Fluid connection configured for corrosion detection, continuous flow reactor comprising such a fluid connection, and method for using such a fluid connection

Abstract

A fluid fitting configured for corrosion detection is described. The fluid fitting comprises a body (104) extending along a central axis (108) between its opposite end faces. The body includes a first body section (116) with a first contact surface (120) and a second body section (124) with a second contact surface (128) assembled to the first contact surface at a first connecting joint (132) comprising the connecting material. The fluid fitting further includes a connecting passage (136) extending through the body and opening at the opposite end faces. The first connecting joint interrupts the connecting passage and extends from the connecting passage to a peripheral surface of the body over a detection distance. A continuous flow reactor is also described. The continuous flow reactor comprises a flow module and the fluid fitting.The fluid fitting connection passage and the flow module passage are connected, fluidically, via a flow path. Figure 1.

Description

Title of the invention: FLUID FITTING CONFIGURED FOR CORROSION DETECTION, CONTINUOUS FLOW REACTOR COMPRISING SUCH A FLUID FITTING AND METHOD FOR USING SUCH A FLUID FITTING Domain

[0001] This disclosure relates to corrosion detection. In particular, this disclosure relates to fluid fittings configured to detect corrosion in continuous flow reactors configured to carry fluids that are corrosive to reactor components. Context

[0002] Continuous flow reactors may include flow modules that have connecting joints formed from a bonding material. Continuous flow reactors may process fluids that are corrosive to the bonding material of the connecting joints, and the connecting joints may be exposed to corrosive fluids. While the corrosion resistance of some connecting materials is known, the corrosion resistance of others is not. Therefore, it is advantageous to provide a fluid connection with a connecting joint that is formed from the same bonding material as the flow modules, that may be exposed to the same corrosive fluids as the flow modules, and that is configured to show signs of corrosion before such corrosion affects the safety and / or performance of the flow modules of the continuous flow reactors. Summary

[0003] According to aspect (1), a fluid fitting is proposed. The fluid fitting comprises: a body extending along a central axis between its opposite end faces, the body comprising a first body section with a first contact surface and a second body section with a second contact surface assembled to the first contact surface at a first connecting joint comprising the connecting material; and a fitting passage extending through the body and opening on the opposite end faces, in which the first connecting joint cuts the fitting passage and extends from the fitting passage to a peripheral surface of the body over a sensing distance.

[0004] According to aspect (2), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (1), in which the first and second contact surfaces are coextensive with a plane along which the first connecting joint extends through the body.

[0005] According to aspect (3), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (2), in which the first connecting joint extends entirely through the body along the plane.

[0006] According to aspect (4), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (2) or aspect (3), in which the first connecting joint is aligned with the central axis so that the first and second body sections are configured as first and second longitudinal body sections.

[0007] According to aspect (5), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (2) or aspect (3), in which the first connecting joint is perpendicular to the central axis so that the first and second body sections are configured as first and second axial body sections.

[0008] According to aspect (6), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (5), in which the first connecting joint is disposed approximately halfway between the opposite end faces of the body.

[0009] According to aspect (7), the fluid connection is proposed according to any one of the aspects (1) to (6), in which the connection passage is concentric with the central axis.

[0010] According to aspect (8), the fluid fitting is proposed according to any one of aspects (1) to (7), further comprising: a threaded bore extending through at least a part of the first and second body sections and oriented transversely with respect to the first and second contact surfaces; and a fastener engaged, by threading, with the threaded bore.

[0011] According to aspect (9), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (8), in which the threaded bore comprises a plurality of threaded bores, and the fastener comprises a plurality of fasteners, each configured to engage, by threading, a corresponding threaded bore.

[0012] According to aspect (10), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (9), in which each threaded bore opens, on one side, onto the peripheral surface, and in which at least two threaded bores open onto the peripheral surface in opposite directions.

[0013] According to aspect (11), the fluid connection is proposed according to any one of aspects (1) to (10), wherein the bonding material comprises one or more of a carbide material and a nitride material.

[0014] According to aspect (12), the fluid fitting according to aspect (11) is proposed, in which the bonding material comprises a boron carbide material.

[0015] According to aspect (13), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (11) or aspect (12), in which the carbide material and the nitride material are formed by heating a carbide powder and a nitride powder, respectively, to a bonding temperature for a bonding time.

[0016] According to aspect (14), the fluid fitting is proposed according to any one of aspects (1) to (13), in which the body of the fluid fitting comprises metal.

[0017] According to aspect (15), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (14), in which the metal is stainless steel.

[0018] According to aspect (16), the fluid connection is proposed according to any one of aspects (1) to (15), in which the peripheral surface has a circular shape when observed in a cross-section oriented substantially normal to the central axis.

[0019] According to aspect (17), the fluid connection is proposed according to any one of aspects (1) to (16), in which each end face of the body has one or more surface parts oriented substantially normally with respect to the central axis.

[0020] According to aspect (18), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (17), in which one or more surface parts are annular surface parts that encircle the central axis.

[0021] According to aspect (19), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (17) or aspect (18), in which the one or more surface parts comprise an internal surface part disposed near the fitting passage and an external surface part radially spaced from the internal surface part and disposed near the peripheral surface.

[0022] According to aspect (20), the fluid fitting is proposed according to aspect (19), in which the internal surface part and the external surface part define an annular groove between them.

[0023] According to aspect (21), a continuous flow reactor is proposed. The continuous flow reactor comprises: the fluid connection according to any one of aspects (1) to (20);a flow module comprising (i) first and second plates assembled at a second bonding joint comprising the bonding material and (ii) a module passage disposed in the flow module, wherein the second bonding joint intersects the module passage and extends from the latter for at least a critical distance, wherein the fluid fitting connection passage and the flow module passage are connected, fluidically, via a flow path along which the fluid, which is corrosive to the bonding material, is configured to be transported in a processing direction through the continuous flow reactor, thereby exposing the bonding material of the first and second bonding joints to the corrosive fluid, wherein the detection distance of the first bonding joint is shorter than the critical distance of the second bonding joint.

[0024] According to aspect (22), the continuous flow reactor according to aspect (21) is proposed, in which the detection distance is less than or equal to approximately 80% of the critical distance.

[0025] According to aspect (23), the continuous flow reactor according to aspect (21) is proposed, in which the detection distance is less than or equal to approximately 60% of the critical distance.

[0026] According to aspect (24), the continuous flow reactor is proposed according to any one of aspects (21) to (23), in which the critical distance is in a range of about 5 mm to about 15 mm.

[0027] According to aspect (25), the continuous flow reactor is proposed according to any one of aspects (21) to (23), in which the critical distance is in a range of about 7 mm to about 13 mm.

[0028] According to aspect (26), the continuous flow reactor is proposed according to any one of aspects (21) to (25), wherein the flow module includes a module orifice extending between opposite major external surfaces of the first and second plates and intersecting the module passage, and wherein one of the opposite end faces of the fluid fitting is configured to abut against the major external surface of one of the first and second plates and to directly connect the fitting passage of the fluid fitting to the module passage of the flow module.

[0029] According to aspect (27), the continuous flow reactor is proposed according to any one of aspects (21) to (26), further comprising an additional flow module configured in the same manner as the flow module, the additional flow module being arranged downstream of the flow module along the flow path, in which the fluid fitting is configured to be positioned along the flow path according to the following proposals: (i) upstream of the flow module, (ii) between the flow module and the additional flow module and (iii) downstream of the additional flow module.

[0030] According to aspect (28), the continuous flow reactor according to aspect (27) is proposed, further comprising an additional fluid fitting configured in the same way as the fluid fitting, the additional fluid fitting positioned along the flow path differently from the way in which the fluid fitting is positioned along the flow path.

[0031] According to aspect (29), a method is proposed for detecting corrosion in the continuous flow reactor according to any one of aspects (21) to (28). The method comprises: actuation of the continuous flow reactor by allowing the fluid to flow along the flow path through the fluid fitting and the flow module; monitoring the peripheral surface of the fluid fitting for the fluid index which leaks through the first connecting joint during flow; and the detection of corrosion in the continuous flow reactor when the index is present on the peripheral surface.

[0032] According to aspect (30), the method according to aspect (29) is proposed, further comprising: stopping the operation of the continuous flow reactor when corrosion is detected via the fluid connection; and checking the flow module for corrosion. Brief description of the drawings

[0033] Various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and merely illustrate exemplary embodiments of this disclosure to facilitate understanding of this disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings should not be considered as limiting the scope, extent, or applicability of this disclosure. It should be noted that, for clarity and ease of illustration, these drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0034] [Fig. 1] The [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of a fluid fitting with a longitudinal connecting joint comprising the connecting material according to one or more embodiments;

[0035] [Fig.2] Fig.2 is a perspective view of another fluid connection with a longitudinal connecting joint comprising the bonding material according to one or more embodiments;

[0036] [Fig.3] The [Fig.3] is an exploded view of the fluid fitting of the [Fig.2];

[0037] [Fig.4] Fig.4 is yet another perspective view of a fluid connection with an axial connecting joint comprising the connecting material according to one or more embodiments;

[0038] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] is an exploded view of the fluid fitting of the [Fig.4];

[0039] [Fig.6] Fig.6 is an axial section taken through the fluid fitting of the [Fig.l] representing a first configuration of the threaded bores;

[0040] [Fig.7] The [Fig.7] is an axial section taken through the fluid fitting of the [Fig.l] representing a second configuration of threaded bores;

[0041] [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is a digital image of a separate preform to illustrate a step in a process for manufacturing a fluid fitting with a connecting joint comprising the connecting material according to one or more embodiments;

[0042] [Fig.9] Fig.9 is a digital image illustrating another step in the process of [Fig.8] representing discrete preform body sections clamped together via threaded bores and corresponding fasteners;

[0043] [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] is a schematic illustration of first and second modified preform body sections which can be used during a subsequent joining step when threaded bores are not provided in the preform body sections;

[0044] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is a schematic illustration of a device which can be used during a subsequent joining step when threaded bores are not provided in the preform body sections;

[0045] [Fig. 12] The [Fig. 12] is a digital image of two fluid fittings which have undergone finishing machining to obtain their target or final dimensions according to one or more embodiments;

[0046] [Fig. 13] The [Fig. 13] is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating aspects of a flow module with a connecting joint comprising a bonding material according to one or more embodiments;

[0047] [Fig. 14], [Fig. 15], [Fig. 16] Figures 14 to 16 are schematic cross-sectional representations comparing a connecting joint without corrosion problems to connecting joints with corrosion problems;

[0048] [Fig. 17] [Fig. 17] schematically illustrates a continuous flow reactor comprising the fluid connection according to any one of Figures 1 to 7, connected, in a fluidic manner, to one or more flow modules; and

[0049] [Fig. 18] The [Fig. 18] is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method for detecting corrosion in the continuous flow reactor according to claim 17. Detailed description

[0050] To facilitate understanding of the disclosure principles, reference is now made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described in the following written memorandum. It should be understood that no limitations are therefore foreseen on the scope of the disclosure. It should also be understood that this disclosure includes any changes or modifications to the illustrated embodiments and other applications of the principles stated herein, as would normally occur to a person skilled in the art to whom this disclosure pertains.

[0051] As used herein, the term "and / or," when used in a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items may be used on its own, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition may contain A alone; B alone; C alone; or A and B together. combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B and C in combination.

[0052] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, superior and inferior and the like are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, without necessarily requiring or implying a true relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0053] As used herein, the term "approximately" means that values, dimensions, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not exact and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or higher or lower, as necessary, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement error, and the like, and other factors known to those skilled in the art. When the term "approximately" is used to describe a value or a range boundary, the disclosure should not be construed as including the specific value or boundary to which reference is made. Whether a numeric value or a range boundary in the specification mentions "approximately" or not, the numeric value or range boundary is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by "approximately" and one unmodified by "approximately."It is also important to understand that the boundaries of each range are significant both in relation to the other boundary and independently of the other boundary.

[0054] Concentrations, values, and other numerical data may be expressed or presented here in a range format. It should be understood that such a range format is used simply for convenience and conciseness and should therefore be interpreted flexibly as including not only the numerical values ​​explicitly stated as the limits of the range, but also as including all individual numerical values ​​or subranges encompassed within that range, as if each numerical value and subrange were explicitly stated. By way of illustration, a numerical range "from about 1 to about 5" should be interpreted as including not only the explicitly stated values ​​from about 1 to about 5, but also as including the individual values ​​and subranges within the stated range.Thus, within this numerical range, we find individual values ​​such as 2, 3, and 4, subranges such as 1 to 3, 2 to 4, 3 to 5, etc., as well as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 individually. The same principle applies to ranges specifying only a numerical value as a minimum or maximum. Furthermore, such an interpretation must apply regardless of the extent of the range or the characteristics described by the range.

[0055] The terms "sensible", "sensible" and their variants, as used herein, unless otherwise indicated in association with specific terms or expressions, are These terms are intended to indicate that a described characteristic is equal to or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially flat" surface is intended to denote a surface that is flat or approximately flat. Furthermore, "substantially" is intended to denote that two values ​​are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, "substantially" can indicate values ​​within approximately 10% of each other, within approximately 5% of each other, or within approximately 2% of each other.

[0056] Directional terms, such as those used herein - for example up, down, right, left, front, back, superior, inferior, above, below and the like - are made only with reference to the figures as drawn and are not intended to imply an absolute orientation.

[0057] As used herein, the terms "the", "a" or "one" mean "at least one" and are not to be limited to "only one", unless otherwise specified. Thus, for example, a reference to "a component" includes embodiments having two or more of these components, unless otherwise specified.

[0058] Figures 1 to 7 illustrate different embodiments of a fluid fitting 100, configured for corrosion detection. To distinguish the embodiments, the elements of the fluid fitting embodiments that are identical or substantially similar are identified with the same reference number and accompanied by a letter (e.g., a, b, c, etc.) to indicate the embodiment. For example, one embodiment might use the letter "a", a second embodiment might use the letter "b", and so on. Conversely, the elements of the fluid fitting embodiments that are different or unique from one embodiment to another may be identified with a unique reference number, with or without a letter indicating the embodiment to which it is attached.

[0059] Figures 1, 6 and 7 illustrate a first embodiment 100a of the fluid fitting 100, Figures 2 and 3 illustrate a second embodiment 100b of the fluid fitting 100 and Figures 4 and 5 illustrate a third embodiment 100c of the fluid fitting 100. As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c comprises a body 104, 104a, 104b, 104c which extends along a central axis 108 between its opposite end faces 112, 112a, 112b, 112c. In some aspects, the body 104, 104a, 104b, 104c of the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c comprises a metal, ceramic, glass, or plastic material. In some aspects where the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c comprises a metal or metallic material, the metal is stainless steel, such as 316L stainless steel, which has high corrosion resistance. and is readily available in various thicknesses and sizes. Other stainless steel alloys can also be used, including Hastelloy®, as well as other metals.

[0060] The body 104, 104a, 104b, 104c of the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c comprises a first body section 116, 116a, 116b, 116c with a first contact surface 120, 120a, 120b, 120c and a second body section 124, 124a, 124b, 124c with a second contact surface 128, 128a, 128b, 128c. The first contact surface 120, 120a, 120b, 120c and the second contact surface 128, 128a, 128b, 128c are assembled at a first bonding joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c. As described later in this disclosure, the first bonding joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c includes a bonding material, such as a fusion material or an adhesive, which is bonded to and / or between the first contact surface 120, 120a, 120b, 120c and the second contact surface 128, 128a, 128b, 128c.

[0061] As used herein, the term "bonding material" refers to any material that can assemble or join separate bodies or surfaces in a manner sufficient to enable the bodies or surfaces to perform their intended functions. In some aspects, the bonding material may have at least two states, such as a first or initial state (unbonded) and a second or final state (bonded). In the initial unbonded state, the bonding material is configured (or can be configured by combination with other materials and / or changes in the environment, such as heating) to be readily applied to the bodies or surfaces to be assembled or joined. For example, the bonding material, in its initial unbonded state, may be in the form of (i) a loose powder, particulate matter, or particles, (ii) a viscous paste, (iii) a liquid (curable), and other forms.In the final bonded state, the bonding material is configured to be a substantially fixed, solid or relatively solid volume of material that is firmly fixed to itself and to the bodies or surfaces to which it has been applied in order to assemble or join, permanently or semi-permanently, the bodies or surfaces together.

[0062] Various techniques can be used to transition the bonding material from the initial unbonded state to the final bonded state. In some aspects, an adhesive can transition from the initial unbonded state to the final bonded state by exposure to one or more elements, including air, heat, humidity, or other environmental conditions. In some aspects, an ultraviolet (UV) curable liquid can transition from the initial unbonded state to the final bonded state by exposure to a UV light source. In some aspects, as described later in this disclosure with respect to the process for manufacturing the fluid fitting, the flux (e.g., carbide powder) can transition from the initial unbonded state to the final bonded state by exposure to the heat and pressure so that the flux is thermally connected to and / or between features, such as the first and second contact surfaces.

[0063] Whether the bonding material described is in its initial unbonded state or its final bonded state will become clearer from the context in which the term is used in the disclosure. For example, claims of the apparatus that refer to the bonding material may be presumed to refer to the bonding material in its final bonded state, unless otherwise stated in the claims. In contrast, claims of the process that refer to the bonding material may refer to the bonding material in its initial unbonded state or its final bonded state. References to the bonding material and / or surfaces that are "bonded" or "joined" typically refer to the bonding material in its final bonded state, unless otherwise stated.

[0064] As better illustrated in Figures 3 and 5, the first body section 116, 116a, 116b, 116c and the second body section 124, 124a, 124b, 124c are separate (e.g., discrete) structures before being joined by the bonding material at the first bonding joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c. The first body section 116, 116a, 116b, 116c and the second body section 124, 124a, 124b, 124c form a unit structure after being joined by the bonding material at the first bonding joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c.

[0065] Again with reference to Figures 1 to 5, the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c includes a connecting passage 136 that extends through the body 104, 104a, 104b, 104c and opens onto the opposite end faces 112, 122a, 112b, 112c. In some aspects, the connecting passage 136 is concentric with the central axis 108, as shown in Figures 1 to 5. In some aspects, the connecting passage 136 may be radially offset with respect to the central axis 108. In some aspects, the connecting passage 136 may extend transversely with respect to the central axis 108.

[0066] In some aspects, the first contact surface 120, 120a, 120b, 120c and the second contact surface 128, 128a, 128b, 128c are coextensive with a plane 140 (Figures 3 and 5) along which the first connecting joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c extends through the body 104, 104a, 104b, 104c. In some aspects, the first connecting joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c extends entirely through the body 104, 104a, 104b, 104c along the plane 140, as illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 4.

[0067] Again with reference to Figures 1 to 5, the first connecting joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c intersects the connecting passage 136 and extends (for example, continuously) from the connecting passage 136 to a peripheral surface 144, 144a, 144b, 144c of the body 104, 104a, 104b, 104c over a sensing distance 148. In certain aspects, the peripheral surface 144, 144a, 144b, 144c has a circular shape when observed in a cross-section oriented substantially perpendicular to the central axis 108. In some aspects, the peripheral surface 144, 144a, 144b, 144c may have other transverse shapes, such as oval, square, rectangular, and others. In some aspects, as shown in [Fig. 1], the peripheral surface 144, 144a may include a radial groove 146 that encircles the central axis 108. In some aspects, an annular seal such as an O-ring (not shown) may be installed in the radial groove 146.

[0068] As used here, the "sensing distance" is the distance or length of the first connecting joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c between the connecting passage 136 and the peripheral surface 144, 144a, 144b, 144c measured in a direction perpendicular to the connecting passage 136. In other words, the sensing distance 148 is the shortest distance along the first connecting joint 132, 132a, 132b, 132c between the connecting passage 136 and the peripheral surface 144, 144a, 144b, 144c. The detection distance 148 does not include features of the opposing end faces 112, 112a, 112b, 122c, such as the surface part(s), projection(s) and annular groove(s) described later in this disclosure.

[0069] In certain aspects, as illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the first connecting joint 132, 132a, 132b is aligned with the central axis 108 (i.e., the first connecting joint and the central axis are coextensive) so that the first body section 116, 116a, 116b and the second body section 124, 124a, 124b are configured as a first longitudinal body section and a second longitudinal body section, respectively. In these aspects, as best seen in [Fig. 3], the detection distance 148 is approximately the same over the extent of the body 104, 104a, 104b along the central axis 108, which can lead to more consistent corrosion detection.

[0070] In certain aspects, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the first connecting joint 132, 132c is perpendicular to the central axis 108, such that the first body section 116, 116c and the second body section 124, 124c are configured as a first axial body section and a second axial body section, respectively. In such aspects, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the first connecting joint 132, 132c can be disposed approximately midway (for example, equidistant) between the opposite end faces 112, 122c of the body 104, 104c. In such aspects, the first connecting joint 132, 132c can be disposed in any position between the opposite end faces 112, 112c of the body 104, 104c as long as there is sufficient material thickness to fabricate and connect the preforms, as described later in this disclosure.

[0071] In certain aspects in which the first connecting joint 132, 132c is perpendicular to the central axis 108, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the surface The peripheral surface 144, 144c preferably has a transverse shape that is circular so that the sensing distance 148 (for example, measured in the radial direction between the connecting passage and the peripheral surface) is approximately the same in any position on the peripheral surface 144, 144c. In such aspects, if the peripheral surface 144, 144c has a transverse shape that is not circular, a circular groove (not shown) which is positioned jointly with the first connecting joint 132, 132c can be formed in the peripheral surface 144, 144c, so that the sensing distance 148 is approximately the same in any position along the surface of the groove.Alternatively, a plurality of spaced depressions can be formed in the peripheral surface 144, 144c (e.g. around the periphery of the body 104, 104c) and positioned jointly with the first connecting joint 132, 132c, so that the sensing distance 148 is approximately the same at each depression.

[0072] With reference now to Figures 1, 6 and 7, the fluid fitting 100, 100a may comprise a threaded bore 152 and a fastener 156 engaged, by threading, with the threaded bore 152. [Fig. 6] is a cross-sectional view of the fluid fitting 100, 100a along a cutting plane passing through the radial groove 146 ([Fig. 1]). As shown in [Fig. 6], the threaded bore 152 extends through at least a portion of the first body section 116, 116a and the second body section 124, 124a and opens onto the peripheral surface 144, 144a on one side (for example, the second body section 124, 124a in the embodiment shown in [Fig. 6]). In some aspects, the threaded bore 152 is oriented transversely with respect to the first contact surface 120, 120a and the second contact surface 128, 128a (for example, the threaded bore is oriented transversely with respect to the first connecting joint).In some aspects, as shown in [Fig.6], the threaded bore 152 is oriented perpendicularly with respect to the first contact surface 120, 120a and the second contact surface 128, 128a (for example, the threaded bore is oriented perpendicularly with respect to the first connecting joint).

[0073] As shown in [Fig. 6], the fastener 156 is engaged, by threading, with the threaded bore 152, so that the fastener 156 pulls the first contact surface 120, 120a of the first body section 116, 116a and the second contact surface 128, 128a of the second body section 124, 124a towards each other (and in compression) when the fastener 156 is clamped in the threaded bore 152. Such clamping (and the resulting compression from the latter) is used in connection with the assembly of the first contact surface 120, 120a and the second contact surface 128, 128 with the bonding material, as described later in this disclosure.

[0074] In certain aspects, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the threaded bore comprises a plurality of threaded bores 152, and the fastener comprises a plurality of fasteners 156, each of which is configured to engage, by threading, a corresponding threaded bore 152. In certain aspects, as shown in [Fig. 6], the threaded bores 152 may open onto the peripheral surface 144, 144a on the same side of the fluid fitting 100, 100a (for example, the two threaded bores 152 open from the second body section 124, 124a). In some aspects, as shown in [Fig.7], the threaded bores 152 can open on the peripheral surface 144, 144a on different (e.g. opposite) sides of the fluid fitting 100, 100a (e.g. one threaded bore 152 opens from the first body section 116, 116a and the other threaded bore 152 opens from the second body section 124, 124a).In such aspects, as represented in [Fig.7], threaded bores 152 arranged in opposite directions can allow a tighter assembly when the clearances in the threads operate in opposition rather than cumulatively.

[0075] Again with reference to Figures 1 to 5, the opposite end faces 112, 112a, 122b, 112c of the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c may have features that facilitate the implementation of the fluid fitting in a continuous flow reactor, such as the continuous flow reactor 200 shown in Figures 11 and 15 and described later in this disclosure. For example, each end face 112, 112a, 112b, 112c may have one or more surface parts 160, 160a, 160b, 160c oriented substantially normally with respect to the central axis 108. In some aspects, the surface parts 160, 160a, 160b are annular surface parts that encircle the central axis 108.

[0076] In some aspects, the surface portions 160, 160a, 160b, 160c may comprise an inner surface portion disposed near the connection passage 136 and an outer surface portion radially spaced from the inner surface portion and disposed near the peripheral surface 144, 144a, 144b, 144c. In some aspects, the inner and outer surface portions 160, 160a, 160b, 160c define an annular groove 164, 164a, 164b, 164c between them. In some aspects, an annular seal such as an O-ring (not shown) may be installed in the annular groove 164, 164a, 164b, 164c. In certain aspects, the surface parts 160, 160a, 160b, 160c are configured to butt against corresponding surfaces of the continuous flow reactor 200 to seal the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c against components of the continuous flow reactor 200.

[0077] In certain aspects, as shown in [Fig. 2], each end face 112, 112b may have a projection 168, 168b which surrounds the connecting passage 136 and extends outwards from the body 104, 104b (for example, the surface part internal 160, 160b) along the central axis 108. In some aspects, the projections 168, 168b are arranged concentrically with respect to the fitting passage 136. In some aspects, the projections 168, 168b can be fixed to the body 104, 104b of the fluid fitting 100, 100b after the first body section 116, 116b and the second body section 124, 124b have been assembled, so that the first connecting joint 132, 132b does not pass through the projections 168, 168b (for example, the projections are monolithic). In some aspects, the projections 168, 168b are configured to be received in ports of the continuous flow reactor 200 to position the fluid fitting 100, 100b relative to the components of the continuous flow reactor 200.

[0078] It should be noted that the various features and / or aspects described herein with reference to the different embodiments of the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c are to be considered interchangeable and non-limiting unless explicitly described in relation to a specific embodiment. For example, the threaded bore(s) and the fastener(s) may be included in any embodiment, or the threaded bore(s) and the fastener(s) may be omitted in any embodiment as long as appropriate fastener(s) and / or clamping is / are used during the manufacturing and bonding of the preforms, as described later in this disclosure.Similarly, the characteristics and / or aspects described with reference to the opposite end faces of the different embodiments of the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c may be identical or different depending on how the fluid fitting is integrated into the continuous flow reactor.

[0079] A method for manufacturing the fluid fitting 100 is now described with reference to Figures 8 to 10. In the following description of the method, reference may also be made to the various embodiments of the fluid fitting 100, 100a, 100b, 100c described herein with reference to Figures 1 to 7. The method comprises manufacturing a preform 304 in the general shape of the fluid fitting 100. In some aspects, the preform 304 can be manufactured by a subtractive process such as turning or computer numerical control (CNC) machining. In some aspects, the preform 304 can be manufactured by an additive process, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing. In some aspects, the preform 304 can be manufactured by a molding process, such as metal injection molding (MIM).

[0080] In certain aspects, the preform 304 has external dimensions that are larger than the target or final external dimensions of the fluid fitting 100. For example, the preform 304 may have opposite end faces 312 that are larger than the corresponding opposite end faces 112 of the Fluid fitting 100. Similarly, the preform 304 may have a peripheral surface 344 that is larger than the corresponding peripheral surface 144 of the fluid fitting 100. In some aspects, the preform 304 also has internal dimensions that are smaller than the target or final internal dimensions of the fluid fitting 100. For example, the preform 304 may have a fitting passage 336 that is smaller than the corresponding fitting passage 136 of the fluid fitting 100.

[0081] After the preform 304 has been manufactured, the process optionally includes the formation of one or more threaded bores 152 in the preform 304. The threaded bores 152 can be positioned and oriented, in the manner described above with reference to Figures 6 and 7. After the threaded bores 152 have been optionally formed in the preform 304, the process includes the separation of the preform 304 into a first preform body section 316 generally corresponding to the first body section 116 (Figures 1 to 7) and into a second preform body section 324 generally corresponding to the second body section 124 (Figures 1 to 7). The preform 304 can be separated by any process that can precisely segment the preform 304, leaving substantially mirror-symmetrical contact surfaces 120, 128 with minimal or no post-processing (e.g., no grinding or polishing).In some aspects, the 304 preform can be separated using electrical discharge machining (EDM).

[0082] In certain aspects, as an alternative to manufacturing a monolithic preform (for example, preform 304) and then separating the preform, the process may include manufacturing the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 as discrete bodies, so that a separation step is not required. In such aspects, if the first and second discrete preform body sections 316, 324 include the two threaded bores 152 arranged on opposite sides of the (final) fluid fitting, the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 may be manufactured as identical sections, which may provide a manufacturing cost advantage.

[0083] After the preform 304 has been separated (or the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 are fabricated as discrete bodies), the process includes applying the bonding material to the contact surfaces 120, 128 of the first and second preform body sections 316, 324. The contact surfaces 120, 128 must be smooth and flat before the bonding material is applied. In some aspects, the bonding material applied to the contact surfaces 120, 128 of the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 is the same bonding material used to assemble the plates of the flow module(s) of the continuous flow system 200 described later in this disclosure. Therefore, the corrosion resistance of the fluid fitting 100 can be used to predict the corrosion resistance of the flow module(s) of the continuous flow system 200. In some applications, when the fluid fitting material is a metal, the bonding material can be carbide powder, which can be used to maintain the chemical resistance of the flow module(s) of the continuous flow system 200. Any carbide powder (e.g., silicon carbide, boron carbide, hafnium carbide, etc.), or mixtures thereof, can be used as the bonding material. In some applications, nitride powder (e.g., silicon nitride) can also be used as the bonding material, since such a powder can also bond.

[0084] In some aspects, the carbide powder or carbide powder mixture (e.g., deposited, sprayed, etc.) is applied to one or both of the contact surfaces 120, 128 so that there is complete coverage. In some aspects, after deposition, the carbide powder or carbide powder mixture forms a layer on the contact surface 120, 128 with a single-layer thickness, approaching the thickness of a single layer of the powder particles that form the bonding material. In some aspects, the layer of carbide powder or carbide powder mixture may be deposited to a thickness greater than the single-layer thickness.

[0085] In certain aspects, the bonding material can be supplied in the form of a water-based mixture comprising carbide powder or a mixture of carbide powders. The mixture can be applied to the contact surfaces 120, 128, for example, by brushing, rolling, spraying, or similar means, so that the mixture remains approximately in place on the contact surface afterward.

[0086] After the bonding material has been applied to the contact surfaces 120, 128, the method includes pressing together the first and second sections of preform body 316, 324 in order to compress the bonding material between the contact surfaces 120, 128. In some embodiments in which the threaded bores 152 are formed in the preform 304, fasteners 156 (for example, threaded screws) can be installed in the threaded bores 152 and tightened in order to clamp together the first and second sections of preform body 316, 324, in particular during a possible subsequent thermal bonding step. The threaded bores 152 and the fasteners 156 are also configured to determine and maintain the alignment of the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 with respect to each other during the subsequent thermal bonding step. The [Fig.9] is a digital image that shows the first and second sections of preform body 316, 324 assembled with the fasteners 156 and with the bonding material. arranged between the contact surfaces 120, 128 at the level of the first connecting joint 132 (for example before the thermal bonding step).

[0087] In embodiments where the preform 304 does not include threaded bores 152, the first and second preform body sections 316, 324, with the bonding material applied to their contact surfaces 120, 128, can be placed in an apparatus configured to maintain the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 in alignment and compress them together during the subsequent thermal bonding step. Figures 10 and 11 are schematic illustrations of an apparatus 350 and the modified first and second preform body sections 316', 324' that can be used during the subsequent thermal bonding step when threaded bores 152 are not provided.As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the contact surfaces 120', 128' of the first and second modified preform body sections 316', 324' include a self-centering feature 354 configured to position the first and second body sections in near concentric alignment with each other when their contact surfaces 120', 128' are compressed together. In some aspects, the self-centering feature 354 may include a centering projection 358 projecting from one of the contact surfaces 120', 128' and the corresponding depression 362 recessed into the other contact surface 120', 128' and configured to receive the centering projection 358 within the latter with virtually no radial clearance between them.

[0088] With reference now to [Fig. 11], the apparatus 350 may comprise a pair of plates 366 configured to abut against opposite end faces 312 and sandwich the first and second modified preform sections 316', 324' between them, while a force (arrow 370) is applied to one or both of the plates 366. The plates 366 may be formed from a material configured to withstand the bonding pressure and bonding temperature used to thermally bond the bonding material between the contact surfaces 120', 128'. The material of the plates 366 is also configured so as not to stick to the first and second modified body sections 316', 324' during the subsequent thermal bonding. In some aspects, 350 plates can be formed from graphite or oxide ceramics, such as alumina or cordierite.

[0089] In certain aspects, after the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 have been compressed together, the process includes heating the first and second preform body sections 316, 324 and the bonding material to a bonding temperature for a bonding time in order to thermally bond the bonding material to and / or between the contact surfaces 120, 128 and form the first bond joint 132. In certain aspects, the heating takes place in a non-oxidizing atmosphere or an inert atmosphere (silver, vacuum, etc.). For carbide powders, the bonding time can be 120 minutes, 110 minutes, 100 minutes, 90 minutes, or less at the bonding temperature (at the peak of the bonding temperature). The bonding temperature depends on the bonding material and can range from approximately 1100°C to approximately 1500°C, from approximately 1200°C to approximately 1400°C, or from approximately 1200°C to approximately 1350°C. In some cases, the bonding material is boron carbide, since its bonding temperature of approximately 1210°C is lower than the bonding temperature of other carbide powders. For example, the bonding temperature of silicon carbide is approximately 1340°C. After heating, the bonding material at the first bonding joint 132 comprises one or more of a carbide material (thermally bonded) and a nitride material (thermally bonded).

[0090] After the first and second sections of the preform body 316, 324 and the bonding material have been heated to thermally bond the bonding material to and / or between the contact surfaces 120, 128 and form the first bonding joint 132, the process includes finishing the body 104 to obtain the target or final dimensions of the fluid fitting 100 and to provide clean surfaces. Figure 12 is a digital image of the two fluid fittings 100, 100a that have undergone finishing to obtain their target or final dimensions.

[0091] With reference now to Figures 13 to 17, embodiments of a continuous flow reactor 200 are shown, which includes the fluid fitting 100 and a flow module 201. The flow module 201 is made of the same material as the fluid fitting 100. The [Fig. Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the aspects of the flow module 201. As shown in Figure 13, the flow module 201 comprises a first plate 202 with a first major (internal) surface 204 and a second plate 206 with a second major (internal) surface 208. The first plate 202 has a third major (external) surface 210 which is opposite the first major surface 204. The second plate 206 has a fourth major (external) surface 212 which is opposite the second major surface 208. The second plate 206 has one or more flow channels 214 defined at least partially in the second major surface 208.The first plate 202, in some embodiments, also has one or more flow channels 216 ([Fig. 14]) defined at least in part in the first major surface 204. The flow channels 214 alone or jointly with the flow channels 216 form a (common) module passage 218 which is arranged in the flow module 201.

[0092] In certain aspects, the flow module 201 comprises a plurality of orifices of module 217, some of which are configured to extend between the third and fourth major (external) surfaces 210, 212 of the first and second plates 202, 206 and cut the module passage 218. In some aspects, the module passage 218 may include two inlets 219 and one output 220, as shown in [Fig. 13],

[0093] As better illustrated in [Fig. 17], the first and second plates 202, 206 are joined at a second connecting joint 222 which includes the bonding material connected to and / or between the contact portions of the first and second major (internal) surfaces 204, 208. As used here, "contact portions" means those portions of the reference surfaces that are in contact in the absence of the bonding material when the reference surfaces are positioned against each other. Specifically, the contact portions are those portions of the respective first and second major surfaces 204, 208 that are in contact in the absence of the bonding material when the first major surface 204 is positioned against the second major surface 208.

[0094] In some aspects, the bonding material applied to the contact portions of the first and second major surfaces 204, 208 of the first and second plates 202, 206 of the flow modulus 201 is the same bonding material used to join the first and second contact surfaces 120, 128 of the first and second body sections 116, 124 of the fluid fitting 100, described above. In some aspects, the bonding material is thermally bonded to and / or between the contact portions of the first and second major (internal) surfaces 204, 208 of the flow modulus 201 using essentially the same bonding process (e.g., bonding temperature, bonding time, pressure during bonding, etc.) used in relation to the fluid fitting 100.An exemplary thermal bonding process for joining the metal plates of a flow module is described in US patent publication 2023 / 0150050 A1, filed on March 29, 2021, which is incorporated herein in its entirety for reference.

[0095] With reference now to Figures 14 to 16, schematic cross-sections of the parts of the reference flow modules are presented to illustrate the problems that can occur when continuous flow reactors process fluid that is corrosive to the bonding material used to assemble the plates of the respective flow modules. [Fig. 14] illustrates a first reference flow module 20lrefi with a modulus passage 218 defined by the parts of the first and second major surfaces 204, 208 of the first and second plates 202, 206. Two adjacent parts of the modulus passage 218 are shown in [Fig. 14] with the adjacent parts having a spacing 224 between them. In some aspects, the spacing 224 is about 10 mm, but such a spacing can be smaller or larger in other aspects. The second bonding joint 222 cross-section the adjacent parts of the module passage 218. As schematically illustrated in [Fig.14], the second connecting joint 222 of the first reference flow module 20lrefi is not affected by corrosion and is completely intact between (i) the adjacent parts of the module passage 218 and (ii) each adjacent part of the module passage 218 and a peripheral (external) surface of the flow module 201refi.

[0096] Figure 15 illustrates a second reference flow module 201ref2 which is configured in the same way as the first reference flow module 201ref2, except that the second connecting joint 222 of the second reference flow module 201ref2 is affected by corrosion. For example, as schematically illustrated in Figure 15, the second connecting joint 222 is completely corroded between the adjacent parts of the module passage 218 (for example, as represented by the open channel 226 which provides a bypass between the adjacent part of the module passage 218), thus leading to performance and / or safety problems during the operation of the second reference flow module 201ref2.

[0097] Figure 16 illustrates a third reference flow modulus 201ref3 with a modulus passage 218 defined by portions of the first and second major surfaces 204, 208 of the first and second plates 202, 206. Only a portion of the modulus passage 218 is shown in Figure 16. The second connecting joint 222 intersects this single portion of the modulus passage 218. As schematically illustrated in Figure 16, the second connecting joint 222 is affected by corrosion, such that the lateral portions of the modulus passage 218 near the second connecting joint 222 have formed open areas 228 due to corrosion. Such open areas 228 can act as dead zones (e.g., areas containing lower-velocity fluid) for the reaction fluid and degrade the residence time distribution. In addition, dead zones are known to create a risk of runaway reactions, such as nitration reactions.

[0098] Taking into consideration these corrosion-related problems and others known to affect the safe and efficient operation of continuous flow reactors using linked flow modules, the continuous flow reactor 200 described herein uses a critical distance which corresponds to a tolerable (maximum) delamination of the second link joint 222 (for example, due to corrosion) which extends (perpendicularly) from the module passage 218 into the mass of the flow module 201.

[0099] With reference now to Figures 1, 2, 4, 13 and 17, the connection passage 136 of the fluid fitting 100 and the module passage 218 of the flow module 201 are connected, fluidically, via a flow path (for example, the dashed arrows in [Fig. 17]) along which the fluid, which is corrosive by relation to the bonding material is configured to be transported in a processing direction through the continuous flow reactor 200, thereby exposing the bonding material of the first bonding joint 132 and the second bonding joint 222 to the corrosive fluid.

[0100] In some aspects, the detection distance 148 of the first connecting joint 132 of the fluid fitting 100 is shorter than the critical distance of the second connecting joint 222 of the flow module 201, so that the fluid fitting 100 shows indications of the (corrosive) fluid leaking through the first connecting joint 132 during the operation of the continuous flow reactor 200 before performance and / or safety problems occur with respect to the second connecting joint 222 of the flow module 201.

[0101] In some aspects, the detection distance 148 is less than or equal to approximately 80% (for example, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50% or less) of the critical distance. In some aspects, the critical distance is in a range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm, approximately 7 mm to approximately 13 mm, or approximately 8 mm to approximately 12 mm.

[0102] In certain aspects, one of the opposite end faces 112 of the fluid fitting 100 is configured to come against the major (external) surface 210, 212 of one of the first and second plates 202, 206 and directly connect the fitting passage 136 of the fluid fitting 100 to the module passage 218 of the flow module 201.

[0103] In some aspects, the continuous flow reactor 200 includes another flow module 201' configured in the same way as the flow module 201. As shown in [Fig.17], the other flow module 201' is arranged downstream of the flow module 201 along the flow path. In some aspects, the fluid fitting 100 is configured to be positioned along the flow path according to the following proposals: (i) upstream of the flow module 201 (e.g., fluid fitting 1000), (ii) between the flow module 201 and the other flow module 201' (e.g., fluid fitting 1002), and (iii) downstream of the other flow module 201' (e.g., fluid fitting 1003). In some aspects, the continuous flow reactor 200 includes another fluid fitting configured in the same way as the fluid fitting 100.The other fluid fitting is positioned along the flow path differently from the way fluid fitting 100 is positioned along the flow path. For example, the continuous flow reactor 200 may include fluid fitting 100i and fluid fitting 1002, which are positioned differently from each other.

[0104] It should be noted that the continuous flow reactor 200 can have many different configurations including additional flow modules and additional fluid fittings. In some aspects, each additional flow module may have the same or different configurations as the flow module 201 and the other flow module 201', illustrated in [Fig. 17]. For example, the additional flow modules may have heat exchangers attached to one or both of their major (external) surfaces. Furthermore, the continuous flow reactor 200 can use a multitude of different inserts to define different process fluid flow paths through the reactor, such as the metallic inserts described in (Applicant's File No. SP22-281).

[0105] With reference now to [Fig. 18], a flowchart is shown illustrating the steps of an exemplary process 400 for detecting corrosion in the continuous flow reactor 200. In a first step 402, the process 400 includes actuation of the continuous flow reactor 200 by allowing the (corrosive) fluid to flow along the flow path through the fluid fitting 100 and the flow module 201. In a second step 404, the process 400 includes monitoring the peripheral surface 144 of the fluid fitting 100 for indications of fluid leaking through the first connecting joint 132 during the flow. The indicators may include fluid present and / or actively exiting the first connecting joint 132 at the peripheral surface 144. In some aspects, the indicators may include the coloration of the peripheral surface 144 of the fluid fitting 100 near the first connecting joint 132.For example, such coloration may originate from a (reactive) gas(s) escaping from the first connecting joint 132 due to partial corrosion of the first connecting joint 132 and high pressure inside the flow module 201.

[0106] In a third step 406, the process 400 includes determining whether the index is present on the peripheral surface 144 of the fluid fitting 100 in order to detect corrosion in the continuous flow reactor 200. If the index is not present (for example, "NO"), the process 400 returns to the second (monitoring) step 404. If the index is present (for example, "YES"), the process 400 includes (optionally) detecting corrosion in the continuous flow reactor 200 and continues to the next step. In a fourth step 408, the process 400 includes stopping the operation of the continuous flow reactor 200 when corrosion is detected via the fluid fitting 100. In a fifth step 410, the process 400 includes inspecting the flow module 200 for corrosion. Such an inspection may include non-destructive testing and / or control methods such as acoustic microscopy.

[0107] While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the preceding description, the latter should be considered illustrative and not restrictive. It should be understood that only preferred embodiments have been presented and that protection is intended for all changes, modifications, and other applications that fall within the spirit of the disclosure.

Claims

Demands

1. Fluid fitting comprising: a body (104) extending along a central axis (108) between its opposite end faces, the body comprising a first body section (116) with a first contact surface (120) and a second body section (124) with a second contact surface (128) assembled to the first contact surface at a first connecting joint (132) comprising the connecting material; and a fitting passage (136) extending through the body and opening on the opposite end faces, in which the first connecting joint intersects the fitting passage and extends from the fitting passage to a peripheral surface (144) of the body over a sensing distance.

2. Fluid fitting according to claim 1, wherein: the first and second surfaces are coextensive with a plane along which the first connecting joint extends through the body, and / or the first connecting joint (132) extends entirely through the body along the plane, and / or the fitting passage (136) is concentric with the central axis.

3. Fluid fitting according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the first connecting joint (132) is aligned with the central axis so that the first and second body sections are configured as first and second longitudinal body sections, and / or the first connecting joint is perpendicular to the central axis so that the first and second body sections are configured as first and second axial body sections.

4. Fluid fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a threaded bore (152) extending through at least a portion of the first and second body sections and oriented transversely with respect to the first and second contact surfaces; and a fastener (156) engaged, by threading, with the threaded bore.

5. Fluid fitting according to claim 4, wherein the threaded bore comprises a plurality of threaded bores (152) and the fastening includes a plurality of fasteners (156), each configured to engage, by threading, a corresponding threaded bore.

6. Fluid fitting according to claim 5, wherein each threaded bore (152) opens on one side, on the peripheral surface (144), and wherein at least two threaded bores open on the peripheral surface in opposite directions.

7. Fluid fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: the bonding material comprises one or more of a carbide material and a nitride material, and / or the body of the fluid fitting comprises metal.

8. Fluid fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the peripheral surface (144) has a circular shape when viewed in section, oriented substantially normal to the central axis.

9. Fluid fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each end face (112) of the body has one or more surface parts (160) oriented substantially normally with respect to the central axis, and wherein: the one or more surface parts are annular surface parts that encircle the central axis, and / or the one or more surface parts comprise an inner surface part disposed near the fitting passage (136) and an outer surface part radially spaced from the inner surface part and disposed near the peripheral surface, the inner surface part and the outer surface part defining an annular groove between them.

10. Continuous flow reactor comprising: the fluid connection according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and a flow module (201) comprising (i) first and second plates (202, 206) assembled at a second connecting joint (222) comprising the connecting material and (ii) a module passage disposed inside the flow module, in which the second connecting joint intersects the module passage and extends from the latter for at least a critical distance, in which the fluid fitting connection passage and the flow module passage are connected, fluidically, via a flow path along which the fluid that is corrosive to the bonding material is configured to be transported in a processing direction through the continuous flow reactor, thereby exposing the bonding material of the first and second bonding joints to the corrosive fluid, in which the detection distance of the first bonding joint is shorter than the critical distance of the second bonding joint.

11. Continuous flow reactor according to claim 10, wherein: the detection distance is less than or equal to approximately 80% of the critical distance, and / or the critical distance is in a range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm.

12. Continuous flow reactor according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the flow module comprises a module orifice (217) extending between the opposite major external surfaces of the first and second plates and intersecting the module passage, and wherein one of the opposite end faces of the fluid fitting is configured to abut against the major external surface of one of the first and second plates and directly connect the fitting passage of the fluid fitting to the module passage of the flow module.

13. Continuous flow reactor according to any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising another flow module (201') configured in the same manner as the flow module, the other flow module being arranged downstream of the flow module along the flow path, wherein the fluid fitting is configured to be positioned along the flow path in the following propositions: (i) upstream of the flow module, (ii) between the flow module and the other flow module and (iii) downstream of the other flow module.

14. A continuous flow reactor according to claim 13, further comprising another fluid connection configured in the same manner as the fluid connection, the other fluid connection being positioned along the flow path in a different manner from the the way in which the fluid fitting is positioned along the flow path.

15. A method for detecting corrosion in the continuous flow reactor according to any one of claims 10 to 14, the method comprising: actuation of the continuous flow reactor by allowing the fluid to flow along the flow path through the fluid fitting and the flow module; monitoring the peripheral surface of the fluid fitting for the fluid leakage index through the first connecting joint during flow; and detection of corrosion in the continuous flow reactor when the index is present on the peripheral surface.

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