Rotary bed apparatus

Abstract

The invention proposes a rotating bed device (50) comprising: - an inlet (1) for a first fluid (F1), - an inlet (2) for a second fluid (F2), - an outlet (3) for the first fluid (F1), - an outlet (4A) for the second fluid (F2), - a rotating contactor (5) comprising a rotating shaft (6) and a packed bed (7) fixed to the rotating shaft (6), - a flow channel (8) for the second fluid (F2) configured to flow the second fluid (F2) from the packed bed (7) to the outlet (4A) for the second fluid (F2), - a housing (27) to receive the rotating shaft (6), wherein the flow channel (8A) for the second fluid (F2) is arranged in a space radially outside the rotating shaft (6) and radially inside the housing (27) receiving the rotating shaft (6).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of rotary contactor devices. Such devices are frequently used in various industrial processes in chemical engineering. These devices make it possible to transfer material or heat between two fluids that have been brought into contact by dispersion implemented by a rotary contactor. Background Technology

[0002] Rotary contactor systems offer advantages over similar fixed-bed systems. Due to the rotation of the contactor bed, the centrifugal force experienced by the fluids improves the transfer efficiency between the two fluids. For the same processing capacity, a rotary contactor system is therefore more compact and lighter than a similar fixed-bed system. This allows for the use of less material in manufacturing the equipment, often making the latter a more economical and environmentally friendly solution. Additionally, it is easier to install, especially in locations with limited space.

[0003] Some processes (such as capturing CO2 from combustion effluents from plants or thermal power plants) require significantly higher throughput than conventional rotary contactor equipment can provide. This increase in capacity can be achieved simply by increasing the size of the equipment. However, simply increasing the size of conventional equipment typically leads to decreased efficiency and causes the equipment to lose some of its advantages.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to provide rotary contactor devices optimized for large processing capacities. Summary of the Invention

[0005] For this purpose, the present invention provides a rotating bed apparatus comprising: - At least one inlet for the first fluid. - At least the first inlet / outlet for the second fluid, - At least one outlet for the first fluid, - At least a second inlet / outlet for the second fluid. - A rotary contactor, comprising: -- Rotation axis, -- A packed bed, fixed to a rotating shaft, and configured to allow material and / or heat transfer between a first fluid and a second fluid. - At least one flow channel for a second fluid, said at least one flow channel being configured to allow the second fluid to flow from the packed bed to the at least one second inlet / outlet for the second fluid, or to allow the second fluid to flow from the at least one second inlet / outlet for the second fluid to the packed bed. - At least the housing, which is used to receive the rotating shaft. The at least one flow channel for the second fluid is arranged in a space radially outside the rotating shaft and radially inside the housing that receives the rotating contactor.

[0006] By placing the flow channel for the second fluid within the space between the rotating shaft itself and the housing in which the rotating shaft is received, a large flow cross-section can be provided to the second fluid, thereby making it possible to reduce the pressure drop experienced by the flow of the second fluid. This improves the performance of the rotating bed apparatus. In particular, for rotating bed apparatuses of the same size, the throughput is increased.

[0007] In the variant, the rotating shaft is configured to pivot relative to the housing by means of at least one rolling bearing arranged in the housing. Furthermore, the at least one rolling bearing is arranged in the at least one flow channel for the second fluid, particularly in a manner that lubricates and / or cools the rolling bearing.

[0008] It should be noted that rolling bearings are one example of bearings, and in this text, wherever technically feasible, any other type of guide bearing may be considered when referring to rolling bearings.

[0009] In another variant, the housing includes a first wall forming a retaining housing for a guide bearing for a rotating shaft, and a second wall radially outward of the first wall, and the at least one flow channel for the second fluid is partially arranged in a space radially outward of the first wall and radially inward of the second wall, thereby making it possible to avoid or at least limit corrosion or fouling of the rolling bearing by the second fluid.

[0010] The features listed in the following paragraphs can be implemented independently of each other or in any technically feasible combination: According to one embodiment, at least one first inlet / outlet for the second fluid is an inlet, and at least one second inlet / outlet for the second fluid is an outlet.

[0011] In other words, the second fluid is permitted to enter the rotating bed device through at least one first inlet / outlet and to exit the rotating bed device through at least one second inlet / outlet.

[0012] At least one first inlet / outlet is configured to receive the flow of the second fluid, and at least one second inlet / outlet is configured to provide the flow of the second fluid.

[0013] The second fluid flows in the flow channel along the first flow direction.

[0014] According to another embodiment, at least one first inlet / outlet for the second fluid is an outlet, and at least one second inlet / outlet for the second fluid is an inlet.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus, the packed bed allows material of at least some component of the first fluid to be transferred to the second fluid.

[0016] According to one exemplary embodiment, the first fluid is a liquid. The second fluid is a gas.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment, the first fluid is a liquid, and the second fluid is also a liquid.

[0018] "Liquid" is understood to mean a completely liquid phase or a phase that may also contain suspended solid particles or bubbles. The term also covers multiple immiscible phases (e.g., two).

[0019] The first and second fluids can flow in countercurrent arrangements, i.e., in substantially parallel directions and opposite directions of movement. Both fluids flow radially within the packed bed of the rotary contactor.

[0020] At least one flow channel for the second fluid allows the second fluid to flow from the packed bed toward at least one second inlet / outlet for the second fluid.

[0021] The flow of the first fluid and the second fluid can be co-current, that is, flowing in substantially parallel directions and in the same direction. Both fluids flow radially within the packed bed of the rotary contactor.

[0022] In this configuration, at least one flow channel for the second fluid allows the second fluid to flow from a second inlet / outlet for the second fluid toward the packed bed.

[0023] The flow of the first fluid and the flow of the second fluid can be cross-flow, that is, along the lateral direction of movement.

[0024] The first fluid flows radially within the packed bed of the rotary contactor. The second fluid flows axially within the packed bed.

[0025] The rotating shaft is a solid shaft.

[0026] At least one flow channel for the second fluid is cylindrical in shape.

[0027] The rotary bed device includes a housing that forms a support member for holding the rotary contactor.

[0028] The housing containing the rotating shaft is formed within the outer shell.

[0029] The outer casing is fixed.

[0030] The outer shell is impermeable to fluids.

[0031] A portion of at least one flow channel for the second fluid extends axially between the packed bed and the first axial end of the rotating shaft.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus, at least one flow channel for the second fluid and the rotating shaft are coaxial.

[0033] The rotating shaft is configured to pivot relative to the housing by means of at least one guide bearing.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed apparatus, the rotating shaft is configured to pivot relative to the housing by means of at least one rolling bearing arranged in the housing. And the at least one rolling bearing is arranged in the at least one flow channel for the second fluid.

[0035] In other words, the guide bearing used for the rotating shaft is, for example, a rolling bearing.

[0036] In cases where the guide bearing is a rolling bearing, the moving parts of the rolling bearing can come into contact with the second fluid during operation of the rotating bed. The second fluid then facilitates cooling of the rolling bearing, thereby making it possible to reduce thermal stress on the components of the rolling bearing. For certain chemical compositions of the second fluid, the circulation of the second fluid also provides lubrication to the rolling bearing, thus improving its reliability.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed apparatus, the rolling bearing includes: - Inner ring, the axis of rotation is arranged in this inner ring. - The outer ring, which is arranged within the shell. And at least a portion of the flow channel extends radially between the rotating shaft and the housing.

[0038] A portion of at least one flow channel extends axially between a first axial end of at least one rolling bearing and a second axial end of at least one rolling bearing, and extends radially between the inner and outer rings of at least one rolling bearing.

[0039] In other words, the space axially included between the first axial end of at least one rolling bearing and the second axial end of at least one rolling bearing, and radially included between the inner and outer rings, forms part of at least one flow channel.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed apparatus, the housing includes a first wall forming a retaining housing for a guide bearing for a rotating shaft, and a second wall radially outward of the first wall. The at least one flow channel for the second fluid is partially arranged in a space radially to the outside of the first wall of the housing and radially to the inside of the second wall of the housing.

[0041] In other words, in this embodiment, a portion of the flow channel for the second fluid bypasses the guide bearing for the rotating shaft.

[0042] Therefore, the second fluid does not come into contact with the guide bearing, thereby especially avoiding the degradation of the guide bearing when the second fluid is corrosive.

[0043] According to one aspect of the rotating bed apparatus, the rotary contactor includes: - A first end plate and a second end plate, which extend laterally relative to the rotation axis and are spaced apart from each other by a certain distance, the first end plate being fixed to the rotation axis. - A mixing chamber defined by two end plates along the axial direction. The packed bed is arranged in this mixing chamber. Furthermore, the first end plate includes at least one through-hole, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed and the at least one flow channel for the second fluid.

[0044] The mixing chamber is filled by a packed bed.

[0045] The two end plates form supports for the filling bed along the axial direction.

[0046] According to one aspect of the rotating bed apparatus, the mixing chamber includes a radial inner edge and a radial outer edge, and is configured to allow a first fluid to flow from the radial inner edge toward the radial outer edge.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the mixing chamber is configured to allow a second fluid to flow from the radially outer edge toward the radially inner edge.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the mixing chamber is configured to allow a second fluid to flow from the radial inner edge toward the radial outer edge.

[0049] At least one through-hole of the first end plate leads to at least one flow channel for the second fluid.

[0050] The radial inner edge of at least one through-hole of the first end plate is adjacent to the axis of rotation.

[0051] The first end plate includes a set of through holes.

[0052] The through holes of the first end plate can be evenly spaced.

[0053] The through-hole of the first end plate is located at the same distance from the center of the first end plate.

[0054] The through-holes in the first end plate can have the same shape.

[0055] The through-hole of the first end plate is laterally bounded by two straight sections.

[0056] The through-hole of the first end plate is radially bounded by two arcuate sections. The two arcuate sections have the same center, and this center coincides with the center of the first end plate.

[0057] Each straight section extends radially toward the center of the first end plate.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the rotating bed apparatus includes: - A third inlet / outlet for the second fluid. - A second flow channel, configured to allow the second fluid to flow from the packed bed toward a third inlet / outlet for the second fluid, or to allow the second fluid to flow from the third inlet / outlet toward the packed bed.

[0059] The presence of a second flow channel makes it possible to increase the flow cross-section of the second fluid, and thus further reduce the pressure drop. For the same amount of space, the maximum flow rate of the rotating bed device can be increased.

[0060] The third inlet / outlet for the second fluid has the same function as the second inlet / outlet. In other words, according to one embodiment, both the second inlet / outlet and the third inlet / outlet are inlets for the second fluid.

[0061] According to another embodiment, both the second inlet / outlet and the third inlet / outlet are outlets for the second fluid.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus The second end plate includes at least one through-hole, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed and a second flow channel for a second fluid.

[0063] The second flow channel for the second fluid is cylindrical in shape.

[0064] The first flow channel and the second flow channel are arranged axially, with one on each side of the mixing chamber.

[0065] The first flow channel and the second flow channel are coaxial.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed apparatus, the rotating shaft is configured to pivot relative to the housing by means of a single guide bearing. This single guide bearing may be a rolling bearing.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the rotary bed apparatus includes a second housing for receiving a rotary shaft. Furthermore, the second flow channel for the second fluid is arranged in a space radially to the outside of the rotating shaft and radially to the inside of the second housing for receiving the rotating contactor.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the rotating shaft is configured to pivot relative to the housing by means of at least a first guide bearing and a second guide bearing.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed apparatus, the rotating shaft is configured to pivot relative to the second housing by means of a second rolling bearing arranged in the second housing. Furthermore, the second rolling bearing is arranged in the second flow channel for the second fluid.

[0070] In other words, the second guide bearing for the rotating shaft can be a rolling bearing.

[0071] The second rolling bearing improves the guidance of the rotating shaft.

[0072] Similarly, a housing in which a second rolling bearing is arranged is formed within the outer casing.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed apparatus, a first rolling bearing and a second rolling bearing are arranged axially, one on each side of the mixing chamber.

[0074] Therefore, the rotating bed device can exhibit symmetry about a plane transverse to the axis of rotation. This makes the flow of the second fluid easier.

[0075] The second rolling bearing and the first rolling bearing can be the same.

[0076] According to one aspect of the rotary bed apparatus, the second rolling bearing includes: - Inner ring, the axis of rotation is arranged in this inner ring. - The outer ring, which is arranged in the second shell. Furthermore, a portion of the second flow channel extends radially between the rotating shaft and the second housing.

[0077] The second outlet channel for the second fluid is coaxial with the rotating shaft.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the first flow channel for the second fluid and the second flow channel for the second fluid are coaxial.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed apparatus, the second housing includes a first wall forming a retaining housing for a second guide bearing for the rotary shaft, and a second wall radially outward of the first wall. The second flow channel for the second fluid is partially arranged in the space radially to the outside of the first wall of the second housing and radially to the inside of the second wall of the second housing.

[0080] As before, a portion of the second flow channel for the second fluid bypasses the second guide bearing for the rotating shaft.

[0081] Therefore, the second guide bearing does not come into contact with the second fluid, thereby particularly avoiding degradation when the second fluid is corrosive.

[0082] The first flow channel for the second fluid and the second flow channel for the second fluid are in fluid communication.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the rotary bed device, the second end plate is fixed to the rotating shaft.

[0084] At least one through-hole of the second end plate leads to a second flow channel for the second fluid.

[0085] The radial inner edge of at least one through-hole of the second end plate is adjacent to the axis of rotation.

[0086] The through hole of the second end plate may have the same shape as the through hole of the first end plate.

[0087] The through-hole of the second end plate may have the same flow cross-section as the through-hole of the first end plate.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus, the rotating contactor includes: - A first end plate and a second end plate, which extend laterally relative to the rotation axis and are spaced apart from each other by a certain distance, the first end plate being fixed to the rotation axis. - A mixing chamber defined by two end plates along the axial direction, in which a packed bed is arranged, and: - The first end plate includes at least one through-hole, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between at least one first inlet / outlet for the second fluid and the packed bed, and - The second end plate includes at least one through-hole, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed and the at least one flow channel for the second fluid.

[0089] The set of through holes of the first end plate is arranged on a first lateral surface of the packed bed. The set of through holes of the second end plate is arranged on a second lateral surface of the packed bed, the second lateral surface being the surface opposite to the first lateral surface.

[0090] According to one embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus, the rotating contactor includes: - Rotation axis, - A first packed bed, which is fixed to a rotating shaft and configured to allow material or heat transfer between a first fluid and a second fluid. - A second packed bed, which is fixed to the rotating shaft and is configured to allow material or heat transfer between the first and second fluids. The outlet of the first packed bed is configured to supply the flow of the first fluid to the second packed bed. The outlet of the second packed bed is configured to supply the flow of the second fluid to the first packed bed. - A first flow channel for the second fluid, configured to allow the second fluid to flow from the first packed bed toward a second inlet / outlet for the second fluid. - A second flow channel for the second fluid, configured to allow the second fluid to flow from the second packed bed toward the first packed bed. - At least the housing, which is used to receive the rotating shaft. The at least one second flow channel for the second fluid is arranged in a space radially outside the rotating shaft and radially inside the housing that receives the rotating contactor.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the rotating bed apparatus includes at least one distributor for a first fluid, the at least one distributor being configured to transfer the first fluid from an inlet for the first fluid to a packed bed, and a portion of the at least one distributor for the first fluid is arranged inside the rotating shaft of a rotating contactor.

[0092] According to one embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus, at least one distributor includes a tubular portion, and The tubular portion of the at least one distributor and the rotating shaft of the rotary contactor are coaxial.

[0093] At least one distributor includes at least one through-hole for the first fluid.

[0094] At least one distributor includes a set of through orifices for the first fluid.

[0095] At least one dispenser includes a tubular portion. At least one through-hole for a first fluid is formed in the sidewall of the tubular portion.

[0096] At least one through-hole is arranged to face the packed bed in the radial direction.

[0097] The through-hole is offset axially along the tubular portion of the distributor.

[0098] The through-hole is offset at an angle along a portion of the lateral surface of the tubular section.

[0099] According to an exemplary embodiment, the end of the tubular portion of at least one distributor for the first fluid is closed.

[0100] According to another exemplary embodiment, the end of the tubular portion of at least one distributor for the first fluid is open.

[0101] The rotating bed device may include two distributors.

[0102] These two distributors are arranged, for example, parallel to each other inside the rotary contactor.

[0103] According to another exemplary embodiment of the rotating bed device, the rotating shaft is oriented in a horizontal direction.

[0104] At least one first inlet / outlet for the second fluid is arranged on the side of the housing.

[0105] An outlet for the first fluid and at least one second inlet / outlet for the second fluid extend in a vertical plane.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the outlet for the first fluid is arranged in the lower portion of the housing.

[0107] The lower part of the outer shell forms a collection volume for the first fluid.

[0108] The inlet for the second fluid is located in a portion of the housing, arranged in a way that faces the rotary contactor.

[0109] According to an exemplary embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus, the rotating shaft is oriented in the vertical direction.

[0110] The axis of rotation can form any angle with the vertical axis.

[0111] The rotary bed assembly includes a first seal arranged axially between a first end plate of the rotary contactor and a housing.

[0112] The first seal surrounds at least one flow channel.

[0113] The rotary bed assembly includes a second seal arranged axially between the second end plate of the rotary contactor and the housing.

[0114] The second seal surrounds the second outlet channel.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the rotary bed assembly includes a third seal arranged radially between a portion of the rotating shaft and a portion of the housing.

[0116] Another subject of the invention is any method for implementing the rotating bed apparatus described above, wherein material and / or heat are transferred from one of two fluids to the other, both of which are, in particular, liquids (or primarily liquids, even if they may contain suspended solid / solid particles or bubbles), or one is liquid and the other is gaseous.

[0117] Therefore, the device according to the invention has a variety of applications, including any type of liquid-liquid extraction.

[0118] Two notable applications of the device according to the invention include, but not explicitly, the following: One application (of which the present invention is interested, but not limited) is the deacidification of gaseous effluents, such as, for example, natural gas, syngas, combustion flue gas, refinery gases, tail gas from the Claus process, and biomass fermentation gases. Deacidification is carried out by washing with an absorbent liquid solution, in which acid compounds are transferred from the gaseous effluent to the absorbent solution. The absorbent solution makes it possible to absorb acidic compounds present in the gaseous effluent, such in particular hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), thiols, carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbonyl sulfides (COS), and carbon disulfide (CS₂). The physicochemical properties of the absorbent solution are related to the properties of the gas to be treated: the expected specifications of the gas being treated, the selective removal of acidic compounds, and the thermal and chemical stability of the solution relative to the various compounds present in the gaseous effluent to be treated. In this case, it is of particular interest to treat gaseous effluents with an eye toward capturing the carbon dioxide (CO₂) they contain, as solvent capture of CO₂ is one way to reduce industrial emissions of CO₂ and limit the accumulation of this greenhouse gas in the atmosphere.

[0119] Another application related to the previous one involves regenerating these absorbent liquids by contacting, for example, stripping gas, which will undergo the release of acidic compounds from the solution, particularly by the application of heat, at which point the material is transferred from the liquid solution to the gas or gas mixture. Attached Figure Description

[0120] Further features, details, and advantages will become apparent from the detailed description below and the accompanying drawings, in which: [ Figure 1 [This is a schematic representation of the rotary bed apparatus according to the first embodiment from the side and in cross-section.] [ Figure 2 [This is a schematic representation of the rotary bed apparatus according to the second embodiment from the side and in cross-section.] [ Figure 3 [This is a schematic representation of the rotary bed apparatus according to the third embodiment from the side and in cross-section.] [ Figure 4 [This is a schematic representation of the rotary bed apparatus according to the fourth embodiment from the side and in cross-section.] [ Figure 5 ]yes Figures 1 to 3 The first variant of the rotating bed device, with its rotary contactor schematically shown from the side and in cross-section, [ Figure 6[This is a schematic representation of the rotary bed apparatus according to the fifth embodiment from the side and in cross-section.] [ Figure 7 [This is a schematic representation of the rotary bed apparatus according to the fifth embodiment from the side and in cross-section.] [ Figure 8 [This is a schematic representation of the rotary bed apparatus according to the sixth embodiment, from the side and in cross-section.] [ Figure 9 An embodiment in which the flow channel for the second fluid bypasses the guide bearing for the rotating shaft is depicted. [ Figure 10 ] Depicted Figure 9 Variations of the embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0121] To facilitate reading the accompanying drawings, elements are not necessarily shown to scale. In these drawings, the same elements have the same reference numerals. Some elements or parameters may be indexed, that is, labeled, for example, as first element or second element, or first parameter and second parameter, etc. This indexing is intended to distinguish similar but not identical elements or parameters. This indexing does not imply that one element or parameter is superior to another, and names are interchangeable. In the case where a given element is included in a specified apparatus, this does not preclude the presence of other elements in that apparatus. In the various drawings, axis Z represents the vertical direction, with arrows pointing upwards. Axis X represents the horizontal axis.

[0122] Figure 1 The rotating bed apparatus 50 according to the first embodiment is schematically shown.

[0123] Rotary bed device 50 includes: - At least one inlet 1 for the first fluid F1, - At least the first inlet / outlet 2 for the second fluid F2, - At least one outlet 3 for the first fluid F1, - At least a second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2, - Rotary contactor 5.

[0124] Rotary contactor 5 includes: - Rotation axis 6, - A packed bed 7, which is fixed to a rotating shaft 6 and is configured to allow material or heat transfer between a first fluid F1 and a second fluid F2.

[0125] The rotating bed apparatus 50 includes at least one flow channel 8A for a second fluid F2, the at least one flow channel being configured to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the packed bed 7 to the at least one second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2 or to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the at least one second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2 to the packed bed 7.

[0126] The rotating bed device 50 includes at least a housing 27 for receiving a rotating shaft 6, and the at least one circulation channel 8A for the second fluid F2 is arranged in a space radially outside the rotating shaft 6 and radially inside the housing 27 for receiving the rotating contactor 5.

[0127] "Radially outward" means that the space surrounds the axis of rotation, that is, the area is located at a greater distance from the axis of rotation than the surface of the axis of rotation. "Radially inward" means that the space is surrounded by the receiving housing, that is, the area is located at a shorter distance from the axis of rotation than the surface of the receiving housing.

[0128] By placing the flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 within the space between the rotating shaft 6 itself and the housing 27 in which the rotating shaft 6 is received, a large flow cross-section can be provided to the second fluid F2. Therefore, the pressure drop experienced by the flow of the second fluid F2 can be reduced. This improves the performance of the rotating bed apparatus 50. In particular, for a rotating bed apparatus 50 of the same size, the throughput is increased.

[0129] according to Figure 1 In the first embodiment illustrated, at least one first inlet / outlet 2 for the second fluid F2 is an inlet, and at least one second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2 is an outlet.

[0130] In other words, the second fluid F2 is permitted to enter the rotating bed device 50 through at least one first inlet / outlet 2, and exit the rotating bed device 50 through at least one second inlet / outlet 4A. In this case, the flow channel 8A is the outlet channel for the second fluid F2.

[0131] At least one first inlet / outlet 2 is thus configured to receive the flow of the second fluid F2, and at least one second inlet / outlet 4A is configured to supply the flow of the second fluid F2.

[0132] The second fluid F2 flows in the first flow direction in the flow channel 8A.

[0133] Figure 2 A second embodiment of the rotating bed device 50 is depicted.

[0134] According to this second embodiment, at least one first inlet / outlet 2 for the second fluid F2 is an outlet, and at least one second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2 is an inlet. In other words, the second fluid F2 is permitted to enter the rotating bed apparatus 50 through at least one second inlet / outlet 4A and exit the rotating bed apparatus 50 through at least one first inlet / outlet 2. According to this embodiment, the flow channel 8A is an inlet channel for the second fluid F2.

[0135] At least one second inlet / outlet 4A is thus configured to receive the flow of the second fluid F2, and at least one first inlet / outlet 2 is configured to supply the flow of the second fluid F2.

[0136] The second fluid F2 flows in the flow channel 8A in a second flow direction opposite to the first flow direction.

[0137] At least one inlet 1 is configured to receive the flow of the first fluid F1.

[0138] At least one outlet 3 is configured to supply the flow of the first fluid F1.

[0139] When the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 flow in the packed bed 7 of the rotary contactor 5, the two fluids come into contact with each other.

[0140] The centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the rotary contactor 5 makes it possible to force the first fluid F1 to migrate from the radially inner portion of the packed bed 7 to the radially outer portion of the packed bed 7. The centrifugal force makes it possible to improve the transfer efficiency between the two fluids F1 and F2, thereby increasing the processing capacity, or to make it possible to reduce the number of packed beds used in the rotary contactor.

[0141] According to an exemplary embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus 50, the packed bed 7 allows material of at least some component of the second fluid F2 to be transferred to the first fluid F1.

[0142] According to another exemplary embodiment of the rotating bed apparatus 50, the packed bed 7 allows material of at least some component of the first fluid F1 to be transferred to the second fluid F2.

[0143] If materials are transferred, the chemical composition of the first fluid F1 changes as the first fluid flows through the packed bed 7. Similarly, the chemical composition of the second fluid F2 changes as the second fluid flows through the packed bed 7.

[0144] As a result, the chemical composition of the first fluid F1 at the outlet 3 of the rotating bed device 50 is different from the chemical composition of the first fluid F1 at the inlet 1 of the rotating bed device 50.

[0145] In the same manner, the chemical composition of the second fluid F2 at the outlet 4A of the rotating bed device 50 is different from the chemical composition of the second fluid F2 at the inlet 2 of the rotating bed device 50.

[0146] If heat is transferred, the temperature of the first fluid F1 changes as it flows through the packed bed 7. The temperature at the outlet differs from the temperature at the inlet. Similarly, the temperature of the second fluid F2 changes as it flows through the packed bed 7.

[0147] The first fluid F1 may include particles. The particles may be present in the first fluid F1 at the inlet of the rotating bed device 50, at the outlet of the rotating bed device 50, or at both the inlet and outlet of the rotating bed device 50.

[0148] Similarly, the second fluid F2 may also include particles. As described above, particles may be present in the second fluid F2 at the inlet, at the outlet, or at both the inlet and outlet of the rotating bed device 50.

[0149] According to the example shown, the first fluid F1 is a liquid. The second fluid F2 is a gas.

[0150] Liquids can absorb one or more chemical compounds present in gases.

[0151] One exemplary application is capturing CO2 from flue gas from a factory.

[0152] Another exemplary application is the removal of hydrogen sulfide from gaseous effluents. The liquid forms an absorbent solution.

[0153] In the case of CO2 capture, the second fluid F2 is a gaseous mixture containing CO2 (carbon dioxide).

[0154] The first fluid F1 is, for example, a liquid solution that comprises, wholly or partially, a compound that reacts with CO2, thereby making it possible to absorb the latter. This or these reactive compounds can be pure, diluted, or in the form of an ionic liquid. They are selected from the group consisting of: amines, alkanolamines, azoles, ketones, oximes, lactams, enols, alcohols, thiols, amino acids, alkali metal salts of amino acids, amides, ureas, alkali metal phosphates, carbonates, or borates.

[0155] The following list provides several examples of reactive compounds that can be used: N,N,4-trimethyl-1-piperazinpropylamine; 1,2-bis(dimethylaminoethoxy)ethane; 2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-2-methyl-1-propanol; 2-[(2-hydroxypropyl)amino]-2-methyl-1-propanol.

[0156] The liquid solution may include a nitrogen compound in a mass fraction between 10% and 100% by weight and a water in a mass fraction between 0% and 90% by weight, wherein the sum of the mass fractions of water and nitrogen compound is greater than or equal to 50%.

[0157] The second fluid F2 is untreated at the inlet of the rotating bed device and is purified at the outlet.

[0158] The first fluid F1 is depleted at the inlet of the rotating bed device and enriched at the outlet.

[0159] According to another exemplary embodiment (not depicted), the first fluid F1 is a liquid, and the second fluid F2 is also a liquid.

[0160] Different types of flow are possible for the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2.

[0161] In the different accompanying drawings, the dashed line, represented by the symbol b1, schematically shows the path taken by the first fluid F1.

[0162] The dashed line, represented by symbol b2, schematically shows the path taken by the second fluid F2. The arrows schematically indicate the direction of the path taken.

[0163] The first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 can flow in an anti-current arrangement, that is, in substantially parallel directions and opposite directions of movement. The two fluids F1 and F2 flow radially in the packed bed 7 of the rotary contactor 5.

[0164] like Figure 1 As depicted in the text, in this case, the first entrance / exit 2 is an entrance, and the second entrance / exit 4A is an exit.

[0165] At least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 allows the second fluid F2 to flow from the packed bed 7 to at least one second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2.

[0166] according to Figure 2 In another embodiment illustrated in the figure, the flow of the first fluid F1 and the flow of the second fluid F2 can be co-current, that is, in substantially parallel directions and in the same flow direction.

[0167] Two fluids, F1 and F2, flow radially in the packed bed 7 of the rotary contactor 5.

[0168] In this case, the second entrance / exit 4A is the entrance, and the first entrance / exit 2 is the exit.

[0169] In this case, at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 allows the second fluid F2 to flow from the second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2 to the packed bed 7.

[0170] Therefore, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the flow direction of the second fluid F2.

[0171] The flow of the first fluid F1 remains constant between the two embodiments.

[0172] according to Figure 7 In another embodiment illustrated in the figure, the flow of the first fluid F1 and the flow of the second fluid F2 can be cross-flow, that is, along the transverse flow direction.

[0173] The first fluid F1 flows radially (i.e., transversely to the axis of the rotating shaft 6) in the packed bed 7 of the rotary contactor 5.

[0174] The second fluid F2 flows through the packed bed 7 in the axial direction (i.e., the direction parallel to the axis of rotation 6).

[0175] In this embodiment, the first inlet / outlet 2 is an inlet, and the second inlet / outlet 4A is an outlet.

[0176] Rotation axis 6 is a solid shaft.

[0177] Rotation axis 6 extends along axis D.

[0178] The rotating shaft 6 includes a lateral surface 6L.

[0179] The lateral surface 6L is the outward-facing surface.

[0180] At least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 is cylindrical in shape.

[0181] At least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 extends along axis D1.

[0182] At least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 and the rotating shaft 6 are coaxial here.

[0183] The space between the lateral surface 6L of the rotating shaft 6 and the inner surface of the housing 27 is annular in shape.

[0184] The space between the lateral surface 6L of the rotating shaft 6 and the inner surface of the housing 27 forms part of at least one flow channel 8A.

[0185] At least one flow channel 8A surrounds the rotating shaft 6.

[0186] At least one second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2 forms one end of at least one circulation channel 8A for the second fluid F2.

[0187] The rotary bed device 50 includes a housing 10, which forms a support member for holding the rotary contactor 5.

[0188] The housing 10 forms a frame, and the rotary contactor 5 can pivot relative to this frame.

[0189] The outer casing 10 is fixed.

[0190] The housing 10 forms a volume for receiving the rotary contactor 5.

[0191] The first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 flow inside the outer casing 10.

[0192] The outer casing 10 is impermeable to fluids.

[0193] The outer casing 10 contains the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2.

[0194] The outer casing 10 is rigid.

[0195] Rigidity is understood to mean that the housing 10 undergoes only elastic and therefore reversible deformation during the nominal use of the rotating bed device 50.

[0196] The housing 27, in which the rotating shaft 6 is arranged, is formed in the outer shell 10.

[0197] The lateral surface 6L of the rotating shaft 6 is in contact with the second fluid F2.

[0198] The inner lateral surface of the housing 27 is in contact with the second fluid F2.

[0199] A portion of at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 extends axially between the packed bed 7 and the first axial end of the rotating shaft 6.

[0200] The rotating shaft 6 is configured to pivot relative to the housing 10 by means of at least one guide bearing.

[0201] according to Figures 1 to 7 In the embodiment illustrated, the rotating shaft 6 is configured to pivot relative to the housing 27 by means of at least one rolling bearing 21 arranged in the housing 27. And the at least one rolling bearing 21 is arranged in the at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2.

[0202] Therefore, at least one guide bearing used for the rotating shaft 6 is a rolling bearing.

[0203] Rolling bearings can be, in particular, ball bearings or roller bearings. Rolling bearings may include two rows of balls or two rows of rollers.

[0204] When the rotary bed assembly 50 is in operation, the moving elements of the rolling bearing 21 come into contact with the second fluid F2. The second fluid F2 facilitates cooling of the rolling bearing 21, thereby making it possible to reduce thermal stress on the components of the rolling bearing 21. For certain chemical compositions of the second fluid F2, the circulation of the second fluid F2 also provides lubrication to the rolling bearing 21, thus improving its reliability. The rolling bearing 21 can be a ball bearing or a roller bearing. The rolling bearing 21 may include two rows of balls or two rows of rollers.

[0205] Rolling bearing 21 includes: - Inner ring 23, the rotating shaft 6 is arranged in this inner ring. - Outer ring 25, which is arranged in the housing 27. Furthermore, at least a portion of the flow channel 8A extends radially between the rotating shaft 6 and the housing 27. The inner ring 23 of the rolling bearing 21 is fixed relative to the rotating shaft 6. The outer ring 25 of the rolling bearing 21 is fixed relative to the inner wall of the housing 27 of the outer casing 10.

[0206] A portion of at least one flow channel 8A extends axially between a first axial end of at least one rolling bearing 21 and a second axial end of at least one rolling bearing 21, and extends radially between an inner ring 23 and an outer ring 25 of at least one rolling bearing 21.

[0207] In other words, the space axially included between the first axial end of at least one rolling bearing 21 and the second axial end of at least one rolling bearing 21 and radially included between the inner ring 23 and the outer ring 25 forms part of at least one flow channel 8A.

[0208] according to Figures 1 to 4 The embodiments and according to Figure 5 In an embodiment, the rotary contactor 5 includes: - A first end plate 11 and a second end plate 12, which extend laterally relative to the rotation axis 6 and are spaced apart from each other by a certain distance. The first end plate 11 is fixed to the rotation axis 6. - A mixing chamber 13 defined axially by two end plates 11 and 12. The filling bed 7 is arranged in the mixing chamber 13. Furthermore, the first end plate 11 includes at least one through-hole 35, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed 7 and the at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2.

[0209] The mixing chamber 13 is filled by the packed bed 7.

[0210] The two end plates 11 and 12 form supports for filling the bed 7 along the axial direction.

[0211] Each end plate 11, 12 has the form of a hollow disk at its center. The hollow part is circular in shape, and in particular, allows for the insertion of a rotating shaft 6.

[0212] The two end plates 11 and 12 are offset along the axis of rotation 6. The volume defined by the two end plates 11 and 12 is filled by the packed bed 7.

[0213] Each end plate 11, 12 includes a radial retaining device for the packed bed 7. This retaining device resists centrifugal forces applied to the packed bed 7. The retaining device has not been depicted.

[0214] Therefore, the filling bed 7 is fixed relative to the end plates 11 and 12.

[0215] Especially according to Figures 1 to 4 In one embodiment, at least one through-hole 35 of the first end plate 11 leads to at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2.

[0216] At least one through-hole 35 of the first end plate 11 faces in the axial direction at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2.

[0217] The mixing chamber 13 includes a radially inner edge 13-i and a radially outer edge 13-e, and is configured to allow: - The first fluid F1 flows from the radial inner edge 13-i toward the radial outer edge 13-e.

[0218] The centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the rotary contactor 5 tends to cause the liquid F1 to move from the area near the axis D of the rotating shaft 6 toward the outer periphery of the packed bed 7.

[0219] The radial inner edge 13-i is the edge closest to axis D of rotation axis 6. The radial outer edge 13-e is the edge furthest from axis D of rotation axis 6.

[0220] according to Figure 1 The embodiments in and according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In one embodiment, liquid F1 and gas F2 flow in a countercurrent arrangement.

[0221] Therefore, the mixing chamber 13 is configured to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the radial outer edge 13-e toward the radial inner edge 13-i.

[0222] Therefore, the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 have opposite directions of movement.

[0223] according to Figure 2 In one embodiment, liquid F1 and gas F2 flow in a parallel flow arrangement.

[0224] The mixing chamber 13 is configured to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the radial inner edge 13-i toward the radial outer edge 13-e.

[0225] Therefore, the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 have the same direction of movement through the packed bed 7.

[0226] according to Figure 7 In one embodiment, liquid F1 and gas F2 flow in a crossflow arrangement. This embodiment will be described later.

[0227] Figure 5 The rotary contactor 5 is illustrated in detail.

[0228] The radial inner edge 35i of at least one through hole 35 of the first end plate 11 is adjacent to the rotation shaft 6.

[0229] The first end plate 11 includes a set of through holes 35. More specifically, the first end plate 11 includes four through holes 35.

[0230] The through holes 35 of the first end plate 11 are evenly spaced.

[0231] The through hole 35 of the first end plate 11 is arranged at the same distance from the center of the first end plate 11.

[0232] The through-hole 35 of the first end plate 11 has the same shape.

[0233] The through hole 35 of the first end plate 11 is laterally bounded by two straight sections 35r-1 and 35r-2.

[0234] The through hole 35 of the first end plate 11 is radially bounded by two arcuate portions 35i and 35e.

[0235] The two arc portions 35i and 35e have the same center, and this center coincides with the center of the first end plate 11.

[0236] Each straight section 35r-1, 35r-2 extends radially toward the center of the first end plate 11.

[0237] The first straight section 35r-1 connects the first end of the radially inner arc section 35i to the first end of the radially outer arc section 35e. The second straight section 35r-2 connects the second end of the radially inner arc section 35i to the second end of the radially outer arc section 35e.

[0238] The radius of the radial inner arc portion 35i is approximately equal to the radius of the rotation axis 6.

[0239] In the illustrated example, the first end plate 11 includes four through holes 35, each extending within an angle range of 60° and 80°.

[0240] Figure 3 and Figure 6 An embodiment in which the rotating bed device 50 includes more than one outlet for the second fluid F2 is schematically indicated.

[0241] Therefore, the rotating bed device 50 includes: - Third inlet / outlet 4B for the second fluid F2 - A second flow channel 8B is configured to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the packed bed 7 toward the third inlet / outlet 4B for the second fluid F2, or to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the third inlet / outlet 4B toward the packed bed 7.

[0242] The presence of the second flow channel 8B makes it possible to increase the flow cross-section of the second fluid F2, and thus further reduce the pressure drop. For the same amount of space, the maximum flow rate of the rotating bed device 50 can be increased.

[0243] The third inlet / outlet 4B for the second fluid F2 has the same function as the second inlet / outlet 4A.

[0244] In other words, according to Figure 3 The embodiments in and according to Figure 5 In one embodiment, the second inlet / outlet 4A and the third inlet / outlet 4B are together an outlet for the second fluid F2.

[0245] According to one embodiment (not depicted), the second inlet / outlet 4A and the third inlet / outlet 4B are together an inlet for the second fluid F2.

[0246] The first flow channel 8A and the second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 are in fluid communication.

[0247] according to Figure 6 In one embodiment, the rotary bed device 50 includes a second housing 28 for receiving the rotary shaft 6, and The second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 is arranged in a space radially to the outside of the rotating shaft 6 and radially to the inside of the second housing 28 for receiving the rotating contactor 5.

[0248] According to this embodiment, the second end plate 12 includes at least one through-hole 36, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed 7 and the second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2.

[0249] The second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 is cylindrical in shape.

[0250] The second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 extends along axis D2.

[0251] The at least one flow channel 8A is referred to as the "first exit channel".

[0252] The first flow channel 8A and the second flow channel 8B are arranged axially on each side of the mixing chamber 13.

[0253] The first flow channel 8A and the second flow channel 8B are coaxial.

[0254] The first flow channel 8A and the second flow channel 8B can have the same diameter.

[0255] according to Figure 3 In one embodiment, the rotating shaft 6 extends axially on only one side of the mixing chamber 13.

[0256] The rotating bed assembly 50 includes at least one distributor 9 for a first fluid F1, which allows the first fluid F1 to be introduced into the rotating contactor 5. For simplicity of the figures, Figure 1 and Figure 2 Distributor 9 has not yet been described.

[0257] As in Figure 3 and Figure 4 China and in Figures 6 to 8 As schematically indicated, at least one dispenser 9 includes a tubular portion 18.

[0258] The tubular portion 18 of the at least one distributor 9 and the rotating shaft 6 of the rotary contactor 5 are coaxial.

[0259] At least one distributor 9 includes at least one through-hole 19 for the first fluid F1.

[0260] According to the illustrated example, at least one distributor 9 includes a set of through orifices 19 for a first fluid F1.

[0261] At least one dispenser 9 includes a tubular portion 18.

[0262] At least one through-hole 19 for the first fluid F1 is formed in the sidewall of the tubular portion 18.

[0263] At least one through-hole 19 is arranged to face the packed bed 7 in the radial direction.

[0264] The first fluid F1 exits at least one distributor 9 via the through-hole 19 and reaches the filling bed 7 of the rotary contactor 5.

[0265] The through-hole 19 is axially offset along the tubular portion 18 of the distributor 9.

[0266] The through-hole 19 is offset at an angle along a portion of the lateral surface of the tubular portion 18.

[0267] The distributor 9 may include several rows of through holes 19. Each row may include several through holes offset axially along the tubular portion.

[0268] These rows are spaced at regular angles along the tubular section. Each row forms the generatrix of the tubular section.

[0269] For example, the dispenser 9 includes nine rows of through holes spaced at 40° intervals around the entire periphery of the tubular portion. Each row includes, for example, three through holes.

[0270] The spacing between the first and second orifices in a row is the same as the spacing between the second and third orifices in the same row.

[0271] according to Figure 4 In one embodiment, the rotating bed device 50 includes at least one distributor 9 for a first fluid F1, the at least one distributor being configured to transfer the first fluid F1 from an inlet 1 for the first fluid F1 to a filled bed 7, and a portion of the at least one distributor 9 for the first fluid F1 is disposed inside the rotating shaft 6 of the rotating contactor 5.

[0272] The rotating shaft 6 is hollow along a portion of its length and forms a receiving housing for a portion of the dispenser 9.

[0273] According to the illustrated example, the end of the tubular portion 18 of at least one distributor 9 for the first fluid F1 is closed.

[0274] According to a variant not depicted, the end of the tubular portion 18 of at least one distributor 9 for the first fluid F1 is open.

[0275] The number of distributors in the rotating bed device 50 can be varied.

[0276] According to a variant not depicted, the rotating bed device 50 includes two distributors.

[0277] These two distributors are arranged, for example, parallel to each other inside the rotary contactor 5. These two distributors can also be arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis D of the rotating shaft 6.

[0278] Each distributor delivers a portion of the total flow rate of the first fluid F1.

[0279] Several types of mechanical connections between the rotating shaft 6 of the rotary contactor 5 are possible. In particular, the number of guide bearings supporting the rotating shaft 6 varies depending on the embodiment.

[0280] according to Figures 1 to 3 The embodiments in, and according to Figure 7 In one embodiment, the rotating shaft 6 is configured to pivot relative to the housing 10 by means of a single guide bearing 21. The single guide bearing 21 may be a rolling bearing.

[0281] according to Figure 4 and Figure 6 In one embodiment, the rotating shaft 6 is configured to pivot relative to the housing 10 by means of at least a first guide bearing 21 and a second guide bearing 22. The first guide bearing 21 and the second guide bearing 22 may be rolling bearings.

[0282] according to Figure 6 In one embodiment, the rotating shaft 6 is configured to pivot relative to the second housing 28 by means of a second rolling bearing 22 arranged in the second housing 28. Furthermore, the second rolling bearing 22 is arranged in the second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2.

[0283] The second rolling bearing 22 improves the guidance of the rotating shaft 6. As mentioned above, the second rolling bearing can be, in particular, a ball bearing or a roller bearing, for example, having two rows of balls or two rows of rollers.

[0284] A second housing 28, in which a second rolling bearing 22 is arranged, is formed in the outer casing 10.

[0285] The space between the lateral surface of the rotating shaft 6 and the inner surface of the second housing 28 is annular in shape.

[0286] The space between the outer surface of the rotating shaft 6 and the inner surface of the second housing 28 forms part of the second flow channel 8B.

[0287] The first rolling bearing 21 and the second rolling bearing 22 are arranged axially on each side of the mixing chamber 13.

[0288] The second rolling bearing 22 and the first rolling bearing 21 can be the same.

[0289] Therefore, the rotating bed device 50 can exhibit symmetry about a plane transverse to the axis of rotation 6. This makes the flow of the second fluid F2 easier.

[0290] The second rolling bearing 22 includes: - Inner ring 24, the rotating shaft 6 is arranged in this inner ring. - Outer ring 26, which is arranged in the second housing 28, Furthermore, a portion of the second flow channel 8B extends radially between the rotating shaft 6 and the second housing 28.

[0291] The inner ring 24 of the second rolling bearing 22 is fixed relative to the rotating shaft 6.

[0292] The outer ring 26 of the second rolling bearing 22 is fixed relative to the inner wall of the second housing 28 of the outer casing 10.

[0293] The second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 is coaxial with the rotation shaft 6. Therefore, the first flow channel 8A and the second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 are coaxial.

[0294] according to Figure 4 The embodiments and according to Figure 6 In one embodiment, the second end plate 12 is fixed to the rotating shaft 6.

[0295] The rotating shaft 6 comprises two parts that do not intersect or offset from each other in the axial direction. These two parts are separated by end plates 11 and 12 and a mixing chamber 13. The two parts of the rotating shaft 6 may have the same diameter.

[0296] At least one through-hole 36 of the second end plate 12 leads to a second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2.

[0297] The second through-hole 36 faces the second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 along the axial direction.

[0298] The radial inner edge of at least one through hole 36 of the second end plate 12 is adjacent to the rotating shaft 6.

[0299] The through hole 36 of the second end plate 12 may have the same shape as the through hole 35 of the first end plate 11.

[0300] The through-hole 36 of the second end plate 12 may have the same flow cross-section as the through-hole 35 of the first end plate 11.

[0301] The first end plate 11 and the second end plate 12 may be symmetrical with respect to each other.

[0302] Figure 7 The illustration schematically indicates an embodiment in which the flow of the first fluid F1 and the flow of the second fluid F2 are cross-flow.

[0303] According to this embodiment, the rotary contactor 5 includes: - A first end plate 11 and a second end plate 12, which extend laterally relative to the rotation axis 6 and are spaced apart from each other by a certain distance. The first end plate 11 is fixed to the rotation axis 6. - A mixing chamber 13 defined axially by two end plates 11 and 12. The filling bed 7 is arranged in the mixing chamber 13.

[0304] The first end plate 11 includes at least one through-hole 37, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between at least one first inlet / outlet 2 for the second fluid F2 and the packed bed 7. The second end plate 12 includes at least one through-hole 38, which is configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed 7 and the at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2.

[0305] More specifically, the first end plate 11 includes a set of through holes 37, and the second end plate 12 includes a set of through holes 38.

[0306] The set of through holes 37 of the first end plate 11 is arranged on the first lateral surface of the packed bed 7. The set of through holes 38 of the second end plate 12 is arranged on the second lateral surface of the packed bed 7, which is the surface opposite to the first lateral surface.

[0307] The flow of the second fluid F2 is cross-flow.

[0308] Specifically, the flow of the first fluid F1 is the same as in other embodiments, that is, the first fluid F1 flows radially from at least one outlet 19 of the distributor 9 toward the outer peripheral edge of the rotary contactor 5.

[0309] The rotating bed device 50 includes two different inlets 2A and 2B for the second fluid F2.

[0310] Two entrances, 2A and 2B, face the first endplate 11.

[0311] The flow of the second fluid F2 is axial, that is, the second fluid F2 is allowed to enter the rotary contactor 5 via the first lateral surface of the rotary contactor 5, and exits the rotary contactor 5 via the second lateral surface of the rotary contactor 5, which is the surface opposite to the first lateral surface.

[0312] The second fluid F2 leaving the rotary contactor 5 flows into the volume between the inner wall of the housing 10 and the lateral surface of the rotary contactor 5, and reaches the flow channel 8A, which in this case is the outlet channel.

[0313] Figure 8An embodiment in which the rotating bed device 50 includes two filled bed stages is schematically indicated.

[0314] According to this embodiment of the rotating bed device 50, the rotating contactor 5 includes: - Rotation axis 6, - A first packed bed 7A, which is fixed to the rotating shaft 6, and is configured to allow material or heat transfer between the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2. - A second packed bed 7B, which is fixed to the rotating shaft 6, and is configured to allow material or heat transfer between the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2, wherein the outlet of the first packed bed 7A is configured to supply the flow of the first fluid F1 to the second packed bed 7B. The outlet of the second packed bed 7B is configured to supply the flow of the second fluid F2 to the first packed bed 7A. - A first flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2, the first flow channel being configured to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the first packed bed 7A toward a second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2. - A second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2, the second flow channel being configured to allow the second fluid F2 to flow from the second packed bed 7B toward the first packed bed 7A. - At least housing 27, which is used to receive the rotating shaft 6. The at least one second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 is arranged in a space radially outside the rotating shaft 6 and radially inside the housing 27 that receives the rotating contactor 5.

[0315] The rotary contactor 5 includes a first filling bed 7A and a second filling bed 7B rigidly connected to the first filling bed 7A. The first filling bed 7A is held in place by two end plates 11A and 11B. The second filling bed 7B is held in place by two end plates 12A and 12B.

[0316] The end plate 12A of the first filling bed 7A is connected to the end plate 11B of the second filling bed 7B via a portion of the rotating shaft 6.

[0317] The end plate 11B of the second filling bed 7B includes at least one through opening 35B, preferably a set of through openings 35B.

[0318] The first filling bed 7A and the second filling bed 7B may have the same dimensions.

[0319] The first fluid F1 exits the orifice 19 of the distributor 9, flows in the first packed bed 7A, and re-emerges via the periphery of the first packed bed 7A. Then, the first fluid F1 reaches the second packed bed 7B through the through-hole 35B of the end plate 11B. Then, the first fluid F1 flows in the second packed bed 7B and reaches the outlet 3.

[0320] The second fluid F2 is permitted to enter via inlet 2, pass through the second packed bed 7B, and re-emerge via through opening 35B. The second fluid F2 flows in a space radially included between the rotating shaft 6 and the housing 27, which forms part of the flow channel 8A. More specifically, in the portion of the rotating shaft 6 that connects the first packed bed 7A to the second packed bed 7B, the rotating shaft is supported by an intermediate bearing 21'.

[0321] The housing 27 includes a first wall 27-1 in which an intermediate guide bearing 21' is housed, and a second wall 27-2 radially outward of the first wall 27-1, the two walls surrounding the shaft 6.

[0322] The flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 is partially arranged in a space radially outward from the first wall 27-1 and radially inward from the second wall 27-2. In other words, a portion of the flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 is formed here by the space included between the wall 27-1 receiving the intermediate bearing 21' and the wall 27-2 surrounding the rotating shaft 6 and the first wall 27-1. This portion allows the second fluid F2 to move from the second packed bed 7B to the first packed bed 7A.

[0323] Then, the second fluid F2 reaches the outer peripheral edge of the first packed bed 7A, flows within the first packed bed 7A, and exits via outlet 4A. Outlet 4A is radially inward of the interior of the rotating shaft 6, which is hollow in its upper portion. Therefore, the upper portion of the flow channel 8A is arranged inside the rotating shaft 6.

[0324] The rotating bed assembly 50 includes a set of seals.

[0325] according to Figures 1 to 4 The embodiments illustrated herein, and according to Figure 6 In one embodiment, the rotary bed device 50 includes a first seal 31 arranged axially between a first end plate 11 of the rotary contactor 5 and a housing 10.

[0326] The first seal 31 surrounds at least one flow channel 8A.

[0327] The first seal 31 isolates at least one flow passage 8A from the portion of the housing 10 that includes the exterior of the rotary contactor 5.

[0328] according to Figures 1 to 3In the embodiment illustrated, the rotary bed device 50 includes a second seal 32 arranged axially between the second end plate 12 of the rotary contactor 5 and the housing 10.

[0329] exist Figure 3 In the case of the third embodiment illustrated herein, the second seal 32 surrounds the second outlet channel 8B.

[0330] The second seal 32 isolates the second flow channel 8B from the portion of the housing 10 that extends to the outside of the rotary contactor 5.

[0331] The first seal 31 and the second seal 32 are annular in shape.

[0332] The first seal 31 and the second seal 32 provide a dynamic seal between the end plates 11, 12 of the rotary contactor 5 and the housing 10 to prevent fluid contained between the end plates 11, 12 of the rotary contactor 5 and the inner walls of the housing 10 from reaching the flow channels 8A, 8B without passing through the orifices 35, 36 of the end plates 11, 12, which are then outlet channels.

[0333] according to Figure 4 In the fourth embodiment illustrated, the rotary bed device 50 includes a third seal 33 arranged radially between a portion of the rotary shaft 6 and a portion of the housing 10.

[0334] The third seal 33 isolates the rotary contactor 5 from the outside of the housing 10. The third seal 33 provides a dynamic seal between the rotating shaft 6 of the rotary contactor 5 and the housing 10. The third seal 33 prevents the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from leaving the housing 10 through the second rolling bearing 22.

[0335] exist Figure 7 In one embodiment, the seal 32' is disposed between the first end plate 11 and the housing 10 at the radial inner edge of the first end plate 11.

[0336] The seal 34A is disposed between the first end plate 11 and the housing 10 at the radial outer edge of the first end plate 11.

[0337] The seal 34B is arranged between the second end plate 12 and the housing 10 at the radial outer edge of the second end plate 12.

[0338] Seals 34A and 34B prevent the second fluid F2 from moving from one of the inlets 2A and 2B to the second inlet / outlet 4A without flowing in the packed bed 7 of the rotary contactor 5.

[0339] Figure 9 An embodiment in which the flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 bypasses the guide bearing 21 for the rotating shaft 6 is depicted.

[0340] Figure 10 Depicting Figure 9 A variant of the embodiment, wherein the rotating bed device 50 includes two flow channels 8A, 8B for the second fluid F2 and two outlets 4A, 4B, each flow channel 8A, 8B bypassing a corresponding guide bearing 21, 22 for the rotating shaft 6.

[0341] according to Figure 9 In one embodiment, the housing 27 includes a first wall 27-1 forming a retaining housing for a guide bearing 21 for rotating the shaft 6, and a second wall 27-2 radially outside the first wall 27-1.

[0342] The at least one flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 is partially arranged in the space radially to the outside of the first wall 27-1 of the housing 27 and radially to the inside of the second wall 27-2 of the housing 27.

[0343] In other words, the flow channel 8A for the second fluid F2 is arranged between the first wall 27-1 and the second wall 27-2. The first wall provides support for the guide bearing for the shaft, and the second wall surrounds the rotating shaft 6, the guide bearing 21, and the first wall 27-1. The second wall 27-2 is further away from the axis of the rotating shaft 6 than the first wall 27-1, and the blank space separating the two walls forms part of the flow channel 8A.

[0344] Each axial end of the guide bearing includes a seal. Therefore, the guide bearing 21 does not come into contact with the second fluid F2.

[0345] The first surface of the first wall 27-1 (which is the radially inner surface) contacts the bearing 21. The second surface of the first wall 27-1 (which is the radially outer surface, the surface opposite to the first surface) defines the radially inner edge of the flow channel 8A.

[0346] One surface of the second wall 27-2 defines the radial outer edge of the flow channel 8A, and this surface is arranged to face the second surface of the first wall 27-1.

[0347] The second fluid F2 flows along a portion of the flow channel 8A parallel to the axis of the rotation shaft 6.

[0348] This embodiment makes it possible to avoid contact between the components of the guide bearing 21 and the corrosive fluid when the second fluid F2 is corrosive.

[0349] exist Figure 9 In one embodiment, the rotating bed device includes a single outlet 4A and two guide bearings 21, 22, which are arranged axially along the rotation axis 6 on each side of the mixing chamber 13.

[0350] exist Figure 10 In one embodiment, the rotating bed device 50 includes a second housing 28 for receiving the rotating shaft 6 and a second outlet 8B for the second fluid F2.

[0351] The second housing 28 includes a first wall 28-1 forming a retaining housing for the second guide bearing 22 of the rotating shaft 6, and a second wall 28-2 radially outward of the first wall 28-1. The second flow channel 8B for the second fluid F2 is partially arranged in the space outside the first wall 28-1 of the second housing 28 and inside the second wall 28-2 of the second housing 28.

[0352] Therefore, the generation of the second flow channel 8B is similar to the generation described for the first channel 8A.

[0353] The presence of the second outlet 8B makes it possible to reduce the pressure drop experienced by the second fluid F2, particularly the pressure drop in the circuit including the portion between the inner edge of the packed bed 7 and each outlet 8A, 8B.

[0354] The spatial orientation of the rotary contactor 5 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0355] according to Figures 1 to 4 According to the embodiments, and based on Figure 6 In this embodiment, the rotation axis 6 is oriented in the horizontal direction X. That means that when the rotary bed device 50 is in the nominal operating position, the axis of the rotation axis 6 is horizontal.

[0356] At least one first inlet / outlet 2 for the second fluid F2 is arranged on the side 42 of the housing 10.

[0357] An outlet 3 for the first fluid F1 and at least one second inlet / outlet 4A for the second fluid F2 extend in a vertical plane.

[0358] The outlet 3 for the first fluid F1 is arranged in the lower part of the housing 10.

[0359] The lower portion of the outer casing 10 forms a collection volume 40 for the first fluid F1.

[0360] The collection volume 40 forms a liquid accumulation zone. The collection volume 40 is connected to the outlet 3 for the first fluid F1.

[0361] At least one first inlet / outlet 2 for the second fluid F2 is arranged in a portion of the end plate 11 of the housing 10, which is arranged to face the rotary contactor 5.

[0362] according to Figure 7 and Figure 8In the embodiment illustrated, the rotation axis 6 is oriented in the vertical direction Z.

[0363] Depending on the variant not depicted, the rotation axis 6 can form any angle with the vertical axis.

[0364] In other words, the rotation axis 6 can be oriented in any orientation, including both vertical and horizontal orientations.

[0365] Other embodiments and variations not yet described may be implemented.

[0366] In particular, the rotating bed device may include several outlets for the first fluid F1.

[0367] Rotary bed devices may include more than two packed beds.

[0368] A rotating bed device may include two distributors, for example, two distributors arranged in parallel to each other.

[0369] By adjusting the arrangement of outlet 3 to suit the first fluid F1, Figure 9 and Figure 10 The rotating bed device can be oriented vertically.

Claims

1. A rotating bed apparatus (50), comprising: - At least one inlet (1) for the first fluid (F1). - At least a first inlet / outlet (2) for the second fluid (F2). - At least one outlet (3) for the first fluid (F1). - At least a second inlet / outlet (4A) for the second fluid (F2). - Rotary contactor (5), which includes: -- Rotation axis (6) -- A packed bed (7), which is fixed to the rotating shaft (6) and configured to allow material or heat transfer between the first fluid (F1) and the second fluid (F2), - At least one flow channel (8A) for the second fluid (F2), the at least one flow channel being configured to allow the second fluid (F2) to flow from the packed bed (7) to the at least one second inlet / outlet (4A) for the second fluid (F2) or to allow the second fluid (F2) to flow from the at least one second inlet / outlet (4A) for the second fluid (F2) to the packed bed (7). - At least a housing (27) for receiving the rotating shaft (6). The at least one flow channel (8A) for the second fluid (F2) is arranged in a space radially outside the rotating shaft (6) and radially inside the housing (27) that receives the rotating contactor (5).

2. The rotating bed apparatus (50) according to claim 1, wherein The rotating shaft (6) is configured to pivot relative to the housing (27) by means of at least one rolling bearing (21) arranged in the housing (27). Furthermore, the at least one rolling bearing (21) is arranged in the at least one flow channel (8A) for the second fluid (F2).

3. The rotating bed apparatus (50) according to claim 1, wherein, The housing (27) includes a first wall (27-1) forming a guide bearing (21) for the rotating shaft (6) and a second wall (27-2) radially outward of the first wall (27-1). The at least one flow channel (8A) for the second fluid (F2) is partially arranged in the space between the outer side of the first wall (27-1) of the housing (27) and the inner side of the second wall (27-2) of the housing (27).

4. A rotating bed apparatus (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rotary contactor (5) includes: - A first end plate (11) and a second end plate (12), the first end plate (11) and the second end plate (12) extend laterally relative to the rotation axis (6) and are spaced apart from each other by a certain distance, the first end plate (11) being fixed to the rotation axis (6). - A mixing chamber (13) defined axially by the two end plates (11, 12), in which the packed bed (7) is arranged. The first end plate (11) includes at least one through-hole (35) configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed (7) and the at least one flow channel (8A) for the second fluid (F2).

5. The rotary bed apparatus (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - Third inlet / outlet (4B) for the second fluid (F2). - A second flow channel (8B) is configured to allow the second fluid (F2) to flow from the packed bed (7) toward a third inlet / outlet (4B) for the second fluid (F2) or to allow the second fluid (F2) to flow from the third inlet / outlet (4B) toward the packed bed (7).

6. The rotating bed apparatus (50) according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 4, wherein, The second end plate (12) includes at least one through-hole (36) configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed (7) and a second flow channel (8B) for the second fluid (F2).

7. The rotary bed apparatus (50) according to the preceding claim, comprising a second housing (28) for receiving the rotary shaft (6). wherein The second flow channel (8B) for the second fluid (F2) is arranged in a space radially to the outside of the rotating shaft (6) and radially to the inside of the second housing (28) for receiving the rotating contactor (5).

8. The rotating bed apparatus (50) according to claim 7 in combination with claim 2, wherein, The rotating shaft (6) is configured to pivot relative to the second housing (28) by means of a second rolling bearing (22) arranged in the second housing (28). Furthermore, the second rolling bearing (22) is arranged in a second flow channel (8B) for the second fluid (F2).

9. The rotating bed device (50) according to the preceding claim, wherein The first rolling bearing (21) and the second rolling bearing (22) are arranged axially on each side of the mixing chamber (13).

10. The rotating bed apparatus (50) according to claim 7, wherein, The second housing (28) includes a first wall (28-1) forming a retaining housing for a second guide bearing (22) for the rotating shaft (6), and a second wall (28-2) radially outward of the first wall (28-1), and The second flow channel (8B) for the second fluid (F2) is partially arranged in the space between the outer side of the first wall (28-1) of the second housing (28) and the inner side of the second wall (28-2) of the second housing (28).

11. A rotating bed apparatus (50) according to any one of the preceding claims in combination with claim 4, wherein, The second end plate (12) is fixed to the rotating shaft (6).

12. The rotary bed apparatus (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rotary contactor (5) includes: - A first end plate (11) and a second end plate (12), the first end plate (11) and the second end plate (12) extend laterally relative to the rotation axis (6) and are spaced apart from each other by a certain distance, the first end plate (11) being fixed to the rotation axis (6). - A mixing chamber (13) defined axially by the two end plates (11, 12), in which the packed bed (7) is arranged. in: - The first end plate (11) includes at least one through-hole (37) configured to allow fluid to pass between at least one first inlet / outlet (2) for the second fluid (F2) and the packed bed (7), and - The second end plate (12) includes at least one through-hole (38) configured to allow fluid to pass between the packed bed (7) and the at least one flow channel (8A) for the second fluid (F2).

13. The rotating bed apparatus (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a distributor (9) for the first fluid (F1), the distributor being configured to transfer the first fluid (F1) from an inlet (1) for the first fluid (F1) to the packed bed (7), wherein, A portion of the dispenser (9) for the first fluid (F1) is disposed inside the rotating shaft (6) of the rotary contactor (5).

14. The rotating bed apparatus (50) according to the preceding claim, wherein, The dispenser (9) includes a tubular portion (18), and The tubular portion (18) of the distributor (9) and the rotating shaft (6) of the rotary contactor (5) are coaxial.

15. A process using a rotating bed apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, the process being characterized in that material and / or heat are transferred from one of the two fluids to the other, wherein both fluids are, in particular, liquids, or one is a liquid and the other is a gas.

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