Device for heating feedstock

Abstract

An apparatus (110) for heating a feedstock is proposed. The apparatus (110) includes a plurality of electrically conductive conduits (114) for containing the feedstock. The conduit (114) is arranged to effect a parallel flow of the feedstock. The apparatus (110) comprises at least one power and / or voltage source (126) arranged to supply an electrical current to the conduit (114) that heats the conduit (114) by Joule heat generated as the electrical current passes through the conductive tube material in order to heat the feedstock. Each of the conduits (110) has a first end (116) and a second end (118). At least one electrical insulator (132) is provided at the first end (116) and the second end (118) such that the respective conduit (114) is galvanically isolated from the at least one supply conduit (120) and the at least one discharge conduit (122) from each other. The individual conduits (114) are electrically interconnected in a series connection.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for heating a feedstock and a facility comprising such an apparatus. The apparatus can be used in particular to heat the feedstock to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 1700°C, preferably 300°C to 1400°C, and more preferably 400°C to 875°C. The apparatus is particularly configured to electrically heat the feedstock, for example as an electric furnace or as part of an electric furnace. For example, the facility can be configured to carry out at least one endothermic reaction, a heating facility, a preheating facility, a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for dehydrogenating alkanes, a reformer, an apparatus for dry reforming, an apparatus for producing styrene, an apparatus for dehydrogenating ethylbenzene, an apparatus for cracking urea, isocyanates, or melamine, a cracker, a catalytic cracker, an apparatus for dehydrogenation, or an apparatus for producing acetylene from hydrocarbons. However, other fields of application are also contemplated.

[0002] Such devices for electrically heating a feedstock are generally known. For example, WO 2015 / 197181 A1 describes a device for heating a fluid, comprising at least one electrically conductive pipe for containing the fluid and at least one voltage source connected to the at least one pipe. The at least one voltage source is configured to generate an alternating current in the at least one pipe, which heats the at least one pipe to heat the fluid.

[0003] WO 2020 / 035575 describes a device for heating a fluid. The device comprises: at least one electrically conductive pipe and / or at least one electrically conductive pipe segment for containing the fluid, and at least one DC power supply and / or DC voltage source, wherein each pipe and / or each pipe segment is assigned a DC power supply and / or DC voltage source connected to the corresponding pipe and / or corresponding pipe segment, wherein the corresponding DC power supply and / or DC voltage source is designed to generate an electric current in the corresponding pipe and / or in the corresponding pipe segment, which heats the corresponding pipe and / or the corresponding pipe segment by Joule heating generated when the current flows through the electrically conductive pipe material, thereby heating the fluid.

[0004] WO 2021 / 160777 A1 describes a device for heating a fluid. The device comprises: at least one electrically conductive pipe and / or at least one electrically conductive pipe segment for containing the fluid, and at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source, each pipe and / or each pipe segment being assigned a single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source connected to the corresponding pipe and / or pipe segment, the respective single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source being designed to generate an electric current in the corresponding pipe and / or pipe segment, which heats the corresponding pipe and / or pipe segment by Joule heating generated when the current flows through the electrically conductive pipe material, thereby heating the fluid. The single-phase AC power source and / or the single-phase AC voltage source are electrically conductively connected to the pipe and / or pipe segment in such a way that the generated alternating current flows into the pipe and / or pipe segment via a forward conductor and flows back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source via a return conductor.

[0005] While known equipment and processes have achieved numerous advantages, numerous technical challenges remain. Consequently, the power input per pipeline (or pipeline segment or section) used for electrical heating in such facilities cannot be increased arbitrarily. For example, the maximum pipeline length is limited by the maximum residence time. The voltage / current ratio is determined by the pipeline's electrical resistance. Pipeline materials cannot be optimized for an appropriate specific electrical resistance, thus limiting the maximum applicable voltage per pipeline.

[0006] The maximum applicable voltage is limited to a value that must be manageable, especially in the event of a fault. Furthermore, known systems place high demands on the space and installation of switchgear, cables, busbars, actuators, and transformers. In particular, it is necessary to ensure voltage regulation from several kV to < 100 V in multiple stages.

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device and a system for heating feedstock that at least largely avoid the disadvantages of known devices and processes. To this end, the applicable voltage should be increased as much as possible. In particular, the device should be easy to implement and compact, while also ensuring a high level of electrical safety.

[0008] This object is achieved by means of a device and an arrangement having the features of the independent claims. Preferred configurations of the invention are specified in particular in the associated dependent claims and the dependent references of the dependent claims.

[0009] Hereinafter, the terms "having," "including," or "comprising" or any grammatical variants thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. Accordingly, these expressions can refer to the absence of features other than the features introduced by these expressions, or to the presence of one or more other features. For example, the expression "A has B," "A includes B," or "A contains B" can refer to the following two situations: the absence of elements other than B in A (i.e., A consists exclusively of B); and the presence of one or more other elements in A in addition to B, such as element C, elements C and D, or even other elements.

[0010] It should also be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more" and grammatical variations of these terms or similar terms, when used in conjunction with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature can be provided one or more times, are usually used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. When the feature or element is subsequently mentioned again, the corresponding terms "at least one" or "one or more" are usually no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element can be provided one or more times.

[0011] In addition, the terms "preferably", "in particular", "for example" or similar terms are used in conjunction with optional features below, without the alternative embodiments being limited thereto. Therefore, the features introduced by these expressions are optional features, and there is no intention to limit the scope of protection of the claims, and in particular the independent claims, by these features. Therefore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention can also be implemented using other configurations. In a similar manner, the features introduced by "in an embodiment of the present invention" or "in a working example of the present invention" are considered optional features, without the intention to limit the scope of protection of the alternative configurations or the independent claims thereby. In addition, all possible combinations of the features introduced thereby with other features, whether optional or non-optional, should remain unaffected by these introductory expressions.

[0012] In a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for heating a feedstock is presented.

[0013] In particular, the device can be used in a device selected from the group consisting of: a device for carrying out at least one endothermic reaction, a device for heating, a device for preheating, a steam cracker, a steam reformer, a device for dehydrogenating alkanes, a reformer, a device for dry reforming, a device for the production of styrene, a device for the dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene, a device for the cracking of urea, isocyanates, melamine, a cracker, a catalytic cracker, a device for dehydrogenation, a device for producing acetylene from hydrocarbons.

[0014] The apparatus includes a plurality of electrically conductive pipes for accommodating feedstock. The pipes are arranged to achieve parallel flow of the feedstock. The apparatus includes at least one power source and / or voltage source configured to supply current to the pipes, which heats the pipes via Joule heating generated by the current passing through the electrically conductive pipe material, thereby heating the feedstock. Each of the pipes has a first end and a second end. At least one electrical insulator is disposed at the first and second ends to electrically isolate the respective pipes from at least one supply pipe and at least one discharge pipe. The pipes are electrically interconnected in a series connection.

[0015] Electrically connecting pipes in series (also known as serial connection of pipes) allows electrical conductors to be extended as needed while achieving parallelization through process engineering to maintain process parameters. This increases the system's resistance. Consequently, the applicable voltage per series connection can be increased. The available power can be increased by at least an order of magnitude. At the same time, the number of necessary voltage-stepping components can be reduced.

[0016] As used herein, the expression "feedstock" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression can refer in particular to essentially any material also referred to as feedstock or feedstock without limitation. Feedstock can include at least one material from which a reaction product can be produced and / or prepared, in particular by at least one chemical reaction. Feedstock can especially be a reactant to be used for a chemical reaction. Feedstock can be a liquid or a gas. Feedstock can be a hydrocarbon and / or mixture to be subjected to thermal cracking. Feedstock can include at least one element selected from the group consisting of: methane, ethane, propane, butane, naphtha, ethylbenzene, gas oil, condensate, biofluid, biogas, pyrolysis oil, waste oil, and a liquid consisting of renewable raw materials. Biofluid can, for example, be a fat or oil or a derivative thereof from renewable raw materials, such as bio-oil or biodiesel. Other feedstocks are also conceivable. In the context of the present invention, any other feedstock listed is mentioned in a representative manner, taking fluid as an example.

[0017] As used herein, the expression "heating the feedstock" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The expression may particularly, without limitation, relate to an operation that causes a temperature change in the feedstock, in particular causes a temperature increase in the feedstock, for example, causes the feedstock to be heated. The feedstock may be heated electrically, in particular purely electrically. The apparatus may be used as an electric furnace. However, other embodiments are also conceivable. It may also be used as a hybrid furnace, for example, operating with gas, electricity, or both. As described above, the apparatus includes at least one power source and / or voltage source configured to supply an electric current to the pipes, which heats the pipes by Joule heating generated when the current passes through the conductive pipe material, so as to heat the feedstock. For example, the feedstock may be heated to a defined or predetermined temperature value. The apparatus may be configured to heat the feedstock to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 1700°C, preferably 300°C to 1400°C, and more preferably 400°C to 875°C.

[0018] As used herein, the expression "pipeline" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression can particularly refer to an apparatus whose interior is separated from the external environment by a housing surface without restriction. The expression "pipeline" here covers pipes, pipe sections and / or coils. The pipeline may include at least one pipe and / or at least one pipe section and / or at least one pipe coil. A pipe section may be a sub-area of ​​a pipeline. The expressions "pipeline" and "pipe section" and "pipe coil" are used as synonyms hereinafter. The pipeline can be constructed as a single pipeline, a double pipeline or even multiple pipelines. In the case of double pipelines or multiple pipelines, two or more pipelines can be supplied with feed in a parallelized manner from a common supply pipeline and a common discharge pipeline.

[0019] The conduit can have at least partially cylindrical sections. For example, the conduit can be configured as a hollow cylindrical tube, such as a circular cylinder having a radius r and a length h (also referred to as height). The circular cylinder can have a hole along its axis. Variations on the circular cylinder geometry are also contemplated. For example, the hollow cylinder can be an elliptical cylinder. For example, the hollow cylinder can be a prismatic cylinder.

[0020] As used herein, the expression "contain a feedstock" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression may specifically, without limitation, refer to conveying a feedstock from a first end of a conduit to a second end of the conduit. The geometry and / or surface and / or material of the conduit may depend on the feedstock to be contained.

[0021] The pipeline can be configured to perform at least one reaction and / or heat the feedstock. The device, in particular the pipeline, can therefore also be referred to as a reactor or furnace, in particular an electric furnace. For example, the pipeline can be and / or include at least one reaction tube, in which at least one chemical reaction can be performed. The geometry and / or surface and / or material of the pipeline can also be selected depending on the desired reaction and / or to avoid specific reactions. The reaction can be carried out inside and / or outside the pipeline. The reaction can be an endothermic reaction. The reaction can be a non-endothermic reaction. The reaction can be, for example, a preheating or heating operation. An "endothermic reaction" can be considered to refer to a reaction in which energy, in particular energy in the form of heat, is absorbed from the environment. In particular, the feedstock can be heated in the pipeline.

[0022] These pipes are electrically conductive. As used herein, the expression "electrically conductive" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression may refer, without limitation, to the properties of the pipes, such that the pipes, in particular the material of the pipes, are configured to conduct electric current. The pipes may have a thickness of less than 10 -1 Ω m specific resistance. In the context of the present invention, specific resistance refers to room temperature specific resistance. The pipe can have 1 10 -8 Ω m ≤ ρ ≤ 10 -1 Ω m specific resistance ρ. For example, the pipe can be made of and / or include one or more metals and alloys (such as copper, aluminum, iron, steel or Cr or Ni alloys, graphite, carbon, carbide, silicide). The pipe can include at least one material selected from the group consisting of ferritic materials or austenitic materials. For example, the pipe can be made of and / or include a CrNi alloy. For example, the pipe can be made of at least one metal and have 1 10 -8 Ω m to 200 10 -8 Ω m specific resistance. For example, the pipe can be made of metal silicide and have a specific resistance of 1 10 -8 Ωm to 200 10 -8 Ω m specific resistance. For example, the pipe can be made of metal carbide and have a specific resistance of 20 10 -8 Ω m to 5000 10 -8 Ω m specific resistance. For example, the pipe can be made of carbon and have a specific resistance of 50,000 Ω m. 10 -8Ω m to 100000 10 -8 Ω m specific resistance. For example, a pipe may be made of graphite and have a specific resistance of 5000 10 -8 Ω m to 100000 10 -8 Ωm specific resistance. For example, a pipe may be made of boron carbide and have a specific resistance of 10 -1 Ω m to 10 -2 Specific resistance of Ω m.

[0023] The apparatus includes a plurality of conductive conduits. The apparatus may include 1 conduit, where 1 is a natural number greater than or equal to 2. For example, the apparatus may include at least two, three, four, five, or more conduits. The apparatus may include, for example, up to 100 conduits. The conduits may be constructed identically or differently. The conduits may be constructed differently in diameter, length, and / or geometry.

[0024] The pipes may comprise symmetrical and / or asymmetrical pipes and / or combinations thereof. The geometry and / or surface and / or material of the pipes may depend on the feed or on the optimization of the reaction or other factors. In a purely symmetrical configuration, the device may comprise pipes of the same pipe type. "Asymmetrical pipes" and "a combination of symmetrical and asymmetrical pipes" may be taken to mean that the device may have any combination of pipe types. "Pipe type" may be taken to mean a class or type of pipe characterized by a particular feature. A pipe type may be characterized by at least one feature selected from the group consisting of: pipes in a horizontal configuration; pipes in a vertical configuration; length of the inlet (l1) and / or outlet (l2) and / or transition (l3); diameter of the inlet (d1) and outlet (d2) and / or transition (d3); number of passes n; length of each pass; diameter of each pass; geometry; surface; and material. The device may comprise a combination of at least two different pipe types connected in parallel and / or in series. For example, the apparatus may include pipes of different lengths in the inlet (l1) and / or outlet (l2) and / or transition section (l3). For example, the apparatus may include pipes of asymmetric diameters in the inlet (d1) and / or outlet (d2) and / or transition section (d3). For example, the apparatus may include pipes with different numbers of passes. For example, the apparatus may include pipes with multiple passes, each pass having a different length and / or each pass having a different diameter. Possible pipes may take the form of various pipe types in the form of a construction kit and may be selected and combined as required depending on the end use. The use of pipes of different pipe types may allow for more accurate temperature control and / or adjustment of the reaction when the feed fluctuates, and / or the selective yield of the reaction, and / or an optimized method. The pipes may comprise the same or different geometries and / or surfaces and / or materials.

[0025] These pipelines are arranged to realize parallel flow of feed. As used herein, the expression "realize parallel flow" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression can particularly refer to parallelizing pipelines by process engineering means without restriction. Pipes can be arranged to be at least partially parallel to each other. Here, "at least partially parallel" means that the overall flow direction of the feed through the corresponding pipeline is parallel to the overall flow direction of the feed in other pipelines, which may be different from the parallel arrangement in some areas of the corresponding pipeline. For example, the pipelines can be arranged side by side. However, other possible arrangements of pipelines can also be present, in which the pipelines are arranged to realize parallel flow of feed. For example, linear arrangement, W-type arrangement, U-type arrangement and circular arrangement are possible. Opposite flow directions can exist. For example, in an arrangement in which pipelines are arranged side by side, the inlet and outlet can be located on one side.

[0026] The shape of the pipes and / or the flow of the medium can be arbitrary relative to the direction of the current. From a purely electrical engineering perspective, any shape and flow through the reaction tubes is possible. For example, within a heating line, the shape of the pipes and the flow of the medium relative to the direction of the current can be different, in particular freely selectable. The heating line can be a reaction section to be heated, a pipe section to be heated, or one or more of a plurality of pipes to be heated. The use of the described electrical insulators makes it possible to interconnect multiple pipes into any individual heating line. The heating lines can be interconnected in multiple rows in parallel and / or in series to form any electrical network (e.g., star, delta, open delta, etc.) to form a heating group, in particular without affecting the process design.

[0027] The electrical resistance of a pipeline can be defined by parameters such as material, wall thickness (also known as thickness), and pipeline length, and can determine the electrical design. The specific resistivity can also be defined by the material, but the possible materials are limited due to high temperature and pressure requirements. The length of the pipeline determines the residence time of the medium and cannot be arbitrarily changed for process engineering reasons. In most cases, the wall thickness of the pipeline can only be increased, as too low a thickness will lead to pipeline instability. Therefore, the pipeline cannot be arbitrarily adapted or optimized from an electrical engineering perspective and must be interconnected into separate groups. The proposed invention allows for the separation of process and electrical engineering parameters. For example, the pipeline design can be optimized from a process engineering perspective, particularly without any constraints imposed by electrical engineering. The electrical engineering can be optimized by combining given parameters (especially the resistance of the pipeline) in various electrical interconnections to form an optimal network. This allows for the application of higher voltages while reducing the number of required components.

[0028] The pipes may be connected in a straight-through manner, thereby forming a pipe system for accommodating feedstock. As used herein, the term "pipe system" is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression may particularly, without limitation, refer to a device consisting of at least two pipes, particularly connected to one another. The pipe system may include a supply pipe and a discharge pipe. The pipes may be fluidically connected to the supply pipe and the discharge pipe. The pipe system may include at least one inlet for accommodating feedstock. The pipe system may include at least one outlet for discharging feedstock. "Straight-through connection" means that the pipes are fluidically connected to one another. Therefore, the pipes may be arranged and connected so that feedstock flows through the pipes in parallel with one another. The pipes may be configured to transport a single feedstock in parallel. The pipes may be configured to transport different feedstocks in parallel. In particular, the pipes connected in parallel may have different geometries and / or surfaces and / or materials for transporting different feedstocks. In particular, for transporting a single feedstock, multiple or all of the pipes in the pipe system may be configured in parallel so that the feedstock can be distributed among these parallel-connected pipes. Also conceivable is a combination of parallel and series arrangements of pipes. For example, the device can have multiple groups of pipes through which flow can flow in parallel, which in turn are arranged in series, in particular one after the other in one flow direction.

[0029] The apparatus may include at least one power and / or voltage source. The power and / or voltage source may include a single-phase or multi-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase or multi-phase AC voltage source, or a DC power source and / or a DC voltage source. The apparatus may include at least one inlet and outlet for electrically connecting the power and / or voltage source to the pipeline.

[0030] The device may include, for example, at least one AC power source and / or at least one AC voltage source. The AC power source and / or AC voltage source may be a single-phase source or a multi-phase source. An "AC power source" may be understood to mean a power source designed to provide an alternating current. An "alternating current" may be understood to mean an electric current whose polarity changes regularly and repeatedly over time. For example, the alternating current may be a sinusoidal alternating current. A "single-phase" AC power source may be understood to mean an AC power source that provides a current with a single phase. A "multi-phase" AC power source may be understood to mean an AC power source that provides a current with more than one phase. An "AC voltage source" may be understood to mean a voltage source configured to provide an AC voltage. An "AC voltage" may be understood to mean a voltage whose level and polarity repeat regularly over time. For example, the AC voltage may be a sinusoidal AC voltage. The voltage generated by an AC voltage source causes a current to flow, in particular, an alternating current to flow. A "single-phase" AC voltage source may be understood to mean an AC voltage source that provides an alternating current with a single phase. A "multi-phase" AC voltage source may be understood to mean an AC voltage source providing an alternating current having more than one phase.

[0031] The device may include at least one DC power source and / or at least one DC voltage source. A "DC power source" may be understood to mean a device configured to provide a DC current. A "DC voltage source" may be understood to mean a device configured to provide a DC voltage. The DC power source and / or DC voltage source may be configured to generate a DC current in the pipeline. A "DC current" may be understood to mean an electric current that is substantially constant in magnitude and direction. A "DC voltage" may be understood to mean a substantially constant voltage. "Substantially constant" may be understood to mean a current or voltage whose variations are not significant for the desired effect.

[0032] The device can have multiple power and / or voltage sources, selected from the group consisting of single-phase or multi-phase AC power and / or single-phase or multi-phase AC voltage sources, or DC power and / or DC voltage sources, and combinations thereof. The device can have 2 to M different power and / or voltage sources, where M is a natural number not less than three. The power and / or voltage sources can be configured with or without the ability to control at least one electrical output variable. The power and / or voltage sources can be electrically controlled independently of each other. The power and / or voltage sources can have the same or different configurations. For example, the device can be configured so that the current and / or voltage are adjustable for different zones of the device (particularly heating zones). Pipelines can belong to different temperature zones or regions. Pipelines themselves can also have temperature zones. Each pipeline can be assigned one or more power or voltage sources. The power supply and / or voltage supply can be adjusted in each case according to the reaction and method, for example, by using at least one controller. Using multiple power and / or voltage sources allows the voltage to be varied, particularly for different zones. For example, a current that is not too high, which would lead to overheating of the pipe, or conversely too low a current, can be achieved.

[0033] The power supply and / or voltage source is configured to apply current to the pipeline. As used herein, the term "apply" is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This term may specifically refer to one or more of feeding, supplying, and powering, without limitation.

[0034] The power and / or voltage source may have adjustable settings to deliver a current corresponding to the required power. The apparatus may include at least one temperature sensor configured to determine the temperature of at least one of the pipes. The temperature sensor may comprise an electrical or electronic component configured to generate an electrical signal based on the temperature. For example, the temperature sensor may comprise at least one element selected from the group consisting of a high-temperature conductor, a low-temperature conductor, a semiconductor temperature sensor, a temperature sensor with an oscillating crystal, a thermocouple, a thermoelectric material, a pyrometer, a thermal imaging camera, a ferromagnetic temperature sensor, and a fiber optic temperature sensor. Temperature may be measured at the feed input and output in and / or on the pipe. For example, measurements may be taken at several points along the pipe to determine the temperature along the length of the reactor and match it to the optimal process plan. Closed-loop control of the temperature may be achieved using at least one closed-loop control element. For example, this may shut down the power or voltage supply when a hot spot appears. When the temperature is too low, the closed-loop control may increase the power or voltage supply. The temperature sensor may be connected to the closed-loop controller via a remote or fixed connection. The closed-loop controller may be connected to the power or voltage source via a remote or fixed connection. The device may include at least one control unit configured to control a power or voltage source via closed-loop control based on the temperature or equivalent measurement parameter measured by the temperature sensor. "Control unit" herein generally refers to an electronic device configured to control at least one component of the device via open-loop and / or closed-loop control. For example, the control unit may be configured to evaluate a signal generated by a temperature sensor and control the power or voltage source via closed-loop control based on the measured temperature. For example, one or more electronic connections may be provided between the temperature sensor and the control unit for this purpose. The control unit may include, for example, at least one data processing device, such as at least one computer or microcontroller. The data processing device may include one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memory elements, in which case the data processing device may be programmed to activate the temperature sensor, for example. The control unit may also include at least one interface, such as an electronic interface and / or a human-machine interface, such as an input / output device, such as a display and / or keyboard. The control unit may be configured, for example, in a centralized or decentralized manner. Other configurations are also conceivable. The control unit may include at least one A / D converter. The device may be configured for online temperature measurement. In the context of the present invention, "online temperature measurement" is understood to mean temperature measurement performed by at least one temperature sensor during the transport and / or reaction of the feedstock in the pipeline. For example, closed-loop temperature control can be performed during operation. In particular, temperature measurement and closed-loop control can be performed over the length of the reactor.

[0035] Each of these pipes has a first end and a second end. As used herein, the expression "end" of a pipe is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression can particularly refer to an inlet or outlet without limitation. At least one electrical insulator is provided at the first end and the second end so that the corresponding pipe is electrically isolated from the at least one supply pipe and the at least one discharge pipe. The device can have multiple electrical insulators. The electrical insulators can ensure the electrical isolation between the corresponding pipe and the supply pipe and the discharge pipe. As used herein, the expression "electrically isolated from each other" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression can particularly refer to the separation of the pipe from the supply pipe and the discharge pipe without limitation in such a way that no electrical conduction and / or permissible electrical conduction occurs between the pipe and the supply pipe and the discharge pipe.

[0036] As used herein, the expression "electrical insulator" of a pipeline is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This expression can particularly refer to non-conductors or poor conductors without limitation. The electrical insulator can provide electrical insulation. At 900°C, the minimum total resistance of the electrical insulator for the corresponding electrical system is 100 kΩ to 1000 MΩ, preferably 300 kΩ to 300 MΩ, more preferably 1 MΩ to 100 MΩ, wherein the electrical system in question is in each case a power module. For example, at 900°C, the minimum total resistance of the electrical insulator for the corresponding electrical system can be 300 kΩ.

[0037] The electrical insulator may be configured to provide electrical insulation in a high temperature range, in particular at temperatures between 500° C. and 1400° C. According to DIN EN 993-11, the electrical insulator may be configured to be stable to thermal cycles.

[0038] The electrical insulator can provide a free flow of feed. The electrical insulator at the first end can be configured to provide feed flow from the supply pipe to the pipe. The electrical insulator at the second end can be configured to provide feed flow from the pipe to the discharge pipe. The electrical insulator can be configured to provide a fluid connection between the first end of the pipe and the supply pipe. The electrical insulator can be configured to provide a fluid connection between the second end of the pipe and the discharge pipe.

[0039] In known insulators, problems with permanent integrity can arise, particularly when the materials differ in their coefficients of thermal expansion, such as in composite materials consisting of ceramics and metals having different coefficients of thermal expansion. The electrical insulator of the present invention can be configured to ensure that the pressure drop in the device is negligible or even zero. The electrical insulator can be configured to provide a pressure-drop-free (also referred to as leak-free) fluid connection within a pressure range of 0 to 50 bar, in particular 0 to 10 bar, wherein "pressure-drop-free" means a negligible or zero pressure drop. The electrical insulator can withstand a pressure difference of up to approximately 100 bar. For example, the electrical insulator can be stable at an absolute pressure of 300 mbar to 100 bar, preferably 1 to 50 bar, and more preferably 1.5 to 30 bar.

[0040] The electrical insulator may include at least one suitable material that meets the aforementioned conditions. For example, the electrical insulator may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of ceramic materials, glassy materials, glass fiber reinforced materials, plastic-like materials, or resin materials. The electrical insulator may comprise, for example, at least one mixture selected from the group consisting of: binary and ternary mixtures of alumina, zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide (e.g. zirconium oxide reinforced alumina); mixtures of silicon carbide and alumina; mixtures of alumina and magnesium oxide (MgO spinel); mixtures of alumina and silicon oxide (mullite); mixtures of aluminum silicate and magnesium silicate, ternary mixtures of aluminum oxide, silicon oxide and magnesium oxide (cordierite); fatty stone (magnesium silicate); zirconium oxide reinforced alumina; stabilized zirconium oxide (ZrO2): stabilizers in the form of magnesium oxide (MgO), calcium oxide (CaO) or yttrium oxide (Y2O3), optionally with other stabilizers also including cerium oxide (CeO2), scandium oxide (ScO3) or ytterbium oxide (YbO3); and also aluminum titanate (stoichiometric mixture of aluminum oxide and titanium oxide); silicon nitride and aluminum oxide (silicon aluminum oxynitride SIALON).

[0041] The zirconium oxide-reinforced aluminum oxide used is advantageously AlO with 10 to 20 mol% ZrO. ZrO can advantageously be stabilized with 10 to 20 mol% CaO (preferably 16 mol%), 10 to 20 mol% MgO (preferably 16 mol%), or 5 to 10 mol% YO (preferably 8 mol%) ("fully stabilized zirconium oxide") or 1 to 5 mol% YO (preferably 4 mol%) ("partially stabilized zirconium oxide"). A favorable ternary mixture is, for example, 80% AlO, 18.4% ZrO, and 1.6% YO.

[0042] Electrical insulation can be provided to prevent increases in electrical potential and leakage currents on the pipeline. This means that the pipeline supply voltage can be selected without regard for undesirable electrical potentials and leakage currents on metal parts of the facility outside the heating zone of the device. For example, supply voltages in the low voltage range can be up to approximately 1000 V. For example, supply voltages in the medium voltage range can range from >1 kV to approximately 30 kV.

[0043] The individual pipelines are electrically interconnected in a series connection. As used herein, the expression "series connection" is a broad expression that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This expression is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term can particularly refer to the electrical series connection of pipelines in a circuit without restriction. For example, an electrical connection can be provided between the pipelines. A power supply and / or voltage source can be connected to, for example, a first pipeline, which is connected in series to another pipeline via an electrical connection. The supply pipeline and the discharge pipeline can be galvanically isolated from the process engineering pipelines interconnected in series (or the pipelines for parallel flow of feeds) by electrical insulators as described above. The device can include multiple pipelines interconnected in series. By using electrical insulators, the number of pipelines connected in series can, in principle, be set as needed. For example, about 5 pipelines can be interconnected in series, especially in the low voltage range. For example, correspondingly, up to 150 pipelines can even be interconnected in series at 30 kV.

[0044] The present invention proposes an improvement to known electric furnace plant designs, aiming to increase the registered power while simultaneously reducing the space and installation requirements for switchgear, transformers, etc. This can be achieved by combining process engineering parallelization of the pipelines with series electrical interconnection of the pipelines using galvanic insulators. Without galvanic insulation, the maximum applicable voltage is limited to low values, which must be controllable even in the event of a fault. The use of suitable electrical insulators from process engineering and mechanical perspectives now enables the applicable voltage to be increased, for example by an order of magnitude. This voltage increase is achieved by electrically connecting the pipelines in series, and this type of interconnection reduces space and installation requirements. Process engineering parallelization further enables short residence times and, therefore, improves the selectivity and yield of valuable components. WO 2021 / 160777 A1 does not describe electrical series connection of the pipelines on page 16, lines 5 to 13. Therefore, the combination of process engineering parallelization of the pipelines and series electrical interconnection of the pipelines is not disclosed. Such a combination could optimize the known electric furnace plant designs mentioned.

[0045] In another aspect, within the context of the present invention, a facility comprising the apparatus of the present invention is provided. The facility may include a plurality of apparatuses. These apparatuses may be electrically interconnected in series and / or in parallel. For details regarding the configuration of the facility, reference is made to the description of the apparatus above and below.

[0046] The system comprises at least one device of the present invention and at least one power supply module. The power supply module has at least one voltage regulator configured to convert a medium voltage or high voltage mains input voltage corresponding to the power demand into an output voltage usable by the device and to provide a power and / or voltage source.

[0047] As used herein, the term "power module" is a broad term that should be given its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. This term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may, without limitation, specifically refer to a unit of a facility that is configured to provide an output voltage usable by the power supply and / or voltage source of the facility. The power module may be configured to receive a medium-voltage or high-voltage mains input voltage and convert it to the necessary output voltage. The power module may include at least one three-phase regulator and / or adjustable rectifier with at least one transformer and / or one variable transformer. For example, the power module may include a medium-voltage transformer and a thyristor assembly. For example, for a low voltage of 12 MW, the power module may include a 10 kV / 950 V, 12 MVA MS transformer and a thyristor assembly. Compared to known power supply equipment, the power module of the present invention can therefore reduce the number of electrical components. For example, the medium-voltage or high-voltage mains input voltage can be supplied by cables from more remote switchgear. Each device in the facility can be assigned a power module. However, other configurations are also possible. In particular, reducing the number of required components allows the power module to have a compact configuration. The power module may have a height h of 2 m ≥ h ≥ 5 m, a width b of 4 m ≥ b ≥ 7 m, and a depth t of 2 m ≥ t ≥ 5 m. The power module may be located in an outdoor environment, next to the device or on a furnace.

[0048] The facility can be selected from the group consisting of: a facility for carrying out at least one endothermic reaction, a facility for heating, a facility for preheating, a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for dehydrogenating alkanes, a reformer, an apparatus for dry reforming, an apparatus for the production of styrene, an apparatus for dehydrogenating ethylbenzene, an apparatus for cracking urea, isocyanates, melamine, a cracker, a catalytic cracker, an apparatus for dehydrogenation, an apparatus for producing acetylene from hydrocarbons.

[0049] This device and facility offer numerous advantages over known devices. Parallelizing process piping allows for shorter residence times, thereby increasing selectivity and / or yield of valuable components. In contrast, a series circuit of process piping suffers from lower yields and selectivity. Electrical series connection enables higher voltages (>> 690 V instead of ~100 V). The present invention can increase applicable voltage, and therefore applicable power, by an order of magnitude. Furthermore, electrical equipment can be reduced, conserving resources (reduced copper busbar usage), improving availability (due to fewer potentially faulty devices), enhancing cost-effectiveness, and reducing the space required for transformers within the facility.

[0050] In summary, in the context of the present invention, the following embodiments are particularly preferred:

[0051] Example 1 An apparatus for heating a feed, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of electrically conductive pipes for accommodating the feed, wherein the pipes are arranged to achieve parallel flow of the feed, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one power source and / or voltage source, wherein the at least one power source and / or voltage source is configured to supply current to the pipes, the current heating the pipes by Joule heat generated when the current passes through an electrically conductive pipe material so as to heat the feed, wherein each of the pipes has a first end and a second end, wherein at least one electrical insulator is provided at the first end and the second end such that the corresponding pipe is electrically isolated from at least one supply pipe and at least one discharge pipe, and wherein the individual pipes are electrically interconnected in a series connection.

[0052] Embodiment 2 The apparatus according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the apparatus is arranged to heat the feedstock to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 1700°C, preferably 300°C to 1400°C, more preferably 400°C to 875°C.

[0053] Embodiment 3 A device according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the device has at least one temperature sensor, which is configured to determine the temperature of at least one of the pipes, wherein the device has at least one control unit, which is configured to control the power supply or voltage source by closed-loop control based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor or an equivalent measurement parameter.

[0054] Embodiment 4 The device according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the power supply and / or voltage source comprises a single-phase or multi-phase AC power supply and / or a single-phase or multi-phase AC voltage source, or a DC power supply and / or a DC voltage source.

[0055] Embodiment 5: The device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the power supply and / or voltage source is adjustable so as to feed a current corresponding to the required power.

[0056] Embodiment 6 The apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the electrical insulator comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of a ceramic material, a glassy material, a glass fiber reinforced material, a plastic-like material, or a resin material.

[0057] Embodiment 7: The device according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the electrical insulator has a minimum total resistance of 100 kΩ to 1000 MΩ, preferably 300 kΩ to 300 MΩ, more preferably 1 MΩ to 100 MΩ at 900°C for a corresponding electrical system.

[0058] Example 8 The apparatus according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tubes have symmetrical or asymmetrical tubes and / or a combination thereof, and / or wherein the tubes are differently constructed in terms of diameter, and / or length, and / or geometry.

[0059] Embodiment 9 The apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the conduits are fluidly connected to the supply conduit and the exhaust conduit.

[0060] Embodiment 10 The apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the conduits are straight-through connected and thereby form a pipe system for containing the feedstock, or wherein the conduits are in a configuration fluidly separated from each other.

[0061] Embodiment 11 The apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the feedstock is a hydrocarbon and / or mixture to be subjected to thermal cracking.

[0062] Embodiment 12 A facility comprises at least one device according to any one of the preceding embodiments and at least one power supply module, wherein the power supply module has at least one voltage regulator, which is configured to convert a medium voltage or high voltage mains input voltage corresponding to the power demand into an output voltage that can be used by the device and provide the power supply and / or voltage source.

[0063] Embodiment 13 The facility according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the facility comprises a plurality of devices.

[0064] Embodiment 14: The facility according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the devices are electrically interconnected to each other in series and / or in parallel.

[0065] Embodiment 15 The facility according to any one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein each device has a dedicated power supply module.

[0066] Embodiment 16 The facility according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the power module has a height h of 2 m ≥ h ≥ 5 m, a width b of 4 m ≥ b ≥ 7 m, and a depth t of 2 m ≥ t ≥ 5 m.

[0067] Embodiment 17 The facility according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the facility is selected from the group consisting of: a facility for performing at least one endothermic reaction, a facility for heating, a facility for preheating, a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for dehydrogenating alkanes, a reformer, an apparatus for dry reforming, an apparatus for producing styrene, an apparatus for dehydrogenating ethylbenzene, an apparatus for cracking urea, isocyanates, melamine, a cracker, a catalytic cracker, an apparatus for dehydrogenation, an apparatus for producing acetylene from hydrocarbons. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] Further details and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred working examples, particularly in conjunction with the dependent claims. In this case, the respective features may be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The present invention is not limited to the working examples. The working examples are schematically illustrated in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the various figures refer to elements that are identical or have the same function, or that correspond to one another in terms of their function.

[0069] The figures show:

[0070] Figure 1 An embodiment of the device of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 2 Another embodiment of the device of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 3 A to Figure 3 C. Further embodiments of the apparatus of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 4 An embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; and

[0074] Figure 5 Example of connection of pipes and electrical insulators.

[0075] Working Example

[0076] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a working example of an apparatus 110 of the present invention for heating a feedstock is shown. In particular, the apparatus 110 may be used in a facility 112, such as Figure 4The facility 112 may be selected from the group consisting of a facility for carrying out at least one endothermic reaction, a facility for heating, a facility for preheating, a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for dehydrogenating alkanes, a reformer, an apparatus for dry reforming, an apparatus for producing styrene, an apparatus for dehydrogenating ethylbenzene, an apparatus for cracking urea, isocyanates, melamine, a cracker, a catalytic cracker, an apparatus for dehydrogenation, and an apparatus for producing acetylene from hydrocarbons.

[0077] The feedstock can be essentially any material. The feedstock can include at least one material from which a reaction product can be produced and / or prepared, in particular, by at least one chemical reaction. The feedstock can be a reactant to be chemically reacted. The feedstock can be a liquid or a gas. The feedstock can be a hydrocarbon and / or mixture to be subjected to thermal cracking. The feedstock can include at least one element selected from the group consisting of methane, ethane, propane, butane, naphtha, ethylbenzene, gas oil, condensate, biofluid, biogas, pyrolysis oil, waste oil, and a liquid consisting of renewable raw materials. The biofluid can be, for example, a fat or oil or a derivative thereof from renewable raw materials, such as bio-oil or biodiesel. Other feedstocks are also conceivable. In the context of the present invention, any other feedstock listed is mentioned in a representative manner, taking fluid as an example.

[0078] The heating of the feedstock can include a temperature change of the feedstock, in particular an increase in the temperature of the feedstock, for example, heating of the feedstock. For example, the feedstock can be heated to a defined or predetermined temperature value. The apparatus 110 can be configured to heat the feedstock to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 1700°C, preferably 300°C to 1400°C, more preferably 400°C to 875°C. The feedstock can be heated electrically, in particular purely electrically. The apparatus can be used as an electric furnace. However, other embodiments are also conceivable. It can also be used as a hybrid furnace, for example, operated with gas, electricity, or both.

[0079] Apparatus 110 includes a plurality of electrically conductive conduits 114 for receiving feedstock. Conduits 114 are arranged to facilitate parallel flow of the feedstock. Conduits 114 may include at least one tube and / or at least one conduit segment and / or at least one conduit coil. A conduit segment may be a sub-region of the conduit. Conduits 114 may be configured to convey the feedstock from a first end 116 of conduits 114 to a second end 118 of conduits 114. The geometry, surface, and / or material of the conduits may depend on the feedstock to be received.

[0080] Pipeline 114 can be configured to perform at least one reaction and / or heat the feedstock. Apparatus 110, and in particular pipeline 114, can therefore also be referred to as a reactor or furnace, in particular an electric furnace. For example, pipeline 114 can be and / or include at least one reaction tube, in which at least one chemical reaction can be performed. The geometry and / or surface and / or material of the pipeline can also be selected depending on the desired reaction and / or to avoid a particular reaction. The reaction can be performed within pipeline 114 and / or outside pipeline 114. The reaction can be an endothermic reaction. The reaction can be a non-endothermic reaction. The reaction can be, for example, a preheating or heating operation. In particular, the feedstock can be heated in pipeline 114.

[0081] The pipe 114 is electrically conductive. The pipe 114 may have a -1 Ω m specific resistance. In the context of the present invention, specific resistance refers to room temperature specific resistance. Pipe 114 may have 1 10 -8 Ω m ≤ ρ ≤ 10 -1 Ω m specific resistance p. For example, the pipe 114 can be made of and / or include one or more metals and alloys (such as copper, aluminum, iron, steel or Cr or Ni alloys, graphite, carbon, carbide, silicide). The pipe 114 can include at least one material selected from the group consisting of ferrite materials and austenite materials. For example, the pipe can be made of and / or include a CrNi alloy. For example, the pipe can be made of at least one metal and have 1 10 -8 Ω m to 200 10 -8 For example, the pipe 114 may be made of metal silicide and have a specific resistance of 1 10 -8 Ω m to 200 10 -8 For example, the pipe 114 can be made of metal carbide and have a specific resistance of 20 10 -8 Ω m to 5000 10 -8 Ω m specific resistance. For example, the pipe 114 can be made of carbon and have a specific resistance of 50,000 Ω m. 10 -8 Ω m to 100000 10 -8 For example, the pipe 114 may be made of graphite and have a specific resistance of 5000 Ω m. 10 -8 Ω m to 100000 10-8 For example, the pipe 114 may be made of boron carbide and have a specific resistance of 10 -1 Ω m to 10 -2 Specific resistance of Ω m.

[0082] Device 110 includes a plurality of conductive conduits 114. Device 110 may have one conduit 114, where one is a natural number not less than two. For example, device 110 may include at least two, three, four, five, or more conduits 114. Device 110 may include, for example, up to one hundred conduits 114. Conduits 114 may have the same or different configurations. Conduits 114 may be configured differently in diameter, length, and / or geometry.

[0083] The pipes 114 are arranged to achieve parallel flow of feedstock. The pipes 114 can be arranged at least partially parallel to each other. The overall flow direction of the feedstock through a respective pipe 114 can be parallel to the overall flow direction of the feedstock in the other pipes 114, although there may be deviations from the parallel arrangement in some areas of the respective pipes 114.

[0084] The pipes 114 can be connected in a straight-through manner, thereby forming a pipe system for accommodating feedstock. The pipe system can include a supply pipe 120 and a discharge pipe 122. The process direction (here, the same as the overall flow direction) is indicated by arrow 124. The pipe 114 can be fluidically connected to the supply pipe 120 and the discharge pipe 122. The pipe system can include at least one inlet for accommodating feedstock. The pipe system can include at least one outlet for discharging feedstock. The pipes 114, 120, and 122 are fluidically connected to one another. For example, the pipes 114 can be arranged and connected so that feedstock flows through the pipes in parallel with one another. The pipes 114 can be arranged to transport feedstock in parallel. The pipes 114 can be configured to transport different feedstocks in parallel. In particular, the parallel-connected pipes 114 can have different geometries and / or surfaces and / or materials to facilitate transporting different feedstocks. In particular, for transporting a single feedstock, multiple or all of the pipes 114 can be configured in parallel so that the feedstock can be distributed among these parallel-connected pipes. Also conceivable are combinations of parallel and series arrangements of the pipes 114. For example, the device can have a plurality of groups of pipes 114 through which flow can occur in parallel, which in turn are arranged in series, in particular one after the other in one flow direction.

[0085] Apparatus 110 includes at least one power and / or voltage source 126 configured to supply current to pipe 114 that heats pipe 114 via Joule heating generated when current passes through the electrically conductive pipe material, thereby heating the feedstock. Figure 1A power and / or voltage source 126 is shown in purely schematic form. The power and / or voltage source 126 may include a single-phase or multi-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase or multi-phase AC voltage source, or a DC power source and / or a DC voltage source. The device 110 may have at least one inlet and outlet that electrically connect the power and / or voltage source 126 to the conduit 114.

[0086] Figure 2 By way of example, a working example is shown, wherein the power supply and / or voltage source 126 may be a polyphase AC power supply and / or a polyphase AC voltage source. Three groups of pipes 114 are shown arranged in series, wherein the pipes 114 in the respective groups are arranged parallel to the feed flow. The three outer conductors are labeled L1, L2 and L3, and the neutral conductor is labeled N. A polyphase AC power supply or AC voltage source having n×3 conductors is also conceivable. To further describe Figure 2 ,refer to Figure 1 Description.

[0087] Figure 3 A further working example is shown, in which the pipelines 114 and the pipeline groups 114 have further electrical engineering switching solutions. Figure 3 A shows the separate supply of parallel tube sets. Figure 3 B shows a working example where groups of pipes are supplied in parallel. These pipes are constructed as individual pipes. Figure 3 C shows a working example in which the individual pipes are supplied in parallel. These pipes are designed as a double pipe. The power supply and / or voltage source 126 can be designed as a DC power supply and / or DC voltage source or an AC power supply and / or AC voltage source, respectively.

[0088] The power supply and / or voltage source 126 may have an adjustable setting so as to feed a current corresponding to the required power. Figure 1As schematically shown in FIG, apparatus 110 may include at least one temperature sensor 128 configured to determine the temperature of at least one of the pipes. Temperature sensor 128 may include an electrical or electronic component configured to generate an electrical signal based on temperature. For example, temperature sensor 128 may include at least one element selected from the group consisting of a high-temperature conductor, a low-temperature conductor, a semiconductor temperature sensor, a temperature sensor with an oscillating crystal, a thermocouple, a thermoelectric material, a pyrometer, a thermal imaging camera, a ferromagnetic temperature sensor, and a fiber optic temperature sensor. Temperature may be measured at the feed input and output in and / or on pipe 114. For example, measurements may be taken at several points in pipe 114 to determine the temperature along the length of the reactor and match it to the optimal process plan. Closed-loop control of temperature may be achieved using at least one closed-loop control element. For example, this may shut down the power or voltage supply when a hot spot appears. When the temperature is too low, the closed-loop control may increase the power or voltage supply. Temperature sensor 128 may be connected to the closed-loop controller via a remote or fixed connection. The closed-loop controller can be connected to the power or voltage source 126 via a remote or fixed connection. The device 110 can include at least one control unit 130 configured to control the power or voltage source 126 via closed-loop control based on the temperature or equivalent measured parameter measured by the temperature sensor 128. For example, the control unit 130 can be configured to evaluate a signal generated by the temperature sensor and control the power or voltage source 126 via closed-loop control based on the measured temperature. For example, one or more electronic connections can be provided between the temperature sensor 128 and the control unit 130 for this purpose. The control unit 130 can include, for example, at least one data processing device, such as at least one computer or microcontroller. The data processing device can include one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memory elements, in which case the data processing device can be programmed to activate the temperature sensor 128, for example. The control unit 130 can also include at least one interface, such as an electronic interface and / or a human-machine interface, such as an input / output device, such as a display and / or a keyboard. The control unit 130 can be configured, for example, in a centralized or decentralized manner. Other configurations are also conceivable. Control unit 130 may include at least one A / D converter. Device 110 may be configured for online temperature measurement. For example, closed-loop temperature control may be performed during operation. In particular, temperature measurement and closed-loop control may be performed over the length of the reactor.

[0089] Each of the pipes 114 has a first end 116 and a second end 118. At least one electrical insulator 132 is disposed at the first end 116 and the second end 118 to electrically isolate the corresponding pipe 114 from the at least one supply pipe 120 and the at least one drain pipe 122. The apparatus 110 may include a plurality of electrical insulators 132. The electrical insulators 132 may ensure electrical isolation between the corresponding pipe 114 and the supply pipes 120 and the drain pipes 122. The electrical isolation may ensure that electrical conduction and / or permissible electrical conduction between the pipe 114 and the supply pipes 120 and the drain pipes 122 are absent.

[0090] Electrical insulator 132 can be a non-conductor or a poor conductor. Electrical insulator 132 can provide electrical insulation. At 900°C, the minimum resistance of electrical insulator 132 is 100 kΩ to 1000 MΩ, preferably 300 kΩ to 300 MΩ, and more preferably 1 MΩ to 100 MΩ, where the electrical system in question is a power module. For example, for a corresponding electrical system, the minimum total resistance of the electrical insulator at 900°C can be 300 kΩ.

[0091] The electrical insulator 132 may be configured to provide electrical insulation in a high temperature range, in particular at temperatures between 500° C. and 1400° C. The electrical insulator 132 may be configured to be stable to thermal cycles according to DIN EN 993-11.

[0092] The electrical insulator 132 can provide for free flow of the feed. The electrical insulator 132 at the first end 116 can be configured to provide for flow of the feed from the supply conduit 120 to the conduit 114. The electrical insulator 132 at the second end 118 can be configured to provide for flow of the feed from the conduit 114 to the exhaust conduit 122. The electrical insulator 132 can be configured to provide a fluid connection between the first end 116 of the conduit 114 and the supply conduit 120. The electrical insulator 132 can be configured to provide a fluid connection between the second end 118 of the conduit 114 and the exhaust conduit 122.

[0093] With known insulators, problems with permanent integrity can arise, particularly when the materials differ in their coefficients of thermal expansion, such as in composite materials composed of ceramics and metals having different coefficients of thermal expansion. The electrical insulator 132 of the present invention can be configured to ensure a negligible or even zero pressure drop in the device. The electrical insulator 132 can be configured to provide a zero-pressure-drop (also referred to as leak-free) fluid connection within a pressure range of 0 to 50 bar, particularly 0 to 10 bar, where "zero-pressure-drop" refers to a negligible or zero pressure drop. The electrical insulator 132 can withstand pressure differentials of up to approximately 100 bar. For example, the electrical insulator can be stable at absolute pressures of 300 mbar to 100 bar, preferably 1 to 50 bar, and more preferably 1.5 to 30 bar.

[0094] The electrical insulator 132 may include at least one suitable material that meets the aforementioned conditions. For example, the electrical insulator 132 may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of a ceramic material, a glass material, a glass fiber reinforced material, a plastic-like material, or a resin material. The electrical insulator may comprise, for example, at least one mixture selected from the group consisting of: binary and ternary mixtures of alumina, zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide (e.g. zirconium oxide reinforced alumina); mixtures of silicon carbide and alumina; mixtures of alumina and magnesium oxide (MgO spinel); mixtures of alumina and silicon oxide (mullite); mixtures of aluminum silicate and magnesium silicate, ternary mixtures of aluminum oxide, silicon oxide and magnesium oxide (cordierite); fatty stone (magnesium silicate); zirconium oxide reinforced alumina; stabilized zirconium oxide (ZrO2): stabilizers in the form of magnesium oxide (MgO), calcium oxide (CaO) or yttrium oxide (Y2O3), optionally with other stabilizers also including cerium oxide (CeO2), scandium oxide (ScO3) or ytterbium oxide (YbO3); and also aluminum titanate (stoichiometric mixture of aluminum oxide and titanium oxide); silicon nitride and aluminum oxide (silicon aluminum oxynitride SIALON).

[0095] The electrical insulator 132 can be configured to prevent the increase of potentials and leakage currents on the pipeline 114. This means that the supply voltage of the pipeline 114 can be selected without taking into account undesirable potentials and leakage currents on metal parts outside the heating area of ​​the device 110 in the facility. For example, the supply voltage in the low voltage range can be up to about 1000 V. For example, the supply voltage in the medium voltage range can be >1 kV to about 30 kV.

[0096] The individual pipes 114 are electrically interconnected in series. The pipes 114 can be electrically connected in series. For example, Figures 1 to 4In the embodiment, an electrical connection 134 can be provided between the pipes 114. A power supply and / or voltage source 126 can be connected to, for example, a first pipe 114, which is connected in series via the electrical connection 134 to the other pipes 114. As described above, the supply pipe 120 and the discharge pipe 122 can be galvanically isolated from the series-connected pipes 114 by means of an electrical insulator 132. The device 110 may include a plurality of pipes 114 interconnected in series. By using the electrical insulator 132, the number of series-connected pipes 114 can, in principle, be set as desired. For example, approximately five pipes 114 can be connected in series, especially in the low voltage range. For example, correspondingly, up to 150 pipes 114 can even be connected in series at 30 kV.

[0097] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a working example of the facility 112 of the present invention is shown. The facility 112 includes at least one device 110 of the present invention. Figure 4 As shown, the facility 112 may include a plurality of devices 110. The devices 110 may be electrically interconnected in series and / or in parallel. Figures 1 to 3 Description.

[0098] The facility 112 can be selected from the group consisting of: a facility for carrying out at least one endothermic reaction, a facility for heating, a facility for preheating, a steam cracker, a steam reformer, a device for dehydrogenating alkanes, a reformer, a device for dry reforming, a device for the production of styrene, a device for dehydrogenating ethylbenzene, a device for cracking urea, isocyanates, melamine, a cracker, a catalytic cracker, a device for dehydrogenation, a device for producing acetylene from hydrocarbons.

[0099] The facility 112 includes at least one power supply module 136. The power supply module 136 has at least one voltage regulator 138 configured to convert a medium or high voltage mains input voltage 140 corresponding to the power demand to an output voltage usable by the device 110 and to provide the power and / or voltage source 126.

[0100] The power supply module 136 can be configured to provide an output voltage that can be used by the power supply and / or voltage source 126 of the device 110. The power supply module 136 can be configured to receive a medium voltage or high voltage mains input voltage 140 and convert it to the necessary output voltage. The power supply module 136 can include at least one three-phase regulator and / or an adjustable rectifier having at least one transformer and / or one variable transformer. For example, the power supply module 136 can have a medium voltage transformer and a thyristor assembly. For example, for a low voltage of 12 MW, the power supply module can have a 10 kV / 950 V, 12 MVA MS transformer and a thyristor assembly. Compared to known power supply devices, the power supply module 136 of the present invention can therefore reduce the number of electrical components. As Figure 4 As shown, each device 110 may have a dedicated power module 136. However, other conceivable embodiments exist in which the devices 110 are powered by a common power module 136.

[0101] A medium voltage or high voltage mains input voltage 140 (e.g., 110 kV / 10 kV, maximum 40 MVA; 110 kV / 20 kV, maximum 80 MVA) may be provided to the power supply module 136, for example, via a cable (e.g., 690 A / 345 A) from a more distant switchgear 142 (e.g., a medium voltage switch room). Figure 4 In the embodiment, 4 or even more power supply modules 136 can be assigned to each common switching device 142.

[0102] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the power module 136 may include a 10 kV / 950 V, 12 MVA medium voltage transformer and thyristor assembly. The power module 136 may then provide 950 V, 7.4 kA (referenced by 144 ) to the power supply and / or voltage source 126 of the device 110 .

[0103] In particular, reducing the number of required components allows for a compact configuration of power module 136. Power module 136 may have a height h of 2 m ≥ h ≥ 5 m, a width b of 4 m ≥ b ≥ 7 m, and a depth t of 2 m ≥ t ≥ 5 m. Power module 136 may be located in an outdoor environment, adjacent to device 110, or on a stove.

[0104] Figure 5 The upper part of FIG. 1 shows a schematic longitudinal section of an example of connecting two pipes 146 , 148 by using an electrical insulator 132 . Figure 5 The lower part of shows a cross section of this example. For example, the connection can be constructed as described in WO 2019 / 201654A1.

[0105] The first of the pipes 146 can be made of a metal material. For example, the first pipe 146 can be a centrifugal casting product. For example, the pipe 146 can be cylindrical. For example, before installation, the geometric dimensions of the first pipe 146 can be 52 mm × 5 mm (diameter D × wall thickness s). The first pipe 146 can have a collar 150a at its connection end, with a circumferential recess in the collar accommodating a sealing element 152a. For example, the recess can contain an inserted annular flat mica seal (Klinger milam PSS 300 seal, available from Rich. Klinger Dichtungstechnik GmbH & Co. KG, 82352 Gumpoldskirchen, Austria) as the sealing element 152a.

[0106] The second of the pipes 148 can be made of a metallic material. For example, the first pipe 148 can be a centrifugal casting product. For example, the pipe 148 can be cylindrical. For example, before installation, the geometric dimensions of the second pipe 148 can be 52 mm × 5 mm (diameter D × wall thickness s). The second pipe 148 can have a collar 150b at its connection end, within which a circumferential recess is formed to accommodate a sealing element 152b. For example, this recess can contain an inserted annular flat mica seal (Klinger milam PSS 300 seal, available from Rich. Klinger Dichtungstechnik GmbH & Co. KG, 82352 Gumpoldskirchen, Austria) as the sealing element 152a.

[0107] The electrical insulator 132 can be constructed as a hybrid tube having an inner ceramic layer and an outer layer of an oxide ceramic fiber composite material. The inner layer of the electrical insulator 132 can be, for example, a monolithic ceramic, specifically aluminum oxide (Alsint 99.7, from Morgan Advanced Materials). For example, the inner layer of the electrical insulator can have geometric dimensions of 48 mm × 3 mm (diameter D × wall thickness s). The electrical insulator 132 can have an outer layer 164, such as an OCMC reinforcement. The reinforcement comprises a ceramic matrix (e.g., WPS FW12, from Walter EC Pritzkow Spezialkeramik, 70794 Filderstadt-Sillmingen, Germany) and a braid (e.g., DF11 braid, from 3M, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA) as a fiber skeleton, with geometric dimensions of, for example, 52 mm × 2 mm (diameter D × wall thickness s). The connection ends of the electrical insulator can each have a collar 154a and 154b. The collars 154a and 154b can be made of a solid ceramic, for example aluminum oxide (Alsint 99.7 from Haldenwanger). For example, Figure 5 As shown, the collars 154a and 154b can be manufactured as separate components and adhesively bonded to the inner layer of the electrical insulator. The connection can be established, for example, by glass solder or by a ceramic adhesive. The collars 154a and 154b can be surrounded by the outer layer 164 of the electrical insulator 132 and fixedly bonded to the outer layer.

[0108] The connecting element between the electrical insulator 132 and the connected pipes 146 and 148 can have a multi-part configuration. The connecting element can have the same design on both sides. The connecting element can include a clamping sleeve 156a or 156b, a contact pressure element 160a or 160b on one side of the connected pipes 146 and 148, and a compensating element 158a or 158b. The clamping sleeves 156a and 156b can be made, for example, of a nickel-based alloy with a material number of 2.4633. The contact pressure elements 160a and 160b can be made, for example, of a nickel-based alloy with a material number of 2.4633. The compensating elements 158a and 158b can be made, for example, of steel with a material number of 1.4876. The connecting element presses the collar 154a or 154b of the electrical insulator against the collar 150a or 150b of the connected pipes 146 or 148. In this way, a sealed connection can be established between the electrical insulator 132 and the two connected pipes 146 and 148. This has the advantage that the sealing surfaces are subjected to axial pressure, which is a favorable type of stress, especially for ceramic materials.

[0109] List of Reference Numerals

[0110]

Claims

1. An apparatus (110) for heating a feed material, wherein: The apparatus (110) comprises a plurality of electrically conductive pipes (114) for containing the feedstock, wherein the pipes (114) are arranged to achieve a parallel flow of the feedstock, wherein the apparatus (110) comprises at least one power source and / or voltage source (126) configured to supply current to the pipes (114), the current heating the pipes (114) by Joule heat generated when the current passes through the electrically conductive pipe material, so as to heat the feedstock, wherein each of the pipes (110) has a first end (116) and a second end (118), wherein at least one electrical insulator (132) is provided at the first end (116) and the second end (118) such that the respective pipes (114) are electrically isolated from each other by at least one supply pipe (120) and at least one discharge pipe (122), wherein the respective pipes (114) are electrically interconnected in a series connection.

2. The device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein The apparatus (110) is arranged to heat the feedstock to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 1700°C, preferably 300°C to 1400°C, more preferably 400°C to 875°C.

3. The device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The device (110) has at least one temperature sensor (128) which is arranged to determine the temperature of at least one of the pipes (114), wherein the device (110) has at least one control unit (130) which is arranged to control the power or voltage source (126) by closed-loop control as a function of the temperature or an equivalent measurement parameter measured by the temperature sensor (128).

4. The device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The power and / or voltage source (126) comprises a single-phase or multi-phase AC power and / or multi-phase AC voltage source, or a DC power and / or DC voltage source.

5. The device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The electrical insulator (132) includes at least one material selected from the group consisting of a ceramic material, a glassy material, a glass fiber reinforced material, a plastic-like material, or a resin material.

6. The device (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein At 900°C, the electrical insulator (132) has a minimum electrical resistance of 100 kΩ to 1000 MΩ, preferably 300 kΩ to 300 MΩ, more preferably 1 MΩ to 100 MΩ.

7. The device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The conduits (114) are fluidly connected to the supply conduit (120) and the exhaust conduit (122).

8. The device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The pipes (114) are either connected straight through and thus form a pipe system for containing the feedstock, or in a configuration in which the pipes (114) are fluidically separated from one another.

9. The device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The feedstock is a hydrocarbon and / or mixture to be subjected to thermal cracking.

10. An installation (112) comprising at least one device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one power supply module (136), wherein: The power supply module (136) has at least one voltage regulator (138) configured to convert a medium voltage or high voltage mains input voltage (140) corresponding to the power requirement into an output voltage usable by the device (110) and to provide the power and / or voltage source (126).

11. Installation (112) according to the preceding claim, wherein The system includes a plurality of devices (110).

12. Installation (112) according to the preceding claim, wherein These devices (110) are electrically interconnected with each other in series and / or in parallel.

13. The installation (112) according to any one of the two preceding claims, wherein Each device (110) has a dedicated power supply module (136).

14. The installation (112) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The power module (136) has a height h of 2 m ≥ h ≥ 5 m, a width b of 4 m ≥ b ≥ 7 m, and a depth t of 2 m ≥ t ≥ 5 m.

15. The installation (112) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The facility is selected from the group consisting of: a facility for carrying out at least one endothermic reaction, a facility for heating, a facility for preheating, a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for dehydrogenating alkanes, a reformer, an apparatus for dry reforming, an apparatus for the production of styrene, an apparatus for dehydrogenating ethylbenzene, an apparatus for cracking urea, isocyanates, melamine, a cracker, a catalytic cracker, an apparatus for dehydrogenation, an apparatus for producing acetylene from hydrocarbons.

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