bed toward the reaction chamber.

[0072] The pressure in the exhaust gas source may be higher than the pressure in one or each of the transfer chambers. A pressure unit (e.g., a blower) may be arranged along the exhaust gas pipe for increasing the pressure of the exhaust gas. Similarly, a pressure unit (e.g., a blower) may be arranged along the oxygen-containing gas pipe for increasing the pressure of the oxygen-containing gas.

[0073] The controller may be configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via the oxygen-containing gas conduit such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed.

[0074] During the first cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the exhaust gas through the first bed to the reaction chamber via the exhaust pipe so that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed. During the first cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via the oxygen-containing gas pipe so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed. During the second cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the exhaust gas through the second bed to the reaction chamber via the exhaust pipe so that the exhaust gas is preheated by the second bed. During the second cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via the oxygen-containing gas pipe so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the second bed.

[0075] Typically, a regenerative thermal oxidizer or system may perform a predefined function in a cycle, preferably for a predetermined period of time. The functions performed by the regenerative thermal oxidizer or system may be different in different cycles. Furthermore, different cycles may be performed for different time periods. The regenerative thermal oxidizer or system may be configured to repeatedly perform cycles. For example, a first cycle may be performed. Then, a second cycle may be performed. Thereafter, the first cycle may be performed again, followed by another second cycle, and so on.

[0076] Preferably, the first loop and the second loop may be executed during different time periods. In other words, only one of the loops may be executed at a certain point in time or within a certain time period. The first loop and the second loop may be executed consecutively, i.e., the second loop follows the first loop, the second loop is followed by the first loop, etc. Additional loops may be executed before, between, or after the first loop and the second loop.

[0077] The first cycle can be performed for at least 10 seconds, preferably at least 30 seconds, more preferably at least 45 seconds, more preferably at least 60 seconds, more preferably at least 90 seconds, more preferably at least 120 seconds. The second cycle can be performed for at least 10 seconds, preferably at least 30 seconds, more preferably at least 45 seconds, more preferably at least 60 seconds, more preferably at least 90 seconds, more preferably at least 120 seconds, more preferably at least 240 seconds.

[0078] During the first cycle, no exhaust gas may be directed through the second bed to the reaction chamber.Alternatively or additionally, during the second cycle, no exhaust gas may be directed through the first bed to the reaction chamber.

[0079] Typically, oxygen-containing gas may be introduced or directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via one or more oxygen-containing gas inlets (eg, one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets and / or one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets and / or one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets).

[0080] During the first cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via the oxygen-containing gas pipe, such that the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas are oxidized and flue gas is generated in the reaction chamber. During the first cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the flue gas from the reaction chamber through the second bed, such that the flue gas is cooled by the second bed. During the second cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via the oxygen-containing gas pipe, such that the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas are oxidized and flue gas is generated in the reaction chamber. During the second cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the flue gas from the reaction chamber through the first bed, such that the flue gas is cooled by the first bed.

[0081] Flue gas may be produced in a reaction chamber by reacting at least one oxidizable compound of the exhaust gas with oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas. The gas composition produced by the reaction may be referred to as flue gas. The reaction may be endothermic or exothermic.

[0082] The bed is heated as flue gases from the reaction chamber are directed through the bed and the flue gases are cooled by the bed. The (thermal) energy stored in the bed can be used to preheat the exhaust gases in a subsequent cycle.

[0083] The first cycle and the second cycle may be performed alternately. No other or additional cycles may be performed between consecutive first cycles and second cycles.

[0084] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include at least a third transfer chamber. The third transfer chamber may include a third bed. The reaction chamber may be in fluid flow communication with the third transfer chamber. During the third cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the exhaust gas through the third bed to the reaction chamber via the exhaust pipe so that the exhaust gas is preheated by the third bed. During the third cycle, the controller may be configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer via the oxygen-containing gas pipe so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the third bed.

[0085] The regenerative thermal oxidiser may comprise at least three transfer chambers.The regenerative thermal oxidiser may be operated in at least three cycles or in at least six cycles.

[0086] The system may include a bypass conduit for connecting the heat exchanger with the regenerative thermal oxidizer, preferably for connecting the heat exchanger with the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The controller may be configured to direct the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer to the heat exchanger so that the gas is cooled by the heat exchanger.

[0087] Preferably, the flue gas from the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer can be directed to a heat exchanger. The flue gas can be cooled by the heat exchanger.

[0088] The heat exchanger may be configured to allow exchange of (thermal) energy or heat between the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer and the exhaust gas before the exhaust gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer. In addition, the heat exchanger may be configured to allow exchange of (thermal) energy or heat between the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer and the oxygen-containing gas before the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer. In addition, the heat exchanger may be configured to allow exchange of (thermal) energy or heat between the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer and the heat recovery system. In addition, the heat exchanger may be configured to allow exchange of (thermal) energy or heat between the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer and the superheater (preferably a steam superheater).

[0089] The exhaust gas, the oxygen-containing gas, the heat recovery system and / or the superheater can be heated by the heat exchanger. At the same time, the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer can be cooled by the heat exchanger.

[0090] Gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer (preferably from the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer) may be directed to the heat exchanger during any of the cycles. Preferably, gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer (preferably from the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer) is directed to the heat exchanger during the first cycle, the second cycle, and the third cycle.

[0091] Typically, the exhaust gas may contain less than 20.0% by volume of oxygen (O2). Preferably, the exhaust gas, especially when entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer, contains less than 17.5% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 15.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 12.5% ​​by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 10.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 9.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 8.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 7.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 6.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 5.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 4.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 3.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 2.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 1.0% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 0.5% by volume of oxygen, more preferably less than 0.1% by volume of oxygen. The exhaust gas may be oxygen-free, that is, the exhaust gas may not contain oxygen.

[0092] Preferably, the exhaust gas has a non-explosive composition, especially with respect to oxygen, more preferably upon entering the regenerative thermal oxidiser.

[0093] The exhaust gas may be undiluted when entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer. Preferably, the exhaust gas is not diluted by air when entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The exhaust gas may have substantially the same composition when leaving the exhaust gas source and when entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer.

[0094] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may include a heater. The heater may be configured to heat at least a portion of the regenerative thermal oxidizer. The heater may include a burner and / or an electric heating element.

[0095] The heater may be configured to heat the reaction chamber and / or bed of the regenerative thermal oxidizer.

[0096] The burner may be operated by a fuel (e.g., a fuel gas). The fuel gas may contain at least one hydrocarbon and / or hydrogen. Preferably, the fuel gas contains hydrogen. The burner may supply oxygen (e.g., air) in addition to, separately or independently of the oxygen-containing gas supplied to the regenerative thermal oxidizer for oxidizing at least one oxidizable compound in the exhaust gas.

[0097] The electric heating element may be a resistive heating element. The electric heating element may be supplied with electric energy from a renewable energy source. The renewable energy source may be wind energy or solar energy.

[0098] During the startup cycle, the heater may heat the regenerative thermal oxidizer to a starting temperature. For example, the reaction chamber and / or the bed may be heated to a starting temperature. The first cycle, the second cycle, and / or the third cycle may be performed after the startup cycle.

[0099] Preferably, the heater is not operated during the first cycle, the second cycle and / or the third cycle. Alternatively, the heater may be operated during the first cycle, the second cycle and / or the third cycle.

[0100] During the startup cycle, the heater may be controlled such that the regenerative thermal oxidizer is heated to a predetermined temperature.During the startup cycle, no exhaust gas may be directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer, preferably to the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer.

[0101] During a first cycle, the method proposed herein may include directing the exhaust gas through a first bed of a first transfer chamber of a regenerative thermal oxidizer to a reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed. During a first cycle, the method proposed herein may include directing an oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed. During a second cycle, the method proposed herein may include directing the exhaust gas through a second bed of a second transfer chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer to a reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the exhaust gas is preheated by the second bed. During a second cycle, the method proposed herein may include directing an oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the second bed.

[0102] The exhaust gas and the oxygen-containing gas may be mixed in the regenerative thermal oxidizer to allow the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas to be oxidized by the oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas.

[0103] The flow rate of the oxygen-containing gas entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer may be controlled based on at least one of the composition of the exhaust gas and the flow rate of the exhaust gas. Preferably, the flow rate of the oxygen-containing gas entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer may be controlled based on both the composition of the exhaust gas and the flow rate of the exhaust gas.

[0104] The composition of the exhaust gas may be measured by one or more sensors. The flow rate of the exhaust gas may be measured by one or more sensors.

[0105] Specifically, the flow rate of the oxygen-containing gas entering the regenerative thermal oxidizer can be controlled such that the amount of oxygen introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer is sufficient to oxidize at least one oxidizable compound of the exhaust gas. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] The above-mentioned attributes and other features and advantages of the present disclosure and the manner in which they are achieved will become more apparent, and the present disclosure itself will be better understood by referring to the following description of embodiments of the present technology in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0107] Figure 1 shows a system 1000 according to an embodiment;

[0108] Figure 2 shows a system 1000 according to an embodiment;

[0109] Figure 3a A transfer chamber 141 is shown;

[0110] Figure 3b A cross-sectional view of the transfer chamber 141 is shown;

[0111] Figure 4 A regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 is shown;

[0112] Figure 5 The system 1000 is shown during a first cycle;

[0113] Figure 6 The system 1000 is shown during a second cycle;

[0114] Figure 7 The system 1000 is shown during a first cycle;

[0115] Figure 8 The system 1000 is shown during a second cycle;

[0116] Fig. 9 shows system 1000 during a third cycle; and

[0117] Fig.10 System 1000 is shown during a startup cycle.

[0118] Hereinafter, the above and other features of the present disclosure are described in detail. Various embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same elements throughout. In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments. It can be noted that the illustrated embodiments are intended to explain rather than limit the present disclosure. Obviously, such embodiments can be practiced without these specific details.

[0119] It can be noted that terms such as "first", "second" and "third" are only used to distinguish elements rather than count elements. For example, when a "second" element is mentioned, this does not mean that the "first" element must exist.

[0120] Figure 1 The system 1000 is schematically shown. The system 1000 may include a regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0121] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may include a first transfer chamber 141 and a second transfer chamber 142. The first transfer chamber 141 may include a first bed 131. The second transfer chamber 142 may include a second bed 132. The first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may be in fluid flow communication with the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0122] The first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may be physically separated so that the first bed 131 and the second bed 132 are physically separated from each other. The separation may be achieved by a wall extending in the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. At one side, the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may preferably be open toward the reaction chamber 120.

[0123] An extension of the wall separating the first bed 131 from the second bed 132 may define upper ends of the first and second transfer chambers 141 and 142. For example, an end of the wall separating the first and second beds 131 and 132 may define ends of the first and second transfer chambers 141 and 142.

[0124] The reaction chamber 120 may exist adjacent to the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 .

[0125] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may include a heater 110. The heater 110 may be used to heat at least a portion of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. For example, the reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. Alternatively or in addition, the first bed 131 and the second bed 132 may be heated by the heater 110. The heater 110 may be a burner or an electric heater.

[0126] The system 1000 may include a controller 500. The controller 500 may be configured to control the overall operation of the system 1000. The controller 500 may be configured to control the overall operation of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The controller 500 may be located in an overall control station (not shown) of the system 1000. The controller 500 may be a component of a control computer of the system 1000.

[0127] The system 1000 may include an oxygen-containing gas pipe 210. The oxygen-containing gas pipe 210 may connect the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 via the oxygen-containing gas pipe 210. For example, the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may include one or more oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148, as described with reference to Figure 3a and Figure 3b Described in more detail.

[0128] Preferably, the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets 145 , 146 , 147 , 148 correspond to the first transfer chamber 141 , and / or the one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets 145 , 146 , 147 , 148 correspond to the second transfer chamber 142 .

[0129] One or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the first bed 131 (via Figure 1 In addition, one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 outside the first bed 131 (indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG. Figure 1 Indicated by the solid arrow in the figure).

[0130] The oxygen-containing gas pipe 210 may include at least one valve 220. When the valve 220 is open, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. When the valve 220 is closed, the oxygen-containing gas may not flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Preferably, the oxygen-containing gas pipe 210 includes a first valve and a second valve. When the first valve is open, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the first valve is closed, the oxygen-containing gas may not flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the second valve is open, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the second valve is closed, the oxygen-containing gas may not flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the second transfer chamber 142.

[0131] A pressure unit (not shown) may be provided along the oxygen-containing gas pipe 210 to force the oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, in particular into the first transfer chamber 141 and / or into the second transfer chamber 142. The oxygen-containing gas source 200 may be ambient air. The pressure unit may be a blower.

[0132] The system 1000 may include an exhaust pipe 310. The exhaust pipe 310 may connect the exhaust source 300 with the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142. The exhaust gas may flow from the exhaust source 300 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, particularly to the first transfer chamber 141 and / or the second transfer chamber 142, via the exhaust pipe 310.

[0133] The exhaust pipe 310 may include at least a first valve 320. The exhaust pipe 310 may include at least a second valve 330. When the first valve 320 is opened, exhaust gas may flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the first valve 320 is closed, exhaust gas may not flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the second valve 330 is opened, exhaust gas may flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the second valve 330 is closed, exhaust gas may not flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142.

[0134] The pressure at the exhaust gas source 300 may be higher than the pressure at the first transfer chamber 141 and / or the second transfer chamber 142. In addition, a pressure unit (not shown) may be provided along the exhaust gas duct 310 to force the exhaust gas into the first transfer chamber 141 and / or into the second transfer chamber 142. The pressure unit may be a blower. The exhaust gas source 300 may be an exhaust port or outlet of a gas processing unit (e.g., a sulfur recovery unit).

[0135] The gas-liquid separation unit 400 (eg, a separation drum or a demister) may be disposed along the exhaust pipe 310 . The gas-liquid separation unit 400 may separate and / or remove liquid components from the exhaust gas. Preferably, the gas-liquid separation unit 400 is located close to the exhaust gas source 300 .

[0136] The connection pipe 250 may be connected to the exhaust pipe 310 and the oxygen-containing gas pipe 210. The connection pipe 250 may include a valve 230. When the valve 230 is opened, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas pipe 210 to the exhaust pipe 310.

[0137] System 1000 may include flue gas duct 810. As will be described in more detail below, oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas may be oxidized by oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas in reaction chamber 120 of regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Flue gas may be generated in reaction chamber 120 by oxidizing the oxidizable compounds.

[0138] The smoke pipe 810 may connect the first transfer chamber 141 and / or the second transfer chamber 142 with the smoke outlet 800. The smoke may flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 (particularly from the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 or from the first transfer chamber 141 and / or from the second transfer chamber 142) to the smoke outlet 800 via the smoke pipe 810.

[0139] The smoke pipe 810 may include at least a first valve 820. The smoke pipe 810 may include at least a second valve 830. When the first valve 820 is opened, smoke may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the smoke outlet 800. When the first valve 820 is closed, smoke may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the smoke outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is opened, smoke may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is closed, smoke may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800. The smoke outlet 800 may be an environment where the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 is located. Therefore, the smoke may be released to the environment.

[0140] The pressure in the first transfer chamber 141 and / or the second transfer chamber 142 may be higher than the pressure at the smoke outlet 800. Furthermore, the smoke duct 810 may include a pressure unit (not shown) to force the smoke toward the smoke outlet 800. The pressure unit may be a blower.

[0141] The system 1000 may include a bypass 710. The bypass 710 may connect the heat exchanger 700 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, in particular to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. A gas may flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, in particular from the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, to the heat exchanger 700. The gas may be flue gas.

[0142] The gas may be cooled in the heat exchanger 700. For example, the heat exchanger 700 may be configured to transfer (heat) energy from the gas to the exhaust gas before the exhaust gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer, to the oxygen-containing gas before the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer, to a heat recovery system, and / or to a superheater.

[0143] The bypass line 710 may include at least one valve 720. When the valve 720 is opened, gas may flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 to the heat exchanger 700. When the valve 720 is closed, gas may not flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 to the heat exchanger 700.

[0144] The pressure in the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may be higher than the pressure in the heat exchanger. In addition, a pressure unit (not shown) may be provided along the bypass pipe 710 to force the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 into the heat exchanger. The pressure unit may be a blower.

[0145] The heat exchanger 700 may be connected to the flue gas duct 800. The gas leaving the heat exchanger may be introduced into the flue gas duct 800.

[0146] Figure 2 System 1000 is schematically shown. Figure 2 Some of the components of the system 1000 shown are equivalent to Figure 1 The same components of the system shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The difference between.

[0147] System 1000 may include regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may include first transfer chamber 141, second transfer chamber 142, and third transfer chamber 143. First transfer chamber 141 may include first bed 131. Second transfer chamber 142 may include second bed 132. Third transfer chamber 143 may include third bed 133. First transfer chamber 141, second transfer chamber 142, and third transfer chamber 143 may be in fluid flow communication with reaction chamber 120 of regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0148] The first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142, and the third transfer chamber 143 may be physically separated so that the first bed 131, the second bed 132, and the third bed 133 are physically separated from each other. The separation may be achieved by one or more walls extending in the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. For example, the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may be separated by a first wall. The second transfer chamber 142 and the third transfer chamber 143 may be separated by a second wall.

[0149] The heater 110 may be configured to heat the reaction chamber 120. Alternatively or in addition, the first bed 131, the second bed 132, and the third bed may be heated by the heater 110.

[0150] The system 1000 may include an oxygen-containing gas pipe 210. The oxygen-containing gas pipe 210 may connect the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may correspond to the first transfer chamber 141. The one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may correspond to the second transfer chamber 142. The one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may correspond to the third transfer chamber 142.

[0151] The oxygen-containing gas pipe 210 may include a first valve, a second valve, and a third valve. When the first valve is opened, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the first valve is closed, the oxygen-containing gas may not flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the second valve is opened, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the second valve is closed, the oxygen-containing gas may not flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the third valve is opened, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the third transfer chamber 143. When the third valve is closed, the oxygen-containing gas may not flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the third transfer chamber 143.

[0152] One or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the first bed 131 (via Figure 2 In addition, one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 outside the first bed 131 (indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG. Figure 2 Indicated by the solid arrow in the figure).

[0153] The system 1000 may include an exhaust pipe 310. The exhaust pipe 310 may connect the exhaust source 300 and the first, second, and third transfer chambers 141, 142, and 143.

[0154] The exhaust pipe 310 may include at least a first valve 320, at least a second valve 330, and at least a third valve 340. When the first valve 320 is opened, the exhaust gas may flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the first valve 320 is closed, the exhaust gas may not flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the second valve 330 is opened, the exhaust gas may flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the second valve 330 is closed, the exhaust gas may not flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the third valve 340 is opened, the exhaust gas may flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the third transfer chamber 143. When the third valve 340 is closed, the exhaust gas may not flow from the exhaust gas source 300 to the third transfer chamber 143.

[0155] The system 1000 may include a smoke duct 810. The smoke duct 810 may connect the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142, and / or the third transfer chamber 143 with the smoke outlet 800.

[0156] The smoke pipe 810 may include at least a first valve 820, at least a second valve 830, and at least a third valve 840. When the first valve 820 is opened, smoke may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the smoke outlet 800. When the first valve 820 is closed, smoke may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the smoke outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is opened, smoke may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is closed, smoke may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800. When the third valve 840 is opened, smoke may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the smoke outlet 800. When the third valve 840 is closed, smoke may not flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the smoke outlet 800.

[0157] The system may include a purge pipe 610. The purge pipe 610 may connect the exhaust pipe 310 with the first, second, and third transfer chambers 141, 142, and 143. Gas (preferably flue gas) may flow from the first, second, and / or third transfer chambers 141, 142, and 143 to the exhaust pipe 310.

[0158] The cleaning pipe 610 may include a first valve 620, a second valve 630, and a third valve 640. When the first valve 620 is opened, gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the exhaust pipe 310. When the first valve 620 is closed, gas may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the exhaust pipe 310. When the second valve 630 is opened, gas may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the exhaust pipe 310. When the second valve 630 is closed, gas may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the exhaust pipe 310. When the third valve 640 is opened, gas may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the exhaust pipe 310. When the third valve 640 is closed, gas may not flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the exhaust pipe 310.

[0159] The cleaning gas pipe 610 may include a pressure unit 600 to force the gas toward the exhaust gas pipe 310 .

[0160] Figure 3a Schematically shown are transfer chambers of a regenerative thermal oxidiser 100. The transfer chambers will be described with reference to a first transfer chamber 141. Other transfer chambers of the regenerative thermal oxidiser (eg, second transfer chamber 142 and / or third transfer chamber 143) may be designed in a similar or identical or equivalent manner.

[0161] The first transfer chamber 141 includes a bed 131. Figure 3a The corresponding cross-section diagram is shown in Figure 3b middle.

[0162] The first transfer chamber 141 may have a circular or polygonal cross section. The polygonal cross section may be rectangular or square. The cross section may be oriented in a plane perpendicular to the flow direction of the exhaust gas through the first transfer chamber 141.

[0163] The first transfer chamber 141 may include an oxygen-containing gas inlet 145. The oxygen-containing gas inlet 145 may be a hole or orifice in the first transfer chamber 141, preferably in a side wall of the first transfer chamber 141. The oxygen-containing gas inlet 145 may include a nozzle.

[0164] As the exhaust gas flows through the first bed 131 of the first transfer chamber 141 toward the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 , the oxygen-containing gas inlet 145 may be formed downstream of at least a portion of the first bed 131 .

[0165] The first transfer chamber 141 may include two oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146. Preferably, the first transfer chamber 141 includes three oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, more preferably, the first transfer chamber 141 includes four oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148, more preferably, the first transfer chamber 141 includes more than four oxygen-containing gas inlets (not shown).

[0166] The one or more oxygen-containing gas inlets 145 , 146 , 147 , 148 may be evenly or non-evenly distributed along the circumference of the first transfer chamber 141 .

[0167] The distance between at least a portion of the first bed 131 and the first oxygen-containing gas inlet 145 may be the same as the distance between at least a portion of the first bed 131 and the second oxygen-containing gas inlet 146. Each of the oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may have the same distance from the first bed 131. Typically, the distance may be a distance in the flow direction of the exhaust gas through the first transfer chamber 141.

[0168] This distance between one or more of the oxygen-containing gas inlets 145 , 146 , 147 , 148 and at least a portion of the first bed 131 may be different than the distance between at least another one of the oxygen-containing gas inlets 145 , 146 , 147 , 148 and the first bed 131 .

[0169] Figure 4 A regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 is schematically shown, which is similar to Figure 2 As shown and as referenced Figure 2 The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 functions in this manner.

[0170] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may include a first transfer chamber 141, a second transfer chamber 142, and a third transfer chamber 143. The first transfer chamber 141 may include a first bed 131. The second transfer chamber 142 may include a second bed 132. The third transfer chamber 143 may include a third bed 133.

[0171] The first bed 131 may be positioned (directly) adjacent to or between the second bed 132 and the third bed 133. The second bed 132 may be positioned (directly) adjacent to or between the third bed 133 and the first bed 131. The third bed 133 may be positioned (directly) adjacent to or between the first bed 131 and the second bed 132.

[0172] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may include a housing 150. The housing 150 may have a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially circular cross-section. The first bed 131, the second bed 132, and the third bed 133 may be positioned in the housing 150.

[0173] The first transfer chamber 141 may include one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets 145a. The second transfer chamber 142 may include one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets 145b. The third transfer chamber 143 may include one or more oxygen-containing gas inlets 145c.

[0174] Figure 5 The system 1000 is schematically shown during a first cycle. The system 1000 may be similar to or identical to the Figure 1 Shown and referenced Figure 1 The flow paths are indicated in the figures by thick pipes or thick pipe sections.

[0175] During the first cycle, exhaust gas may be directed from exhaust gas source 300 to first transfer chamber 141. Exhaust gas may not be directed to second transfer chamber 142. For example, valve 320 may be in an open state. Valve 330 may be in a closed state.

[0176] The waste gas may flow through the first bed 131 (by Figure 5 The first bed 131 may have a higher temperature than the exhaust gas, so that the exhaust gas is preheated. The exhaust gas may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0177] The oxygen-containing gas may be directed from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. For example, valve 220 may be in an open state and valve 230 may be in a closed state. The oxygen-containing gas may enter the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of the first bed 131, i.e., the oxygen-containing gas may not flow through the first bed 131. Preferably, the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 via at least one oxygen-containing gas inlet.

[0178] At least one oxidizable compound in the exhaust gas may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120. The oxidation may be a reaction of at least one oxidizable compound of the exhaust gas with oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas. Flue gas may be generated by the oxidation in the reaction chamber 120. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the exhaust gas. For example, the oxidation may be an exothermic reaction. Therefore, heat may be generated in the reaction chamber 120. Alternatively or in addition, the reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. However, preferably, the reaction chamber 120 is not heated by the heater during the first cycle.

[0179] The flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the second transfer chamber 142. Specifically, the flue gas may flow through the second bed 132 (composed of Figure 5 ). The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the second bed 132. Therefore, the second bed 132 may be heated by the flue gas. At the same time, the flue gas may be cooled by the second bed 132.

[0180] The smoke may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800. For example, the valve 830 may be in an open state. The valve 820 may be in a closed state. The smoke may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the smoke outlet.

[0181] Figure 6 The system 1000 is schematically shown during the second cycle. The system 1000 may be similar to or identical to the Figure 1 Shown and referenced Figure 1 The system described.

[0182] During the second cycle, exhaust gas may be directed from exhaust gas source 300 to second transfer chamber 142. Exhaust gas may not be directed to first transfer chamber 141. Valve 320 may be in a closed state. Valve 330 may be in an open state.

[0183] The waste gas may flow through the second bed 132 (by Figure 5 ). The second bed 132 may have a higher temperature than the flue gas, so that the flue gas is preheated. During the first cycle, the second bed receives (heat) energy from the flue gas. During the second cycle, the flue gas is preheated by the (heat) energy previously received. The flue gas is then directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0184] As described with reference to the first cycle, oxygen-containing gas may be directed from oxygen-containing gas source 200 to regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. For example, valve 220 may be in an open state and valve 230 may be in a closed state. The oxygen-containing gas may enter regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of second bed 132, i.e., the oxygen-containing gas may not flow through second bed 132. Preferably, the oxygen-containing gas enters regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 via at least one oxygen-containing gas inlet.

[0185] Likewise, at least one oxidizable compound in the exhaust gas may be oxidized in reaction chamber 120 as described with reference to the first cycle.

[0186] The flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the first transfer chamber 141. For example, the flue gas may flow through the first bed 131 (composed of Figure 5 ). The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the first bed 131. Therefore, the second bed 132 may be heated by the flue gas and / or the flue gas may be cooled by the first bed 131.

[0187] The smoke may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the smoke outlet 800 . For example, the valve 820 may be in an open state. The valve 830 may be in a closed state. The smoke may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800 .

[0188] The first cycle and the second cycle may be performed alternately. The second cycle may be performed after the first cycle, and the first cycle may be performed after the second cycle, etc. Between the first cycle and the second cycle, another cycle may or may not be performed.

[0189] During the first cycle and / or during the second cycle, flue gas may flow from the reaction chamber 120 to the heat exchanger 700. For example, the valve 720 may be in an open state. The flue gas may flow to the heat exchanger 700 via the bypass pipe 710. The flue gas may be cooled in the heat exchanger 700. The cooled flue gas may flow to the flue gas pipe 810.

[0190] Figure 7 The system 1000 is schematically shown during a first cycle. The system 1000 may be similar to or identical to the Figure 2 Shown and referenced Figure 2 The flow paths are indicated in the figures by thick pipes or thick pipe sections.

[0191] During the first cycle, exhaust gas may be directed from exhaust gas source 300 to first transfer chamber 141. Exhaust gas may not be directed to second transfer chamber 142. In addition, exhaust gas may not be directed to third transfer chamber 143. For example, valve 320 may be in an open state. Valve 330 may be in a closed state. Valve 340 may be in a closed state.

[0192] The waste gas may flow through the first bed 131 (by Figure 7 The first bed 131 may have a higher temperature than the exhaust gas, so that the exhaust gas is preheated. The exhaust gas may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0193] The oxygen-containing gas may be directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 from the oxygen-containing gas source 200. For example, valve 220 may be in an open state. Valve 230 may be in a closed state. The oxygen-containing gas may enter the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of the first bed 131, i.e., the oxygen-containing gas may not flow through the first bed 131, the second bed 132, and / or the third bed 133. Preferably, the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 via at least one oxygen-containing gas inlet.

[0194] At least one oxidizable compound in the exhaust gas may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120. The oxidation may be a reaction of at least one oxidizable compound of the exhaust gas with oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas. Flue gas may be generated by the oxidation in the reaction chamber 120. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the exhaust gas. For example, the oxidation may be an exothermic reaction. Therefore, heat may be generated in the reaction chamber 120. Alternatively or in addition, the reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. However, preferably, the reaction chamber 120 is not heated by the heater during the first cycle.

[0195] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the second transfer chamber 142. Preferably, the flue gas may flow through the second bed 132 (formed by Figure 7 ). Smoke may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the purge pipe 610. Preferably, the purge pipe 610 is not in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber 141 and / or the third transfer chamber 143 during the first cycle. For example, valve 630 may be in an open state. Valve 620 may be in a closed state. Valve 640 may be in a closed state.

[0196] The fumes may flow from the cleaning duct 610 to the exhaust duct 310. The fumes (preferably together with the exhaust gases) may enter the first transfer chamber 141 from the exhaust duct 310. By directing a portion of the fumes through the second transfer chamber 142, the second transfer chamber 142 may be cleaned or flushed.

[0197] Alternatively, the oxygen-containing gas or other gas may be used to purge or flush the second transfer chamber 142. In this case, the oxygen-containing gas or other gas may be directed to the second transfer chamber 142 and through the second bed 132 to the reaction chamber 120.

[0198] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the third transfer chamber 143. The flue gas may flow through the third bed 133 (composed of Figure 7 ). The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the third bed 133. Therefore, the third bed 133 may be heated by the flue gas and / or the flue gas may be cooled by the third bed 133.

[0199] Smoke may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the smoke outlet 800. For example, valve 840 may be in an open state. Valve 820 may be in a closed state. Valve 830 may be in a closed state. Smoke may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 and / or from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800.

[0200] The portion of flue gas directed through the second bed 132 may be less than the portion of flue gas directed through the third bed 133. For example, less than 50% of the flue gas, preferably less than 40% of the flue gas, more preferably less than 30% of the flue gas, more preferably less than 20% of the flue gas, more preferably less than 10% of the flue gas may be directed through the second bed 132. The relative value (percentage value) is based on the total amount of flue gas flowing through the second bed 132 and the third bed 133.

[0201] Figure 8 The system 1000 is schematically shown during the second cycle. The system 1000 may be similar to or identical to the Figure 2 Shown and referenced Figure 2 The system described.

[0202] During the second cycle, exhaust gas may be directed from exhaust gas source 300 to third transfer chamber 143. Exhaust gas may not be directed to second transfer chamber 142. In addition, exhaust gas may not be directed to first transfer chamber 141. For example, valve 340 may be in an open state. Valve 330 may be in a closed state. Valve 320 may be in a closed state.

[0203] The exhaust gas may flow through the third bed 133 to be preheated and may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 .

[0204] The oxygen-containing gas may be directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 from the oxygen-containing gas source 200. For example, valve 220 may be in an open state. Valve 230 may be in a closed state. The oxygen-containing gas may enter the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of the third bed 133, i.e., the oxygen-containing gas may not flow through the first bed 131, the second bed 132, and / or the third bed 133. Preferably, the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 via at least one oxygen-containing gas inlet.

[0205] At least one oxidizable compound in the exhaust gas may be oxidized in reaction chamber 120 as described above.

[0206] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the first transfer chamber 141. Preferably, the flue gas may flow through the first bed 131. The flue gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the purge pipe 610. Preferably, the purge pipe 610 is not in fluid flow communication with the second transfer chamber 142 and / or the third transfer chamber 143 during the second cycle. For example, valve 620 may be in an open state. Valve 630 may be in a closed state. Valve 640 may be in a closed state.

[0207] The smoke may flow from the cleaning pipe 610 to the exhaust pipe 310. The smoke may enter the third transfer chamber 143 from the exhaust pipe 310.

[0208] Alternatively, oxygen-containing gas or other gases may be used to purge or flush first transfer chamber 141 .

[0209] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the second transfer chamber 142. The flue gas may flow through the second bed 132 of the second transfer chamber 142. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the second bed 132. Therefore, the second bed 132 may be heated by the flue gas, and / or the flue gas may be cooled by the second bed 132.

[0210] Smoke may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the smoke outlet 800. For example, valve 830 may be in an open state. Valve 820 may be in a closed state. Valve 840 may be in a closed state. Smoke may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 and / or from the third transfer chamber 143 to the smoke outlet 800.

[0211] Fig. 9 The system 1000 is schematically shown during the third cycle. The system 1000 may be similar to or identical to the system 1000 of FIG. Figure 2 Shown and referenced Figure 2 The system described.

[0212] During the third cycle, exhaust gas may be directed from exhaust gas source 300 to second transfer chamber 142. Exhaust gas may not be directed to first transfer chamber 141. In addition, exhaust gas may not be directed to third transfer chamber 143. For example, valve 330 may be in an open state. Valve 320 may be in a closed state. Valve 340 may be in a closed state.

[0213] The exhaust gas may flow through the second bed 132 to be preheated and may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 .

[0214] The oxygen-containing gas may be directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 from the oxygen-containing gas source 200. For example, valve 220 may be in an open state. Valve 230 may be in a closed state. The oxygen-containing gas may enter the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of the second bed 132, i.e., the oxygen-containing gas may not flow through the first bed 131, the second bed 132, and / or the third bed 133. Preferably, the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 via at least one oxygen-containing gas inlet.

[0215] At least one oxidizable compound in the exhaust gas may be oxidized in reaction chamber 120 as described above.

[0216] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the third transfer chamber 143. Preferably, the flue gas may flow through the third bed 133. The flue gas may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the purge pipe 610. Preferably, the purge pipe 610 is not in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber 141 and / or the second transfer chamber 142 during the third cycle. For example, the valve 640 may be in an open state. The valve 620 may be in a closed state. The valve 630 may be in a closed state.

[0217] The smoke may flow from the cleaning pipe 610 to the exhaust pipe 310. The smoke may enter the second transfer chamber 142 from the exhaust pipe 310.

[0218] Alternatively, oxygen-containing gas or other gases may be used to purge or flush first transfer chamber 141 .

[0219] A portion of the flue gas may be guided from the reaction chamber 120 to the first transfer chamber 141. The flue gas may flow through the first bed 131 of the first transfer chamber 141. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the first bed 131. Therefore, the first bed 131 may be heated by the flue gas and / or the flue gas may be cooled by the first bed 131.

[0220] Smoke may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the smoke outlet 800. For example, valve 820 may be in an open state. Valve 830 may be in a closed state. Valve 840 may be in a closed state. Smoke may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 and / or from the third transfer chamber 143 to the smoke outlet 800.

[0221] The first cycle, the second cycle and the third cycle may be performed continuously. First, the first cycle may be performed, then the second cycle may be performed, and then the third cycle may be performed. After the third cycle, the first cycle may be performed, and so on, and another cycle may or may not be performed between the first cycle and the second cycle or between the second cycle and the third cycle.

[0222] During the first cycle, during the second cycle, and / or during the third cycle, the flue gas may flow from the reaction chamber 120 to the heat exchanger 700. For example, the valve 720 may be in an open state. The flue gas may flow to the heat exchanger 700 via the bypass pipe 710. The flue gas may be cooled in the heat exchanger 700. The cooled flue gas may flow to the flue gas pipe 810.

[0223] For example, the first cycle may include a first sub-cycle and a second sub-cycle. During the first sub-cycle, the oxygen-containing gas and / or the second portion of the exhaust gas may flow through the first bed 131 to the reaction chamber 120, the second bed 132 may be purged or flushed, and the flue gas may be directed through the third bed 133 toward the flue gas outlet 800. During the second sub-cycle, the oxygen-containing gas and / or the second portion of the exhaust gas may flow through the first bed 131 to the reaction chamber 120, the third bed 133 may be purged or flushed, and the flue gas may be directed through the second bed 132 toward the flue gas outlet 800.

[0224] The second cycle may include a first sub-cycle and a second sub-cycle. During the first sub-cycle, the oxygen-containing gas and / or the second portion of the exhaust gas may flow through the third bed 133 to the reaction chamber 120, the first bed 131 may be purged or flushed, and the flue gas may be directed through the second bed 132 toward the flue gas outlet 800. During the second sub-cycle, the oxygen-containing gas and / or the second portion of the exhaust gas may flow through the third bed 133 to the reaction chamber 120, the second bed 132 may be purged or flushed, and the flue gas may be directed through the first bed 131 toward the flue gas outlet 800.

[0225] The third cycle may include a first sub-cycle and a second sub-cycle. During the first sub-cycle, the oxygen-containing gas and / or the second portion of the exhaust gas may flow through the second bed 132 to the reaction chamber 120, the third bed 133 may be purged or flushed, and the flue gas may be directed through the first bed 131 toward the flue gas outlet 800. During the second sub-cycle, the oxygen-containing gas and / or the second portion of the exhaust gas may flow through the second bed 132 to the reaction chamber 120, the first bed 131 may be purged or flushed, and the flue gas may be directed through the third bed 133 toward the flue gas outlet 800.

[0226] Fig.10 The system 1000 is schematically shown during a startup cycle. The system 1000 may be similar to or identical to the system 1000 of FIG. Figure 2 Shown and referenced Figure 2 The flow paths are indicated in the figures by thick pipes or thick pipe sections.

[0227] System 1000 may include valve 350 positioned along exhaust conduit 310 .

[0228] During the startup cycle, the heater 110 may be operated to heat the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Preferably, at least the reaction chamber 120, and / or at least one of the first bed 131, the second bed 132, and the third bed 133 are heated. The heater 110 may be a burner or an electric heater.

[0229] The heater 110 may heat the reaction chamber 120 to a predetermined temperature (eg, at least 500° C. or at least 800° C.) When the predetermined temperature in the reaction chamber 120 is reached, the first cycle, the second cycle, or the third cycle as described above may be performed.

[0230] During the startup cycle, a gas may flow through at least one of the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142, and the third transfer chamber 143. The gas may be an oxygen-containing gas.

[0231] For example, the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142, and / or the third transfer chamber 143 may be in fluid flow communication with the oxygen-containing gas source 200. Valve 220 may be in a closed state. Valve 230 may be in an open state. Valve 320, valve 330, and / or valve 340 may be in an open state. Thus, the oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142, and / or the third transfer chamber 143.

[0232] The gas may flow through at least one of the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142, and / or the third transfer chamber 143 to the reaction chamber 120. The gas may leave the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 from the reaction chamber 120 by flowing through at least one of the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142, and / or the third transfer chamber 143 to the flue gas duct 810. The valve 820, the valve 830, and / or the valve 840 may be in an open state.

[0233] Generally, each of the operations described may be performed by the controller 500 .

[0234] The following table includes data for a simulation comparison between a regenerative thermal oxidizer according to the present disclosure and a standard thermal oxidizer. Four reference plants (Plant 1, Plant 2, Plant 3, and Plant 4) have been simulated. The exhaust gas flow rates and additional characteristics are included in Table 1. The composition of the exhaust gas is shown in Table 2.

[0235] Table 1

[0236]

[0237] Table 2

[0238] Exhaust gas composition [% mol] Plant 1 Plant 2 Plant 3 Plant 4 <![CDATA[Hydrogen (H2)]]> 3.094 3.08 2.294 2.041 <![CDATA[Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)]]> 0.025 0.0141 0.026 0.018 Carbon monoxide (CO) 0.006 0.01 0.034 Carbonyl sulfide (COS) 0.003 0.003 <![CDATA[Carbon disulfide (CS2)]]> 0.0038 <![CDATA[Water (H2O)]]> 7.182 8.58 11.684 7.346 <![CDATA[Nitrogen (N2)]]> 84.707 86.39 69.903 89.779 <![CDATA[Carbon dioxide (CO2)]]> 4.983 1.93 15.234 0.803 <![CDATA[Sulfur dioxide (SO2)]]> 0.002 <![CDATA[Methane (CH4)]]> 0.001 Argon (Ar) 0.822

[0239] The oxidation air requirement is calculated based on the composition of the exhaust gas. The reaction temperature is the temperature at which the oxidizable components are oxidized. The energy from the exhaust gas is determined based on the composition of the exhaust gas. The additional energy required is determined based on the composition of the exhaust gas.

[0240] Table 3

[0241] Exhaust gas properties Plant 1 Plant 2 Plant 3 Plant 4 Temperature [℃] 42 45 50 42 Pressure [mbarg] 30 40 62 100 Molar weight [g / mol] 27.29 26.67 28.79 26.57

[0242] The exhaust gas properties of Table 3 exist at the exhaust gas source 300.

[0243] Table 4

[0244]

[0245] TO stands for a standard thermal oxidizer, and RTO stands for a regenerative thermal oxidizer according to the present disclosure.

[0246] The supplementary fuel gas is used to heat the reaction chamber of the TO or RTO. The power indicated in Table 4 is the power necessary to maintain the desired reaction temperature.

[0247] As can be seen in Table 4, the reduction in supplemental fuel gas achieved by the regenerative thermal oxidizer compared to the standard thermal oxidizer is significant.

[0248] Table 5

[0249]

[0250] Note 1: Basis: 8700 operating hours per year.

[0251] Note 2: CO2 emissions from the combustion of waste gases containing hydrocarbons and CO2 are not considered.

[0252] Table 5 shows a comparison of CO2 emissions of a standard thermal oxidizer and CO2 emissions of a regenerative thermal oxidizer according to the present disclosure. The reduction in CO2 emissions of the regenerative thermal oxidizer according to the present disclosure is significant compared to the standard thermal oxidizer.

[0253] Table 6

[0254]

[0255] Note 3: Basis: Considering TO NOx 70mg / Nm 3 ;RTO NOx 10mg / Nm 3 .

[0256] Table 6 includes estimates of NOx emissions for a standard thermal oxidizer and a regenerative thermal oxidizer according to the present disclosure. For all four plants, NOx emissions can be significantly reduced when using a regenerative thermal oxidizer according to the present disclosure compared to a standard thermal oxidizer.

[0257] Reference numerals list

[0258] 1000 Systems

[0259] 100 Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer

[0260] 110 Heater

[0261] 120 Reaction Chamber

[0262] 131, 132, 133 beds

[0263] 141, 142, 143 Transport Room

[0264] 145, 146, 147, 148 Oxygen-containing gas inlet

[0265] 145a, 145b, 145c oxygen-containing gas inlet

[0266] 150 Shell

[0267] 200 Oxygen-containing gas source

[0268] 210 Oxygen-containing gas tube

[0269] 220, 230 valves

[0270] 250 Connecting pipe

[0271] 300 Exhaust Source

[0272] 310 Exhaust pipe

[0273] 320, 330, 350 valves

[0274] 400 Gas-Liquid Separation Unit

[0275] 500 Controller

[0276] 600 Pressure Units

[0277] 610 Cleaning pipe

[0278] 620, 630, 640 valves

[0279] 700 Heat Exchanger

[0280] 710 Bypass pipe

[0281] 720 Valve

[0282] 800 Smoke outlet

[0283] 810 Smoke pipe

[0284] 820, 830 valves

Claims

1. A regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), comprising: at least a first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) and at least a second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143), wherein the first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) comprises a first bed (131, 132, 133) and the second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) comprises a second bed (131, 132, 133); at least one reaction chamber (120) in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) and the second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143), wherein exhaust gas can be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) to flow through the first bed (131, 132, 133) to the reaction chamber (120) or through the second bed (131, 132, 133) to the reaction chamber (120); and One or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148), the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets are used to introduce oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets are positioned between at least a portion of the first bed (131, 132, 133) and at least a portion of the reaction chamber (120), or are positioned between at least a portion of the second bed (131, 132, 133) and at least a portion of the reaction chamber (120).

2. The regenerative thermal oxidizer according to claim 1, wherein the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148) for introducing oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets being positioned between at least a portion of the first bed (131, 132, 133) and at least a portion of the reaction chamber (120), and the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148) for introducing oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), the one or more second oxygen-containing gas inlets being positioned between at least a portion of the second bed (131, 132, 133) and at least a portion of the reaction chamber (120).

3. The regenerative thermal oxidizer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the thermal oxidizer (100) comprises a heater (110), wherein the one or more first oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148) are positioned closer to the first bed (131, 132, 133) than the heater (110).

4. A regenerative thermal oxidiser according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises at least a third transfer chamber (141, 142, 143), wherein the third transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) comprises a third bed (131, 132, 133); The reaction chamber (120) is in fluid flow communication with the third transfer chamber (141, 142, 143); and The regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148), which are used to introduce oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), and the one or more third oxygen-containing gas inlets are positioned between at least a portion of the third bed (131, 132, 133) and at least a portion of the reaction chamber (120).

5. The regenerative thermal oxidizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises at least two oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148) per transfer chamber (141, 142, 143), preferably at least three oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148) per transfer chamber (141, 142, 143), and more preferably at least four oxygen-containing gas inlets (145, 146, 147, 148) per transfer chamber (141, 142, 143).

6. A system (1000), comprising a regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), preferably comprising the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises: at least a first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) and at least a second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143), wherein the first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) comprises a first bed (131, 132, 133) and the second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) comprises a second bed (131, 132, 133); at least one reaction chamber (120) in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) and the second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143); and The system (1000) further comprises: an exhaust gas pipe (310) for connecting an exhaust gas source (300) with at least the first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) and the second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143); an oxygen-containing gas pipe (210) for connecting an oxygen-containing gas source (200) to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100); and Controller (500); The controller (500) is configured as follows: directing an exhaust gas through the first bed (131, 132, 133) to the reaction chamber (120) via the exhaust gas conduit (310) such that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed (131, 132, 133), wherein the exhaust gas includes at least one oxidizable compound; and Oxygen-containing gas is introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) via the oxygen-containing gas pipe (210) such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) downstream of at least a portion of the first bed (131, 132, 133).

7. The system of claim 6, wherein during a first cycle, the controller (500) is configured to: directing the exhaust gas through the first bed (131, 132, 133) to the reaction chamber (120) via the exhaust gas pipe (310), so that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed (131, 132, 133); and directing the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) via the oxygen-containing gas pipe (210) such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) downstream of at least a portion of the first bed (131, 132, 133); and During the second cycle, the controller (500) is configured to: directing the exhaust gas through the second bed (131, 132, 133) to the reaction chamber (120) via the exhaust gas pipe (310) so that the exhaust gas is preheated by the second bed (131, 132, 133), and The oxygen-containing gas is directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) via the oxygen-containing gas pipe (210) such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) downstream of at least a portion of the second bed (131, 132, 133).

8. The system of claim 7, wherein during the first cycle, the controller (500) is configured to: directing the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) via the oxygen-containing gas pipe (210) so that the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas are oxidized and flue gas is generated in the reaction chamber (120); and directing the flue gas from the reaction chamber (120) through the second bed (131, 132, 133) so that the flue gas is cooled by the second bed (131, 132, 133); and During the second cycle, the controller (500) is configured to: directing the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) via the oxygen-containing gas pipe (210) so that the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas are oxidized and flue gas is generated in the reaction chamber (120); and The flue gas is directed from the reaction chamber (120) through the first bed (131, 132, 133) such that the flue gas is cooled by the first bed (131, 132, 133).

9. The system of claim 7, wherein: The regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises at least a third transfer chamber (141, 142, 143), wherein the third transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) comprises a third bed (131, 132, 133); The reaction chamber (120) is in fluid flow communication with the third transfer chamber (141, 142, 143); and During the third cycle, the controller (500) is configured to: directing the exhaust gas through the third bed (131, 132, 133) to the reaction chamber (120) via the exhaust gas pipe (310), so that the exhaust gas is preheated by the third bed (131, 132, 133); and Oxygen-containing gas is introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) via the oxygen-containing gas pipe (210) so that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) downstream of at least a portion of the third bed (131, 132, 133).

10. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the system (1000) further comprises a bypass pipe (710) for connecting a heat exchanger (700) to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), wherein the controller (500) is configured to direct gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) to the heat exchanger (700) so that the gas is cooled by the heat exchanger (700).

11. A system according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein: The off-gas comprises less than 20.0% by volume oxygen, preferably less than 15.0% by volume oxygen, more preferably less than 10.0% by volume oxygen, more preferably less than 5.0% by volume oxygen.

12. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) comprises a heater (110), wherein the heater (110) is configured to heat at least a portion of the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), and wherein the heater (110) comprises a burner and / or an electric heating element.

13. A method of operating a regenerative thermal oxidizer (100), the method comprising the steps of: directing exhaust gas through a first bed (131, 132, 133) of a first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) of the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) to a reaction chamber (120) of the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) such that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed (131, 132, 133); wherein the exhaust gas comprises at least one oxidizable compound; and An oxygen-containing gas is directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed (131, 132, 133).

14. The method of claim 13, wherein during a first cycle, the method comprises the following steps: directing the exhaust gas through the first bed (131, 132, 133) of the first transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) of the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) to the reaction chamber (120) of the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) such that the exhaust gas is preheated by the first bed (131, 132, 133); and directing the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) downstream of at least a portion of the first bed (131, 132, 133); and Wherein during the second cycle, the method comprises the following steps: directing the exhaust gas through a second bed (131, 132, 133) of a second transfer chamber (141, 142, 143) of the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) to the reaction chamber (120) of the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) such that the exhaust gas is preheated by the second bed (131, 132, 133); and The oxygen-containing gas is directed to the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) such that the oxygen-containing gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) downstream of at least a portion of the second bed (131, 132, 133).

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the exhaust gas and the oxygen-containing gas are mixed in the regenerative thermal oxidizer (100) to allow oxidation of the oxidizable compounds of the exhaust gas by oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas.

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