Fluidized Bed Distributor

Abstract

A device for distributing a light fluid phase (2) to a heavy fluid phase (4) in a reaction chamber (5), comprising: a duct (1) for transporting the heavy fluid phase; first and second windows (7, 8) perforated in the wall of the duct near its upper end; a radial branch (9) connected to each second window along a branch axis (A) perpendicular to the axis of symmetry (Z) of the upper end toward a peripheral branch end (24), the lower face of the branch being open; a distributor (3) comprising: a first jet breaker (6) arranged at the upper end and extending around the upper end; and a second jet breaker (12) arranged near the peripheral branch end and facing the peripheral branch end.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This specification contributes to improvements in the design of distributors for the distribution of a first fluid (generally a light fluid) in a reactor containing a second fluid (generally a dense fluid). In the context of a fluidized bed, the first fluid being distributed is in a gas, gas-solid, gas-liquid, liquid, or liquid-solid phase, and the second fluid is the fluidized bed itself, i.e., a suspension of solid particles (e.g., catalyst or solid adsorbent) dispersed in a gas and / or liquid.

[0002] In the case of a reactor comprising a fluidized bed containing a solid phase (which may or may not be catalytic) held in suspension in a pseudo-fluid state by the passage of a gaseous or liquid fluid, a gas-liquid mixture, or a pseudo-fluid consisting of a gas and / or liquid containing particles in suspension, distribution has the essential role of maintaining the fluidization of the solids in the reactor while ensuring adequate mixing of all phases, thus making it possible to have a good homogeneity of the product within the fluidized bed.

[0003] It is therefore extremely important to ensure good distribution of the fluid phase at the entrance to the reactor, which is all the more important in the case of chemical reactions carried out in a fluidized bed, since there one wants to avoid any bypasses, dead zones and parasitic reactions that would be detrimental to the process.

[0004] The present invention is an improvement over the known prior distributors described in particular in patent FR3065886, which distributors can be used in various types of processes involving fluidized beds. Some non-exhaustive examples of applications are fluid catalytic cracking (FCC), chemical looping combustion (CLC) and ebullated bed hydroconversion of residues. [Background technology]

[0005] The distributor described in Patent Document 1 includes a plurality of distributor arms, each of which has a triangular cross section and a sawtooth lower edge.

[0006] The distributor described in Patent Document 2 includes a plurality of distributor arms having different ends.

[0007] Patent Document 3 describes a distributor for distributing a light phase into a high density phase, and includes a deflection means arranged on the outer surface of the cover.

[0008] US Pat. No. 5,629,499 describes a distributor for distributing a light phase into a dense phase, which comprises a window extended by a branch perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the reaction chamber.

[0009] The distributor for distributing a light phase into a dense phase described in Patent Document 5 is provided with windows and is divided into three passages.

[0010] The distributor for distributing a light phase into a dense phase described in US Pat. No. 6,449,663 includes distributor arms perforated with holes extending radially outward from a head. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 5,156,817 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 6,221,318 [Patent Document 3] French Patent No. 3006607 [Patent Document 4] French Patent No. 3065886 [Patent Document 5] French Patent No. 3082125 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 1,266,923 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] (Summary of the Invention) In the above context, a first object of the present invention is to provide a distribution device that allows for better distribution of a first fluid phase (i.e., a light phase) in a reaction chamber containing a second fluid phase (i.e., a heavy or dense phase) having a density greater than that of the light fluid phase to be distributed. This density difference may result from either the solid or liquid volume fraction of the phase to be injected being smaller than the volume fraction of the phase contained in the volume with which the phases will be mixed. In particular, the present invention relates to a distribution device that allows for improved mixing between the phases, especially a better distribution of the two phases along the cross-section of the reaction chamber, especially along the wall of the reaction chamber. The present invention also relates to a distribution device that allows for better reaction performance.

[0013] According to a first aspect, the above object, together with other advantages, is obtained by a distribution device adapted for distribution of a light fluid phase within a heavy fluid phase, for example within a reaction chamber containing said heavy fluid phase (for example in a fluidized state), the distribution device comprising: - a duct for transporting a light fluid phase (for example, a vertical duct); equipped with a lower end and an upper end; - a first window and a second window drilled in the wall of the duct near the upper end of the duct; and - Splitter and Equipped with The distributor is as follows: - radial branches, connected to each second window and extending towards the peripheral branch end along a branch axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the upper end of the duct, the lower surface of the radial branch being open; - a first jet breaker; positioned at the upper end of the duct and extending around the upper end of the duct; and - A second jet breaker, located near the end of the peripheral branch and facing the end of the peripheral branch. It is equipped with:

[0014] According to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker is a solid plate or a plate with an orifice and is generally perpendicular to the branch axis.

[0015] According to one or more embodiments, each radial branch comprises a side wall and a top wall, and the second jet breaker is fastened to at least one of the side wall and the top wall by at least one attachment element.

[0016] According to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker comprises an upper surface that is connected to the upper wall of the radial branch by an extension plate.

[0017] According to one or more embodiments, the extension plate is a solid plate that is generally parallel to the branch axis.

[0018] According to one or more embodiments, the opening in the lower surface of the radial branch extends to the second jet breaker.

[0019] According to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker is of generatrix curved shape in a plane perpendicular to the axis of symmetry.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments, each radial branch has: - length e: 1xE to 6xE, preferably 1xE to 4xE, where E is the diameter of the duct; - width f at the peripheral branch ends: 1 × c to 10 × c, preferably 1.2 × c to 6 × c, where c is the width of each second window; and - the height is approximately equal to or greater than the height d of each second window.

[0021] According to one or more embodiments, each second jet breaker has: - width h: between 1×f and 2×f, preferably between 1×f and 1.5×f; - Height g: approximately equal to or greater than the height d of the second window (8); the distance i between the second jet breaker and the corresponding radial branch is 0.05×h to 0.9×h, preferably 0.1×h to 0.6×h.

[0022] According to one or more embodiments, the diameter E of the duct is between 0.1 m and 8 m, preferably between 0.2 m and 6 m, preferably between 0.4 m and 3 m.

[0023] According to one or more embodiments, the first window is of width a and height b, and the second window is of width c and height d, and the values ​​a, b, c, and d satisfy at least one of the following characteristics: - the ratio of height b / a and / or width d / c is between 0.2 and 12, preferably between 1 and 10, preferably between 2 and 8; the ratio of the surface area of ​​the first window to the surface area of ​​the second window is between 0.2 and 5, preferably between 0.3 and 3, more preferably between 0.5 and 2; and the ratio of the total surface area of ​​the first and second windows to the cross section of the duct is between 0.5 and 4, more preferably between 1 and 3;

[0024] According to one or more embodiments, the device comprises 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8 first windows and 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8 second windows.

[0025] According to a second aspect, the above mentioned objects are achieved, together with other advantages, by a dispensing device according to the first aspect (as described above), namely comprising: - a duct for transporting a light fluid phase (for example, a vertical duct); having a lower end and an upper end; - a first window and a second window drilled in the wall of the duct near the upper end of the duct; and - distributor wherein the dispenser comprises: - radial branches, connected to each second window and extending towards the peripheral ends of the branches along a branch axis approximately perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the upper end of the duct; the lower faces of the radial branches are open; a first jet breaker disposed at the upper end of the duct; the first jet breaker extending around the upper end of the duct; and - a second jet breaker, located near the peripheral end of the branch and facing the peripheral end; It is equipped with:

[0026] According to one or more embodiments, the diameter D of the reaction chamber is between 0.5 m and 50 m, preferably between 1 m and 30 m, preferably between 2 m and 20 m, the ratio of the diameter E of the duct to the diameter D of the reaction chamber is between 0.005 and 0.9, preferably between 0.01 and 0.5, preferably between 0.1 and 0.3, the reaction chamber preferably comprises a single distribution device, and the axis of symmetry Z is, for example, approximately centered along the axis of symmetry of the reaction chamber (5).

[0027] According to a third aspect, the above objects, together with other advantages, are obtained by a process for catalytic cracking, e.g. a process for regenerating a catalyst, using a distribution device according to the first aspect (as described above).

[0028] According to one or more embodiments, a method for catalytic cracking includes two regeneration zones, and a distribution device according to the first aspect is used, for example, to pass a gaseous catalyst mixture from the first regeneration zone to the second regeneration zone.

[0029] According to one or more embodiments, the reaction conditions in the regeneration zone are as follows: - Temperature: 600℃~815℃; - Pressure: 0.1MPag~0.3MPag; - Superficial gas velocity: 0.5m / s~1.5m / s; - FCC catalyst (silica-alumina matrix containing zeolites and additives); - Regenerator "feed": coked catalyst (e.g., coke consisting essentially of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulfur).

[0030] According to a fourth aspect, the above mentioned objects, together with other advantages, are obtained by a method for biomass processing using a distribution device according to the first aspect, e.g. a method for introducing a gas phase or a gas-solid suspension into a fluidized medium, e.g. a catalytic pyrolysis reactor.

[0031] According to one or more embodiments, the reaction conditions in the catalytic pyrolysis reactor are as follows: - Temperature: 500℃~650℃; - Pressure: 0.3MPag~0.7MPag; - Superficial gas velocity: 0.3m / s~1.5m / s; - Additive-loaded silica-alumina matrix catalyst; - Solid feedstock: biomass.

[0032] According to a fifth aspect, the above objects, together with other advantages, are obtained by a method for the hydrotreating and / or hydroconversion of, for example, heavy petroleum fractions, using a distribution device according to the first aspect, e.g. a method for introducing hydrogen into a fluidized medium containing solid particles (e.g. a catalyst) and optionally a heavy hydrocarbon phase to be treated.

[0033] According to one or more embodiments, the reaction conditions for the process for hydrotreating and / or hydroconversion are as follows: - Temperature: 390℃~460℃; - Pressure: 15MPag~20MPag; - Superficial gas velocity: 2cm / s~8cm / s; - Superficial liquid velocity: 2cm / s~8cm / s; - H-Oil® catalysts (e.g., Group VIB and Group VIIIB metals on alumina); - Feedstock: atmospheric and / or vacuum residue.

[0034] The groups of chemical elements are given according to the CAS classification (CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, published by CRC Press, editor-in-chief DR Lide, 81st edition, 2000-2001). For example, group VIIIB according to the CAS classification corresponds to metals from columns 8, 9 and 10 according to the new IUPAC classification.

[0035] Other features and advantages of the embodiments according to the above-referenced aspects, as well as the devices and methods according to the above aspects, will become apparent on reading the following description, given by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which: DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] (List of drawings FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a cross section ZA of a dispensing device according to the invention placed in a reaction chamber.

[0037] FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view (view A) and a schematic view of the cross section xy (view B) of a duct of a distribution device according to the invention.

[0038] FIG. 3 shows a schematic view of a dispensing device according to the invention in cross section xy placed in a reaction chamber.

[0039] FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of the radial branch of a distribution device according to the invention in the cross section xy (view A) and a schematic view of the second jet breaker in the cross section ZA (view B).

[0040] FIG. 5 shows a schematic 3D view of a dispensing device according to the invention.

[0041] FIG. 6 shows a schematic 3D view of a dispensing device according to the invention with a rounded shape.

[0042] FIG. 7 shows diagrams in the cross section xy of the particle volume fraction averaged over time 1 m and 2 m above a distribution device according to the invention (diagrams “A 1 m” and “A 2 m”), as well as diagrams of a distribution device according to the prior art (diagrams “B 1 m” and “B 2 m”).

[0043] (Description of the embodiment) The distribution device according to the invention may be defined as a device for distributing a lighter fluid phase into a heavier fluid phase (i.e. a mixture of fluids having a density higher than the density of the lighter fluid phase), for example in a reaction chamber containing said heavier fluid phase in a fluidized state.

[0044] As used herein, the term "to comprise" is synonymous with (meaning the same as) "to include" and "to contain" and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude other elements not recited. The term "to comprise" is understood to include the exclusive and closed term "to consist of."

[0045] The light fluid phase may be a gas phase, a gas-solid phase, a gas-liquid phase, a liquid phase, a liquid-solid phase, or a gas-liquid-solid phase. According to one or more embodiments, the light fluid phase is a multiphase mixture, for example, a gas-solid phase or a liquid-solid phase. According to one or more embodiments, the light fluid phase is a gas-solid phase.

[0046] According to one or more embodiments, the heavy fluid phase is a gas-solid emulsion or a three-phase gas-solid-liquid medium, for example in a process for hydrotreating petroleum fractions. According to one or more embodiments, the volumetric mass ratio between the heavy and light fluid phases is between 1.1 and 5000.

[0047] The distribution device according to the invention is particularly suitable for distributing a light fluid phase in a fluidized bed reactor, such as a two-phase fluidized bed reactor or a three-phase ebullated bed reactor, in which a solid catalyst is fluidized by a mixture of reaction fluids containing gas and / or liquid. The distribution device according to the invention is particularly suitable for distributing a gas-solid or gas-liquid phase at high temperatures in a fluidized bed reactor. This is the case, for example, in the stepwise regeneration of a catalyst in the FCC R2R® process for the conversion of residues, where the catalyst is subjected to a first regeneration step / zone in a first fluidized bed reactor and then a second regeneration step / zone in a second fluidized bed reactor, and the catalyst is distributed from the first regeneration step / zone (e.g., a turbulent fluidized bed) to the second regeneration step / zone by the distribution device.

[0048] In the context of a method for biomass treatment, the distribution device according to the invention may be used to introduce a gas phase or a gas-solid suspension into the fluidized medium of a biomass treatment reactor.

[0049] In the context of a process for hydrotreating, for example the hydrotreating of petroleum fractions, the distribution device according to the invention may be used to introduce hydrogen into a fluidized medium containing catalyst particles and the hydrocarbon phase to be treated.

[0050] In the context of a process for hydroconversion, the distribution device according to the invention is particularly well suited for implementation when the light fluid phase comprises hydrogen and when the dense fluid phase comprises petroleum residues, in particular in ebullated bed hydroconversion processes using a three-phase fluidized reactor.

[0051] More generally, the dispensing device according to the invention may be used in: - FCC reactor; - reactors for catalyst regeneration, e.g. FCC regenerators; - Hydrotreating or hydrocracking reactors operated in an upflow mode, for example with the introduction of a two-phase gas-liquid or gas-solid flow at the bottom of the reaction chamber; - "Slurry" reactors (i.e., containing a solid phase dispersed in a liquid); - Strippers, dryers, aerators or humidifiers; and - Catalytic pyrolysis reactor.

[0052] 1, a distribution device according to the present invention comprises a duct (1), also referred to as an intake tube, including a lower end and an upper end. The upper end of the duct (1) is adapted to enter a lower portion of a reaction chamber (5) containing a heavy fluid phase (4) (in a fluidized state), and the duct (1) is adapted to transport (at a velocity V) a lighter fluid phase (2) to the fluidized bed (4) of the reaction chamber (5). According to one or more embodiments, the reaction chamber (5) is cylindrical, e.g., cylindrical with a circular cross section and a diameter D, and / or the duct (1) is cylindrical, e.g., cylindrical with a circular cross section and a diameter E.

[0053] According to one or more embodiments, one or more distribution devices are installed in the reaction chamber (5) having a diameter D of 0.5 m to 50 m, preferably 1 m to 30 m, preferably 2 m to 20 m. According to one or more embodiments, a single distribution device is installed in the reaction chamber (5). According to one or more embodiments, the upper end of the duct (1) has an axis of symmetry Z approximately centered along the axis of symmetry (i.e., the vertical central axis) of the reaction chamber (5). According to one or more embodiments, the distribution device is used to distribute the light fluid phase (2) below the gas injector (22) in the reaction chamber (5). The gas injector (22) may be ring-shaped. The gas injector (22) may be composed of one or more rings or several branches, which may be arranged at approximately the same height or partially below the distribution device. According to one or more embodiments, the upper end of the duct (1) has an axis of symmetry Z, which is eccentric with respect to the axis of symmetry of the reaction chamber (5), and which feeds the reaction chamber (5) from an external exchanger, known to those skilled in the art, for example called a "catalyst cooler", which can carry out external cooling of the catalyst fraction contained in the FCC regenerator, for example by exchange with water, leading in particular to the generation of high-pressure steam.

[0054] In this specification, the term "approximately" used to define a distance or composition corresponds to an approximation of ±10%, preferably ±5%, and highly preferably ±2% of the distance or composition. For example, approximately centering the duct (1) along the axis of symmetry of the reaction chamber (5) means that the duct (1) can be positioned with an approximation of ±10%, preferably ±5%, and highly preferably ±2% of the diameter D of the reaction chamber (5).

[0055] According to one or more embodiments, the duct (1) (e.g., a metal duct) is vertical. The duct (1) is preferably vertical if it transports a multiphase light fluid phase (2).

[0056] According to one or more embodiments, the diameter E of the duct (1) is between 0.1 m and 8 m, preferably between 0.2 m and 6 m, preferably between 0.4 m and 3 m. According to one or more embodiments, the ratio of the diameter E of the duct (1) to the diameter D of the reaction chamber (5) is between 0.005 and 0.9, preferably between 0.01 and 0.5, preferably between 0.1 and 0.3.

[0057] On the upper part of the duct (1), i.e. near the upper end of the duct (1), a first window (7) and a second window (8) (see also FIG. 2) are perforated / opened in the wall of said duct (1). Advantageously, the first window (7) is adapted to open directly into the fluidization medium of the reaction chamber (5). According to one or more embodiments, the first window (7) and / or the second window (8) are of approximately rectangular shape, possibly with connecting fillets at the corners.

[0058] 2a and 2b, according to one or more embodiments, the first window (7) and the second window (8) are of a generally rectangular shape, with the first window (7) having a width a and a height b (i.e., a passage cross section a×b), and the second window (8) having a width c and a height d (i.e., a passage cross section c×d). It will be understood that the first window (7) and / or the second window (8) may be an opening of any shape (e.g., square, triangular, trapezoidal, rhomboid, circular, etc.).

[0059] According to one or more embodiments, the ratio of the height b / a and / or the width d / c is between 0.2 and 12, preferably between 1 and 10, more preferably between 2 and 8. According to one or more embodiments, the ratio of the surface area of ​​the first window (7) to the second window (8) is between 0.2 and 5, preferably between 0.3 and 3, more preferably between 0.5 and 2.

[0060] According to one or more embodiments, the ratio of the total surface area of ​​the windows (7 and 8) to the cross section of the duct (1) is between 0.5 and 4, more preferably between 1 and 3. According to one or more embodiments, the ratio of the total surface area of ​​the windows (7) or (8) to the cross section of the duct (1) is between 0.1 and 3, more preferably between 0.3 and 2. It is understood that the height and width of the first window (7) and the second window (8) depends on the total number of windows.

[0061] According to one or more embodiments, the number of first windows (7) is 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8; the number of second windows (8) is 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8. According to one or more embodiments, the first windows (7) and second windows (8) are present in total in an even and / or equal number. According to one or more embodiments, the first windows (7) and second windows (8) are arranged alternately in the wall of the duct (1).

[0062] According to one or more embodiments, the centers of the first window (7) and the second window (8) are separated from the upper edge by a distance of 0.2×E to 4×E, preferably 0.5×E to 4×E. According to one or more embodiments, the centers of the first window (7) and the second window (8) are separated (from each other) by a distance o along the symmetry axis Z and / or are offset by an angle θ in a plane xy perpendicular to the symmetry axis Z. According to one or more embodiments, the angle θ is 0° to 180°, preferably 0° to 60°. According to one or more embodiments, the first window (7) is positioned above the second window (8) on the symmetry axis Z. According to one or more embodiments, the distance o on the symmetry axis Z between the center of the first window (7) and the center of the second window (8) is less than b, preferably less than 0.75×b, and highly preferably less than 0.5×b, or less than d, preferably less than 0.75×d, and highly preferably less than 0.5×d.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 1, a distributor (3) (e.g., a metal distributor) is placed at the top of the duct (1) to distribute the light fluid phase (2) at various radial positions within the reaction chamber (5).

[0064] The distributor (3) comprises a first jet breaker (6) arranged at the upper end of the duct (1) and extending around the duct (1). The first jet breaker (6) comprises a body in the form of a plate substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z, the ends of which are preferably extended downwards (i.e., towards the bottom of the reaction chamber (5)) by one or more side walls (19) (vertical walls also called skirts). The body is preferably cylindrical, for example of circular cross section, for example in the form of a knob (e.g., with a concave inner surface and a convex outer surface).

[0065] Advantageously, the first jet breaker (6) is adapted by its body and complementary to the side wall (19) to distribute the first portion of the light fluid phase (2) introduced through the first window (7) into the central part of the reaction chamber (5). Advantageously, the first jet breaker (6) improves the distribution of the first portion of the light fluid phase (2) emerging directly into the central part of the reaction chamber (5) through the first window (7).

[0066] According to one or more embodiments, the diameter of the first jet breaker (6) (e.g., main body) is 1.1×E to 10×E, preferably 1.5×E to 8×E, and highly preferably 2×E to 5×E. According to one or more embodiments, the diameter of the first jet breaker (6) is 0.05×D to 0.95×D, preferably 0.2×D to 0.8×D, and more preferably 0.3×D to 0.7×D. According to one or more embodiments, the ratio of the height of the side wall (19) to the diameter of the first jet breaker (6) is 0.05 to 1, preferably 0.15 to 0.6. According to one or more embodiments, the main body of the first jet breaker (6) is concave on the duct (1) side and / or convex on the reaction chamber (5) side. According to one or more embodiments, the body is oval in shape and has a semi-major axis of 0.025×D to 0.45×D, preferably 0.1×D to 0.4×D, preferably 0.15×D to 0.35×D, and / or a semi-minor axis of 0.02×D to 0.035×D, preferably 0.05×D to 0.3×D, more preferably 0.1×D to 0.25×D.

[0067] According to one or more embodiments, the body is perforated with an orifice (21) to allow passage of the first portion of the light fluid phase (2), in particular through the first jet breaker (6), improving distribution. The orifice (21) is preferably of circular cross section. According to one or more embodiments, the orifice (21) has a diameter of 1 mm to 120 mm, preferably 20 mm to 80 mm.

[0068] According to one or more embodiments, the body includes a solid central portion (23) (i.e., a portion not perforated with orifices), which in particular closes (blocks) the upper end of the duct (1), thus forcing the distribution of the light fluid phase (2) through the first window (7) and the second window (8). The solid central portion (23) is preferably of circular cross section. According to one or more embodiments, the solid central portion (23) has a diameter of 1×E to 2×E, preferably 1×E to 1.25×E. Highly preferably, the solid central portion (23) has a diameter substantially identical to the diameter of the duct (1).

[0069] According to one or more embodiments, the side wall (19) includes notches (20) disposed at its lower edge, particularly to allow the passage of the first portion of the light fluid phase (2) around the first jet breaker (6) and improve distribution. According to one or more embodiments, the notches (20) are regularly distributed along the entire lower edge of the side wall (19). According to one or more embodiments, the notches (20) are generally triangular or rectangular in shape. It is understood that the notches (20) may be openings of any shape (e.g., square, semicircular, etc.). According to one or more embodiments, the side wall (19) includes 4 to 60 notches (20), preferably 10 to 30 notches (20). According to one or more embodiments, the notches (20) cover 10% to 70%, preferably 20% to 50%, of the lower edge of the side wall (19).

[0070] According to one or more embodiments, the notch (20) is generally triangular and / or rectangular. According to one or more embodiments, the notch (20) is generally triangular (e.g., isosceles triangle), and the ratio of the base of the notch (20) to the height of the side wall (19) is 0.01 to 0.95, preferably 0.1 to 0.85, and the ratio of the height of the notch (20) to the height of the side wall (19) is 0.01 to 0.95, preferably 0.1 to 0.85.

[0071] The distributor (3) further comprises a plurality of radial branches (9) (also called side arms or ducts), which are connected to (extend from) each of the second windows (8) along a branch axis A substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z from the duct (1) to the peripheral branch end (24). Advantageously, the radial branches (9) are adapted to open into the reaction chamber (5) through the peripheral branch end (24). According to one or more embodiments, the radial branches (9) have an initial cross section substantially identical to the shape of the second windows (8). According to one or more embodiments, the radial branches (9) are substantially rectangular in cross section. According to one or more preferred embodiments, the radial branches (9) protrude beyond the jet breaker (6).

[0072] Advantageously, the peripheral branch ends (24) are open to distribute the second portion of the light fluid phase (2) (through the second window (8) and the radial branches (9) to the periphery of the reaction chamber (5)). Advantageously, the lower faces of the radial branches (9) are open to distribute the second portion of the light fluid phase (2) towards the bottom of the reaction chamber (5), which also avoids any splashing problems. Advantageously, the side and upper faces of the radial branches (9) are closed by side walls (10) and a top wall, respectively. According to one or more embodiments, the side walls (19) of the first jet breaker (6) pass through the radial branches (9) which protrude beyond the circumference of the first jet breaker (6).

[0073] 3, the first window (7) allows the distribution of the first portion (14) of the light fluid phase (2) in the center of the reaction chamber (5), opening directly into the reaction chamber. Similarly, the second window (8) and the radial branches (9) allow the distribution of the second portion (15) of the light fluid phase (2) towards the periphery of the reaction chamber (5), or at least at a greater radial distance from the axis of symmetry Z.

[0074] According to one or more embodiments, the first window (7) and the second window (8) are adapted so that the first portion (14) emerges directly into the reaction chamber (5) through the first window (7) at a first velocity V1, and the second portion (15) emerges through the second window (8) at a second velocity V2 and is then directed towards the radial branch (9).

[0075] According to one or more embodiments, the passage cross-sections of the first window (7) and the second window (8) are configured such that the first velocity V1 and the second velocity V2 are between 0.1 × V and 10 × V, preferably between 0.3 × V and 5 × V, preferably between 0.5 × V and 2 × V, where V represents the velocity of the light fluid phase in the duct (1) and is between 0.01 m / s and 100 m / s. Advantageously, the velocity of the light fluid phase in the duct (1) is greater than the minimum fluidization velocity of the heavy fluid phase (4).

[0076] In the schematic diagram of cross section xy in Figure 3, the position of the side wall (19) of the first jet breaker (6) is added as a dotted line to show that the peripheral branch end (24) is preferably more eccentric than the side wall (19).

[0077] 3, 4 and 5, the radial branches (9) each comprise two side walls (10), preferably substantially vertical (parallel to the axis of symmetry Z), and a top wall (11), preferably substantially horizontal (perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z), which together define an inverted U-shaped channel substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z. Advantageously, the lower surface (18) of the radial branches (9) is open so that a part (17) of the second portion (15) of the light fluid phase (2) is distributed towards the bottom of the reaction chamber (5), which avoids any splashing problems. Preferably, the side walls (10) and the top wall (11) of the radial branches (9) are solid plates.

[0078] As used herein, the term "approximately" used to define an angle corresponds to an approximation of the angle of ±20°, preferably ±10°, and most preferably ±5°. For example, a substantially vertical side wall (10) means that the side wall (10) is vertical to the approximation of ±20°, preferably ±10°, and most preferably ±5° of the vertical.

[0079] According to one or more embodiments, the radial branch (9) has a length e of 1×E to 6×E, preferably 1×E to 4×E. According to one or more embodiments, the height of the side wall (10) of the radial branch (9) is approximately equal to or greater than the height d of the second window (8). Preferably, the height of the side wall (10) is approximately equal to the height d of the second window (8).

[0080] According to one or more embodiments, the passage cross-section (width x height) formed by the radial branch (9) is constant or variable. According to one or more embodiments, the passage cross-section of the radial branch (9) increases, starting from the duct (1), for example, linearly, continuously, or discontinuously. Preferably, the passage cross-section of the radial branch (9) increases linearly from the second window (8) to the peripheral branch end (24). Highly preferably, the width of the passage cross-section of the radial branch (9) increases linearly from the second window (8) to the peripheral branch end (24), and the height of the passage cross-section of the radial branch (9) is preferably substantially constant from the second window (8) to the peripheral branch end (24).

[0081] According to one or more embodiments, in a plane xy perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z, the radial branch (9) has a width c at the second window (8) of the duct (1) and a width f at the peripheral branch end (24), where f is preferably greater than c.

[0082] According to one or more embodiments, the width f at the peripheral branch ends (24) is between 1×c and 10×c, preferably between 1.2×c and 6×c.

[0083] According to one or more embodiments, the width (along the plane xy perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z) of the radial branch (9) increases starting from the duct (1) at the branch axis A according to two angles α over a distance e. For example, the width of the branch (6) may vary from 1×c to c+2×e×tan(α). According to one or more embodiments, the angle α is between 0° and 60°, preferably between 0° and 30°, preferably between 0° and 20°.

[0084] According to the invention, the distributor (3) further comprises a second jet breaker (12) arranged near and opposite the peripheral branch end (24). Advantageously, the second jet breaker (12) makes it possible to reduce the radial flow of the light fluid phase (2) near the wall of the reaction chamber (5) by preventing high fluid velocities being directed towards the wall, which may result in excessive and undesirable erosion of the wall of the reaction chamber (5), especially in the presence of solids. Furthermore, the second jet breaker (12) ensures better distribution of the mixture in the fluidized bed.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 3 , the second jet breaker (12) is approximately centered on the branch axis A and is approximately perpendicular to the branch axis A. The second jet breaker (12) is, for example, disposed between the peripheral branch end (24) and the peripheral wall of the reaction chamber (5). According to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker (12) is approximately vertical (parallel to the axis of symmetry Z). Advantageously, the second jet breaker (12) is adapted such that (the second portion (15) of) the light fluid phase (2) distributed towards (the periphery of) the reaction chamber (5) is constrained to have a movement component approximately perpendicular to the branch axis A. The second jet breaker (12) may be fastened to at least one of the side wall (10) and the top wall (11) by at least one attachment element, for example a metal rod or a welded connection.

[0086] Preferably, the second jet breaker (12) is adapted to constrain the second portion (15) of the light fluid phase (2) to have what is called a "tangential" movement component (16), i.e., a movement component that is substantially perpendicular to both the branch axis A and the axis of symmetry Z. To achieve this, the upper face of the second jet breaker (12) may be connected to the upper wall (11) of the radial branch (9) by an extension plate (13). Advantageously, the extension plate (13) allows the second jet breaker (12) to extend up to the upper wall (11) of the radial branch (9), closing the upper passage cross section between the second jet breaker (12) and the upper wall (11). Preferably, the extension plate is substantially parallel to the branch axis, for example in a plane xy perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z. The extension plate (13) of the second jet breaker (12) makes it possible in particular to prevent the second portion (15) of the light fluid phase (2) from having an upward movement component at the peripheral branch end (24). Preferably, the second jet breaker (12) is a solid plate or a plate provided with an orifice. Preferably, the extension plate (13) is a solid plate.

[0087] Preferably, the opening in the lower surface (18) of the radial branch (9) extends to the second jet breaker (12) so that the second portion of the light fluid phase (2) is also distributed by the second jet breaker (12) towards the bottom of the reaction chamber (5), which avoids any splashing problems. It is preferred that the lower surface of the second jet breaker (12) is not connected to the radial branch (9) by an extension plate (solid plate), although it will be understood that the lower surface of the second jet breaker (12) may be fastened to at least one of the side walls (10) of the branch by one or more attachment elements.

[0088] According to one or more embodiments, in a plane xy perpendicular to the axis of symmetry Z, the second jet breaker (12) has a width h that is equal to or greater than the width f at the approximately peripheral branch end (24). According to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker (12) has a width h that is greater than the width f. According to one or more embodiments, the width h is between 1×f and 2×f, preferably between 1×f and 1.5×f, for example between 1.05×f and 1.4×f. According to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker (12) has a width h that is greater than the width c. According to one or more embodiments, the width h is between 1×c and 6×c, preferably between 1.5×c and 4.5×c.

[0089] According to one or more embodiments, in the plane ZA (containing the axis of symmetry Z and the branch axis A), the second jet breaker (12) has a height g that is approximately equal to or greater than the height d of the second window (8). According to one or more embodiments, the height g is between 0.5×d and 1.5×d, preferably between 0.6×d and 1.2×d.

[0090] According to one or more embodiments, the distance i between the second jet breaker (12) and the peripheral branch end (24) is between 0.05×h and 0.9×h, preferably between 0.1×h and 0.6×h. Referring to FIG. 4, the distance i corresponds to the width of the side passage cross section (25) located between the side wall (10) of the radial branch (9) and the second jet breaker (12). According to one or more embodiments, the distance i is selected so that the velocity V3 at which the second portion (15) of the light fluid phase (2) emerges through the side passage cross section (25) is between 0.05×V and 2×V, preferably between 0.1×V and 1×V, and preferably between 0.2×V and 0.5×V.

[0091] According to one or more embodiments, the ratio of the surface area of ​​the side passage cross section (25) to the surface area of ​​the peripheral branch ends (24) is between 0.25 and 10, preferably between 0.5 and 5, and highly preferably between 1 and 2.5.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 6 , according to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker (12) and / or extension plate (13) and / or side wall (10) and / or top wall (11) have a rounded / curved shape, such as a cylindrical, elliptical, or truncated conical section, which allows for, among other things, improved mechanical integrity / strength. According to one or more embodiments, one or more of the joint edges between the second jet breaker (12), extension plate, top wall (11), and / or side wall (10) are rounded, so that the side passage section (25) disposed between the radial branch (9) and the second jet breaker (12) is rounded. For example, the peripheral branch end (24) and / or the side passage section (25) may have connecting fillets at the corners. According to one or more embodiments, the second jet breaker (12) has a curved shape along a plane xy perpendicular to the symmetry axis Z, e.g., a concave shape toward the side of the peripheral branch end (24). According to one or more embodiments, the radius of curvature of the second jet breaker (12) along the plane xy perpendicular to the symmetry axis Z is 0.5×f or greater. According to one or more embodiments, the extension plate (13) has a curved shape along a plane ZA, e.g., a concave shape toward the side of the peripheral branch end (24). According to one or more embodiments, the inner surface of the side wall (10) and / or the top wall (11) is concave.

[0093] According to one or more embodiments, the dispensing device has: - duct (1); diameter E: 0.1m-8m, preferably 0.2m-6m, preferably 0.4m-3m; - first windows (7); 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8; width a and height b; - second windows (8); 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8; width c and height d; ratio of height b / a and / or width d / c: 0.2 to 12, preferably 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 8; ratio of surface area of ​​first window (7) to second window (8): 0.2 to 5, preferably 0.3 to 3, more preferably 0.5 to 2; ratio of total surface area of ​​windows (7) and (8) to surface area of ​​duct (1): 0.5 to 4, more preferably 1 to 3; - first jet breaker (6); diameter: 1.1×E to 10×E, preferably 1.5×E to 8×E, more preferably 2×E to 5×E; - radial branches (9); length e: 1×E to 6×E, preferably 1×E to 4×E; width f at the peripheral branch ends (24): 1×c to 10×c, preferably 1.2×c to 6×c; and height: approximately equal to or greater than the height of the second window (8); a second jet breaker (12); width h: 1×f to 2×f, preferably 1×f to 1.5×f; height g: approximately equal to or greater than the height d of the second window (8); distance i between the second jet breaker (12) and the corresponding radial branch (9): 0.05×h to 0.9×h, preferably 0.1×h to 0.6×h; and - optionally an extension plate (13); connecting the upper face of the second jet breaker (12) to the upper wall (11) of the radial branch (9); - distributor (3); preferably arranged in the reaction chamber (5) (for example, FCC regenerator); diameter D: 0.5 m to 50 m, preferably 1 m to 30 m, preferably 2 m to 20 m; the reaction chamber (5) is, for example, equipped with a single distribution device.

[0094] (Example) To illustrate the improvements made by the distribution device according to the invention, several computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed on: - a dispensing device according to the invention (see particular Figures 3, 4 and 5), designated embodiment A; and - A dispensing device according to patent FR3065886 (designated counterexample B).

[0095] The CFD model consisted of an Eulerian / Eulerian model using a population balance model (PBM) to take into account the distribution of solid particles. The solid phase was represented as a continuum using the well-known Kinetic Theory of Granular Flow (KTGF) model. The software used was Ansys Fluent (version 2021R2).

[0096] In Example A and Counter Example B, an FCC regenerator with a diameter of 10 m containing a fluidized bed with a catalyst circulation of 74 rpm is considered.

[0097] FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the particle volume fraction averaged over time for the simulations of Example A and Counterexample B, which are as follows: - Section "A 1m" shows a cross section of the dispensing device according to the invention 1m above. - Section "A 2m" shows a cross section of the dispensing device according to the invention 2 m above. - Section "B 1m" shows a cross section of the prior art dispensing device 1m above. - Section "B 2m" shows a cross section of the prior art dispensing device 2m above.

[0098] In the cross-sectional views in Figure 7, the gradient from light to dark corresponds to an increase in the volume fraction of gas within the reaction chamber (5). Thus, Figure 7 shows that the peripheral gas volume fraction (dark areas) near the wall is much higher in counterexample B (see the dark areas along the wall in cross sections "B1m" and "B2m" compared to cross sections "A1m" and "A2m"). The regions with high gas volume fraction are also the regions with the highest suspension velocity. Given the high concentration of solids within the reaction chamber (5) in counterexample B, the high velocity would cause significant damage to the wall. Furthermore, the phase mixing in cross sections "A1m" and "A2m" is improved, as the standard deviation of the gradient in cross sections "A1m" and "A2m" is narrower compared to the phase mixing in cross sections "A1m" and "A2m".

[0099] Advantageously, the second jet breaker (12) according to the invention (see cross sections "A 1m" and "A 2m") reduces the high velocities and allows the light fluid phase (2) to be deflected more uniformly and less towards the wall of the reaction chamber (5).

[0100] In addition to this major improvement, a better distribution of fluids along the entire reaction chamber (5) entails better reaction efficiency and less risk of post-combustion. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0101] [Figure 1] 2 shows a schematic view of a cross section ZA of a dispensing device according to the invention placed in a reaction chamber. [Figure 2] 1 shows a schematic side view (figure A) and a schematic view of the cross section xy (figure B) of a duct of a distribution device according to the invention. [Figure 3] 1 shows a schematic view of a dispensing device according to the invention placed in a reaction chamber in cross section xy. [Figure 4] 1 shows a schematic view of a radial branch of a distribution device according to the invention in cross section xy (FIG. A) and a schematic view of a second jet breaker in cross section ZA (FIG. B). [Figure 5] 1 shows a schematic 3D view of a dispensing device according to the invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 shows a schematic 3D view of a dispensing device according to the invention with a rounded shape. [Figure 7] Illustrated are diagrams in the cross section xy of the particle volume fraction averaged over time 1 m and 2 m above a distribution device according to the invention (figures "A 1m" and "A 2m"), as well as diagrams of a distribution device according to the prior art (figures "B 1m" and "B 2m").

Claims

1. A device for distributing a light fluid phase (2) into a heavy fluid phase (4) in a reaction chamber (5), comprising: a duct (1) for transporting a light fluid phase (2); having a lower end and an upper end; - a first window (7) and a second window (8) perforated in the wall of the duct (1) near the upper end of the duct (1); and - Distributor (3) Equipped with The distributor (3) is - radial branches (9) connected to each second window (8) and extending towards the peripheral branch ends (24) along a branch axis (A) substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry (Z) of the upper end of the duct (1), the lower faces (18) of the radial branches (9) being open; a first jet breaker (6), located at the upper end of the duct (1); the first jet breaker (6) extends around the upper end of the duct (1); and a second jet breaker (12), located near and facing the peripheral branch end (24); Equipped with Each radial branch (9) - length e, between 1 x E and 6 x E, preferably between 1 x E and 4 x E; E is the diameter of said duct (1); a width f at the peripheral branch ends (24); between 1×c and 10×c, preferably between 1.2×c and 6×c; c is the width of each said second window (8); and a height d; approximately equal to or greater than the height d of each said second window (8); and Each second jet breaker (12) comprises: width h; between 1×f and 2×f, preferably between 1×f and 1.5×f; a height g, approximately equal to or greater than the height d of the second window (8); the distance i between the second jet breaker (12) and the corresponding radial branch (9) is between 0.05 x h and 0.9 x h, preferably between 0.1 x h and 0.6 x h; A device having:

2. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second jet breaker (12) is a solid plate or a plate provided with an orifice and is substantially perpendicular to the branch axis (A).

3. 3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each radial branch (9) comprises a side wall (10) and a top wall (11), and the second jet breaker (12) is fastened to at least one of the side wall (10) and the top wall (11) by at least one mounting element.

4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second jet breaker (12) comprises an upper face connected to the upper wall (11) of the radial branch (9) by an extension plate (13).

5. 5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the extension plate (13) is a solid plate substantially parallel to the branch axis (A).

6. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the opening in the lower surface (18) of the radial branch (9) extends to the second jet breaker (12).

7. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second jet breaker (12) is of a generatrically curved shape in a plane (xy) perpendicular to the axis of symmetry (Z).

8. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the diameter E of the duct (1) is between 0.1 m and 8 m, preferably between 0.2 m and 6 m, preferably between 0.4 m and 3 m.

9. 9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first window (7) is of width a and height b and the second window (8) is of width c and height d, the values ​​a, b, c and d satisfying at least one of the following characteristics: - the ratio of height b / a and / or width d / c is between 0.2 and 12, preferably between 1 and 10, preferably between 2 and 8; the ratio of the surface area of ​​the first window (7) to the second window (8) is between 0.2 and 5, preferably between 0.3 and 3, more preferably between 0.5 and 2; and the ratio of the total surface area of ​​the first window (7) and the second window (8) to the cross section of the duct (1) is between 0.5 and 4, more preferably between 1 and 3;

10. 10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8 first windows (7) and 2 to 24, preferably 3 to 12, preferably 3 to 8 second windows (8).

11. A reaction chamber (5) comprising a device for distributing a light fluid phase (2) into a heavy fluid phase (4), the distribution device comprising: a duct (1) for transporting a light fluid phase (2); having a lower end and an upper end; - a first window (7) and a second window (8) perforated in the wall of the duct (1) near the upper end of the duct; and - Distributor (3) Equipped with The distributor (3) is - radial branches (9) extending along a branch axis (A) substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry (Z) of the upper end of the duct (1) towards the peripheral branch ends (24) of each second window (8); the lower faces (18) of the radial branches (9) are open; a first jet breaker (6), located at the upper end of the duct (1); the first jet breaker (6) extends around the upper end of the duct (1); and a second jet breaker (12), located near and facing the peripheral branch end (24); Equipped with Each radial branch (9) - length e; between 1 x E and 6 x E, preferably between 1 x E and 4 x E; E is the diameter of the duct (1); a width f at the peripheral branch ends (24); between 1×c and 10×c, preferably between 1.2×c and 6×c; c is the width of each second window (8); and - its height is approximately equal to or greater than the height d of each second window (8); and Each second jet breaker (12) comprises: width h; between 1×f and 2×f, preferably between 1×f and 1.5×f; a height g, approximately equal to or greater than the height d of the second window (8); a distance i between the second jet breaker (12) and the corresponding radial branch (9), between 0.05 x h and 0.9 x h, preferably between 0.1 x h and 0.6 x h; a reaction chamber having

12. 12. The reaction chamber according to claim 11, having a diameter D of 0.5 m to 50 m, preferably 1 m to 30 m, preferably 2 m to 20 m, and wherein the ratio of the diameter E of the duct (1) to the diameter D of the reaction chamber (5) is 0.005 to 0.9, preferably 0.01 to 0.5, preferably 0.1 to 0.

3.

13. 1. A process for catalytic cracking, biomass processing, hydrotreating or hydroconversion using a device for distributing a light fluid phase (2) in a heavy fluid phase (4) in a reaction chamber (5), comprising: The distribution device a duct (1) for transporting a light fluid phase (2); having a lower end and an upper end; - a first window (7) and a second window (8) perforated in the wall of the duct (1) near the upper end of the duct; and - Distributor (3) Equipped with The distributor (3) is - radial branches (9) extending along a branch axis (A) substantially perpendicular to the axis of symmetry (Z) of the upper end of the duct (1) towards the peripheral branch ends (24) of each second window (8); the lower faces (18) of the radial branches (9) are open; a first jet breaker (6), located at the upper end of the duct (1); the first jet breaker (6) extends around the upper end of the duct (1); and a second jet breaker (12), located near and facing the peripheral branch end (24); Equipped with Each radial branch (9) - length e; between 1 x E and 6 x E, preferably between 1 x E and 4 x E; E is the diameter of the duct (1); a width f at the peripheral branch ends (24); between 1×c and 10×c, preferably between 1.2×c and 6×c; c is the width of each second window (8); and a height, approximately equal to or greater than the height d of each second window (8); and Each second jet breaker (12) comprises: width h; between 1×f and 2×f, preferably between 1×f and 1.5×f; a height g, approximately equal to or greater than the height d of the second window (8); a distance i between the second jet breaker (12) and the corresponding radial branch (9), between 0.05 x h and 0.9 x h, preferably between 0.1 x h and 0.6 x h; A method comprising:

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