Device for sampling solid particles comprising at least one capacitive valve

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (10) for sampling solid particles from a closed chamber (12), the sampling device (10) comprising a tubular body (18) bearing a sampling head (16), the sampling head (16) being configured to sample, under the effect of gravity, a volume of solid particles (14) from the chamber, the device comprising a tubular duct (52) that is attached to the tubular body (18) and which forms a non-zero angle with the tubular body (18), the tubular body (18) comprising a deflector (50) for deflecting the solid particles (14) into the tubular duct (52). Moreover, the sampling device (10) comprises a capacitive valve for removing the solid particles, which valve is located downstream of the tubular duct (52). The invention also relates to a method for sampling solid particles and to a method for upgrading a sampling device (10).

Description

[0001] DEVICE FOR TAKING SAMPLES OF SOLID PARTICLES COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE CAPACITIVE VALVE

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of sampling solid particles from a closed enclosure, such as a silo, a hopper, a reactor, a regenerator or an adsorber.

[0004] It relates more particularly to a sampling device (also called a collection device) allowing a sample of solid particles in the form of granules, extrudates, or beads to be taken by gravity, such as that used for a catalyst or an adsorbent, for example.

[0005] When solids divided into particles are loaded into enclosures operating under pressure and / or at elevated temperatures or when they are placed in enclosures by being stored or conveyed by gravity, it is frequently necessary to take a sample of the solid.

[0006] The main purpose of this sampling is to check the mechanical or physicochemical properties of the solid particles and thus to detect any impurities deposited on the surface of the particles or to monitor the evolution of the quality of the solid stored or in motion.

[0007] This makes it possible, in particular, to understand the reasons for a possible malfunction, to check the storage resistance of solid particles over time, or to predict the maximum operating time of solid particles and thus to resolve or anticipate possible problems.

[0008] In the case of refining units using solid particles, this can also facilitate the monitoring of the unit, for example including a catalytic reactor, and thus enable its operation to be optimized.

[0009] Prior art

[0010] To take samples of solids in an enclosure, a sampling device is known, in particular from document US 4,009,618, which makes it possible to take samples of solid materials inside a closed enclosure, such as a reactor allowing the catalytic cracking of hydrocarbons in the presence of a catalyst.

[0011] As better described in this document, these samples are taken by means of a sampling head introduced inside the enclosure and carried by the body of the device. This sampling head comprises a receptacle provided with a notch in the upper part and a notch in the lower part as well as two perforated rotating discs driven in rotation by a shaft controlled by any known means. During a first rotation of these discs, a solid sample is admitted into the receptacle through the upper notch controlled by one of the discs while the other of the discs closes the notch in the lower part. After another rotation of these discs, the upper notch is closed by one of the discs while the other of the discs releases the notch in the lower part so that the solid sample is directed towards pipes.

[0012] Patent application FR 3,007,137 (US 9,464,966) is also known, which also relates to a device for sampling solid particles. In this patent application, the solid particles sampled by the sampling head arrive, via pipes, at the inlet of a first valve. Opening the first valve allows the solid particles to arrive in an airlock. A purge valve connected to the airlock allows the airlock to be purged. To do this, the first valve remains closed and the purge valve is opened and then closed once the purge is complete. Finally, another valve connected to the airlock allows the solid particles contained in the airlock to be evacuated.

[0013] The valves used are typically plug valves, ball valves or parallel slide gate valves with substituting ring (better known as "Parallel Slide Gate Valves with substituting ring" in English).

[0014] However, sampling devices using these valves have several drawbacks.

[0015] The valves wear out prematurely. Indeed, the solid particles, once collected from the enclosure, are stored in the body of the device and then, under the effect of gravity at the inlet of the valves upstream and downstream of the airlock, in the direction of circulation of the solid particles, before being recovered in a container outside. The solid particles collected from the enclosure are generally at a high temperature (between 150 and 550°C for example depending on the applications). As a result, they are stored at the inlet of the valves at a hot temperature.

[0016] As the valves gradually open, solid particles at high temperatures rub against the surface of the valve plug as it moves to open, before the solid particles can flow by gravity through the open valve to reach the airlock or an external container. This friction of the solid particles on the surface of the plug generates wear by erosion of the plug and / or the seat, the plug / seat contact ensuring the valve's tightness. This wear regularly requires the replacement of the plug and / or the seat or the entire valve, which generates additional operating costs.

[0017] In addition, this wear can cause fluids contained in the enclosure to leak, particularly when the fluid is a gas, as gas tightness is more difficult to achieve than liquid tightness. These leaks can also cause the enclosure to depressurize when it is under pressure.

[0018] To overcome this wear, known solutions consist of using surface treatments on the valve and / or on the seat of non-capacitive valves used to increase the wear resistance of these parts.

[0019] Additionally, the valves used are more susceptible to valve handling or sequencing errors. Incorrect sequencing or handling errors can cause fluid (especially gas) to escape from the enclosure, and when the enclosure is pressurized, this can also cause the enclosure to depressurize.

[0020] The present invention aims to remedy the above drawbacks by means of a device for collecting solid particles using at least one capacitive valve.

[0021] Summary of the invention

[0022] The invention relates to a device for collecting solid particles from a closed enclosure, the collecting device comprising a tubular body carrying a collecting head, the collecting head being configured to collect by gravity a predetermined volume of solid particles from said closed enclosure, the collecting device comprising a tubular conduit fixed to the tubular body and forming a non-zero angle with the tubular body, the tubular body comprising a deflector for deflecting the solid particles into the tubular conduit. In addition, the collecting device comprises a first capacitive valve for discharging the solid particles, the first capacitive valve being positioned downstream of the tubular conduit, in the direction of circulation of the solid particles in the collecting device.

[0023] Preferably, the volume of the capacity of the first capacitive valve is greater than said predetermined volume, preferably, the volume of the capacity of the first capacitive valve is at least 1.05 times, and more preferably at least 1.15 times, said predetermined volume.

[0024] Advantageously, the first capacitive valve comprises a single seat and a capacitive plug, the single seat being upstream of the capacitive plug. Alternatively, the first capacitive valve comprises a first seat, a second seat and a capacitive plug, the first seat being upstream of the capacitive plug and the second seat being downstream of the capacitive plug.

[0025] Advantageously, the first capacitive valve is chosen from capacitive ball valves, capacitive conical plug valves or capacitive cylindrical plug valves.

[0026] According to a variant of the invention, the sampling device comprises a second valve downstream of the tubular conduit for the evacuation of solid particles, the second valve being upstream or downstream of the first capacitive valve, the first capacitive valve and the second valve being connected to each other directly or via an airlock.

[0027] According to one implementation of the invention, the sampling device comprises a locking key to prevent simultaneous operation of the first capacitive valve and the second valve.

[0028] Preferably, the airlock is connected to a third valve for the evacuation of a fluid, the fluid being included in the predetermined volume.

[0029] Advantageously, the second valve is a second capacitive valve, the first capacitive valve and the second capacitive valve preferably being identical.

[0030] The invention also relates to a system comprising a closed enclosure comprising solid particles, and a device for sampling solid particles as described above, the system being intended for one of the following applications: sampling catalysts in an oil refining unit, in a gas or biomass processing unit, in a renewable fuel production unit, in a reforming unit, in a Fischer-Tropsch unit or in an alcohol to olefin dehydration unit.

[0031] The invention also relates to a method for sampling solid particles from a closed enclosure using a sampling device as described above, for which at least the following steps are carried out:

[0032] - A predetermined volume comprising solid particles is taken from the enclosure closed by the sampling head;

[0033] - The predetermined volume taken is conveyed into the capacity of the first capacitive valve in the sampling position;

[0034] - The first capacitive valve is actuated to evacuate the predetermined volume comprising the solid particles from the first capacitive valve and the first capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position once the predetermined volume has been evacuated.

[0035] Preferably, for this method, when the first capacitive valve is positioned upstream of the second capacitive valve, and the sampling device comprises an airlock and a third valve as described previously, at least the following steps are carried out:

[0036] - A predetermined volume comprising solid particles is taken from the enclosure closed by the sampling head;

[0037] - The predetermined volume taken is conveyed into the capacity of the first capacitive valve in the sampling position;

[0038] - The first capacitive valve is operated to evacuate the predetermined volume towards the airlock or directly towards the second capacitive valve in the sampling position, and once the predetermined volume has been evacuated, the first capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position;

[0039] - When the determined volume is evacuated to the airlock, a fluid included in the determined volume is preferably evacuated through the third valve which is opened and closed once the fluid has been evacuated;

[0040] - The second capacitive valve is operated to evacuate the solid particles contained in the predetermined volume into a container, and once the solid particles have been evacuated, the second capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position.

[0041] The invention further relates to a method for upgrading a device for sampling solid particles from a closed enclosure, the sampling device comprising a tubular body carrying a sampling head, the sampling head being configured to sample by gravity a predetermined volume of solid particles from said closed enclosure, the sampling device comprising a tubular conduit fixed to the body and forming a non-zero angle with the body, the body comprising a deflector for deflecting the solid particles into the tubular conduit, the sampling device comprising at least one valve downstream of the tubular conduit, the method comprising a step in which the at least one valve downstream of the tubular conduit is replaced by a capacitive valve to obtain a sampling device as described above. List of figures

[0042] Other characteristics and advantages of the device, system and methods according to the invention will appear on reading the following description of non-limiting examples of embodiments, with reference to the figures appended and described below.

[0043] Figure 1 represents a partial sectional view of the sampling device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0044] Figure 2 represents a view of the end of the sampling device of the invention, in the direction of arrow A in Figure 1.

[0045] Figure 3 represents a perspective view of a means for closing the sampling device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0046] Figure 4 represents a first type of capacitive valve of the sampling device according to the invention.

[0047] Figure 5 represents a second type of capacitive valve of the sampling device according to the invention.

[0048] Figure 6 represents a first embodiment of the set of valves of the sampling device, according to the invention.

[0049] Figure 7 represents a second embodiment of the valve assembly of the sampling device, according to the invention.

[0050] Figure 8 represents a third embodiment of the valve assembly of the sampling device, according to the invention.

[0051] Figure 9 represents a fourth embodiment of the valve assembly of the sampling device, according to the invention.

[0052] Figure 10 shows a fifth embodiment of the valve assembly of the sampling device, according to the invention. Description of the embodiments

[0053] The terms "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "vertical", "horizontal" mean the device or system in the operating position, mounted on the enclosed enclosure.

[0054] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the direction of circulation of solid particles in the sampling device, in the operating position, when the sampling device is mounted on the closed enclosure.

[0055] In the present description, a capacitive valve is a valve comprising a plug, the plug comprising a capacity (a hollow volume, also called a cavity) capable of receiving a quantity corresponding to its volume of a product (of solid particles with or without fluid for example), the plug being capable of moving between at least two positions, a first position called the “collection position” where the product can be introduced into the capacity and a second position called the “evacuation position” where the product can be evacuated from the capacity, for example under the effect of gravity.

[0056] When the operation of the capacitive valve is gravity-driven, the sampling position is characterized by the capacity positioned (on the upper part of the plug in this position) so that the product arrives directly in the capacity which forms a collection container and the evacuation position is characterized by the capacity positioned (on the lower part of the plug in this position) so that the product is evacuated from the capacity by gravity.

[0057] By design, the capacitive valve therefore does not have a situation where the product can freely flow from an inlet to an outlet unlike conventional ball valves and in particular valves of the prior art. Indeed, for these valves of the prior art (non-capacitive valve) where the ball does not have a capacity, the product is blocked at the inlet, upstream of the ball. When the valve is opened (the ball is moved), the inlet is connected to an outlet and the product can then freely pass through the valve to exit it: in the open position, the valve allows a through passage of the product. On the contrary, a capacitive valve has a sampling position where the product enters the capacity of the ball (in this case, the ball is connected to the product inlet) and an evacuation position where the product contained in the capacity of the ball can exit (in this case, the ball is connected to the product outlet).Therefore, for this type of valve, there is no so-called "through" position where the inlet and outlet of the valve are directly connected. For the same reason, capacitive valves do not have a so-called "open" or "closed" position. This absence of a through (or open) position limits the risks of fluid leakage, particularly gas leakage. In the remainder of the description, a so-called "non-capacitive" valve is a valve that is not a capacitive valve in the sense of the previous definition: it therefore does not have a valve with a capacity to collect solid particles but it has a closed position where the solid particles are blocked upstream and an open through position where the solid particles can pass through the valve from upstream of the valve to downstream.

[0058] The invention relates to a device for collecting (also called a sampling device) solid particles from a closed enclosure. The solid particles may, for example, be catalysts from a reactor or wheat grains from a silo. The solid particles may be in the form of granules, extrudates, or beads (minerals, sand, cereal grains) or any form allowing gravitational flow.

[0059] The closed enclosure may be a silo, a hopper, a reactor such as a fixed-bed or continuous-bed catalysis reactor, a regenerator, or an adsorber. The enclosure may be pressurized or at atmospheric pressure.

[0060] The sampling device is designed so that it can be used when the enclosure is in operation as well as when it is stopped.

[0061] The sampling device comprises a tubular body carrying a sampling head, the sampling head being configured to sample by gravity a predetermined volume of solid particles from the closed enclosure. To sample a determined volume of solid particles by gravity, the tubular body and the head are inclined so that the solid particles fall naturally into the tubular body under the effect of their weight. The inclination of the tubular body depends on the type of solid particles, their shape, their density as well as the possible fluid (gas or liquid) in which they are integrated and which may or may not facilitate their entrainment into the tubular body. Preferably, the tubular body forms an angle of between 30 and 90° relative to the horizontal to facilitate the gravitational movement of the solid particles.

[0062] The sampling head is introduced into the inner part of the closed enclosure. The sampling head works advantageously with a baffle principle which allows to take a determined quantity (a predetermined volume) of solid particles and to prevent the flow of a larger quantity.

[0063] The sampling head may advantageously comprise a cylindrical casing, for example circular, with a longitudinal axis coincident with that of the body, which is closed at the top by a cover and at the bottom by a base. The cover and the base each have at least one notch in the shape of an angular sector.

[0064] The sampling head may advantageously comprise a notch for collecting solid particles (in the closed enclosure), a notch for transferring the collected solid particles and angularly displaceable closure means for the notches, the closure means being controlled by control means. The closure means may in particular comprise a bucket provided with an axial recess passing through the bucket in order to allow the collection of solid particles when the axial recess is opposite the collection notch or to allow the transfer of solid particles when the axial recess is opposite the transfer notch.The transfer and collection notches are angularly offset so that the axial recess is opposite one or the other of the collection and transfer notches and so that no solid particles can be transferred while other particles are being collected at the same time. Thus, the angular offset must correspond at least to the maximum width of the notches. Thanks to the sufficient angular offset, a determined volume of solid particles can be sampled, which facilitates the evacuation of the solid particles on the one hand and facilitates the analyses to be carried out on the solid particles sampled on the other hand.

[0065] The control means may comprise a rod connected to the closure means and / or limiting means, such as stops, to limit the angular displacement of the control means.

[0066] The rod can be connected to an operating lever cooperating with the stops.

[0067] The rod may include a torsion spring means for circumferentially supporting the lever on one of the stops.

[0068] The control means may comprise a rod connected to the closure means and to a two-way rotation geared motor with an end-of-travel detection device to limit the no-load angular movement of the closure means or any other mechanical actuator (pneumatic, hydraulic, electric).

[0069] Alternatively, the control means may comprise a rod connected to the closure means and to a cam controlled by a cylinder.

[0070] According to another alternative, the control means may comprise a rod connected to the closing means and carrying a pinion cooperating with a rack carried by a jack.

[0071] The tubular body may include an upper tubular extension which is capable of penetrating partially inside the enclosure and which supports the sampling head for sampling solid particles in the enclosure.

[0072] The tubular body may also include a lower tubular extension which contains the various means for controlling the rotation of the elements (bucket in particular) allowing the sample of solid particles to be taken.

[0073] Preferably, the tubular body may be intended to be reversibly mounted on a tubing of the enclosure, which allows it to be easily dismantled, replaced or inspected.

[0074] The tubular body of the sampling device may, for example, be provided with a fixing flange intended to be assembled on a flange of the enclosure on which it is positioned.

[0075] Furthermore, the sampling device comprises a tubular conduit attached to the tubular body, the tubular conduit forming a non-zero angle with the tubular body, the tubular body comprising a deflector for deflecting the solid particles in the tubular conduit. The tubular conduit is advantageously positioned downstream of the tubular body, in the direction of circulation of the solid particles, in the sampling device. Thus, the solid particles, under the effect of gravity, pass from the tubular body to the tubular conduit, by deflection of the deflector. Advantageously, the tubular conduit has an angle of between 10° and 90° relative to the axis of the tubular body, preferably between 20° and 70°, more preferably between 30° and 60°, and even more preferably between 40° and 50°.

[0076] Preferably, the lower tubular extension may comprise the deflector housed and secured within this lower tubular extension to direct the solid particles taken and arriving from the tubular body towards the tubular conduit.

[0077] The deflector may advantageously carry a deflecting surface onto which the solid particles are deflected, the deflecting surface forming an angle of between 0° and 60° relative to the vertical, and preferably between 5° and 45°, preferentially between 10° and 30°.

[0078] In addition, the sampling device comprises a first capacitive valve (at least one first capacitive valve and preferably several capacitive valves, in particular two capacitive valves) for discharging the solid particles, the first capacitive valve (or the capacitive valves) being positioned downstream of the tubular conduit, in the direction of circulation of the solid particles in the sampling device.

[0079] By "positioned downstream of the tubular conduit" or "downstream of the tubular conduit" is meant that the valve in question is connected to the downstream end of the tubular conduit (the end of the tubular conduit which is not fixed to the tubular body), directly (in the case where the valve is fixed to this downstream end of the tubular conduit) or indirectly via equipment enabling the junction between the downstream end of the tubular conduit and the valve.

[0080] Indeed, when the first capacitive valve is in the sampling position, the solid particles collected by the sampling head fall, by gravity, into the cavity (also called capacity) of the first capacitive valve's plug. They are not stored upstream of the plug, on the surface of the plug which allows the valve to seal on its seat. When the capacitive valve is then moved to the discharge position, the solid particles are discharged. Because the solid particles are in the plug cavity and not on the sealing surface of the plug, the plug and the seat (ensuring the valve's sealing) of the valve wear less when handling the plug.Thus, the use of the capacitive valve makes it possible to limit the wear of the ball and that of the seat, to limit the risks of leakage, in particular when the enclosure is under pressure from a liquid or a gas, and therefore to limit the maintenance of this equipment (replacement of the ball and / or the complete valve).

[0081] Furthermore, by the very design of the capacitive valve which does not have a through position, the use of a first capacitive valve on the sampling device makes it possible to avoid a leak into the atmosphere due to incorrect handling of this valve. It therefore makes it possible to improve the safety of the sampling device.

[0082] Advantageously, the volume of the capacity of the first capacitive valve (or capacitive valves) may be greater than the predetermined volume (taken from the sampling head). Thus, the solid particles sampled may be fully contained within the capacity, which avoids contact between the solid particles and the sealing surface of the plug and that of the seat when handling the valve. Preferably, the volume of the capacity of the first capacitive valve (or capacitive valves) is at least 1.05 times, and more preferably at least 1.15 times, the predetermined volume. Thus, the capacity is large enough to include the full volume of the solid particles sampled and avoid any contact between the solid particles sampled and the sealing surface of the plug and / or the seat (or seats if the valve has two seats) of the valve. As a result, premature wear of the valve is avoided.

[0083] According to a first variant of the invention, the first capacitive valve (or capacitive valves) may comprise a single seat and a capacitive plug, the single seat being upstream of the capacitive plug. Thus, the capacitive plug comprises the capacity which allows the collection of solid particles and then their evacuation. With a single seat upstream of the plug (i.e. positioned on the side where the solid particles arrive from the tubular body and then the tubular pipe), it is possible to guarantee the sealing of the valve to the gases and / or liquids contained in the enclosure and ensure that the pressure of the enclosure is maintained.

[0084] According to a second variant of the invention, the first capacitive valve (or capacitive valves) may comprise a first seat, a second seat and a capacitive plug, the first seat being upstream of the capacitive plug and the second seat being downstream of the capacitive plug. Thus, the capacity of the capacitive plug can contain the solid particles sampled from the sampling head. With a double seat, upstream and downstream, the sealing of the valve is improved and wear is minimal.

[0085] Advantageously, the first capacitive valve (or capacitive valves) can be chosen from capacitive ball valves, capacitive plug valves or capacitive cylindrical plug valves or any similar capacitive valves. These types of valves are reliable and minimize the risk of wear.

[0086] A capacitive ball valve is a valve whose ball is spherical and whose ball includes the capacity. This type of valve allows optimization of the quantity of material in relation to pressure and / or temperature constraints.

[0087] A capacitive plug valve is a valve with a tapered plug and a tapered plug that includes the capacitance. This type of valve is simpler to manufacture than capacitive ball valves. It may be necessary to add a lubrication system or a polymer coating.

[0088] A capacitive plug valve is a valve with a cylindrical plug and a capacitance in the plug. It is the simplest capacitive valve to manufacture.

[0089] According to a preferred configuration of the invention, the sampling device may comprise (at least) a second valve positioned downstream of the tubular conduit (connected directly or directly to the downstream end of the tubular conduit) for the evacuation of solid particles from the sampling device, the second valve being upstream or downstream of the first capacitive valve.

[0090] By "the second valve being upstream or downstream of the first capacitive valve", we mean that the second valve is connected to the upstream end of the first capacitive valve, directly or indirectly (In this case, the second valve is positioned between the downstream end of the tubular conduit and the upstream end of the first capacitive valve), or that the second valve is connected to the downstream end of the first capacitive valve, directly or indirectly. In other words, in the direction of circulation of the solid particles in the sampling device, the solid particles can first pass through the first capacitive valve and then the second valve or they can first pass through the second valve and then pass through the first capacitive valve. It is still more advantageous to use the first version (first capacitive crossing valve).Indeed, since the capacitive valve helps prevent wear and improves sealing, it is advantageous for the upstream valve to be the first capacitive valve, which provides better sealing and avoids any risk of depressurization of the enclosure. In addition, the first valve passed through is the one subjected to the highest temperatures, which can generate increased wear on the valve.

[0091] The first capacitive valve and the second valve can be connected to each other directly or via an airlock. The use of an airlock can be interesting when one wants to depressurize the sample before recovering the solid particles in a container at ambient pressure or when one wants to evacuate a gas or liquid contained in the sample with the solid particles. Thus, thanks to the airlock, it is possible to purge the predetermined volume.

[0092] The term "airlock" means a hollow part, preferably tubular, capable of containing the entire predetermined volume of solid particles.

[0093] The upstream valve (advantageously the first capacitive valve) can be directly attached to the tubular conduit.

[0094] According to an advantageous implementation of the invention, the sampling device may comprise a locking key ("Interlock Key system" in English terminology) to prevent the simultaneous operation of the first capacitive valve and the second valve. Indeed, if the second valve is a non-capacitive ball valve and is in the open position (i.e. in a position where the inlet and outlet are directly connected), and the enclosure is under pressure, the manipulation of the first capacitive valve can release the fluid trapped under pressure in the volume of the cavity, and thus generate an accident.

[0095] According to an advantageous configuration of the invention, the airlock can be connected to a third valve for the evacuation of a fluid, the fluid being included in the predetermined volume.

[0096] Indeed, the enclosure, for example a reactor, may include, in addition to solid particles, a fluid, often a gas such as hydrogen, a hydrocarbon gas and / or nitrogen. In addition, this fluid is often maintained at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure (for example at least 5 bar, preferably at least 15 bar) and / or at a high temperature (at least 40°C). Before recovering the solid particles, it is preferable to depressurize the fluid and / or evacuate it to avoid any toxic risk for personnel and / or any explosive risk. The use of an airlock between the first capacitive valve and the second valve (from upstream to downstream or from downstream to upstream) makes it possible to add a line for depressurizing the fluid and / or evacuating the fluid (to a torch to burn the gas for example or to a rinsing system with an inert fluid). A third valve can then be installed on this line.Opening the third valve (non-capacitive) allows the fluid to be evacuated (and if necessary to depressurize it); closing the third valve isolates the airlock.

[0097] Preferably, the second valve may be a second capacitive valve. Thus, the sampling device comprises two capacitive valves, one being connected (fixed) directly to the tubular conduit and thus ensuring sealing with the enclosure and the other being connected downstream, directly or indirectly via an airlock. The two capacitive valves are used to evacuate solid particles. The use of two successive capacitive valves further limits the risk of leaks. It also allows the use of a line to evacuate the fluid contained in the predetermined volume sampled.

[0098] The second capacitive valve can advantageously have the same characteristics as the first capacitive valve. In other words:

[0099] - The volume of the capacity of the second capacitive valve may be greater than the predetermined volume, preferably, the volume of the capacity of the second capacitive valve is at least 1.05 times, and more preferably at least 1.15 times, the predetermined volume.

[0100] - The second capacitive valve may comprise a single seat and a capacitive plug, the single seat being upstream of the capacitive plug.

[0101] - Alternatively, the second capacitive valve may comprise a first seat, a second seat and a capacitive plug, the first seat being upstream of the capacitive plug and the second seat being downstream of the capacitive plug.

[0102] - The second first capacitive valve is chosen from capacitive ball valves, capacitive conical plug valves or capacitive cylindrical plug valves.

[0103] The body of the capacitive valve (or capacitive valves), as well as the plug and the seat(s) are chosen from a material suitable for the application, in particular for the fluids present and for the pressures and temperatures. In addition, the seat(s) are made of a material with elastic resistance and / or hardness greater than that of the plug and the body, so as to limit wear of the seat(s). Preferably, the plug and the seat(s) may receive a surface treatment to increase their resistance to friction and wear.

[0104] Preferably, the first capacitive valve and the second capacitive valve may be identical so as to simplify design, logistics and maintenance as well as to avoid the risks of reversing the two valves during assembly.

[0105] The invention also relates to a system comprising a closed enclosure and a device for sampling solid particles as described above, the closed enclosure comprising solid particles. The system may be provided for one of the following applications: sampling catalysts in an oil refining unit, in a gas or biomass processing unit, in a renewable fuel production unit, in a reforming unit, in a Fischer-Tropsch unit or in an alcohol to olefin dehydration unit.

[0106] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a method for sampling solid particles from a closed enclosure using a sampling device as described above, for which at least the following steps are carried out:

[0107] - A predetermined volume comprising solid particles is taken from the closed enclosure by the sampling head (for example via the bucket and the collection and transfer notches);

[0108] - The predetermined volume sampled (including the solid particles sampled and possibly a fluid, in particular a gas) is conveyed into the capacity of the first capacitive valve in the sampling position;

[0109] - The first capacitive valve is actuated to evacuate the predetermined volume comprising the solid particles from the first capacitive valve and the first capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position once the predetermined volume has been evacuated.

[0110] Advantageously, when the device comprises a second capacitive valve, with the first capacitive valve positioned (preferably, fixed to the tubular conduit) upstream of the second capacitive valve (in other words, the solid particles collected first pass into the first capacitive valve and then into the second capacitive valve), the device optionally comprising an airlock and a third valve as described above, at least the following steps can be carried out:

[0111] - A predetermined volume comprising solid particles (and possibly a fluid, in particular a gas) is taken from the enclosure closed by the sampling head (for example via the bucket and the collection and transfer notches);

[0112] - The predetermined volume taken is conveyed into the capacity of the first capacitive valve in the sampling position;

[0113] - The first capacitive valve is actuated to evacuate the predetermined volume towards the airlock (when the sampling device includes an airlock) or directly towards the second capacitive valve in the sampling position, and once the predetermined volume has been evacuated, the first capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position;

[0114] When the determined volume is evacuated to the airlock, a fluid included in the determined volume is preferably evacuated by the third valve which is opened and closed once the fluid has been evacuated so as to eliminate this fluid and send it to a torch for example (in particular if it is hydrogen) or to depressurize it to bring the airlock to ambient pressure before recovering the solid particles;

[0115] - The second capacitive valve is operated to evacuate the solid particles contained in the predetermined volume into a container, and once the solid particles have been evacuated, the second capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position.

[0116] In the method implemented with the sampling device according to the invention, the sample of solid particles collected is not stored upstream of the valve(s), causing at the time of transfer erosion of the seat and / or the valve plug against which the solid particles rub. The sample is stored directly in the cavity of the plug of the capacitive valve (or capacitive valves) avoiding any friction with the surfaces forming the seal when handling the valve.

[0117] The capacitive valve(s) can be operated manually, pneumatically, electrically or automatically.

[0118] When the sampling device comprises a first capacitive valve fixed to the tubular conduit followed by an airlock, and a second non-capacitive valve at the outlet of the airlock to evacuate solid particles from the airlock by gravity and a third non-capacitive valve to evacuate a fluid, such as a gas, the sequence of use of these valves may typically be as follows:

[0119] In the standby position and during sample collection in the closed enclosure: the first capacitive valve is in the sampling position to collect the sample in the valve plug cavity, and the second and third valves are closed. Unlike the prior art, the sample is not stored in the body of the device upstream of the first capacitive valve.

[0120] In a second step, once the sample has been collected and stored in the cavity of the first capacitive valve, the latter is maneuvered 180° into the evacuation position, the cavity downwards while the second and third non-capacitive valves remain closed, so that the sample falls by gravity into the airlock upstream of the second closed non-capacitive valve.

[0121] The third non-capacitive valve is then opened and then closed so that the fluid initially present in the capacity is brought to atmospheric pressure or to the pressure of the torch network. Other variants are possible with rinsing by an inert fluid and the addition of 2 more valves on the fluid circuit.

[0122] - The sample is now upstream of the second non-capacitive valve at atmospheric pressure.

[0123] - The second non-capacitive valve is then opened to collect the sample from a recipe pot (container) by any means.

[0124] - The second valve is closed and returned to the waiting position: V1 is positioned to be able to collect the sample, cavity of the obturator part upwards in the filling position, V2, V3 are closed.

[0125] When the fluid is not under pressure, the use of the third valve can be dispensed with.

[0126] Where the sampling device comprises a first capacitive valve attached to the tubular conduit, followed by an airlock and a second capacitive valve downstream of the airlock to discharge solid particles and a line connected to the airlock to discharge fluid, the line comprising a third non-capacitive valve, the sequence of use of these valves may be as follows:

[0127] In the standby position and during sample collection in the closed enclosure: the first capacitive valve is positioned to collect the sample in the cavity of the first capacitive valve plug, the second valve being in the sampling position and the third valve being closed.

[0128] Once the solid particles are collected from the enclosure, generally hot, they are stored in the tubular body of the device. - Then, they are transferred by gravity from the tubular body of the device into the cavity of the first capacitive valve which is operated 180° to discharge the sample into the airlock.

[0129] - then by gravity, the solid is transferred and stored in the cavity of the valve of the second capacitive valve. Unlike the prior art, the sample is not stored in the airlock upstream of the second non-capacitive valve in the closed position. Erosion of this valve was possible during operation of this valve.

[0130] - the first capacitive valve then remains in the evacuation position, the third non-capacitive valve remains closed and the second capacitive valve remains in the sampling position.

[0131] -the third valve is opened and then closed so that the fluid initially present in the capacity is brought to atmospheric pressure (this creates a purge). Other variants are possible with rinsing by an inert fluid and the addition of 2 more valves. The first capacitive valve then remains in the evacuation position and the third non-capacitive valve then remains closed.

[0132] - The sample is located in the cavity of the second capacitive valve at atmospheric pressure.

[0133] - The second capacitive valve is then operated 180° to collect the sample in a recipe pot (container) by any means, the first capacitive valve remaining in the evacuation position and the third valve remaining closed.

[0134] Then the first and second capacitive valves are moved 180° to position them in the collection position and the third valve is kept in the closed position.

[0135] In this configuration, the airlock is not mandatory because the predetermined volume can fall directly by gravity into the cavity of the second capacitive valve.

[0136] In addition, when the fluid is not under pressure, the use of the third valve can also be dispensed with.

[0137] The invention also relates to a method for upgrading (also called a revamping method) a device for collecting solid particles from a closed enclosure. The collecting device comprises a tubular body carrying a collecting head, the collecting head being configured to collect by gravity a predetermined volume of solid particles from the closed enclosure (typically a reforming reactor), the collecting device comprising a tubular conduit fixed to the body and forming a non-zero angle with the tubular body, the tubular body comprising a deflector for deflecting the solid particles into the tubular conduit, the collecting device comprising at least one valve downstream of the tubular conduit.The upgrading method comprises a step in which the at least one valve, preferably two valves, downstream of the tubular conduit (connected directly or indirectly to the downstream end of the tubular conduit), is replaced by a capacitive valve to obtain a sampling device as described according to the invention.

[0138] Preferably, the initial sampling device (before the upgrade) comprises a first valve fixed to the pipe, the first valve being followed by an airlock and then a second valve (downstream of the airlock) and the airlock is connected to a fluid discharge line provided with a third valve. The upgrade method then consists of replacing the first or second valve with a first capacitive valve so as to limit wear of the plug and / or the seat, to avoid replacing the plugs, seats or valves too frequently and to limit the risks of fluid leaks. Preferably, both the first valve and the second valve are replaced with capacitive valves so as to further limit the risks of fluid leaks and wear of the plug and / or the seat.

[0139] Figure 1 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a sectional view of a sampling device according to the invention.

[0140] The sampling device according to the invention 10 is placed on an enclosure 12 (a reactor in particular), preferably closed and advantageously isolated from the atmosphere. The enclosure contains solid particles 14 and possibly a fluid (a gas in particular). The sampling device comprises a sampling head 16 for sampling solid particles inside this enclosure. This sampling head 16 is carried by a tubular body 18 with a longitudinal axis XX passing through the wall 20 of the enclosure 12. The sampling head 16 operates with a baffle principle which makes it possible to take a predetermined volume of solid particles from the enclosure 12 and to prevent the flow of a larger quantity.

[0141] This sampling head 16 comprises a cylindrical casing 22, here circular, with a longitudinal axis coincident with that of the tubular body 18, being closed in the upper part by a cover 24 and in the lower part by a bottom 26. The cover 24 as well as the bottom 26 each have a notch 28, 28' in the shape of an angular sector (the shape of which is better visible in FIG. 2). The notch 28 of the cover 24 is the collection notch for recovering the solid particles from the enclosure, while the notch 28' of the bottom 26 is the transfer notch.

[0142] The interior of the cylindrical casing 22 houses a closure means, here in the form of a cup 30. This cup 30 has a diameter which corresponds substantially to that of the interior of the cylindrical casing 22 and a height substantially equal to that of this cylindrical casing 22 so as to allow the free rotation of this cup 30 inside the cylindrical casing 22 and between the cover 24 and the bottom 26. This cup 30 carries a recess 32 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and passing right through the cup 30 (better visible in Figures 2 and 3). Advantageously, the recess 32 has a cross-section in the form of an angular sector whose shape corresponds to the notches 28 and 28' of the angular sector of the cover 24 and the bottom 26.Preferably, the notch 28 of the cover 24 has dimensions and a sector angle smaller than the recess 32 of the cup 30 while the notch 28' of the bottom 26 has dimensions and a sector angle larger than those of the recess 32 of the cup 30. The volume of the cup defines the predetermined volume of the sampling head.

[0143] The tubular body 18 of the sampling device is advantageously inclined at an angle a of 45° relative to the horizontal in the enclosure 12, so as to facilitate the transfer of solid particles by gravity.

[0144] The tubular body 18 comprises an upper tubular extension 44, here of circular shape, which penetrates partly inside the enclosure 12 and which supports the sample collection head 16 to collect the solid particles contained in this enclosure 12. This tubular body 18 also comprises a lower tubular extension 46 which contains the various control means 48 for controlling the rotation of the bucket 30 allowing the collection of the sample.

[0145] The lower tubular extension 46 also contains a deflector 50 housed and fixed inside this lower tubular extension 46 to direct the sample taken towards a tubular conduit 52 leading to the valve V1 then to an airlock 54.

[0146] The deflector 50 has a deflecting surface 56 carried by a tubular sleeve 58 with an angle of 25° relative to the vertical allowing the gravitational flow of the solid particles collected towards the airlock. This deflector 50 also comprises a fixing base 60 on the lower end of the tubular body 18 as well as a longitudinal axial bore 62 starting from the deflecting surface and arriving at the base 60 in order to allow the passage of the means for controlling the rotation of the bucket.

[0147] The airlock 54 is connected to three valves V1, V2, V3. A tubular part 55a connects the airlock 54 to the third valve V3 for the evacuation of a fluid (forming part of the sample taken with the solid particles, this fluid also being contained in the enclosure 12) towards a torch or a fluid collection line.

[0148] Another tubular part 55 connects the airlock 54 to the first valve V1 and to the second valve V2. The tubular parts 55 and 55a are substantially orthogonal.

[0149] The tubular conduit 52 leading to the first valve V1 is provided with a fixing flange 64 for assembly on a base 66 fixed on the outside of the wall 20 and surrounding a passage hole 68 for the upper tubular extension 44.

[0150] The tubular conduit 52 is oriented at a non-zero angle p relative to the axis XX of the body.

[0151] The rotation control means 48 of the bucket 30 comprise a drive rod 70 which passes through the entire tubular body 18 as well as the deflector 50, extending from this bucket 30 to the outside of the lower end of the tubular body 18 to be connected to an operating lever 72 placed outside the tubular body.

[0152] The upper end of this rod 70 is connected to the bucket 30 through the bore 38 by any known means, such as by screwing or by a male-female fitting, while the lower end of this rod 70 is fixedly connected to the operating lever 72, preferably by keying and screwing. Thus, the manipulation of the operating lever 72 in rotation causes the bucket 30 to move in rotation.

[0153] Advantageously, a circular plate 74 is housed between the operating lever 72 and the lower end of the tubular body 18 while being fixed to the base of the deflector 50. This fixing can for example be ensured by a system combining studs and nuts, which thus makes it possible to prevent the circular plate 74 from rotating when the operating lever 72 is actuated.

[0154] In addition, a sealing device 76, more commonly called a stuffing box, is housed between the rod 70 and the bore 62. This sealing device 76 thus makes it possible to absorb the temperature and pressure differences between the enclosure 12 and the external environment.

[0155] Furthermore, the person skilled in the art is aware of other equipment which can be installed on the system, such as a cable gland, in particular through the information contained in patent application FR 3,007, 137 A1.

[0156] To produce the sampling device, the bucket 30 is housed in the cylindrical casing 22. The base 26 is then attached to this subassembly by making the bore 38 correspond with the drilling 42 of the base 26. The cover 24 is then attached with the pin 34 matching the blind bore 36. The cover 24 and the base 26 are fixed to the cylindrical casing 22 by any known means, such as screwing or welding.

[0157] Then, the assembly formed by the rod 70, the circular plate 74 with stops (not shown), a torsion spring (not shown) and the operating lever 72 which controls the bucket 30 through the rod 70, is introduced into the lower tubular extension 46.

[0158] During this introduction, the end of the rod 70 is brought to cooperate in rotation with the bore 38 of the bucket 30 while being integral with this bucket. Once this is done, the circular plate 74 is fixed on the deflector 50.

[0159] Once this assembly has been completed, the tubular body 18 carrying the sampling head 16 is introduced into the enclosure 12 through the passage hole 68 and is fixed to the sole 66 by any known means, such as by bolting. The valve V1 is then attached and fixed to the tubular conduit 52 connected to the tubular body 18, then the airlock 54 is fixed to the other end of the valve V1.

[0160] A second valve V2 is fixed downstream of the airlock 54 and a third valve V3 is fixed on the tubular part 55a of the airlock 54.

[0161] At least one of the valves V1 or V2 is a capacitive valve, preferably at least the valve V1. This capacitive valve has (or these capacitive valves have) a capacity located in the valve plug capable of receiving the predetermined volume of solid particles collected by the sampling head 16. In this way, the solid particles are directly stored in the capacity of the valve without coming into contact with the surface of the plug and that of the seat which serve for sealing.

[0162] Preferably, the two valves V1 and V2 are capacitive valves capable of directly receiving solid particles in the cavity of the valve by gravity.

[0163] Valve V3 is a valve designed to evacuate the fluid that has been collected along with the solid particles in the enclosure. This valve V3 is not a capacitive valve because the fluid does not generate erosion when handling valve V3.

[0164] A single-acting pneumatic cylinder 90 can be used. This single-acting pneumatic cylinder 90 is provided with a cam 92 in the shape of an ogive which is integral with the piston 94 whose stroke is limited by construction. The cylinder is returned by a spring 96 integrated therein.

[0165] The cam 92 is in contact with the operating lever 72. When the output command of the cylinder 90 is given, the pressure in the appropriate chamber of this cylinder generates an output translational movement of the piston 94. This translational movement causes the rotation of the operating lever 72 by means of the cam 92 secured to the piston 94.

[0166] Since the cylinder has a stroke limitation by design, the system limits the angular travel of the operating lever 72.

[0167] It should be noted that the sampling device can be operated manually at any time and at any stage of operation of the jack 90.

[0168] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, the bucket 30 and the cylindrical casing 22 of the sampling head which operates with a baffle principle which makes it possible to take a determined quantity of solid particles and to prevent the flow of a larger quantity.

[0169] This head comprises a cylindrical casing 22, here circular, with a longitudinal axis coincident with that of the tubular body, being closed in the upper part by a cover and in the lower part by a bottom. The cover and the bottom each have a notch 28, 28' in the shape of an angular sector (a) and (a').

[0170] The interior of the cylindrical casing 22 houses a cup 30, which constitutes a means of closure, with a longitudinal axis coincident with that of the cylindrical casing 22. This cup 30 has a diameter which corresponds substantially to that of the interior of the cylindrical casing 22 and a height substantially equal to that of this cylindrical casing 22 so as to allow the free rotation of this cup inside the cylindrical casing 22 and between the cover and the bottom.

[0171] This bucket 30 carries a recess 32 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and passing right through the bucket 30. Advantageously, the recess 32 has a cross-section in the form of an angular sector (b) whose shape corresponds to the angular sector of the cover and the base.

[0172] The notch 28 of angular sector (a) of the cover and the notch 28' of angular sector (a') of the bottom are offset relative to each other, here offset diametrically, so that there cannot be any communication via the recess 32 of angular sector (b) formed in the cup 30, the recess 32 extending axially.

[0173] Preferably, the notch 28 of the cover is formed on an angular sector (a) whose angle is smaller than the angle of the angular sector (b) of the recess 32 of the bucket 30. The notch 28' of the bottom is formed on an angular sector (a') whose angle is larger than the angle of the angular sector (b) of the recess 32 of the bucket 30. The volume of this recess 32 thus makes it possible to determine the predetermined volume of the solid particles collected.

[0174] This bucket 30 carries on its upper flat face a positioning pin 34 coaxial with the axis of the bucket 30 and which cooperates with a blind bore provided on the internal face of the cover. On its lower flat face, the bucket 30 carries a bore 38 for connection with the control means (a rod in particular).

[0175] As best illustrated in particular in FIG. 2, the recess 32 of the bucket can have several positions, dependent on the position of the operating lever.

[0176] More precisely, the recess 32 may have a collection position P1 in which this recess 32 coincides with the notch 28. In this collection position P1, a sample of solid particles of volume equal to that of the internal volume of the recess 32 of the bucket is transferred by gravity from the closed enclosure to the recess 32 of the bucket, then closed in the lower part by the solid face of the bottom.

[0177] The discharge position P2, which is here diametrically opposite to that of the collection position P1, corresponds to that where the recess 32 coincides with the notch 28' of the bottom with the transfer by gravity of the sample of solid particles from the recess 32 to the tubular body of the sampling device, the notch 28 of the cover then being closed by the upper solid face of the bucket.

[0178] The neutral position N is an intermediate position between the collection position P1 and the discharge position P2. The neutral position N shown forms an angle (d) with the collection position P1. In the neutral position N shown, the recess 32 is not opposite the collection notch 28 of the cover. Therefore, in this neutral position N, it is not possible to take a sample.

[0179] Also illustrated in Figure 2 is a rest position P3 in which the operating lever comes to bear on a fixed stop (not shown) with a position of the recess 32 of the bucket which does not allow communication between the notches 28 and 28'.

[0180] Thus, when rotating the lever and consequently the bucket between position N and position P3, there is an angular range (c), called the empty stroke, during which no solid sample is taken.

[0181] Figure 4 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a first type of capacitive valve 110 for the sampling device of the invention.

[0182] This capacitive valve 1 10 comprises an inlet pipe 100 and an outlet pipe 104. The inlet and outlet could of course be reversed but to operate in gravity mode, with the transfer of solid particles by gravity, it is preferable that the inlet is positioned above the outlet and that preferably the inlet pipe 100 and the outlet pipe 104, at the level of the connections with the capacitive valve 1 10, are at the vertical axis.

[0183] The capacitive valve 110 comprises a housing 101 (also called a valve body) rigidly fixed to the inlet pipe 103 and to the outlet pipe 104.

[0184] Inside the housing 101, there is a ball valve 102 (here a ball valve, the capacitive valve 110 shown therefore being a capacitive ball valve) movable (in rotation here) in the housing 101. The rotation of the ball valve 102 allows the manipulation of the capacitive valve 110. This rotation is driven by the manipulation of the handle 105. To do this, a shaft 108 serves as a mechanical connection between the handle 105 and the ball valve 102 by being rigidly fixed to the handle 105 and the ball valve 102.

[0185] Preferably, the shaft 108 is pivotally connected about the axis 107 which passes through the center of the ball valve 102. When the handle 105 is manipulated, the shaft 108 rotates about the axis 107 and drives the ball valve in rotation about the axis 107.

[0186] The valve 102 comprises a capacity 106 formed by a hollow cavity (here a bore) inside the valve 102.

[0187] The sealing of the capacitive valve 110 is ensured both upstream of the valve (at the inlet) and downstream of the valve at the outlet thanks to the contact between the plug 102 and the first seat 103a positioned upstream of the capacitive valve 110 (therefore above the plug) and between the plug 102 and the second seat 103b positioned downstream of the capacitive valve 110 (therefore below the plug).

[0188] In the position as illustrated in the figure, the capacitive valve 110 is in the sampling position, that is to say that the capacity 106 of the valve is opposite the inlet so as to allow the collection of the solid particles sampled by the sampling head of the sampling device, under the effect of gravity. In other words, in the sampling position, the capacity 106 is positioned on the upper part of the valve 102 so as to receive the solid particles.

[0189] Conversely, in the discharge position, the valve 102 will have rotated 180° around the axis 107, the capacity 106 will then be in the lower part of the valve 102 to discharge the solid particles under the effect of gravity. The capacity 106 will then be opposite the outlet of the capacitive valve 110.

[0190] This type of capacitive valve 110 with two seats upstream and downstream allows for increased sealing. In addition, this configuration allows for an offset shaft 108 (located on one side of the plug 102) and not a through shaft. Of course, the handle 105 could be replaced by other means of actuating the capacitive valve 110, for example automatic actuating means.

[0191] When the capacitive valve 110 is used instead of the valve V1 of FIG. 1, the inlet pipe 100 is fixed to the tubular pipe 52 and the outlet pipe 104 is connected to the airlock by the tubular part 55.

[0192] When the capacitive valve 110 is used instead of the valve V2 of FIG. 1, the inlet pipe 100 is fixed to the tubular part 55 to connect the airlock and the outlet pipe 104 is left free.

[0193] Figure 5 illustrates, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, a second type of capacitive valve 110 for the sampling device of the invention.

[0194] This capacitive valve 1 10 comprises an inlet pipe 100 and an outlet pipe 104. The inlet and outlet could of course be reversed but to operate in gravity mode, with the transfer of solid particles by gravity, it is preferable that the inlet is positioned above the outlet and that preferably the inlet pipe 100 and the outlet pipe 104, at the level of the connections with the capacitive valve 1 10, are at the vertical axis.

[0195] The capacitive valve 110 comprises a housing 101 (also called a valve body) rigidly attached to the inlet pipe 100 and to the outlet pipe 104.

[0196] Inside the housing 101, there is a ball valve 102 (here a ball valve, the capacitive valve 110 shown therefore being a capacitive ball valve) movable (in rotation here) in the housing 101. The rotation of the ball valve 102 allows the manipulation of the capacitive valve 110. This rotation is driven by the manipulation of the handle 105. To do this, a shaft 108 serves as a mechanical connection between the handle 105 and the ball valve 102 by being rigidly fixed to the handle 105 and the ball valve 102.

[0197] Preferably, the shaft 108 is pivotally connected around the axis (not shown) which passes through the center of the ball valve 102. When the handle 105 is manipulated, the shaft 108 rotates around its axis and drives the ball valve in rotation around this axis.

[0198] The valve 102 comprises a capacity 106 formed by a hollow cavity (here a bore) inside the valve 102.

[0199] The sealing of the capacitive valve 110 is ensured only upstream of the capacitive valve 110 (at the inlet) thanks to the contact between the plug 102 and the seat 103a positioned upstream of the capacitive valve 110 (therefore above the plug). Unlike the capacitive valve of Figure 3, there is no seat downstream of the plug (opposite the valve outlet).

[0200] In the position as illustrated in the figure, the capacitive valve 110 is in the sampling position, that is to say that the capacity 106 of the valve is opposite the inlet so as to allow the collection of the solid particles sampled by the sampling head of the sampling device, under the effect of gravity. In other words, in the sampling position, the capacity 106 is positioned on the upper part of the valve 102 so as to receive the solid particles.

[0201] Conversely, in the discharge position, the valve 102 will have rotated 180° around the axis of the shaft 108, the capacity 106 will then be in the lower part of the valve 102 to discharge the solid particles under the effect of gravity. The capacity 106 will then be opposite the outlet of the capacitive valve 110.

[0202] This type of capacitive valve 110 with a single upstream seat preferably has a shaft 108 passing through the plug to improve the seal between the seat and the plug. The shaft 108 here comprises two coaxial parts 108a and 108b positioned on either side of the plug 102. To produce the plug 102 with the through shaft 108 in two parts 108a and 108b, it is possible, for example, to machine the plug / through shaft assembly from the mass. It is also possible to drill the plug to position the two shaft parts on either side, the other end of each shaft part being in pivot connection with the housing 101 to allow the rotational guidance of the plug 102.

[0203] Of course, the handle 105 could be replaced by other means of actuating the capacitive valve 110, for example automatic actuating means.

[0204] When the capacitive valve 110 is used instead of the valve V1 of FIG. 1, the inlet pipe 100 is fixed to the tubular pipe 52 and the outlet pipe 104 is connected to the airlock by the tubular part 55.

[0205] When the capacitive valve 110 is used instead of the valve V2 of FIG. 1, the inlet pipe 100 is fixed to the tubular part 55 to connect the airlock and the outlet pipe 104 is left free.

[0206] Figures 4 and 5 show capacitive ball valves, but other types of capacitive valves can be considered without departing from the scope of the invention. For these other types of capacitive valves, the ball can be movable in rotation as for the capacitive ball valves shown or be movable in translation or by a combination of rotation(s) and translation(s).

[0207] Figures 6 to 10 represent, in a schematic and non-limiting manner, different embodiments of the set of valves at the outlet of the tubular conduit of the device of the invention.

[0208] Figure 6 illustrates a first embodiment of the set of valves at the outlet of the tubular conduit.

[0209] This valve set includes two capacitive valves V1 and V2 and one non-capacitive valve V3.

[0210] In this figure, the inlet 121 of the first capacitive valve V1 is connected to the outlet of the tubular conduit of the sampling device. In the diagram, the first capacitive valve V1 is a two-seat valve, identical to the valve in Figure 4. This first capacitive valve V1 is shown in the sampling position, with the capacity opposite the inlet 121.

[0211] The output 122 of the first capacitive valve V1 is fixed to the airlock S1.

[0212] Airlock S1 includes two other exits:

[0213] - An outlet below the airlock S1 for the evacuation of solid particles by gravity. This outlet is connected to inlet 123 of the second capacitive valve V2.

[0214] An outlet substantially on the horizontal axis for the evacuation of a fluid, in particular a gas and more particularly a purge to depressurize the fluid. This outlet is connected to a tubular part 55a on which is fixed a second tubular part 55b via a flange 120. The second tubular part 55b leads to a non-capacitive valve V3 which can be connected to a torch or to a fluid collection tank.

[0215] The second capacitive valve V2 is a two-seat valve, identical to the valve in Figure 4, and identical to the first capacitive valve V1. This second capacitive valve V2 is shown in the sampling position, with the capacity opposite the inlet 123.

[0216] The outlet 124 of the second capacitive valve V2 is connected to a funnel 125 to discharge the solid particles into the container R.

[0217] This configuration can also be the result of a sampling device upgrade procedure where valves V1 and V2 were initially non-capacitive valves and were replaced by capacitive valves.

[0218] To recover the solid particles collected via the device's sampling head, the valves are operated as follows:

[0219] - The capacitive valves V1 and V2 are positioned in the sampling position (as shown in Figure 6) and the non-capacitive valve V3 is closed.

[0220] - The solid particles and any fluid contained in the predetermined volume taken from the sampling head arrive directly into the cavity of the first capacitive valve V1 by gravity.

[0221] - The first capacitive valve V1 is positioned in the evacuation position by rotating the valve 180° and the second capacitive valve V2 is kept in the sampling position and the third non-capacitive valve V3 closed: the solid particles will then fall directly into the cavity of the second capacity valve V2.

[0222] - The third non-capacitive valve V3 is opened to evacuate the fluid (particularly the gas) and / or depressurize it, then the third non-capacitive valve V3 is closed. During this operation, the second capacitive valve V2 remains in the sampling position while the first capacitive valve can remain in the evacuation position (preferred situation) or be repositioned in the sampling position.

[0223] - The second capacitive valve V2 is positioned in the discharge position by rotating the valve 180°: the solid particles will then fall into the funnel and then into the container R where the user can then collect them. During this operation, the third non-capacitive valve V3 remains closed while the first capacitive valve can remain in the discharge position (preferred situation) or be repositioned in the sampling position.

[0224] - Then the second capacitive valve V2 is repositioned in the sampling position and the first capacitive valve V1 is repositioned in the sampling position (if this operation has not already been carried out previously) and the third non-capacitive valve V3 is kept closed.

[0225] Figure 7 illustrates a second embodiment of the valve assembly at the outlet of the tubular conduit.

[0226] This valve set includes a single valve which is a capacitive valve V1.

[0227] This configuration can advantageously be implemented when the enclosure only comprises solid particles, when it comprises solid particles and a fluid at atmospheric pressure (no depressurization purge is then necessary) and preferably, when the enclosure does not comprise any toxic fluid.

[0228] In this figure, the inlet 121 of the single capacitive valve V1, which is also the only valve of the sampling device, is connected to the outlet of the tubular conduit of the sampling device. In the diagram, the single capacitive valve V1 is a two-seat valve, identical to the valve in Figure 4. This single capacitive valve V1 is shown in the collection position, with the capacity opposite the inlet 121.

[0229] The output of the single capacitive valve V1 allows the evacuation of solid particles directly to the container R.

[0230] In this configuration, the sampling device has only one capacitive valve and no non-capacitive valves.

[0231] To recover the solid particles collected via the device's sampling head, the single capacitive valve is operated as follows:

[0232] The single capacitive valve V1 is positioned in the sampling position (as shown in Figure 7).

[0233] The solid particles and any fluid contained in the predetermined volume taken from the sampling head arrive directly into the cavity of the single capacitive valve V1 by gravity.

[0234] - The first capacitive valve V1 is positioned in the evacuation position by rotating the valve 180°: the solid particles will then fall directly into the container R where the user can then collect them.

[0235] Then the single capacitive valve V1 is repositioned in the sampling position.

[0236] Figure 8 illustrates a third embodiment of the valve assembly at the outlet of the tubular conduit.

[0237] This valve set includes one capacitive valve V1 and two non-capacitive valves V2 and V3.

[0238] In this figure, the inlet 121 of the first capacitive valve V1 is connected to the outlet of the tubular conduit of the sampling device. In the diagram, the first capacitive valve V1 is a two-seat valve, identical to the valve in Figure 4. This first capacitive valve V1 is shown in the collection position, with the capacity opposite the inlet 121.

[0239] The output 122 of the first capacitive valve V1 is fixed to the airlock S1.

[0240] Airlock S1 includes two other exits:

[0241] - An outlet below the airlock S1 for the evacuation of solid particles by gravity. This outlet is connected to inlet 123 of the second non-capacitive valve V2.

[0242] An outlet substantially on the horizontal axis for the evacuation of a fluid, in particular a gas and more particularly a purge to depressurize the fluid. This outlet is connected to a tubular part 55a on which is fixed a second tubular part 55b via a flange 120. The second tubular part 55b leads to a non-capacitive valve V3 which can be connected to a torch or to a fluid collection tank.

[0243] The second non-capacitive valve V2 has a plug without an internal cavity.

[0244] The outlet 124 of the second capacitive valve V2 is connected to a funnel 125 to discharge the solid particles into the container R.

[0245] This configuration can also be the result of a sampling device upgrade procedure where valves V1 and V2 were initially non-capacitive valves and only valve V1 was replaced with a capacitive valve.

[0246] To recover the solid particles collected via the device's sampling head, the valves are operated as follows:

[0247] The only capacitive valve V1 is positioned in the sampling position (as shown in Figure 8) and the non-capacitive valves V2 and V3 are closed.

[0248] The solid particles and any fluid contained in the predetermined volume taken from the sampling head arrive directly into the cavity of the single capacitive valve V1 by gravity.

[0249] - The only capacitive valve V1 is positioned in the discharge position by rotating the valve through 180° and the second non-capacitive valve V2 and the third non-capacitive valve V3 are kept in the closed positions: the solid particles will then fall directly into the airlock S1 and end up upstream of the valve of the second non-capacitive valve V2 by gravity.

[0250] - The third non-capacitive valve V3 is opened to evacuate the fluid (particularly the gas) and / or depressurize it, then the third non-capacitive valve V3 is closed. During this operation, the second non-capacitive valve V2 remains closed while the first capacitive valve can remain in the evacuation position (preferred situation) or be repositioned in the sampling position.

[0251] - The second non-capacitive valve V2 is positioned in the open position by rotating the valve 180°: the solid particles will then pass through the valve, fall into the funnel and then into the container R where the user can then collect them. During this operation, the third non-capacitive valve V3 remains closed while the first capacitive valve can remain in the evacuation position (preferred situation) or be repositioned in the sampling position.

[0252] Then the second non-capacitive valve V2 is closed and the first capacitive valve V1 is repositioned in the sampling position (if this operation has not already been carried out previously) and the third non-capacitive valve V3 is kept closed.

[0253] Figure 9 illustrates a fourth embodiment of the valve assembly at the outlet of the tubular conduit.

[0254] This valve set includes a single capacitive valve V2 and two non-capacitive valves V1 and V3.

[0255] In this figure, the inlet 121 of the first non-capacitive valve V1 is connected to the outlet of the tubular conduit of the sampling device. In the diagram, the first non-capacitive valve V1 is a two-seat valve but other types of non-capacitive valves could be used. This first non-capacitive valve V1 is shown in the closed position.

[0256] The output 122 of the first non-capacitive valve V1 is fixed to the airlock S1.

[0257] Airlock S1 includes two other exits:

[0258] An outlet below airlock S1 for the evacuation of solid particles by gravity. This outlet is connected to inlet 123 of the second capacitive valve V2.

[0259] An outlet substantially on the horizontal axis for the evacuation of a fluid, in particular a gas and more particularly a purge to depressurize the fluid. This outlet is connected to a tubular part 55a on which is fixed a second tubular part 55b via a flange 120. The second tubular part 55b leads to a non-capacitive valve V3 which can be connected to a torch or to a fluid collection tank.

[0260] The second capacitive valve V2 is a two-seat valve, identical to the valve in Figure 4. This second capacitive valve V2 is shown in the sampling position, with the capacity opposite the inlet 123.

[0261] The outlet 124 of the second capacitive valve V2 is connected to a funnel 125 to discharge the solid particles into the container R.

[0262] This configuration can also be the result of a sampling device upgrade procedure where valves V1 and V2 were initially non-capacitive valves and only valve V2 was replaced by a capacitive valve.

[0263] To recover the solid particles collected via the device's sampling head, the valves are operated as follows:

[0264] - The only capacitive valve V2 is positioned in the sampling position (as shown in figure 9) and the non-capacitive valves V1 and V3 are closed.

[0265] - The solid particles and any fluid contained in the predetermined volume taken from the sampling head arrive directly upstream of the valve of the first capacitive valve V1 by gravity.

[0266] - The first non-capacitive valve V1 is positioned in the open position by rotating the valve and the second capacitive valve V2 is kept in the sampling position and the third non-capacitive valve V3 closed: the solid particles will then pass through the first capacitive valve V1 and then fall directly into the cavity of the second capacitive valve V2.

[0267] The first non-capacitive valve V1 is closed, the third non-capacitive valve V3 is kept closed and the second capacitive valve is kept in the sampling position.

[0268] - The third non-capacitive valve V3 is opened to evacuate the fluid (particularly the gas) and / or depressurize it, then the third non-capacitive valve V3 is closed. During this operation, the second capacitive valve V2 remains in the sampling position while the first non-capacitive valve V1 remains closed.

[0269] - The second capacitive valve V2 is positioned in the discharge position by rotating the valve through 180°: the solid particles will then fall into the funnel and then into the container R where the user can then recover them. During this operation, the first and third non-capacitive valves V1 and V3 remain closed. Then the second capacitive valve V2 is repositioned in the sampling position and the first and third non-capacitive valves V1 and V3 are kept closed. Figure 10 illustrates a fifth embodiment of the set of valves at the outlet of the tubular conduit.

[0270] This valve assembly includes two capacitive valves V1 and V2 and does not include an airlock or fluid discharge line.

[0271] This configuration can advantageously be implemented when the enclosure only comprises solid particles, when it comprises solid particles and a fluid at atmospheric pressure (no depressurization purge is then necessary) and preferably, when the enclosure does not comprise any toxic fluid.

[0272] In this figure, the inlet 121 of the first capacitive valve V1 is connected to the outlet of the tubular conduit of the sampling device. In the diagram, the first capacitive valve V1 is a two-seat valve, identical to the valve in Figure 4. This first capacitive valve V1 is shown in the sampling position, with the capacity opposite the inlet 121.

[0273] The output 122 of the first capacitive valve V1 is attached directly to the input of the second capacitive valve V2.

[0274] The second capacitive valve V2 is a two-seat valve, identical to the valve in Figure 4, and identical to the first capacitive valve V1. This second capacitive valve V2 is shown in the sampling position, with the capacity opposite the outlet 122 of the first capacitive valve V1 (which corresponds to the inlet of the second capacitive valve V2).

[0275] The outlet 124 of the second capacitive valve V2 is connected to a funnel 125 to discharge the solid particles into the container R.

[0276] In this configuration, the sampling device has only capacitive valves and no non-capacitive valves.

[0277] To recover the solid particles collected via the device's sampling head, the valves are operated as follows:

[0278] - The capacitive valves V1 and V2 are positioned in the sampling position (as shown in figure 10).

[0279] - The solid particles and any fluid contained in the predetermined volume taken from the sampling head arrive directly into the cavity of the first capacitive valve V1 by gravity.

[0280] - The first capacitive valve V1 is positioned in the evacuation position by rotating the valve 180° and the second capacitive valve V2 is kept in the sampling position: the solid particles will then fall directly into the cavity of the second capacity valve V2.

[0281] - The second capacitive valve V2 is positioned in the evacuation position by rotating the valve 180°: the solid particles will then fall into the funnel and then into the container R where the user can then collect them. During this operation, the first capacitive valve V1 can remain in the evacuation position (preferred situation) or be repositioned in the sampling position.

[0282] - Then the second capacitive valve V2 is repositioned in the sampling position and the first capacitive valve V1 is repositioned in the sampling position (if this operation has not already been carried out previously).

[0283] In Figures 6 to 10, the capacitive valves are represented by capacitive ball valves but other types of capacitive valves could be used instead of the capacitive ball valves, without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

Demands 1. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12), the sampling device (10) comprising a tubular body (18) carrying a sampling head (16), the sampling head (16) being configured to sample by gravity a predetermined volume of solid particles (14) from said closed enclosure (12), the sampling device (10) comprising a tubular conduit (52) fixed to the tubular body (18) and forming a non-zero angle with the tubular body (18), the tubular body (18) comprising a deflector (50) for diverting the solid particles (14) into the tubular conduit (52), characterized in that the sampling device (10) comprises a first capacitive valve for the evacuation of solid particles positioned downstream of the tubular conduit (52), in the direction of flow of the solid particles (14) in the sampling device (10).

2. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12) according to claim 1, wherein the volume of the capacity (106) of the first capacitive valve is greater than said predetermined volume, preferably the volume of the capacity (106) of the first capacitive valve is at least 1.05 times, and even more preferably at least 1.15 times, said predetermined volume.

3. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first capacitive valve comprises a single seat (103a) and a capacitive plug (102), the single seat (103a) being upstream of the capacitive plug (102).

4. Device for sampling solid particles from a closed enclosure according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first capacitive valve comprises a first seat (103a), a second seat (103b) and a capacitive plug (102), the first seat (103a) being upstream of the capacitive plug (102) and the second seat (103b) being downstream of the capacitive plug (102).

5. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first capacitive valve is selected from capacitive spherical valves, capacitive tapered plug valves or capacitive cylindrical plug valves.

6. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sampling device (10) comprises a second valve downstream of the tubular conduit (52) for the evacuation of solid particles (14), the second valve being upstream or downstream of the first capacitive valve, the first capacitive valve and the second valve being connected to each other directly or via an airlock (S1).

7. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12) according to claim 6, wherein the sampling device (10) includes a locking key to prevent simultaneous operation of the first capacitive valve and the second valve.

8. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12) according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the airlock (S1) is connected to a third valve (V3) for the evacuation of a fluid, the fluid being contained within the predetermined volume.

9. Device for sampling (10) solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the second valve is a second capacitive valve, the first capacitive valve and the second capacitive valve preferably being identical.

10. System comprising a closed enclosure (12) comprising solid particles (14), and a sampling device (10) for solid particles (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, the system being intended for one of the following applications: sampling of catalysts in an oil refining unit, in a gas or biomass processing unit, in a renewable fuel production unit, in a reforming unit, in a Fischer-Tropsch unit or in an alcohol-to-olefin dehydration unit.

1. A method for sampling solid particles from a closed enclosure using a sampling device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least the following steps are carried out: - A predetermined volume comprising solid particles (14) is taken from the closed enclosure (12) by the sampling head (16); - The predetermined volume taken from the capacity (102) of the first capacitive valve in the sampling position is conveyed; - The first capacitive valve is actuated to evacuate the predetermined volume including the solid particles (14) from the first capacitive valve and the first capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position once the predetermined volume has been evacuated.

12. A method for sampling solid particles from a closed enclosure using a sampling device (10) according to claim 8, the first capacitive valve being positioned upstream of the second capacitive valve, wherein at least the following steps are carried out: - A predetermined volume comprising solid particles (14) is taken from the closed enclosure (12) by the sampling head (16); - The predetermined volume taken from the capacity (102) of the first capacitive valve in the sampling position is conveyed; - The first capacitive valve is activated to evacuate the predetermined volume to the airlock (S1) or directly to the second capacitive valve in the sampling position, and once the predetermined volume has been evacuated, the first capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position; - When the determined volume is evacuated to the airlock (S1), preferably a fluid contained within the volume determined by the third valve (V3) is evacuated, which is opened and closed once the fluid has been evacuated; - The second capacitive valve is actuated to discharge the solid particles (14) contained in the predetermined volume into a container (R), and once the solid particles (14) have been discharged, the second capacitive valve is repositioned in the sampling position. Method for leveling a sampling device (10) for solid particles (14) from a closed enclosure (12), the sampling device (10) comprising a tubular body (18) carrying a sampling head (16), the sampling head (16) being configured to collect by gravity a predetermined volume of solid particles (14) from said closed enclosure (12), the sampling device (10) comprising a tubular conduit (52) fixed to the tubular body (18) and forming a non-zero angle with the tubular body (18), the tubular body (18) comprising a deflector (50) to divert the solid particles (14) into the tubular conduit (52),the sampling device (10) comprising at least one valve downstream of the tubular conduit (52), the method comprising a step in which at least one valve downstream of the tubular conduit (52) is replaced by a capacitive valve (110) to obtain a sampling device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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