Mixed gas distribution plate for ammonia synthesis reactor and ammonia synthesis system comprising same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an ammonia synthesis system comprising: an ammonia synthesis reactor; a single or two or more catalyst layers included in the ammonia synthesis reactor; a distribution device which is disposed upstream of each of the catalyst layers and distributes a mixed gas to the catalyst layers; a mixed gas supply line arranged so as to supply a mixed gas to the distribution device; and a plurality of mixed gas distribution plates disposed between the distribution device and the catalyst layer, in which covers are attached to the lower ends of some of the plurality of openings, and the openings to which the covers are attached are kept in a closed state at ordinary times and are opened under the pressure of the fluid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ammonia synthesis system including a mixed gas distribution plate to which a cover installed can be opened and closed. Background Art

[0002] In order to achieve the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in response to climate change and the depletion of oil resources, the need to use new renewable energy is increasing. However, the areas that meet the appropriate conditions for producing new renewable energy are limited, so it is necessary to find means for storage and transportation. For example, there is a problem that new renewable energy, which is abundant in the equatorial region and the southern hemisphere, needs to be transported to the northern hemisphere where the demand for new renewable energy is high.

[0003] In addition, new renewable energy sources have temporal variability, so they must be accompanied by power storage devices. In order to solve the problems caused by the regional bias and temporal variability of new renewable energy sources, ammonia has attracted much attention as an energy carrier. In particular, ammonia can be liquefied at 8.5 atmospheres at room temperature, so it has the advantage of being easier to store and transport than hydrogen. Therefore, as an alternative solution to the problems caused by the regional bias and temporal variability of new renewable energy sources, it is necessary to pay attention to the solution of using electricity produced from new renewable energy sources to produce hydrogen and nitrogen, and using the produced hydrogen and nitrogen as raw materials to synthesize ammonia.

[0004] Hydrogen, the main raw material in ammonia synthesis, can be produced in a water electrolyzer driven by new renewable energy such as solar energy or wind energy. New renewable energy such as solar energy or wind energy has time variability. For example, solar energy cannot be used at night. Therefore, the ammonia synthesis system cannot always operate at a certain flow rate, and there is a problem that the flow rate changes that occur during the production cycle need to be predicted and handled. In addition, when the flow rate of raw materials such as hydrogen fed to the ammonia synthesis system is reduced, there is a problem that the unevenness of the flow distribution increases at the front end of the catalyst layer included in the ammonia synthesis reactor.

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to develop an ammonia synthesis system that can cope with flow rate fluctuations occurring during a production cycle and solve the problem of uneven flow rate distribution occurring at the front end of the catalyst layer. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an ammonia synthesis system capable of coping with flow rate fluctuations occurring during a production cycle may be provided.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an ammonia synthesis system can be provided that can maintain a uniform flow distribution at the front end of a catalyst layer included in an ammonia synthesis reactor even if the flow rate of a raw material such as hydrogen fed is reduced.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an ammonia synthesis system capable of preventing a raw material such as hydrogen supplied to a front end of a catalyst layer from flowing back can be provided.

[0009] The present disclosure provides a mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor, which includes a plurality of openings. Some of the plurality of openings are provided with covers at lower ends, and the covers are formed into a structure that is opened under the pressure of a fluid.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover fixing frame may be formed at an upper end of the opening portion on which the cover is installed, and the cover fixing frame and the cover are connected by a spring.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening portion where the cover is installed may automatically open and close the installed cover in a sliding manner through an electric motor and a gear.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the percentage of the total area of ​​the openings relative to the total area of ​​the mixed gas distribution plate is referred to as the opening rate, the opening rate of the mixed gas distribution plate may be 5% to less than 100%.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening portion may be formed with an area ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:1.5 between the opening portion where the cover is not installed and the opening portion where the cover is installed.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas distribution plate may further include: a plurality of mixed gas flow pipes fixed on a lower surface of the mixed gas distribution plate.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas flow tube may have a bottom surface and a side surface connecting the bottom surface and the distribution plate, a plurality of upper openings formed along the circumference are formed on the upper side surface of the mixed gas flow tube, a plurality of middle openings formed along the circumference are formed on the middle side surface of the mixed gas flow tube, a plurality of lower openings formed along the circumference are formed on the lower side surface of the mixed gas flow tube, and the mixed gas flow tube includes a covering member, which is formed to surround at least a portion of the side surface of the mixed gas flow tube to provide a space for guiding the fluid that passes through the upper openings and then flows out to the outside of the side surface of the mixed gas flow tube toward the middle opening side.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas flow pipe may further include: a partition plate configured to divide the upper portion and the middle portion of the mixed gas flow pipe.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas distribution plate may be provided with a backflow prevention cover on a lower surface of the opening.

[0018] The present disclosure provides an ammonia synthesis system, which includes: an ammonia synthesis reactor; a single or more catalytic layers, which are included in the ammonia synthesis reactor; a distribution device, which is arranged upstream of each of the catalytic layers and distributes mixed gas to the reactor; a supply route, which is arranged to supply mixed gas to the distribution device; and the mixed gas distribution plates for each ammonia synthesis reactor described above, which are arranged between the catalytic layers and the distribution device.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system may further include: a microwave heating device that irradiates microwaves to each catalyst layer.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the ammonia synthesis system, ammonia synthesis may be performed at 10 to 300 bar.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the ammonia synthesis system, ammonia synthesis may be performed at 100 to 800° C.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the distribution device may be in the shape of a circular plate or a toroidal shape.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system may further include: an anti-backflow plate, which is arranged downstream of each catalytic layer other than the lowest catalytic layer among the two or more catalytic layers to prevent the mixed gas from backflowing.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system can cope with flow rate fluctuations occurring during a production cycle.

[0025] According to the ammonia synthesis system of another embodiment of the present disclosure, even if the flow rate of the introduced raw material such as hydrogen is reduced, a uniform flow distribution can be maintained at the front end of the catalyst layer included in the ammonia synthesis reactor.

[0026] According to an ammonia synthesis system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, ammonia can be synthesized in an eco-friendly manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram showing an ammonia synthesis system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a mixed gas distribution plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3 The present invention is a schematic diagram showing an opening portion including a spring and a cover fixing frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and a cover is installed.

[0030] Figure 4 1 is a schematic diagram showing a mixed gas distribution plate further including a mixed gas flow pipe at the lower end of the opening according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5 1 is a schematic diagram showing a mixed gas flow tube according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing a case where a cover member that can be opened by hinge connection is installed at the opening portion of the mixed gas distribution plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an ammonia synthesis system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Reference numerals: 1: ammonia synthesis system, 10: ammonia synthesis reactor, 20: catalyst layer, 20 a :Upper catalytic layer, 20 b :Middle catalytic layer, 20 c : Lower catalytic layer, 30: Distribution device, 30 a : Upper distribution device, 30 b : Middle end distribution device, 30 c : Lower distribution device, 40: Mixed gas distribution plate, 40 a :Upper mixed gas distribution plate, 40 b : Middle end mixed gas distribution plate, 40 c : Lower mixed gas distribution plate, 41: opening, 42: cover, 43: cover fixing frame, 44: spring, 450: mixed gas flow pipe, 450 a :Mixed gas flow pipe upper part, 450 b :Middle part of the mixed gas flow pipe, 450 c :Lower part of the mixed gas flow pipe, 451 a :Opening portion at the top of the mixed gas flow tube, 451 b :Middle opening of the mixed gas flow pipe, 451 c : lower opening of the mixed gas flow pipe, 452: side cover of the mixed gas flow pipe, 453: partition of the mixed gas flow pipe, 50: mixed gas supply route, 50a: upper mixed gas supply route, 50b: middle mixed gas supply route, 50c: lower mixed gas supply route, 60: backflow prevention plate, 60 a :Upper anti-backflow plate, 60 b : middle end anti-backflow plate, 63: cover member that can be opened by hinge connection, 64: hinge, 70: microwave heating device, 70 a : Upper microwave heating device, 70b : Mid-end microwave heating device, 70 c : Lower microwave heating device, 71: Microwave guide, 71 a :Upper microwave guide, 71 b : Mid-end microwave guide, 71 c : Lower microwave guide portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The advantages, features and methods of achieving the advantages and features of the present invention will become clear through the embodiments described in detail below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and can be implemented in a variety of different forms. The embodiments are only used to make the disclosure of the present invention complete and to fully inform the scope of the invention to those with common knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention belongs. The present invention is only defined by the scope of the claims.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical terms and scientific terms) used in this specification have the same meanings as commonly understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0037] Unless otherwise indicated in the context, a singular form used in this specification may also include a plural form.

[0038] The numerical range used in this specification includes all values ​​within its range that include the lower limit and the upper limit, all values ​​logically derived from the form and span of the defined range, all values ​​of the double definition, and all possible combinations of the upper and lower limits within the numerical range defined in different forms. Unless otherwise defined in the specification of the present invention, values ​​that may exceed the numerical range due to experimental errors or rounding of numerical values ​​are also included in the defined numerical range.

[0039] The term "including" mentioned in this specification is an open description, which is equivalent to expressions such as "having", "containing", "having", "having characteristics", etc., and does not exclude factors, materials or processes that are not additionally listed.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, the unit "%" used without particular reference in the present specification means "% by weight".

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, “A to B” in this specification means “A or more and B or less”.

[0042] Hereinafter, the ammonia synthesis system of the present disclosure will be described in detail. However, this is only an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described in the examples.

[0043] The present disclosure provides an ammonia synthesis system, which includes: an ammonia synthesis reactor; a single or more catalyst layers, which are included in the ammonia synthesis reactor; a distribution device, which is arranged upstream of each catalyst layer and distributes mixed gas to the reactor; a supply route, which is arranged to supply mixed gas to the distribution device; and each mixed gas distribution plate, which is arranged between the catalyst layer and the distribution device.

[0044] refer to Figure 1 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an ammonia synthesis system 1 may include: an ammonia synthesis reactor 10; a catalytic layer 20, which is included in the ammonia synthesis reactor 10; a distribution device 30, which is arranged on the upper part of the catalytic layer and distributes the mixed gas to the reactor; a mixed gas supply route 50, which is arranged to supply the mixed gas to the distribution device 30; and a mixed gas distribution plate 40, which is arranged between the catalytic layer 20 and the distribution device 30.

[0045] refer to Figure 7 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an ammonia synthesis system 1 includes: an ammonia synthesis reactor 10; two or more catalyst layers 20 a , 20 b , 20 c , which is included in the ammonia synthesis reactor 10; the distribution device 30 a , 30 b , 30 c , which is arranged in the catalyst layer 20 a , 20 b , 20 c upstream, to the mixed gas catalyst layer 20 a , 20 b , 20 c Distributing mixed gas; mixed gas supply route 50 a , 50 b , 50 c , which is arranged to distribute the device 30 a , 30 b , 30 c Supplying mixed gas; and each mixed gas distribution plate 40 a , 40 b , 40 c , which is arranged in each catalyst layer 20 a , 20 b , 20 c and each dispensing device 30 a , 30 b , 30 c between.

[0046] As explained above Figure 7 As described above, the ammonia synthesis system 1 is provided with two or more catalyst layers 20 a , 20b , 20 c According to the flow rate of the mixed gas supplied, each catalyst layer 20 a , 20 b , 20 c Each distribution device 30 included upstream a , 30 b , 30 c Selectively placed, so each catalyst layer 20 can be used evenly a , 20 b , 20 c , which can optimize energy usage in the ammonia synthesis process.

[0047] In addition, the ammonia synthesis system has a 20 a , 20 b , 20 c and each dispensing device 30 a , 30 b , 30 c A mixed gas distribution plate 40 is included between a , 40 b , 40 c , so as to maintain the uniformity of the mixed gas delivered.

[0048] The ammonia synthesis system 1 includes a mixed gas supply line 50 a , 50 b , 50 c To two or more catalyst layers 20 a , 20 b , 20 c The mixed gas can be supplied separately to cope with the flow rate changes that occur during the production cycle. For example, when the flow rate of the raw materials added is large, the mixed gas supply route 50 located at the upper end can be used to supply the mixed gas. a The catalyst layer 20 located at the top is placed a When the flow rate of the raw material is small, the mixed gas supply route 50 at the lower end can be used. c The catalyst layer 20 is placed at the bottom. c Instead of the catalyst layer 20 located at the top a , and proceed accordingly.

[0049] On the one hand, when the flow rate is low as described above, the ammonia synthesis system can be supplied through the mixed gas supply line 50 at the lower end. c The mixed gas is fed to operate so as to pass through the catalyst layer 20 at the lower end. c , so there is no need to maintain the temperature of the entire reactor. Therefore, during operation, the amount of energy required in the system can be optimized as needed, thereby saving energy.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system is not particularly limited as long as it includes more than two catalytic layers. When the catalytic layers are 2 to 5 layers, 2 to 4 layers or 2 to 3 layers, it is possible to minimize the volume of the reactor while having excellent ammonia synthesis processability, and is therefore preferred.

[0051] Of course, as the number of catalytic layers included in the ammonia synthesis system increases, additional structures such as distribution devices, supply routes, mixed gas distribution plates and backflow prevention plates may also increase.

[0052] Generally, when the flow rate of the reaction fluid is low, the distribution performance at the upper part of the catalyst layer is reduced, resulting in differences in reaction performance between catalysts at the same height. The catalyst replacement cycle is determined based on the reaction performance at the lower end of the catalyst layer. When the distribution performance is reduced due to a decrease in flow rate, resulting in lower reaction performance in a portion of the catalyst layer area at the lower end, the replacement cycle is shortened.

[0053] However, the ammonia synthesis system according to the present disclosure includes various mixed gas distribution plates 40 arranged between the catalyst layer 20 and the distribution device 30, so that even if the flow rate of the mixed gas supplied from the mixed gas supply route 50 to the ammonia synthesis reactor 10 changes, the flow rate of the mixed gas in contact with the catalyst layer 20 can be maintained, and the mixed gas can be evenly mixed, thereby maintaining excellent ammonia synthesis performance.

[0054] In an embodiment according to the present disclosure, the mixed gas may include at least one selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and nitrogen.

[0055] Hydrogen can be produced in an installation powered by new renewable energy sources. Specifically, hydrogen can be produced in a water electrolyzer powered by new renewable energy sources.

[0056] The new renewable energy may include at least one selected from the group consisting of solar heat, sunlight, biomass, wind, hydropower, geothermal energy, ocean energy, and waste energy. The new renewable energy has temporal variability. For example, solar energy cannot be used at night. Therefore, when hydrogen is produced in a device driven by the new renewable energy, the ammonia synthesis system cannot always operate at a certain flow rate. That is, due to the temporal variability of the new renewable energy, an ammonia synthesis system that can cope with the flow rate changes that occur during the production cycle is required.

[0057] refer to Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a mixed gas distribution plate 40 may include a plurality of openings 41, a portion of which is an opening having a cover 42 installed at the lower end. The opening 41 installed with the cover 42 is formed into a structure that is normally kept in a closed state, is opened under the pressure of the fluid, and is restored to a closed state.

[0058] In existing ammonia synthesis systems, when the mixed gas introduced from the mixed gas is at a flow rate that is too small to meet the mixed gas flow rate required for ammonia synthesis, the mixed gas contacting the front end of the catalyst layer is unevenly distributed, thereby reducing the ammonia synthesis reactivity or shortening the life of the catalyst.

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the mixed gas is introduced at a small flow rate, the mixed gas distribution plate 40 may be such that the cover 42 installed on a part of the opening 41 is closed, thereby adjusting the amount of mixed gas introduced through the mixed gas distribution plate 40. In addition, when the mixed gas is introduced at a large flow rate, the cover 42 installed on a part of the opening 41 of the mixed gas distribution plate 40 may be opened, thereby achieving a high ammonia yield under the condition of a large mixed gas flow rate.

[0060] Therefore, the ammonia synthesis system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is as described above, including a mixed gas distribution plate having a cover installed at the lower end of a part of the opening, so that even if a small flow rate of mixed gas is introduced, the mixed gas in contact with the catalyst layer can be kept uniform, and when a high flow rate of mixed gas is introduced, excellent ammonia synthesis reactivity can be achieved. That is, the ammonia synthesis system including the mixed gas distribution plate can flexibly respond to the changing mixed gas flow rate.

[0061] The mixed gas distribution plate 40 equipped with the openable and closable cover 42 is such that when the flow rate of the mixed gas delivered to the upstream of each catalyst layer 20 by each distribution device 30 decreases, the pressure of the fluid decreases, and the cover 42 remains closed. On the contrary, when the flow rate of the mixed gas increases, the openable and closable cover 42 is opened. That is, even if the flow rate of the mixed gas decreases or increases and the flow rate fluctuates, the mixed gas can be uniformly mixed and delivered to the catalyst layer, and the flow rate fluctuation can be handled to perform a stable process operation.

[0062] In addition, the mixed gas distribution plate 40 equipped with an openable and closable cover 42 can be a cover 42 installed on the lower surface of the partial opening portion 41 to prevent the backflow of the mixed gas so that the mixed gas passing through the mixed gas distribution plate 40 cannot backflow again. Therefore, the mixed gas system 1 including the mixed gas distribution plate 40 equipped with an openable and closable cover 42 can have better ammonia synthesis performance and can perform stable process operations.

[0063] At this time, for convenience, in this specification, the flow rate changes that occur during the production cycle are roughly divided into three types, as above, which can be divided into a small flow rate, a normal flow rate, and a large flow rate, which can be easily adjusted according to the common sense or judgment of ordinary technicians. It can be that the small flow rate refers to a situation where the annual average production flow rate (100%) is less than half (50%), the normal flow rate refers to a situation where the annual average production flow rate (100%) is more than half (50%) and less than 2 times (200%), and the large flow rate refers to a situation where the annual average production flow rate (100%) is more than 2 times (200%), but it is not limited to this.

[0064] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas distribution plate 40 may include a plurality of openings 41 and an opening 41 with a cover 42 installed thereon, which are alternately arranged along the axial direction at the center of the mixed gas distribution plate.

[0065] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the percentage of the total area of ​​the openings relative to the total area of ​​the mixed gas distribution plate is referred to as an opening ratio, the opening ratio of the mixed gas distribution plate may be 5% to less than 100%.

[0066] The mixed gas distribution plate having an opening ratio within the above range can uniformly distribute the mixed gas to be distributed to the mixed gas supply route of the ammonia synthesis system upstream of each catalyst layer under the optimal conditions for ammonia synthesis.

[0067] According to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening ratio of the mixed gas distribution plate may be 5 to 60%, 10 to 50%, 10 to 40%, 10 to 30% or 5 to 20%.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas distribution plate can form an opening portion without a cover installed and an opening portion with a cover installed with an area ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:1.5. As another embodiment, it can be formed with an area ratio of 1:0.7 to 1:1.3 or 1:0.9 to 1:1.1.

[0069] The mixed gas distribution plate having openings in the above-mentioned area range can adjust the mixed gas flow rate of the mixed gas introduced at a small flow rate through the catalyst layer, and thus can distribute the mixed gas described above to the catalyst layer more uniformly.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening portion equipped with a cover can be opened when a fluid pressure of more than 1 bar is applied in the opening direction of the cover. According to another embodiment, it can be more than 10 bar or more than 50 bar, and there is no upper limit, which can be less than 300 bar, less than 250 bar or less than 200 bar.

[0071] When the ammonia synthesis system feeds mixed gas into the interior of the ammonia synthesis reactor at a fluid pressure of more than 1 bar through a cover installed on a mixed gas distribution plate, the cover installed on the opening of the mixed gas distribution plate is opened, so that a large amount of mixed gas passing through the mixed gas distribution plate comes into contact with the catalyst layer, thereby being able to synthesize a large amount of ammonia. The fluid pressure for opening the cover may vary depending on the operating conditions.

[0072] In the ammonia synthesis system, the mixed gas is uniformly mixed while passing through the mixed gas distribution plate, which can prevent the mixed gas from contacting unevenly with the catalyst layer.

[0073] refer to Figure 3 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas distribution plate 40 may be such that a cover fixing frame 43 is formed at the upper end of the opening portion 41 on which the cover 42 is installed, and the cover fixing frame 43 and the cover 42 are connected by a spring 44 .

[0074] Figure 3 When the pressure of the fluid at the upper end of the opening of the mixed gas distribution plate 40 shown in the figure increases, the spring 44 is stretched, so that the cover installed at the lower end of the opening 41 is opened. When the pressure of the fluid at the upper end of the opening decreases again, the spring 44 is restored and the opening can be closed by the cover.

[0075] Specifically, refer to Figure 3 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas distribution plate 40 includes a spring 44 in the plurality of openings 41, and a fixing frame 43 and a cover 42 are connected to the spring 44, so that when the flow rate of the mixed gas delivered to the distribution device 30 increases, the spring 44 is stretched and the installed cover 42 can be opened. In addition, when the flow rate of the fluid delivered to the distribution device 30 is below the fluid pressure in the range described above, the spring 44 returns to its original state and the installed cover 42 is closed, so that the flow rate of the mixed gas distributed through the opening 41 can be adjusted.

[0076] In addition, the mixed gas distribution plate 40 in which the cover can be opened and closed by the spring 44 and the cover fixing frame 43 is preferably used because the mixed gas supplied to the catalyst layer 20 can be easily adjusted by simple assembly.

[0077] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixing frame 43 for fixing the cover may be formed in an I-shape or a X-shape at the upper end of the opening, but is not limited thereto, as long as it is formed in a shape that allows fluid to pass through.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the spring 44 may be a compression spring, and the spring coefficient K may be 0.0001 to 1000 N / m. According to another embodiment, the spring coefficient K may be 0.001 to 1000 N / m, 0.005 to 1000 N / m or 0.01 to 1000 N / m, and is not limited thereto as long as the cover is opened to a degree under a fluid pressure of more than 1 bar.

[0079] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening portion with a cover installed can be preferred because the method of adjusting the opening and closing degree using the spring described above is simple, but the installed cover can be automatically opened and closed in a sliding manner using an electric motor and gears, and the cover can be opened and closed in a hinged manner.

[0080] That is, the ammonia synthesis system may fully automatically open or close the cover by detecting the flow rate of the mixed gas fed to the ammonia synthesis reactor.

[0081] In addition, the mixed gas distribution plate may be provided with a cover 63 that can be opened by a hinge 64 instead of the cover 42 , mounted on the lower surface of some of the openings among the plurality of openings.

[0082] More specifically, refer to Figure 6 The cover 63 which is openable by being connected by a hinge 64 can be opened and closed under the pressure of the fluid.

[0083] A spring is provided at the hinge 64 joint portion of the hinge 64, so that an elastic force can be applied to the direction in which the cover 63 that can be opened by the hinge joint approaches the distribution plate. As described above, when a spring is provided, the cover that can be opened by the hinge joint can be closed when the mixed gas flow rate decreases, and opened when the mixed gas flow rate increases. That is, even if the mixed gas flow rate decreases or increases and the flow rate changes, the mixed gas can be uniformly mixed, so that it can be delivered to the catalyst layer, and the flow rate change can be handled, and the process operation can be stably performed.

[0084] refer to Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas distribution plate 40 may further include: a mixed gas flow pipe 450 fixed to the lower surface of the opening portion 41 where the cover is not installed.

[0085] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , may be, at the upper portion 450 of the mixed gas flow pipe 450 a The side surface is formed with a plurality of upper openings 451 spaced apart along the perimeter. a , in the middle portion 450 of the mixed gas flow pipe 450 b The side surface is formed with a plurality of intermediate openings 451 spaced apart along the perimeter. b , at the lower part of the mixed gas flow pipe 450c The side surface is formed with a plurality of lower openings 451 spaced apart along the perimeter. c .

[0086] Pass through the upper opening 451 a 、Middle opening 451 b and the lower opening 451 c The mixed gas flow pipe 450 may include a cover member side cover member 452, which is formed to surround at least a portion of the side of the mixed gas flow pipe 450 to provide an opening portion 451 to the middle portion. b The side guide passes through the upper opening 451 a Thereafter, a space for the fluid to flow out to the outside of the side of the mixed gas flow pipe 450. The side cover 452 may be formed to surround at least one of the group consisting of an upper portion and a middle portion of the side of the mixed gas flow pipe 450.

[0087] refer to Figure 5 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas flow pipe 450 may further include a partition 453 configured to divide the upper portion and the middle portion of the mixed gas flow pipe 450. The partition 453 completely separates the upper portion and the middle portion of the mixed gas flow pipe 450 so that the fluid cannot move. Therefore, the fluid flowing into the upper portion of the mixed gas flow pipe 450 does not directly fall to the middle portion due to the partition 453, but passes through the upper opening 451. a The fluid then flows out to the space between the mixed gas flow pipe 450 and the side cover 452. b Flows into the mixed gas flow tube, and descends to the bottom, passing through the lower opening 451 c Flowing out to the outside of the mixed gas flow tube 450. As described above, by forming a flow that flows out to the outside of the mixed gas flow tube 450, flows back into the inside, and then flows out again, the fluids can be mixed more smoothly and a uniform flow distribution can be maintained at the front end of the catalyst layer.

[0088] The mixed gas distribution plate 40 described above may be selected from Figure 7 The ammonia synthesis system 1 includes two or more mixed gas distribution plates 40 a , 40 b , 40 c Any one or more of the above, or may be applied to all mixed gas distribution plates 40 included in the ammonia synthesis system 1 a , 40 b , 40 c middle.

[0089] refer to Figure 7According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when each mixed gas distribution plate 40 included in the ammonia synthesis system 1 a , 40 b , 40 c When there are three, the upper mixed gas distribution plate 40 installed in the ammonia synthesis reactor 10 a , middle end mixed gas distribution plate 40 b and the lower mixed gas distribution plate 40 c The pressures at which the covers are opened may be different or the same from one another.

[0090] As an example, the upper mixed gas distribution plate 40 is installed a The covers on the multiple openings may be opened when the fluid pressure is above 1 bar, above 10 bar or above 50 bar. c The covers on the plurality of openings may be opened at a fluid pressure of 1 bar or more or 5 bar or more.

[0091] As explained above, according to Figure 7 An embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes a plurality of catalytic layers 20. a , 20 b , 20 c The ammonia synthesis system 1 has an upper catalyst layer 20 a A large amount of mixed gas is introduced to the lower catalyst layer 20. c By injecting a smaller flow rate of mixed gas, it is possible to cope with the changing mixed gas flow rate and have an excellent catalyst life.

[0092] In addition, for each catalyst layer 20 a , 20 b , 20 c The mixed gases are separated and delivered at different flow rates, and each mixed gas distribution plate 40 is provided with the cover 42 described above. a , 40 b , 40 c In the process, the flow rate of the mixed gas in contact with the catalyst layer 20 can be adjusted by opening and closing the cover 42 installed on the opening portion 41. Therefore, even if the flow rate of the supplied mixed gas changes, excellent ammonia synthesis efficiency and stable process operation can be achieved.

[0093] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening ratio A of the upper mixed gas distribution plate is a It may be more than 40%, 45 to 60%, or 50 to 60%.

[0094] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening ratio A of the middle end mixed gas distribution plate is bIt may be 20 to 40%, 25 to 35% or 30 to 35%.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening ratio A of the lower mixed gas distribution plate is c It may be less than 20%, 5 to 20%, or 10 to 20%.

[0096] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, relative to the opening ratio A of the upper mixed gas distribution plate a The opening ratio of the mixed gas distribution plate at the middle end is A b The ratio may be less than 1, 0.3 to 0.8, or 0.4 to 0.7.

[0097] According to another embodiment, relative to the opening ratio A of the upper mixed gas distribution plate a The opening ratio of the lower mixed gas distribution plate A c The ratio may be less than 1, 0.1 to 0.5, or 0.2 to 0.4.

[0098] According to another embodiment, relative to the opening ratio A of the mixed gas distribution plate at the middle end b The opening ratio of the lower mixed gas distribution plate A c The ratio may be less than 1, 0.3 to 0.8, or 0.4 to 0.7.

[0099] According to another embodiment, relative to the opening ratio A of the mixed gas distribution plate at the middle end b The opening ratio of the lower mixed gas distribution plate A c The ratio may be less than 1, 0.1 to 0.9 or 0.3 to 0.6.

[0100] Upper mixed gas distribution plate 40 a , middle mixed gas distribution plate 40 b and the lower mixed gas distribution plate 40 c In order to satisfy the aperture ratio described above, the number of the included openings may be adjusted, and the aperture ratio described above may be satisfied by adjusting the diameter of the openings.

[0101] Upper distribution plate opening 41 a The diameter l a , middle distribution plate opening 41 b The diameter l b and the lower distribution plate opening 41 c The diameter l c Can satisfy l a ≥l b ≥l c or a > b > c .

[0102] Upper mixed gas distribution plate 40 a , middle mixed gas distribution plate 40 b and the lower mixed gas distribution plate 40 c The opening ratio or diameter of the catalyst layer gradually decreases toward the bottom, thereby preventing the mixed gas distributed to each catalyst layer from flowing back, and helping the mixed gas to flow easily from the top to the bottom. In addition, a gas distribution system and an ammonia synthesis system using the same can be provided, which can improve the uniformity of the flow distribution at the front end of the catalyst layer when the flow rate of the mixed gas is small, or minimize the load applied to the gas supplied to the catalyst layer when the flow rate is large, so that a uniform and effective reaction can be achieved.

[0103] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system may further include: an anti-backflow plate 60, which is arranged downstream of each catalyst layer other than the lowest catalyst layer among the two or more catalyst layers to prevent the mixed gas from backflowing.

[0104] In particular, the ammonia synthesis system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a mixed gas supply route to supply mixed gas to two or more catalyst layers respectively, so as to cope with flow rate changes occurring during the production cycle. For example, when the flow rate of the raw material fed is large, the mixed gas supply route 50 located at the upper end can be used to supply mixed gas to the catalyst layers. a The catalyst layer 20 located at the top is placed a When the flow rate of the raw material is small, the mixed gas supply route 50 at the lower end can be used. c The catalyst layer 20 is placed at the bottom. c Instead of the catalyst layer 20 located at the top a At this time, when the mixed gas supply line 50 at the lower end is c The mixed gas is fed to pass through the catalyst layer 20 at the lower end. c When the mixed gas flows backward, the backflow prevention plate 60 is used to prevent the mixed gas from flowing backward. Figure 1 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system can be c The upper catalyst layer 20 a and the middle end catalyst layer 20 b The downstream includes an upper anti-backflow plate 60 a And the middle end anti-backflow plate 60 b .

[0105] Including upper anti-backflow plate 60 a And the middle end anti-backflow plate 60 b The ammonia synthesis system 1 makes the upward distribution device 30 a and middle end distribution device 30 bThe mixed gas introduced passes through each upper catalytic layer 20 a and the middle end catalyst layer 20 b After that, it is no longer connected with the upper catalyst layer 20 a contact, so that each upper catalytic layer 20 a and the middle end catalyst layer 20 b It has a higher catalytic life and can therefore be preferred.

[0106] The backflow prevention plate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is not particularly limited as long as it prevents the mixed gas that has passed through the catalyst layer from flowing back to the catalyst layer again. The mixed gas distribution plate as described above may be formed with a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings formed on each backflow prevention plate may be provided with a backflow prevention cover that is selectively opened according to the flow direction of the gas. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas supply route 50 may be a route that branches off from a main supply route. In addition, the mixed gas supply route may also be supplied from a separate supply route with at least one selected from the group consisting of nitrogen and hydrogen.

[0107] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mixed gas supply route 50 may include a flow regulating device, which can independently control the flow rate of the mixed gas in each of the mixed gas supply routes.

[0108] Specifically, the flow regulating device independently regulates the flow rate of the mixed gas flowing in each of the mixed gas supply routes, so that the flow rate of the mixed gas entering the distribution device is maintained within a desired flow rate range. The flow regulating device may be a flow regulating valve. Therefore, during operation, the amount of energy required in the system can be optimized as needed, thereby saving energy.

[0109] In an embodiment according to the present disclosure, the distribution device 30 may be in a disc shape or a toroidal shape, but is not limited thereto, and a common gas distribution device may be used.

[0110] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system includes the microwave heating device 70 , so that the temperature deviation between the center and the edge of the catalyst layer can be made uniform in the early stage of operation, thereby improving the ammonia synthesis yield.

[0111] Specifically, the microwave heating device can make the temperature deviation between the center and the edge of the catalyst layer uniform by irradiating microwaves to each catalyst layer at the initial stage of operation. In addition, the microwave heating device preheats the catalyst layer that is not fully preheated at the initial stage of operation, thereby improving the ammonia synthesis yield at the initial stage of operation.

[0112] refer to Figure 7 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system 1 includes a microwave heating device 70 a , 70b , 70 c , which can make the catalytic layer 20 a , 20 b , 20 c The temperature deviation between the center and the edge of the catalyst layer becomes uniform, thereby improving the ammonia synthesis yield. Specifically, the microwave heating device can make the temperature deviation between the center and the edge of the catalyst layer uniform by irradiating microwaves to the catalyst layer at the initial stage of operation. In addition, the microwave heating device preheats the catalyst layer that is not fully preheated at the initial stage of operation, thereby improving the ammonia synthesis yield at the initial stage of operation.

[0113] For example, when the flow rate of the raw material is small, it can be operated to pass through the catalyst layer 20 at the lower end. c Instead of the catalyst layer 20 located at the top a At this time, the catalyst layer 20 located at the upper end is not a The mixed gas is introduced, so the catalyst layer 20 at the upper end a The temperature will decrease with time. Then, when the catalyst layer 20 at the upper end is used again, a When the catalyst layer 20 is located at the upper end a In the cooling state, the ammonia synthesis efficiency may be reduced. At this time, the microwave heating device 70 a The catalyst layer 20 at the upper end in the cooling state a By preheating with microwaves, even if the catalyst layer is reused for operation, excellent ammonia synthesis efficiency can be achieved.

[0114] The number of microwave heating devices may be 1 or more, 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, 5 or more, or 8 or more, but not limited thereto, and the number of microwave heating devices may be increased according to the size of the reactor, and the location of the microwave heating devices may be adjusted for efficient microwave irradiation.

[0115] The ammonia synthesis system may further include a microwave guide 71. The microwave guide enables the microwave irradiated from the microwave heating device to reach the catalyst layer more effectively. Of course, the shape or setting position of the guide may be changed according to the microwave waveform.

[0116] refer to Figure 7 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the ammonia synthesis system 1 can be configured to have each microwave heating device 70 a , 70 b , 70 c Each microwave guide portion 71 is provided a , 71 b , 71 c , in each microwave heating device 70 a , 70 b , 70 cIt doesn't hurt to have just one or more.

[0117] In the ammonia synthesis system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, ammonia synthesis may be performed at 1 to 500 bar or 10 to 300 bar.

[0118] In addition, in the ammonia synthesis system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, ammonia synthesis may be performed at 100 to 800°C or 200 to 700°C.

[0119] The ammonia synthesis system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include: a heat exchanger, which is arranged downstream of the catalyst layer and removes heat from the effluent of the catalyst layer. The heat exchanger may be arranged to surround the catalyst layer or its periphery.

[0120] The ammonia synthesis system according to the present disclosure further includes a heat exchanger, so that an additional heat removal unit other than the supply cooling mixed gas can be provided, thereby making it possible to flexibly operate the ammonia synthesis system.

[0121] The above-described contents are merely examples of applying the principles of the present disclosure, and other structures may also be included without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor, comprising a plurality of openings, Among the plurality of openings, some of the openings are provided with covers at their lower ends. The cover is formed into a structure that is opened under the pressure of the fluid.

2. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 1, wherein: A cover fixing frame is formed at the upper end of the opening portion where the cover is installed, and the cover fixing frame and the cover are connected by a spring.

3. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 1, wherein: The opening portion to which the cover is mounted is automatically opened and closed in a sliding manner by an electric motor and a gear.

4. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 1, wherein: When the percentage of the total area of ​​the openings relative to the total area of ​​the mixed gas distribution plate is referred to as an opening ratio, the opening ratio of the mixed gas distribution plate is 5% to less than 100%.

5. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 1, wherein: The opening portion includes an opening portion where the cover is not installed and an opening portion where the cover is installed, with an area ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:1.

5.

6. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 1, wherein: The mixed gas distribution plate further includes: a plurality of mixed gas flow pipes fixed on the lower surface of the mixed gas distribution plate.

7. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 6, wherein: The mixed gas flow pipe has a bottom surface and a side surface connecting the bottom surface and the distribution plate. A plurality of upper openings are formed on the upper side of the mixed gas flow pipe and are spaced apart along the circumference. A plurality of intermediate openings are formed on the intermediate side of the mixed gas flow pipe at intervals along the circumference. A plurality of lower openings are formed on the lower side of the mixed gas flow pipe and are spaced apart along the circumference. The mixed gas flow pipe includes a cover formed to surround at least a portion of a side surface of the mixed gas flow pipe to provide a space for guiding a fluid that flows out of the side surface of the mixed gas flow pipe after passing through the upper opening toward the middle opening.

8. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 6, wherein: The mixed gas flow pipe further includes a partition plate configured to divide the upper portion and the middle portion of the mixed gas flow pipe.

9. The mixed gas distribution plate for an ammonia synthesis reactor according to claim 1, wherein: The mixed gas distribution plate is provided with a backflow prevention cover on the lower surface of the opening.

10. An ammonia synthesis system, comprising: Ammonia synthesis reactor; A single or more than two catalytic layers, which are included in the ammonia synthesis reactor; a distribution device, which is arranged upstream of each of the catalytic layers and distributes the mixed gas to the reactor; a supply route arranged to supply the mixed gas to the distribution device; and The mixed gas distribution plates for an ammonia synthesis reactor each selected from any one of claims 1 to 9 are arranged between the catalyst layer and the distribution device.

11. The ammonia synthesis system according to claim 10, wherein: The ammonia synthesis system further includes a microwave heating device for irradiating microwaves to each catalyst layer.

12. The ammonia synthesis system according to claim 10, wherein: In the ammonia synthesis system, ammonia synthesis is performed at 10 to 300 bar.

13. The ammonia synthesis system according to claim 10, wherein: In the ammonia synthesis system, ammonia synthesis is performed at 100 to 800°C.

14. The ammonia synthesis system according to claim 10, wherein: The distribution device is in the shape of a circular plate or a ring.

15. The ammonia synthesis system according to claim 10, wherein: The ammonia synthesis system further includes a backflow prevention plate disposed downstream of each of the catalyst layers other than the lowest catalyst layer among the two or more catalyst layers to prevent the mixed gas from backflowing.

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