Reaction apparatus

Abstract

The application discloses a reaction equipment, and belongs to the technical field of chemical equipment. The reaction equipment comprises a pre-melting kettle and a reaction kettle. The reaction kettle can have a first chamber, the pre-melting kettle has a second chamber, the pre-melting kettle is arranged in the first chamber, and the bottom of the pre-melting kettle is provided with a first discharge port. The pre-melting unit is built in the reaction unit through the integrated structure of the kettle-in-kettle, and the close integration of two high-temperature sections is realized in the physical structure. The process flow can be shortened, the overall space and the supporting structure of the equipment can be compressed, the overall heat dissipation area of the reaction equipment can be reduced, and the overall energy consumption of the reaction equipment during high-temperature operation can be reduced. In addition, the risk of material blockage caused by uneven pipeline heating or element failure can be avoided, and the reliability of the reaction equipment can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of chemical equipment technology, and in particular to a reaction apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of new energy technologies, the demand for energy materials in power batteries and energy storage batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries, is increasing, and the requirements for the performance and preparation efficiency of these energy materials are also becoming more stringent. Improving material performance through traditional research and preparation methods is proving increasingly difficult. The melt displacement method, as a novel process for preparing these energy materials, primarily involves a melt reaction and water washing system in its production equipment.

[0003] Currently, the melt reaction washing system mainly includes three process units: pre-melting, reaction, and washing, as well as two conveying pipelines that connect the three process units sequentially. The pre-melting unit heats and melts the solid raw materials into a liquid state; the reaction unit causes the molten raw materials, main ingredients, and additives to undergo a displacement reaction at high temperatures; and the washing unit washes and purifies the reaction products to obtain the target material.

[0004] The discrete structure in the aforementioned melt reaction washing system results in a lengthy production line layout, a large number of devices, and a significant footprint in the workshop. Furthermore, the connection method of the conveying pipelines easily creates heating blind spots during the transport of high-temperature materials, frequently leading to blockages and malfunctions, resulting in low system reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a reaction apparatus. The technical solution is as follows: The reaction equipment includes a pre-melting vessel and a reaction vessel; The reactor has a first chamber; The pre-melting vessel is disposed in the first chamber, the pre-melting vessel has a second chamber, and the bottom of the pre-melting vessel is provided with a first discharge port communicating with the second chamber.

[0006] Optionally, the reaction apparatus further includes an apparatus cover; The reactor includes a first vessel body, and the pre-melting vessel includes a second vessel body, wherein the second vessel body is housed within the first vessel body; The equipment cover is configured to simultaneously seal the top of the first vessel and the top of the second vessel.

[0007] Optionally, the reactor further includes a reaction jacket, the pre-melting reactor further includes a pre-melting jacket, and the reaction equipment further includes a first heat-conducting oil passage and a second heat-conducting oil passage; The reaction jacket covers the outside of the first vessel body and forms a first annular cavity with the first vessel body. The first annular cavity is connected to the first heat-conducting oil passage. The pre-melting jacket covers the outside of the second vessel body and forms a second annular cavity with the second vessel body. The second annular cavity is connected to the second heat-conducting oil passage.

[0008] Optionally, the reaction apparatus further includes a stirring mechanism, which includes a first driving component, a first transmission component, and two stirring components respectively disposed in the second chamber and the first chamber; The first drive component is mounted above the device cover; One end of the first transmission component is connected to the first drive component, and the other end of the first transmission component passes through the device cover and extends into the second chamber and the first chamber in sequence, and is connected to the two stirring components.

[0009] Optionally, the reaction apparatus further includes a first discharge valve, which includes a second drive component, a second transmission component, and a valve core; The second drive component is mounted above the device cover; The valve core is located at the first discharge port. One end of the second transmission component is connected to the second drive component. The other end of the second transmission component passes through the equipment cover and extends into the second chamber to connect with the valve core, and drives the valve core to move so as to seal or open the first discharge port. Optionally, the reaction apparatus further includes cooling coils; The cooling coil is installed in the first chamber, and the cooling coil has a water inlet and a water outlet. The inlet and outlet water ends penetrate the equipment cover or the side wall of the first vessel body, respectively, and are used to connect to an external cooling system.

[0010] Optionally, the reaction apparatus further includes a heat insulation layer that covers the outside of the pre-melting jacket.

[0011] Optionally, the equipment cover plate is provided with a first feed inlet, at least one second feed inlet, a water inlet, and a water vapor outlet; The first feed inlet is connected to the second chamber; The at least one second feed inlet, the water inlet, and the water vapor outlet are connected to the first chamber.

[0012] Optionally, the reaction apparatus further includes a water washing vessel and conveying pipelines; The water washing vessel is located below the reaction vessel and has a third chamber for performing water washing operations; The bottom of the reactor is provided with a second discharge port, and the conveying pipe connects the second discharge port to the third chamber.

[0013] Optionally, the conveying pipeline includes an inner pipeline and an outer jacket covering the outside of the inner pipeline, and the reaction equipment further includes a third heat transfer oil circuit; The inner pipe is used to transport materials; a third annular cavity is formed between the outer jacket and the inner pipe, and the third annular cavity is connected to the third heat-conducting oil circuit to keep the material flowing through the inner pipe warm.

[0014] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions provided in this application include at least the following: This application provides a reaction apparatus, including a pre-melting vessel and a reaction vessel. The reaction vessel may have a first chamber, and the pre-melting vessel has a second chamber. The pre-melting vessel is disposed within the first chamber, and its bottom is provided with a first discharge port. By integrating the pre-melting unit into the reaction unit through a vessel-within-a-vessel structure, the two high-temperature stages are tightly integrated from a physical structural perspective. This shortens the process flow, reduces the overall space of the equipment and its supporting structures, and also reduces the overall heat dissipation area of ​​the reaction equipment, lowering the overall energy consumption of the reaction equipment during high-temperature operation. Furthermore, it avoids the risk of material blockage caused by uneven heating of pipelines or component failure, thus improving the reliability of the reaction equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a melt reaction washing system in related technologies; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a reaction apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the internal structure of the reaction equipment. Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the reaction apparatus from another perspective; Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the reaction apparatus from another perspective; Figure 6 yes Figure 3A schematic diagram of a portion of the reaction apparatus A1 is shown. Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the reaction apparatus from another perspective; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another reaction device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0017] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: Pre-melting unit 11, reaction unit 12, water washing unit 13, conveying pipeline 14, flange short-circuit 141, heat tracing pipeline 142, molten salt valve 143; pre-melting kettle 21, second chamber s2, first outlet k1, second kettle body 211, pre-melting jacket 212; reaction kettle 22, first chamber s1, first kettle body 221, reaction jacket 222, second outlet k2, second outlet valve 223; equipment cover plate 23; first heat conduction oil passage 24, reaction kettle oil inlet pipe 241, reaction kettle oil inlet valve 242, reaction kettle oil outlet pipe 243, reaction kettle oil outlet valve 244; second heat conduction oil passage 25, pre-melting kettle oil inlet pipe 251, pre-melting kettle oil inlet valve 252, pre-melting kettle oil outlet pipe 25 3. Pre-melting vessel oil outlet valve 254; main oil outlet pipe 261, main oil inlet pipe 262, main oil inlet valve 263, main oil outlet valve 264, stirring mechanism 27, first drive component 271, first transmission component 272, stirring component 273; first discharge valve 28, second drive component 281, second transmission component 282, valve core 283, sealing ring 284; cooling coil 29, water outlet valve 291, water inlet valve 292, first feed port k3, second feed port k4, water inlet k5, steam exhaust port k6; water washing vessel 31, third chamber s3; conveying pipe 32, inner pipe 321, outer jacket 322, third heat transfer oil circuit 323; water washing stirring mechanism 33. Detailed Implementation

[0018] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] Although this application can readily be embodied in various forms, only some specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail in this specification. It is understood that this specification should be regarded as an exemplary illustration of the principles of this application and is not intended to limit the application to what is described herein.

[0020] Therefore, a feature pointed out in this specification is used to describe one feature of one embodiment of this application, and does not imply that every embodiment of this application must have the described feature. Furthermore, it should be noted that this specification describes many features. While certain features may be combined to illustrate possible system designs, these features may also be used in other combinations not explicitly stated. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the described combinations are not intended to be limiting.

[0021] In the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, the directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, and back) used to explain the structure and movement of the various elements of this application are relative rather than absolute. These descriptions are appropriate when these elements are in the positions shown in the drawings. If the descriptions of the positions of these elements change, these directional indications also change accordingly.

[0022] With the rapid development of the new energy industry, higher requirements are being placed on the performance and preparation efficiency of new energy materials. The melt displacement method is a process for preparing new energy battery materials, which may include lithium cobalt oxide, hydrogen storage alloys, lithium sulfate, etc. The main production equipment used includes a melt reaction and washing system, which may include a pre-melting unit, a reaction unit, and a washing unit.

[0023] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a melt reaction washing system in related technologies. Currently, melt reaction washing systems typically design three process units—pre-melting unit 11, reaction unit 12, and washing unit 13—as independent devices, connected sequentially by a conveying pipeline 14 consisting of a flange short-connector 141, a heat tracing pipe 142, and a molten salt valve 143. The pre-melting unit 11 is used to heat and melt solid raw materials such as nitrates; the reaction unit 12 causes a displacement reaction between the molten raw materials (such as molten nitrates) and sodium nickel manganese oxide or sodium nickel manganese oxide or sodium iron pyrophosphate, as well as additives, at high temperatures; the washing unit 13 is responsible for washing and purifying the reaction products to obtain the target material, such as battery cathode material.

[0024] However, the aforementioned melt reaction washing system has the following problems: First, the dispersed layout of equipment leads to a lengthy production line, an increased number of devices, significantly occupies workshop space, and increases material transfer links. Second, since both the melting and reaction processes need to be carried out in a high-temperature environment above 600℃, the dispersed layout results in a large heat dissipation area, leading to high energy consumption and low thermal efficiency. Furthermore, in the high-temperature material transfer process, the current pipeline connection method has heating blind spots, which can easily cause material blockage; the heat tracing system is prone to failure and difficult to maintain; and the molten salt valve 143 is prone to damage and jamming during frequent opening and closing, thus reducing the reliability of the melt reaction washing system.

[0025] This application provides a reaction apparatus that can solve some or all of the technical problems in the related art.

[0026] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a reaction apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the internal structure of the reaction equipment. Figure 3 The black arrows in the diagram guide the flow direction of hot oil and cooling water. The reaction apparatus may include a pre-melting vessel 21 and a reaction vessel 22. The reaction vessel 22 may have a first chamber s1, which provides space for the melting and reaction of the various components. The pre-melting vessel 21 is disposed within the first chamber s1 and has a second chamber s2, which provides space for the melting of single-component materials. The bottom of the pre-melting vessel 21 has a first discharge port k1 communicating with the second chamber s2.

[0027] Since the pre-melting vessel 21 is used to melt single-component materials and the reaction vessel 22 is used to react multi-component materials, the volume of the pre-melting vessel 21 can be smaller than that of the melting vessel. Therefore, the pre-melting vessel 21 can be built into the reaction vessel 22, forming an integrated vessel-within-a-vessel structure. The reaction vessel 22 serves as the external main body, with a closed first chamber s1 inside. The pre-melting vessel 21, as an independent unit, is directly set and housed within the first chamber s1 of the reaction vessel 22. The pre-melting vessel 21 has a second chamber s2 for the pre-melting process. The first outlet k1 at the bottom of the pre-melting vessel 21 allows the second chamber s2 to communicate with the outside (i.e., the first chamber s1 of the reaction vessel 22). It is understood that the first outlet k1 has an open state and a closed state. When the first outlet k1 is open, the second chamber s2 and the first chamber s1 are connected; when the first outlet k1 is closed, the second chamber s2 and the first chamber s1 are not connected.

[0028] During the operation of the reaction equipment, the material is first fed into the second chamber s2 of the pre-melting vessel 21 and melted under heating conditions. After the pre-melting process is completed, the molten material is discharged directly into the first chamber s1 of the reaction vessel 22 through the first discharge port k1 at the bottom of the pre-melting vessel 21 by gravity or pressure. Since the pre-melting vessel 21 is entirely placed inside the reaction vessel 22, the path of the material from discharge to entry into the reaction zone is minimized, and the material is surrounded by the high-temperature environment of the reaction vessel 22 throughout the process, thereby reducing the risk of heat loss and solidification during the transfer process. In the first chamber s1 of the reaction vessel 22, the material from the pre-melting vessel 21 combines with other components and undergoes a chemical reaction under the set process conditions.

[0029] In this embodiment, the pre-melting and reaction units are directly integrated structurally through the physical integration of a reactor within a reactor. This shortens the production line process, reduces the overall space requirements of the reaction equipment, and also reduces the need for supporting structures. Furthermore, the integrated structure reduces the heat dissipation area, thereby lowering the overall energy consumption of the reaction equipment.

[0030] Furthermore, compared to the related technologies that connect the pre-melting vessel 21 and the reactor 22 via a conveying pipeline 32 consisting of a flange short-circuit, a heat tracing pipe, and a molten salt valve, since the pre-melting vessel 21 is located inside the reactor 22, there is no need to set up a conveying pipeline 32 between the pre-melting vessel 21 and the reactor 22. This not only reduces the number of supporting heating pipes, but also solves the problem of material blockage caused by insufficient heating or heating element failure in the related technologies.

[0031] In summary, this application provides a reaction apparatus, including a pre-melting vessel 21 and a reaction vessel 22. The reaction vessel 22 may have a first chamber s1, and the pre-melting vessel 21 has a second chamber s2. The pre-melting vessel 21 is disposed within the first chamber s1, and its bottom is provided with a first discharge port k1. The pre-melting unit is integrated into the reaction unit through a vessel-within-a-vessel structure, achieving a tight integration of the two high-temperature stages from a physical structural perspective. This shortens the process flow, reduces the overall space of the equipment and supporting structures, and also reduces the overall heat dissipation area of ​​the reaction equipment, lowering the overall energy consumption of the reaction equipment during high-temperature operation. Furthermore, it avoids the risk of material blockage caused by uneven heating of pipelines or component failure, thus improving the reliability of the reaction equipment.

[0032] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 In an optional embodiment, the reaction apparatus may further include an apparatus cover 23; the reaction vessel 22 may include a first vessel body 221, and the pre-melting vessel 21 may include a second vessel body 211, the second vessel body 211 being housed within the first vessel body 221; the apparatus cover 23 is configured to simultaneously seal the top of the first vessel body 221 and the top of the second vessel body 211. The apparatus cover 23 can simultaneously seal the reaction vessel 22 (first vessel body 221) and the pre-melting vessel 21 (second vessel body 211), thereby further reducing the number of equipment components, simplifying the top structure of the reaction apparatus, making the reaction apparatus more compact, and also reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0033] Furthermore, the shared equipment cover 23 is more conducive to ensuring the overall sealing performance of the entire reaction chamber, reducing the risk of leakage that may be caused by multiple openings and connection points, and improving the stability and safety of the reaction equipment under high temperature and high pressure. It can also make the top of the reaction equipment more regular, which facilitates the centralized arrangement and installation and maintenance of accessories such as the stirring mechanism 27, feeding port, and instruments, and can further optimize the space utilization of the reaction equipment.

[0034] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 4 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows another view of the reaction apparatus. Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The schematic diagram of the reaction device from another perspective shows that, in an optional embodiment, the reaction vessel 22 may further include a reaction jacket 222, the pre-melting vessel 21 may further include a pre-melting jacket 212, and the reaction device may further include a first heat-conducting oil passage 24 and a second heat-conducting oil passage 25.

[0035] The reaction jacket 222 covers the outside of the first vessel body 221 of the reaction vessel 22 and forms a first annular cavity between it and the first vessel body 221. The first annular cavity is connected to the first heat transfer oil passage 24. The heat transfer oil can enter the first annular cavity through the first heat transfer oil passage 24 and heat the first vessel body 221 evenly.

[0036] In one exemplary embodiment, the first heat transfer oil path 24 may include a reactor inlet pipe 241, a reactor inlet valve 242, a reactor outlet pipe 243, and a reactor outlet valve 244. The reaction jacket 222 has a first inlet and a first outlet. The reactor inlet pipe 241 can be connected to the first inlet. The reactor inlet valve 242 can be installed on the reactor inlet pipe 241. The heat transfer oil can enter the first annular cavity through the reactor inlet pipe 241 to heat the first vessel body 221 of the reactor 22. The reactor inlet valve 242 is used to control the opening or closing of the reactor inlet pipe 241. The first vessel body 221 provides space for the melting reaction of the various components. The first vessel body 221 absorbs the heat from the heat transfer oil, providing thermal energy for the melting reaction process and ensuring the reaction proceeds. The oil outlet pipe 243 of the reactor can be connected to the first oil outlet. The oil outlet valve 244 of the reactor can be installed on the oil outlet pipe 243 of the reactor. The heat transfer oil after heat release returns to the organic heat carrier boiler through the oil outlet pipe 243 of the reactor for the next cycle of heating. The oil outlet valve 244 of the reactor is used to control the opening or closing of the oil outlet pipe 243 of the reactor.

[0037] The pre-melting jacket 212 covers the outside of the second vessel body 211 and forms a second annular cavity between it and the second vessel body 211. The second annular cavity is connected to the second heat-conducting oil passage 25. The heat-conducting oil can enter the second annular cavity through the second heat-conducting oil passage 25 and heat the second vessel body 211 evenly.

[0038] In one exemplary embodiment, the second heat transfer oil circuit 25 may include a pre-melting vessel inlet pipe 251, a pre-melting vessel inlet valve 252, a pre-melting vessel outlet pipe 253, and a pre-melting vessel outlet valve 254. The reaction jacket 222 has a second inlet and a second outlet. The pre-melting vessel inlet pipe 251 can be connected to the second inlet. The pre-melting vessel inlet valve 252 can be installed on the pre-melting vessel inlet pipe 251. The heat transfer oil can enter the second annular cavity through the pre-melting vessel inlet pipe 251 to heat the first vessel body 221 of the pre-melting vessel 21. The pre-melting vessel inlet valve 252 is used to control the opening or closing of the pre-melting vessel inlet pipe 251. The second vessel body 211 is used to provide space for melting single-component materials. When the material enters the second vessel body 211, the second vessel body 211 absorbs the heat from the heat transfer oil, providing thermal energy for the melting process and ensuring that the melting proceeds. The pre-melting kettle oil outlet pipe 253 can be connected to the second oil outlet. The pre-melting kettle oil outlet valve 254 can be installed on the pre-melting kettle oil outlet pipe 253. The heat transfer oil after heat release returns to the organic heat carrier boiler through the pre-melting kettle oil outlet pipe 253 for the next cycle of heating. The pre-melting kettle oil outlet valve 254 is used to control the opening or closing of the pre-melting kettle oil outlet pipe 253.

[0039] In one exemplary embodiment, the reaction equipment may further include a main oil outlet pipe 261, a main oil inlet pipe 262, a main oil inlet valve 263, and a main oil outlet valve 264. The pre-melting vessel oil inlet pipe 251 and the reaction vessel oil inlet pipe 241 may be connected to the main oil inlet pipe 262. The pre-melting vessel oil outlet pipe 253 and the reaction vessel oil outlet pipe 243 are both connected to the main oil outlet pipe 261. The main oil inlet valve 263 and the main oil outlet valve 264 are respectively used to control the opening or closing of the main oil inlet pipe 262 and the main oil outlet pipe 261. The main oil inlet pipe 262 and the main oil outlet pipe 261 may also be connected to an organic heat carrier boiler.

[0040] Please refer to Figure 3 In an optional embodiment, the reaction apparatus may further include a stirring mechanism 27, which may include a first driving component 271, a first transmission component 272, and two stirring components 273 respectively disposed in the second chamber s2 and the first chamber s1; the first driving component 271 is mounted above the apparatus cover plate 23; one end of the first transmission component 272 is connected to the first driving component 271, and the other end of the first transmission component 272 passes through the apparatus cover plate 23 and extends sequentially into the second chamber s2 and the first chamber s1, and is connected to the two stirring components 273; the first driving component 271 is used to drive the two stirring components 273 to rotate through the first transmission component 272.

[0041] In this way, by stirring the materials in the two vessels, it is possible to ensure uniform mixing and efficient heat and mass transfer of the materials in the pre-melting and reaction process units, thereby improving reaction efficiency and product quality. Furthermore, by using the first drive component 271 in conjunction with a drive shaft that passes through the equipment cover plate 23 and the second vessel body 211, the two stirring components 273 in the pre-melting vessel 21 and the reaction vessel 22 can be driven synchronously, which simplifies the transmission structure and reduces the space occupied by the drive components on the top of the equipment.

[0042] In one exemplary embodiment, the first driving component 271 may include a first driving motor, the first transmission component 272 may include a stirring shaft, and the two stirring components 273 include a first impeller and a second impeller. The first driving motor is mounted above the equipment cover plate 23; the stirring shaft is vertically oriented, with its upper end connected to the output end of the first driving motor, and its lower end penetrating the equipment cover plate 23 and extending into the second chamber s2 of the pre-melting vessel 21 and the first chamber s1 of the reaction vessel 22; the first impeller and the second impeller are respectively fixed to the shaft sections of the stirring shaft located in the second chamber s2 and the first chamber s1. During operation, the first driving motor synchronously drives the first impeller and the second impeller to rotate via the stirring shaft. The first impeller operates within the pre-melting vessel 21, providing hybrid power for the melting process of single-component materials, promoting uniform temperature distribution and significantly accelerating the melting rate; the second impeller operates within the reaction vessel 22, providing stirring for the reaction process of multi-component materials, improving heat transfer efficiency, ensuring uniform system temperature, accelerating the reaction process, and promoting complete reaction.

[0043] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 , Figure 6 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows a partial structural diagram of reaction equipment A1. Figure 6 The black arrow in the diagram indicates the direction of movement of the second transmission component 282. In an optional embodiment, the reaction device may further include a first discharge valve 28, which may include a second drive component 281, a second transmission component 282, and a valve core 283. The second drive component 281 is mounted above the device cover plate 23. The valve core 283 is located at the first discharge port k1. One end of the second transmission component 282 is connected to the second drive component 281, and the other end of the second transmission component 282 passes through the device cover plate 23 and extends into the second chamber s2 to connect with the valve core 283, thereby driving the valve core 283 to move to seal or open the first discharge port k1.

[0044] When the single-component material in the pre-melting vessel 21 is in the melting process, the first discharge valve 28 is closed; when the single-component material in the pre-melting vessel 21 is completely molten, the first discharge valve 28 is open, and the molten single-component material can enter the reactor 22 through the first discharge port k1.

[0045] Thus, by isolating the precision second drive component 281 from the potentially corrosive, high-temperature, or high-pressure environment inside the reaction chamber, the second drive component 281 can be protected and its service life extended. At the same time, this externally driven, internally executed structure facilitates routine maintenance and repair of the drive component without opening the reaction vessel 22, thereby improving the convenience of equipment maintenance and operational safety.

[0046] In one exemplary embodiment, the first discharge valve 28 can be a linear discharge valve, the second drive component 281 can include a second drive motor, and the second transmission component 282 can include a valve stem arranged vertically. The upper end of the valve stem is connected to the output end of the second drive motor, and the lower end passes through the equipment cover plate 23 and extends into the second vessel body 211, connecting with the valve core 283. The valve stem is configured to move vertically under the drive of the second drive motor to cause the valve core 283 to seal or open the first discharge port k1.

[0047] For example, the first discharge port k1 also has a sealing ring 284, which can be an O-ring high temperature resistant sealing ring 284. When the first discharge valve 28 is in the closed state, the valve core 283 can be pressed and sealed with the sealing ring 284 to keep the material in the pre-melting kettle 21 without leakage. The sealing ring 284 can include a metal graphite spiral wound gasket.

[0048] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In an optional embodiment, the reaction equipment may further include a cooling coil 29; the cooling coil 29 is installed in the first chamber s1, and has a water inlet and a water outlet; the water inlet and the water outlet respectively penetrate the side wall of the equipment cover plate 23 or the first vessel body 221, and are used to connect to an external cooling system. By placing the cooling coil 29 in the reaction vessel 22, the water washing function can be integrated into the reaction vessel 22, realizing the integration of the three units of pre-melting, reaction and water washing, further shortening the production line process, reducing the overall space requirement of the reaction equipment, and reducing the supporting structure.

[0049] After the reaction process in the reactor 22 is completed, the deionized water can be introduced into the first chamber s1 of the reactor 22. The first chamber s1 of the reactor 22 can be used to provide a water washing space. The material after the reaction releases heat to the cooling water coil to reduce the material temperature and accelerate the water washing rate.

[0050] The cooling coil 29 may also include an outlet valve 291 and an inlet valve 292, which are respectively installed at the outlet and inlet k5. When the material in the reactor 22 is in the reaction process, the cooling water in the cooling coil 29 is in a static state, that is, it does not cool the material in the reactor 22. After the multi-component material in the reactor 22 has finished reacting, when the water washing stage begins, the cooling water circulates inside the coil, reducing the temperature of the reaction products and improving the water washing efficiency. After cooling the material, the cooling water in the cooling coil 29 increases its own temperature and circulates back to the cooling system (such as a chiller unit) through the outlet to enter the next cycle.

[0051] In an optional embodiment, the reaction apparatus may further include an insulation layer covering the outside of the pre-melting jacket 212. The insulation layer helps maintain a stable temperature of the material in the second chamber s2 of the pre-melting vessel 21, reducing the interference of temperature fluctuations from different processes in the first chamber s1 on the melting process in the second chamber s2, thereby improving energy utilization efficiency and process control precision.

[0052] An insulation layer can also be applied to the outside of the reactor 22 to reduce heat loss from the reaction equipment to the environment. The insulation layer can be made of materials such as aluminum silicate cotton and aluminum foil.

[0053] The bottom of the reactor 22 may also have a second discharge port k2 and a second discharge valve 223 installed at the second discharge port k2. After the material formed by the reaction is washed with water in the reactor 22, it can enter the next process through the second discharge port k2. The second discharge valve 223 is used to control the opening and closing of the discharge port of the reactor 22. When the reactor 22 is in the reaction state or the water washing state, the second discharge valve 223 is closed. When the reactor 22 finishes water washing, the second discharge valve 223 is opened.

[0054] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 7 , Figure 7 yes Figure 2 The schematic diagram of the reaction equipment from another perspective shows that, in an optional embodiment, the equipment cover plate 23 has a first feed inlet k3, at least one second feed inlet k4, a water inlet k5, and a steam exhaust outlet k6. The first feed inlet k3 is connected to the second chamber s2; the at least one second feed inlet k4, the water inlet k5, and the steam exhaust outlet k6 are connected to the first chamber s1. Thus, by integrating different material addition, water inlet, and exhaust functions in an orderly manner on the equipment cover plate 23, the pipeline layout at the top of the equipment can be simplified, and the integrated installation of the equipment is also facilitated. At least one second feed inlet k4 may include two second feed inlets k4, both of which can be connected to the first chamber s1 of the reaction vessel 22.

[0055] For example, the first material can enter the pre-melting vessel 21 through the first feed port k3, and the second and third materials can enter the reactor 22 through the two second feed ports k4 respectively. During the water washing process, the deionized water enters the reactor 22 through the water inlet k5 to start the water washing, and the generated water vapor is discharged through the water vapor outlet k6.

[0056] Please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another reaction apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 The black arrows in the diagram indicate the flow direction of the heat transfer oil in the jacketed conveying pipe 32. In an optional embodiment, the reaction apparatus may further include a washing vessel 31 and a conveying pipe 32. The washing vessel 31 is located below the reaction vessel 22 and has a third chamber s3 for performing the washing operation. The washing vessel 31 may contain a cooling coil 29. The bottom of the reaction vessel 22 is provided with a second discharge port k2, and the conveying pipe 32 connects the second discharge port k2 with the third chamber s3.

[0057] Because the washing process involves adding water to the vessel and activating the coil cooling, the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pre-melting vessel 21 intensifies, increasing heat loss. Therefore, in applications with ample space, the integrated system can be split according to the material state: retaining the high-temperature pre-melting and reaction processes as a single unit, while arranging the low-temperature washing process independently. This allows for precise temperature zone management, concentrating the high-temperature unit and separating the low-temperature unit, thereby reducing the overall energy consumption of the system.

[0058] In an optional embodiment, the conveying pipe 32 may include an inner pipe 321 and an outer jacket 322 covering the outside of the inner pipe 321. The reaction equipment may also include a third heat-conducting oil passage 323. The inner pipe 321 is used to convey materials. A third annular cavity is formed between the outer jacket 322 and the inner pipe 321, and the third annular cavity is connected to the third heat-conducting oil passage 323 to keep the materials flowing through the inner pipe 321 warm. Thus, the conveying pipe 32 can be a jacketed pipe, with the inner pipe 321 responsible for conveying, while the heat-conducting oil in the outer jacket 322 can continuously provide heat compensation for the materials, preventing problems such as cooling, solidification, or increased viscosity of the materials due to long-distance transportation or low ambient temperature. This ensures that the materials can smoothly reach the washing tank 31 in the expected flow state, guaranteeing the smooth progress of subsequent processes and the stability of the entire production process.

[0059] In one exemplary embodiment, the reaction apparatus further includes a water washing and stirring mechanism 33; the water washing and stirring mechanism 33 includes a water washing drive motor, a water washing stirring shaft, and a third impeller disposed in the third chamber s3; the water washing drive motor is mounted on the top of the water washing vessel 31; the water washing stirring shaft is disposed vertically in the third chamber s3 and is driven by the water washing drive motor.

[0060] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one exemplary embodiment, the reaction apparatus in this application can be used to manufacture battery cathode materials, and its operation process can include the following steps: Step 201, Initial Pre-melting Stage: At the start of production, activate the stirring mechanism 27, open the main oil inlet valve 263 and the main oil outlet valve 264, simultaneously close the reactor oil inlet valve 242 and the reactor oil outlet valve 244, and open the pre-melting reactor oil inlet valve 252 and the pre-melting reactor oil outlet valve 254. At this time, the heat transfer oil circuit only heats the pre-melting reactor 21. The single-component material enters the pre-melting reactor 21 through the first feed port k3, beginning the physical melting process. During this stage, only the pre-melting reactor 21 is in operation; the reactor 22 can be temporarily deactivated, and the cooling water system remains closed.

[0061] For example, the single-component material can be a nitrate (e.g., one or more of lithium nitrate and sodium nitrate). During the pre-melting stage, the stirring mechanism 27 can operate continuously to improve melting efficiency. The heating temperature during the pre-melting stage can be 180℃ to 400℃, and during this process, the heat transfer oil only circulates and heats the pre-melting vessel 21 for 1.5h to 2h. For example, the heating temperature during the pre-melting stage can be 180℃, 200℃, 260℃, 320℃, or 400℃, and the heating time can be 1.5h, 1.6h, 1.8h, or 2h.

[0062] Step 202, Parallel Reaction and Pre-melting Stage. After the first batch of materials has melted in the pre-melting vessel 21, the reaction equipment can enter the reaction stage. The first discharge valve 28 is opened, allowing the molten material in the pre-melting vessel 21 to fall into the first chamber s1 of the reaction vessel 22 through the first discharge port k1. At the same time, other component materials enter the reaction vessel 22 through the corresponding second inlet k4, and the displacement reaction officially begins.

[0063] During this stage, the main oil inlet valve 263 and the main oil outlet valve 264 remain open, while the reactor inlet valve 242, reactor outlet valve 244, pre-melting reactor inlet valve 252, and pre-melting reactor outlet valve 254 are simultaneously opened, allowing the heat transfer oil to heat both the pre-melting reactor 21 and the reactor 22 at the same time. During this stage, the pre-melting reactor 21 receives the second batch of single-component material through the first feed inlet k3, initiating a new round of melting; the reactor 22 undergoes the displacement reaction of the first batch of material. This allows for parallel operation of the pre-melting and reaction processes, while the cooling water system remains closed.

[0064] For example, other component materials may include one or more of sodium nickel manganese oxide, sodium nickel manganese oxide, sodium iron pyrophosphate, and related additives. During this process, the stirring mechanism 27 operates continuously to improve melting and reaction efficiency. In this reaction stage, the reaction temperature in the reactor 22 can be 400℃ to 650℃, and the reaction time is 8h to 10h, capable of converting the precursor into the target cathode material, such as lithium iron phosphate. For example, the reaction temperature in the reactor 22 can be 400℃, 420℃, 560℃, or 650℃, and the reaction time can be 8h, 8.5h, 9h, or 10h.

[0065] Step 203: Washing and Cooling Stage. Once the displacement reaction in reactor 22 is complete, the reaction equipment can enter the washing stage. First, open the inlet valve 292 and outlet valve 291 to allow cooling water to enter the cooling coil 29 inside reactor 22 to cool the reaction products. Simultaneously, demineralized water enters reactor 22 through inlet k5, mixes with the reaction products for washing, and after reaching the preset cumulative flow rate, the demineralized water supply is shut off.

[0066] During this stage, the heat transfer oil system is in the following state: the main inlet valve 263 and the main outlet valve 264 remain open, the reactor inlet valve 242 and the reactor outlet valve 244 are closed, and the pre-melting reactor inlet valve 252 and the pre-melting reactor outlet valve 254 remain open. At this time, the pre-melting reactor 21 continues to heat to melt the material, while the reactor 22 stops heating and performs a water washing process that does not require heating.

[0067] Step 204: Discharge and System Circulation Stage. After the water washing process is completed, once the material in the reactor has cooled to below 60°C, open the second discharge valve 223 of reactor 22 to allow the washed material to leave the reaction equipment. Then, shut off the cooling water system and reopen the reactor oil inlet valve 242 and reactor oil outlet valve 244, restarting the heating system of reactor 22. At this time, the second batch of material, which has been melted in the pre-melting vessel 21, is placed into reactor 22 to begin the second displacement reaction process, and the system enters the next cycle.

[0068] Thus, in this cyclical production process, the pre-melting vessel 21 operates continuously at full load through a constantly open heating system; the reaction vessel 22 switches between reaction and washing states. Correspondingly, the heating system of the reaction vessel 22 is only turned on during the reaction stage and turned off during the washing stage; its cooling system is the opposite, turned off during the reaction stage and turned on during the washing stage; this allows for optimized allocation of equipment resources and dynamic management of energy.

[0069] It should be noted that the dimensions of the areas may have been exaggerated in the accompanying drawings for clarity. Furthermore, it is understood that when an element is referred to as "on top of" another element, it can be directly on the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. Additionally, it is understood that when an element is referred to as "below" another element, it can be directly below the other element, or there may be more than one intermediate element. Furthermore, it is also understood that when an element is referred to as "between" two elements, it can be the only layer between the two elements, or there may be more than one intermediate element. Similar reference numerals throughout indicate similar elements.

[0070] In this application, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise expressly defined.

[0071] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application are included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A reaction apparatus, characterized in that, Including pre-melting vessel and reaction vessel; The reactor has a first chamber; The pre-melting vessel is disposed in the first chamber, the pre-melting vessel has a second chamber, and the bottom of the pre-melting vessel is provided with a first discharge port communicating with the second chamber.

2. The reaction apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reaction equipment also includes an equipment cover plate; The reactor includes a first vessel body, and the pre-melting vessel includes a second vessel body, wherein the second vessel body is housed within the first vessel body; The equipment cover is configured to simultaneously seal the top of the first vessel and the top of the second vessel.

3. The reaction apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The reactor also includes a reaction jacket, the pre-melting reactor also includes a pre-melting jacket, and the reaction equipment also includes a first heat-conducting oil circuit and a second heat-conducting oil circuit; The reaction jacket covers the outside of the first vessel body and forms a first annular cavity with the first vessel body. The first annular cavity is connected to the first heat-conducting oil passage. The pre-melting jacket covers the outside of the second vessel body and forms a second annular cavity with the second vessel body. The second annular cavity is connected to the second heat-conducting oil passage.

4. The reaction apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The reaction apparatus further includes a stirring mechanism, which includes a first driving component, a first transmission component, and two stirring components respectively disposed in the second chamber and the first chamber; The first drive component is mounted above the device cover; One end of the first transmission component is connected to the first drive component, and the other end of the first transmission component passes through the device cover and extends into the second chamber and the first chamber in sequence, and is connected to the two stirring components.

5. The reaction apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The reaction equipment further includes a first discharge valve, which includes a second driving component, a second transmission component, and a valve core; The second drive component is mounted above the device cover; The valve core is located at the first discharge port. One end of the second transmission component is connected to the second drive component, and the other end of the second transmission component passes through the equipment cover and extends into the second chamber to connect with the valve core, thereby driving the valve core to move to seal or open the first discharge port.

6. The reaction apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reaction equipment also includes cooling coils; The cooling coil is installed in the first chamber, and the cooling coil has a water inlet and a water outlet. The inlet and outlet water ends penetrate the equipment cover or the side wall of the first vessel body, respectively, and are used to connect to an external cooling system.

7. The reaction apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The reaction equipment also includes a heat insulation layer, which covers the outside of the pre-melting jacket.

8. The reaction apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The equipment cover plate is provided with a first feed inlet, at least one second feed inlet, a water inlet, and a steam outlet. The first feed inlet is connected to the second chamber; The at least one second feed inlet, the water inlet, and the water vapor outlet are connected to the first chamber.

9. The reaction apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reaction equipment also includes a water washing tank and conveying pipelines; The water washing vessel is located below the reaction vessel and has a third chamber for performing water washing operations; The bottom of the reactor is provided with a second discharge port, and the conveying pipe connects the second discharge port to the third chamber.

10. The reaction apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The conveying pipeline includes an inner pipeline and an outer jacket covering the outside of the inner pipeline; the reaction equipment also includes a third heat-conducting oil circuit. The inner pipe is used to transport materials; a third annular cavity is formed between the outer jacket and the inner pipe, and the third annular cavity is connected to the third heat-conducting oil circuit to keep the material flowing through the inner pipe warm.

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