Apparatus and method for heating a fluid in a pipeline with single phase alternating current

Abstract

To provide a device and a method for heating a fluid, which at least substantially avoid disadvantages of known devices and methods.SOLUTION: The apparatus comprises at least one electrically conductive pipeline 112 and / or at least one electrically conductive pipeline segment 114 for receiving a fluid, and at least one single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source 126, wherein the single-phase AC voltage source 126 connected to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 is assigned to heat the fluid by means of Joule heat generated when an electric current passes through the conductive pipe material, wherein the single-phase AC voltage source 126 is connected to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows via a forward conductor and flows back to the AC voltage source 126 via a return conductor. 126.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1a

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for heating a fluid in a pipeline. [Background technology]

[0002] Such devices are known in principle. For example, WO 2015 / 197181 A1 describes a device for heating a fluid, comprising at least one electrically conductive pipeline for receiving the fluid and at least one voltage source connected to the at least one pipeline. The at least one voltage source is designed to generate an alternating current in the at least one pipeline, which heats the at least one pipeline to heat the fluid.

[0003] However, known devices for heating fluids in pipelines are often technically complex or can only be implemented with great technical effort.

[0004] FR 2 722 359 A1 describes a fluid flowing through a uniform central hole in a channel with a wall thickness that increases uniformly in the axial direction. An electrical energy source is connected between the ends. The resistive heating per unit length decreases with increasing thickness, and the required energy distribution can be achieved by selecting the appropriate dimensions.

[0005] WO 2013 / 143435 A1 describes an electric high-frequency heating material pipe comprising a pipe body made of a conductive material and fitted with at least one heating device. The heating device is placed on the material pipe body and externally connected to a high-frequency AC power source. The heating device includes at least two conductive components, each equipped with a conductive ring. The conductive rings are pressed against the material pipe body, positioned separately on the left and right. Each of the two conductive components is connected to a conductive wire, and the other ends of the two conductive wires are connected to different electrodes of the high-frequency AC power source. This conducts and collects high-frequency current on the surface of the material pipe body, causing a high-frequency alternating current to flow through the surface of the material pipe body. Due to the presence of impedance, the temperature rises rapidly, warming the surface of the material pipe body.

[0006] In the technical field of subsea pipelines, a subsea direct electric heating energy supply system for supplying electric energy for heating a subsea pipeline section is known, as described in EP 3 579 659 A1, which includes an input means adapted to couple the direct electric heating energy supply system to an electric power source, and a subsea variable speed drive for receiving the electric energy from the input means and providing an AC output.

[0007] Pipeline heating systems comprising an insulated pipeline in which a portion of the pipeline acts as a heating element are known in the art of oil pipelines, as described in GB 2 341 442 A. The heating element has connections to corresponding supply and return cables at either end of the length of pipeline that defines the heating element, and insulation provides electrical insulation for the heating element. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and method for heating a fluid that at least largely avoids the drawbacks of known apparatus and methods. In particular, the apparatus and method should be technically simple and economical to implement and perform. In particular, the apparatus and method should be usable for heating fluids that cause insulation degradation, such as coking in cracking furnaces. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] This object has been achieved by a device having the features of the independent claims. Preferred configurations of the invention are specified inter alia in the associated subclaims and the dependent references to the subclaims.

[0010] In the following, the terms "have", "comprise" or "include" or grammatical variations thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. These terms can therefore relate to a situation in which no further features are present other than those introduced by these terms, or to a situation in which one or more further features are present or present. For example, the expressions "A has B", "A comprises B" or "A includes B" can relate both to a situation in which no further elements are present in A other than B (i.e., a situation in which A consists exclusively of B) and to a situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, such as element C, element C and element D or further elements.

[0011] It is also pointed out that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," and grammatical variations of these terms or similar terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be provided more than once, are generally only used once, e.g., when the feature or element is introduced for the first time. If the feature or element is mentioned again later, the corresponding terms "at least one" or "one or more" are generally no longer used, limiting the possibility that the feature or element may be provided one or more times.

[0012] Furthermore, in the following, the terms "preferably," "particularly," "for example," or similar terms are used in connection with optional features, without limiting alternative embodiments. Features introduced by these terms are therefore optional features and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the claims, in particular the independent claims. Therefore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention can also be implemented using other configurations. Similarly, features introduced by "in an embodiment of the invention" or "in an example of the invention" are to be understood as optional features, but are not intended to limit alternative configurations or the scope of protection of the independent claims. Furthermore, all possibilities of combining the introduced features with other features, regardless of whether they are optional or non-optional, are intended to remain unaffected by these introductory expressions.

[0013] In a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for heating a fluid is proposed.

[0014] Within the scope of the present invention, "fluid" is understood to mean a gaseous and / or liquid medium. The fluid can be, for example, selected from the group consisting of water, steam, combustion air, a hydrocarbon mixture, and hydrocarbons to be cracked. For example, the fluid can be a hydrocarbon to be pyrolyzed, in particular a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed. For example, the fluid can be water or steam, and further includes a hydrocarbon to be pyrolyzed, in particular a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed. The fluid can, for example, be a preheated mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed and steam. Other fluids are also conceivable.

[0015] "Heating a fluid" can be understood to mean a process that results in a change in the temperature of a fluid, in particular an increase in the temperature of the fluid, for example to warm the fluid. For example, heating can warm the fluid to a defined or predetermined temperature value. For example, the fluid can be heated to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 1200°C. The temperature range can depend on the application. For example, the fluid can be heated to a temperature in the range of 550°C to 1100°C. For example, the fluid can be heated to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 800°C, preferably 400°C to 700°C.

[0016] The apparatus may be part of a facility. For example, the facility may be selected from the group consisting of a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for alkane dehydrogenation, and an apparatus for dry reforming. For example, the facility may be designed to perform at least one process selected from the group consisting of steam cracking, steam reforming, alkane dehydrogenation, and dry reforming.

[0017] The device may be, for example, part of a steam cracker. "Steam cracking" may be understood to mean the process of converting long-chain hydrocarbons, such as naphtha, propane, butane, and ethane, as well as gas oils and hydrowaxes, into shorter-chain hydrocarbons by thermal cracking in the presence of steam. In steam cracking, hydrogen, methane, ethene, and propene may be produced as main products, as well as butenes and pyrolytic benzene, among others. Steam crackers may be designed to warm the fluid to temperatures in the range of 550°C to 1100°C.

[0018] For example, the device may be part of a reformer. "Steam reforming" may be understood to mean a process for producing hydrogen and carbon oxides from water and a carbon-containing energy carrier, in particular a hydrocarbon such as natural gas, light gasoline, methanol, biogas, or biomass. For example, the fluid may be heated to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 800°C, preferably 400°C to 700°C.

[0019] For example, the apparatus may be part of an apparatus for alkane dehydrogenation. "Alkane dehydrogenation" may be understood to mean a process for producing alkenes by dehydrogenating alkanes, for example, the dehydrogenation of butane to butene (BDH) or the dehydrogenation of propane to propene (PDH). The apparatus for alkane dehydrogenation may be designed to warm the fluid to a temperature in the range of 400°C to 700°C.

[0020] However, other temperatures and temperature ranges are contemplated.

[0021] The equipment is: at least one electrically conductive pipeline and / or at least one electrically conductive pipeline segment for receiving said fluid; at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source, wherein each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment is assigned a single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source connected to the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment, wherein the respective single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source is designed to generate an electric current in the respective pipeline and / or in the respective pipeline segment, warming the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment and heating the fluid by Joule heating generated when the electric current passes through the conductive pipe material, and the single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source is connected to the pipeline and / or pipeline segment in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows into the pipeline and / or pipeline segment via a forward conductor and back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source via a return conductor.

[0022] Within the scope of the present invention, a pipeline may be understood to mean any shaped device designed to receive and transport a fluid. A pipeline segment may be understood to mean a portion of a pipeline. A pipeline may include at least one symmetrical pipe and / or at least one asymmetrical pipe. The geometry and / or surface and / or material of the pipeline may depend on the fluid to be transported.

[0023] "Conductive pipeline" may be understood to mean that the pipeline, and in particular the material of the pipeline, is designed to conduct electric current.

[0024] Fluid may flow through each pipeline and / or pipeline segment of the apparatus and be heated therein by the pipelines and / or pipeline segments being heated by alternating current applied to those pipelines and / or pipeline segments from an AC power source and / or AC voltage source, resulting in Joule heat being generated within the pipelines and / or pipeline segments and being transferred to the fluid, heating it as it flows through the pipelines and / or pipeline segments.

[0025] The pipeline can be designed as a reaction pipe of a reformer. The pipeline can be designed as a reaction pipe of at least one facility selected from the group consisting of a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for alkane dehydrogenation, and an apparatus for dry reforming.

[0026] An apparatus may include multiple pipelines and / or pipeline segments. An apparatus may include L pipelines and / or pipeline segments, where L is a natural number greater than or equal to 2. For example, an apparatus may include at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or more pipelines and / or pipe segments. An apparatus may include, for example, up to 100 pipelines and / or pipeline segments. The pipelines and / or pipeline segments may be configured identically or differently.

[0027] Pipelines and / or pipeline segments can include symmetric and / or asymmetric pipes and / or combinations thereof. In a purely symmetric configuration, the device can include pipelines and / or pipeline segments of the same type of pipe. "Asymmetric pipe" and "combination of symmetric and asymmetric pipes" can be understood to mean that the device can include any combination of pipe types, for example, connected in parallel or in series as desired. "Pipe type" can be understood to mean a category or type of pipeline and / or pipeline segment characterized by specific characteristics. Pipe types can be characterized by at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of the horizontal configuration of the pipeline and / or pipeline segment; the vertical configuration of the pipeline and / or pipeline segment; the length at the inlet (L1) and / or outlet (L2) and / or transition (L3); the diameter at the inlet (d1) and outlet (d2) and / or transition (d3); the number of passes (n); the length per pass; the diameter per pass; the geometric shape; the surface; and the material. The device can include a combination of at least two different types of pipe connected in parallel and / or in series. For example, the apparatus may include pipelines and / or pipeline segments of different lengths at the inlet (L1) and / or outlet (L2) and / or transition (L3). For example, the apparatus may include pipelines and / or pipeline segments with asymmetric diameters at the inlet (d1) and / or outlet (d2) and / or transition (d3). For example, the apparatus may include pipelines and / or pipeline segments with different numbers of passes. For example, the apparatus may include pipelines and / or pipeline segments with passes of different lengths per pass and / or different diameters per pass. In principle, any combination of all types of pipes in parallel and / or in series is possible. The apparatus may include multiple feed inlets and / or feed outlets and / or production streams. "Feed" may be understood to mean the stream of material supplied to the apparatus.Pipelines and / or pipeline segments of different or identical types of pipe can be arranged in parallel and / or in series with multiple supply inlets and / or supply outlets. Pipelines and / or pipeline segments can be present in various types of pipe in the form of a construction kit and can be selected and combined as desired depending on the intended application. The use of pipelines and / or pipeline segments of different types of pipe can enable more precise temperature control and / or reaction adaptation in the presence of variable supply and / or reaction selective yields and / or optimized process technologies. Pipelines and / or pipeline segments can include the same or different geometric shapes and / or surfaces and / or materials. Pipelines and / or pipeline segments can be connected through, thus forming a pipe system for receiving a fluid. A "pipe system" can be understood to mean an apparatus including at least two pipelines and / or pipeline segments, especially those connected to each other. A pipe system can include an inlet and an outlet pipeline. A pipe system can include at least one inlet for receiving a fluid. A pipe system can include at least one outlet for discharging a fluid. "Through-connected" may be understood to mean that pipelines and / or pipeline segments are fluidly connected to one another. Thus, pipelines and / or pipeline segments may be arranged and connected such that a fluid flows sequentially through the pipelines and / or pipeline segments. Pipelines and / or pipeline segments may also be connected in parallel to one another so that a fluid can flow in parallel through at least two pipelines and / or pipeline segments. Pipelines and / or pipeline segments, particularly pipelines and / or pipeline segments connected in parallel, may be designed to transport different fluids in parallel. In particular, pipelines and / or pipeline segments connected in parallel may include different geometries and / or surfaces and / or materials to transport different fluids.In particular, for the transport of fluids, some or all of the pipelines and / or pipeline segments may be configured in parallel, so that the fluid may be divided between the parallel configured pipelines. Combinations of series and parallel connections are also contemplated.

[0028] The pipelines and / or pipeline segments and the corresponding inflow and outflow pipelines can be connected to each other in a fluid-conducting manner, while the pipelines and / or pipeline segments and the corresponding inflow and outflow pipelines can be galvanically isolated from each other. "Galvanically isolated from each other" can be understood to mean that the pipelines and / or pipeline segments and the inflow and outflow pipelines are isolated from each other so that there is no electrical conduction and / or permissible electrical conduction between the pipelines and / or pipeline segments and the inflow and outflow pipelines. The device can include at least one isolator, particularly multiple isolators. Galvanic isolation between each pipeline and / or pipeline segment and the inflow and outflow pipelines can be ensured by the isolators. The isolators can ensure free flow of fluid. For each galvanically isolated pipeline and / or pipeline segment, the device can include at least one forward conductor and at least one return conductor. The forward conductor and return conductor for each galvanically isolated pipeline and / or pipeline segment can be connected to an AC power source and / or AC voltage source. Thus, for each respective galvanically isolated pipeline and / or pipeline segment, an AC power source and / or AC voltage source, at least one forward conductor and at least one return conductor may be provided.

[0029] An "AC power source" may be understood to mean a power source designed to provide alternating current. An "alternating current" may be understood to mean a current of regularly repeating, varying polarity. For example, the alternating current may be a sinusoidal alternating current. A "single-phase" AC power source may be understood to mean an AC power source that supplies a single phase of current.

[0030] The apparatus may be designed to apply and / or provide an alternating current to the pipeline and / or pipeline segment. The apparatus may include a forward conductor designed to conduct the generated alternating current to further elements, in particular the pipeline and / or pipeline segment, such that the generated alternating current flows through the pipeline and / or pipeline segment via the forward conductor. A "forward conductor" may be understood to mean any electrical conductor, in particular a feeder, with the "forward" part of the term indicating the direction of flow from an AC power or AC voltage source in relation to the pipeline and / or pipeline segment.

[0031] An "AC voltage source" may be understood to mean a voltage source designed to provide an AC voltage. An "AC voltage" may be understood to mean a voltage of a level and polarity that repeats regularly over time. For example, the AC voltage may be a sinusoidal AC voltage. The voltage generated by an AC voltage source causes a current to flow, particularly an alternating current. A "single-phase" AC voltage source may be understood to mean an AC voltage source that supplies a single-phase alternating current.

[0032] The AC power source and / or AC voltage source is designed to generate an alternating current in the respective pipeline and / or respective pipeline segment. The generated alternating current can warm the respective pipeline and / or respective pipeline segment by Joule heating, which is generated when the current passes through the conductive pipe material to heat the fluid. "Warming the pipeline and / or pipeline segment" can be understood to mean a process that results in a change in the temperature of the pipeline and / or pipeline segment, in particular an increase in the temperature of the pipeline and / or pipeline segment.

[0033] The AC power source and / or AC voltage source is connected to the pipeline and / or pipeline segment in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows into the pipeline and / or pipeline segment via a forward conductor and back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source via a return conductor. The apparatus may include at least one return conductor. A "return conductor" may be understood to mean any electrical conductor designed to carry the alternating current away after it has flowed through the pipeline and / or pipeline segment, particularly to the AC power source or AC voltage source. The "return" part of the term indicates the direction of flow from the pipeline and / or pipeline segment to the AC power source or AC voltage source.

[0034] The device may include multiple single-phase AC power sources or single-phase AC voltage sources.

[0035] For each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment, an AC power source and / or an AC voltage source can be assigned, which is electrically connected to the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment, in particular via at least one electrical connection. Embodiments are also conceivable in which at least two pipelines and / or each pipeline segment share an AC power source and / or an AC voltage source.

[0036] For connecting a single-phase AC power source or a single-phase AC voltage source with each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment, the apparatus may include 2 to N forward conductors and 2 to N return conductors, where N is a natural number greater than or equal to 3. Each single-phase AC power source and / or AC voltage source may be designed to generate a current in each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment.

[0037] The AC power sources and / or AC voltage sources may be controlled or uncontrolled. The AC power sources and / or AC voltage sources may be configured with or without the possibility of controlling at least one electrical output variable. "Output variable" may be understood to mean a current and / or voltage value and / or a current and / or voltage signal. The device may include 2 to M different AC power sources and / or AC voltage sources, where M is a natural number greater than or equal to 3. The AC power sources and / or AC voltage sources may be electrically controllable independently of each other. For example, different currents may be generated in each pipeline, resulting in different temperatures being reached in the pipeline.

[0038] Furthermore, the device may include at least one heating wire, which may be wound around the pipeline and / or pipeline segment, for example. An AC power source and / or AC voltage source may be connected to the heating wire. The AC power source and / or AC voltage source may be designed to generate a current in the heating wire, thus generating heat. The heating wire may be designed to warm, and in particular heat, the pipeline and / or pipeline segment.

[0039] In a further aspect, within the scope of the present invention there is proposed a method for heating a fluid, in which the device according to the invention is used.

[0040] The method includes the following steps: - providing at least one electrically conductive pipeline and / or at least one electrically conductive pipeline segment for receiving said fluid; - receiving a fluid in a pipeline and / or a pipeline segment; providing at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source, wherein each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment is assigned a single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source connected to the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment; -generating an electric current in each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment by a respective single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source, warming the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment by Joule heating generated as the electric current passes through the conductive pipe material, thereby heating the fluid, the single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source being connected to the pipeline and / or pipeline segment in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows into the pipeline and / or pipeline segment via a forward conductor and back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source via a return conductor.

[0041] The above description of the device can be applied to embodiments and definitions. The method steps can be performed in the specified order, one or more of the steps can be performed at least partially simultaneously, and one or more of the steps can be repeated several times. In addition, further steps can be additionally performed, regardless of whether they are mentioned in this application.

[0042] Fluid may flow through each pipeline and / or pipeline segment of the apparatus and be heated therein by the pipeline being heated by an alternating current applied to those pipelines and / or pipeline segments from a single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source, resulting in Joule heat being generated within the pipeline and / or pipeline segment and being transferred to the fluid, heating it as it flows through the pipeline and / or pipeline segment.

[0043] For example, the fluid may be a hydrocarbon to be pyrolyzed, in particular a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed.

[0044] For example, the fluid can be water or steam, in particular heated to a temperature in the range of 550°C to 700°C, and the fluid in particular further comprises hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed, in particular a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed. The fluid to be heated can also be a preheated mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed and steam.

[0045] For example, the fluid may be combustion air for a reformer, which may be preheated or heated to a temperature in the range of, for example, 200°C to 800°C, preferably 400°C to 700°C.

[0046] For example, the pipeline may be formed as a reaction pipe in a reformer.

[0047] The device according to the invention and the method according to the invention have many advantages over known devices and methods: they allow closed-loop control of temperature, closed-loop control of current or voltage, yield optimization, arbitrary implementation of reactor design and arbitrary combination of reactors.

[0048] In summary, the following embodiments are particularly preferred within the scope of the present invention:

[0049] Embodiment 1: An apparatus for heating a fluid, comprising: at least one electrically conductive pipeline and / or at least one electrically conductive pipeline segment for receiving said fluid; at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source, wherein each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment is assigned a single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source connected to the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment, wherein the respective single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source is designed to generate an electric current in the respective pipeline and / or in the respective pipeline segment, warming the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment and heating the fluid by Joule heating generated when the electric current passes through the conductive pipe material, and the single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source is connected to the pipeline and / or pipeline segment in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows into the pipeline and / or pipeline segment via a forward conductor and back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source via a return conductor.

[0050] Embodiment 2: An apparatus according to the previous embodiment, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of pipelines and / or pipeline segments, the pipelines and / or pipeline segments being connected through each other, thus forming a pipe system for receiving the fluid.

[0051] Embodiment 3: An apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the apparatus includes L pipelines and / or pipeline segments, where L is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, and the pipelines and / or pipeline segments include symmetric or asymmetric pipes and / or combinations thereof.

[0052] Embodiment 4: An apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the pipelines and / or pipeline segments, and the corresponding inlet and outlet pipelines, are connected to each other in a fluid-conducting manner, and the pipelines and / or pipeline segments, and the inlet and outlet pipelines, are galvanically isolated from each other.

[0053] Embodiment 5: An apparatus according to the previous embodiment, wherein the apparatus includes an isolator designed to provide galvanic isolation between each pipeline and / or pipeline segment and the inlet and outlet pipelines, the isolator being designed to ensure free through-flow of fluid.

[0054] Embodiment 6: An apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein some or all of the pipelines and / or pipeline segments are configured in series and / or parallel.

[0055] Embodiment 7: An apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the apparatus includes a plurality of single-phase AC power sources or single-phase AC voltage sources, the single-phase AC power sources or single-phase AC voltage sources being configured with or without the possibility of controlling at least one electrical output variable.

[0056] Embodiment 8: The device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the device has 2 to N forward conductors and 2 to N return conductors (N is a natural number greater than or equal to 3) for connecting the single-phase AC power source or single-phase AC voltage source to each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment.

[0057] Embodiment 9: The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the respective single-phase AC power sources or single-phase AC voltage sources are configured identically or differently.

[0058] Embodiment 10: The apparatus of the previous embodiment, wherein the apparatus includes 2 to M different single-phase AC power sources and / or single-phase AC voltage sources, where M is a natural number greater than or equal to 3, and the single-phase AC power sources and / or single-phase AC voltage sources are electrically controllable independently of each other.

[0059] Embodiment 11: An installation comprising at least one device according to any one of the previous embodiments.

[0060] Embodiment 12: The installation according to the previous embodiment, wherein the installation is selected from the group consisting of a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an installation for alkane dehydrogenation, an installation for dry reforming.

[0061] Embodiment 13: A method for heating a fluid using an apparatus according to any one of the previous embodiments relating to an apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: - providing at least one electrically conductive pipeline and / or at least one electrically conductive pipeline segment for receiving said fluid; - receiving a fluid in a pipeline and / or a pipeline segment; providing at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source, wherein each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment is assigned a single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source connected to the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment; -generating an electric current in each pipeline and / or each pipeline segment by a respective single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source, warming the respective pipeline and / or each pipeline segment by Joule heating generated as the electric current passes through the conductive pipe material, thereby heating the fluid, the single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source being connected to the pipeline and / or pipeline segment in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows into the pipeline and / or pipeline segment via a forward conductor and back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source via a return conductor.

[0062] Embodiment 14: The method according to the previous embodiment, wherein the fluid is a hydrocarbon to be pyrolyzed, in particular a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed.

[0063] Embodiment 15: A method according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the fluid is water or steam, the water or steam being heated, in particular to a temperature in the range of 550°C to 700°C, the fluid further comprising hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed, in particular a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed, and the heated fluid is a preheated mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed and steam.

[0064] Embodiment 16: The method according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the fluid is combustion air from a reformer, for example, preheated to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 800°C, preferably 400°C to 700°C.

[0065] Further details and features of the invention can be found in the following description of preferred embodiments, in particular in connection with the subclaims. Each feature may be implemented separately or some of them may be implemented in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the embodiments. The embodiments are shown diagrammatically in the figures. In the individual figures, the same reference signs indicate elements that are the same or have the same function, i.e. they correspond to one another in terms of their function. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0066] [Figure 1a] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 1b] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 1c] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 2] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 3a] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 3b] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 4a] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 4b] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 4c] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 5] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 6a] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 6b] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 6c] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 6d] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 6e] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 6f] 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention; [Figure 7Ai] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Aii] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Aiii] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Aiv] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Av]Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Avi] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Bi] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Bii] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Biii] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Biv] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Bv] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Bvi] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Ci] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Cii] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Ciii] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Civ] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Cv] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 7Cvi] Schematic diagrams of pipe types are shown. [Figure 8a] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8b] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8c] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8d] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8e] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8f] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8g] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8h] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8i] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8j] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8k] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8l] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8m] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8n] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8o] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8p] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8q]1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8r] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8s] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8t] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8u] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8v] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8w] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8x] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; [Figure 8y] 1 shows a construction kit with types of pipes and embodiments of a combination of pipelines and / or pipeline segments according to the invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0067] Example 1a-1c each show a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an apparatus 110 for heating a fluid according to the present invention. The apparatus 110 includes at least one electrically conductive pipeline 112 and / or at least one electrically conductive pipeline segment 114 for receiving the fluid. The fluid may be a gaseous and / or liquid medium. The fluid may be selected from the group consisting of water, steam, combustion air, a hydrocarbon mixture, and hydrocarbons to be cracked. For example, the fluid may be a hydrocarbon to be pyrolyzed, particularly a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed. For example, the fluid may be water or steam, and may further include a hydrocarbon to be pyrolyzed, particularly a mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed. The fluid may be, for example, a preheated mixture of hydrocarbons to be pyrolyzed and steam. Other fluids are also contemplated. The apparatus 110 may be designed to heat the fluid, particularly to increase the temperature of the fluid. For example, the fluid may be heated to a specified or predetermined temperature value by heating. For example, the fluid may be heated to a temperature in the range of 400°C to 1200°C.

[0068] For example, the apparatus 110 may be part of a facility. For example, the facility may be selected from the group consisting of a steam cracker, a steam reformer, an apparatus for alkane dehydrogenation, and an apparatus for dry reforming. For example, the apparatus 110 may be designed to perform at least one process selected from the group consisting of steam cracking, steam reforming, alkane dehydrogenation, and dry reforming. The apparatus 110 may be part of a steam cracker, for example. The steam cracker may be designed to warm a fluid to a temperature in the range of 550°C to 1100°C. For example, the apparatus 110 may be part of a reformer. For example, the fluid may be reformer combustion air that has been preheated or heated to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 800°C, preferably 400°C to 700°C. For example, the apparatus 110 may be part of an apparatus for alkane dehydrogenation. The apparatus for alkane dehydrogenation may be designed to warm a fluid to a temperature in the range of 400°C to 700°C. However, other temperatures and temperature ranges are also contemplated.

[0069] The pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 may be designed to receive and transport a fluid. The pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 may include at least one leg or turn. The pipeline 112 may include at least one symmetrical pipe and / or at least one asymmetrical pipe. FIG. 1c shows an embodiment with three symmetrical pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114. The geometry and / or surface and / or material of the pipeline 112 may depend on the fluid being transported. The pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 may be designed to conduct an electric current. The pipeline 112 may be designed as a reactor pipe for a reformer.

[0070] FIG. 1a illustrates an example embodiment in which the apparatus 110 includes one pipeline 112. The apparatus 110 can include multiple pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114, such as two as shown in FIG. 1b or three as shown in FIG. 1c. The apparatus 110 can include L pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114, where L is a natural number greater than or equal to two. For example, the apparatus 110 can include at least two, three, four, five, or more pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114. The apparatus 110 can include, for example, up to 100 pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114. The pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 may be identical or differently configured. The pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 can be interconnected, thus forming a pipe system 118 for receiving a fluid. The pipe system 118 can include an inlet and an outlet pipeline 112. The pipe system 118 can include at least one inlet 120 for receiving a fluid. The pipe system 118 may include at least one outlet 122 for discharging the fluid. Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment in which the pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 are arranged and connected such that the fluid flows sequentially through the pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114.

[0071] The pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114, as well as the corresponding inflow and outflow pipelines, can be connected to one another in a fluid-conducting manner, while the pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114, as well as the inflow and outflow pipelines, can be galvanically isolated from one another. The device 110 can include at least one galvanic isolation, in particular at least one isolator 124, in particular a plurality of isolators 124. The galvanic isolation between each pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114 and the inflow and outflow pipelines can be ensured by the isolators 124. The isolators 124 can ensure the free flow of fluid.

[0072] The device 110 includes at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source 126. For example, the alternating current may be a sinusoidal alternating current. The single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source 126 may be designed to provide a current having a single phase.

[0073] The apparatus 110 includes a forward conductor 128. The forward conductor 128 may be designed to conduct the generated AC current to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114. The forward conductor 128 may be designed to apply AC current to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 and / or provide AC current to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114. The forward conductor 128 may be designed to conduct the generated AC current to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 such that the generated AC current flows through the forward conductor 128 to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114. The forward conductor 128 may be a feeder. The AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 is designed to generate AC current in each pipeline 112 and / or each pipeline segment 114. The generated AC current may heat each pipeline 112 and / or each pipeline segment 114 by Joule heating, which is generated when the current passes through the conductive pipe material to heat the fluid. Warming of the pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114 may include a change in the temperature of the pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114, particularly an increase in the temperature of the pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114.

[0074] The AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 is connected to the pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114 in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows through the pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114 via a forward conductor 128 and back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 via a return conductor 130. The return conductor 130 may be designed to carry the alternating current away after it has flowed through the pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114, particularly to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126.

[0075] The device may include multiple single-phase AC power sources or voltage sources 126, for example, three, as shown by way of example in FIG. 1c.

[0076] For each pipeline 112 and / or each pipeline segment 114, an AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 may be assigned, which is electrically connected to the respective pipeline 112 and / or each pipeline segment 114, in particular via at least one electrical connection.

[0077] For connection to the single-phase AC or single-phase AC voltage source 126 and each pipeline 112 and / or each pipeline segment 114, the apparatus 110 may have 2 to N forward conductors 128 and 2 to N return conductors 130, where N is a natural number greater than or equal to 3. Each single-phase AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 may be designed to generate a current in each pipeline 112 and / or each pipeline segment 114.

[0078] The AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 may be controlled or uncontrolled. The AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 may be configured with or without the possibility of controlling at least one electrical output variable. For example, the apparatus may include at least one controller 127. The controller may, for example, be an external controller, i.e., a controller 127 located outside the reaction space. The apparatus 110 may include 2 to M different AC power sources and / or AC voltage sources 126, where M is a natural number greater than or equal to 3. The AC power sources and / or AC voltage sources 126 may be electrically controllable independently of each other. For example, different currents may be generated in each pipeline 112 and / or in each pipeline segment 114, and different temperatures may be reached in each pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114.

[0079] Figures 4a to 4c each show a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an apparatus 110 according to the invention for heating a fluid, the reactive space 111 (also called reaction space) of the apparatus 110 also being shown in each of the embodiments of Figures 4a to 4c. For further elements of Figure 4a, reference may be made to the description of Figure 1a. For further elements of Figure 4b, reference may be made to the description of Figure 1b. For further elements of Figure 4c, reference may be made to the description of Figure 1c.

[0080] FIG. 2 illustrates a further embodiment of the apparatus 110 according to the present invention. Regarding the configuration of the apparatus, reference is made to the description of FIG. 1 with the following special features. In this embodiment, the apparatus 110 includes a pipeline 112 and / or a pipeline segment 114 having three fluidly connected legs or turns. The apparatus includes an inlet 120 and an outlet 122. Fluid can flow serially through the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 from the inlet 120 to the outlet 122. For galvanic isolation, the apparatus 110 can include an isolator 124, e.g., two isolators 124, as shown in FIG. 2. In this embodiment, the apparatus 110 includes a single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source 126. For connection to the single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source 126 and the pipeline 112 and / or the respective pipeline segment 114, the apparatus 110 can include a forward conductor 128 and a return conductor 130.

[0081] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an apparatus 110 according to the invention for heating a fluid, the reactive space 111 of the apparatus 110 also being shown in the example of Figure 5. With regard to further elements of Figure 5, reference can be made to the description of Figure 2.

[0082] In the examples of Figures 1a and 1c, the pipelines 112 are arranged in series. Figures 3a and 3b illustrate embodiments with parallel-connected pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114, with Figure 3a including two parallel pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 and Figure 3b including three parallel pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114. Other numbers of parallel pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 are also contemplated. In Figures 3a and 3b, the device 110 includes an inlet 120 and an outlet 122. The pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 can be connected to one another so that fluid can flow in parallel through at least two pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114. The parallel-connected pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 can have different geometries, surfaces, and / or materials. For example, the parallel-connected pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 can have different numbers of legs or turns.

[0083] 6a and 6b show schematic diagrams of an embodiment of an apparatus 110 according to the present invention for heating a fluid, with the reactive space 111 of the apparatus 110 also shown in each of the embodiments of FIGS. 6a and 6b. For further elements of FIG. 6a, reference may be made to the description of FIG. 3a. For further elements of FIG. 6b, reference may be made to the description of FIG. 3b. For FIGS. 6c and 6e, reference may be made to the description of FIG. 6A. In the embodiment of FIGS. 6c and 6e, the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 share a common AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126. In the embodiment of FIG. 6e, the apparatus also includes a controller 127. The controller 127 may be designed to control the output variable of the AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126 so that the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 can have controllable temperatures, in particular different temperatures. For FIGS. 6d and 6f, reference may be made to the description of FIG. 6b. In the embodiments of Figures 6d and 6f, the pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 share a common AC power source and / or AC voltage source 126. In the embodiment of Figure 6f, the apparatus also includes a controller 127.

[0084] The apparatus 110 can have symmetric and / or asymmetric pipes and / or combinations thereof. In a purely symmetric configuration, the apparatus 110 can have pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of the same type of pipe. The apparatus 110 can have any combination of pipe types, for example, connected in parallel or in series as desired. Pipe types can be characterized by at least one feature selected from the group consisting of the horizontal configuration of the pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114; the vertical configuration of the pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114; the length at the inlet (L1) and / or outlet (L2) and / or transition (L3); the diameter at the inlet (d1) and outlet (d2) and / or transition (d3); the number of passes (n); the length per pass; the diameter per pass; the geometric shape; the surface; and the material. Alternatively or additionally, a pipe type may be selected from at least one pipeline 112 and / or at least one pipeline segment 114, which may or may not have galvanic isolation and / or grounding 125. Galvanic isolation may be configured using, for example, an isolator 124. For example, galvanic isolation may be provided at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114, and galvanic isolation may be provided at the outlet 122 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. For example, galvanic isolation may be provided at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114, and grounding 125 may be provided at the outlet 122 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. For example, galvanic isolation may be provided only at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. For example, grounding 125 may be provided only at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. For example, the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114 may be provided without grounding 125 at the inlet 120 and outlet 122 and / or without galvanic isolation at the inlet 120 and outlet 122. Alternatively or additionally, pipe types may be characterized by the direction of fluid flow.A fluid can in principle flow in two flow directions, called first and second flow directions, which may be opposite.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally, the type of pipe may be characterized by the application of alternating current to the pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114. For example, the forward conductor 128 may be connected midway along the pipeline 112 and / or the pipe segment 114. The return conductor 130 may be connected to the beginning or end of the pipeline 112 and / or the pipe segment 114. For example, the forward conductor 128 may be connected to the beginning of the pipeline 112 and / or the pipe segment 114, and the return conductor 130 may be connected to the end of the pipeline 112 and / or the pipe segment 114.

[0086] Any combination of pipe types is possible.

[0087] Figures 7Ai to 7Civ show exemplary possible embodiments of pipe types in a schematic diagram. Pipe types are shown in each of Figures 7A1 to 7Civ, which can be divided into the following categories, and all possible combinations of categories are possible: Category A indicates the course of the pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114, where A1 indicates a type of pipe with a horizontal course and A2 indicates a type of pipe with a vertical course, i.e. a course perpendicular to the horizontal course. - Category B specifies the ratio of the length of the inlet (L1) and / or outlet (L2) and / or the diameter of the inlet (d1) and / or outlet (d2) and / or transition (d3), with six different possible combinations provided in the construction kit 138. Category C indicates the ratio of the length at the inlet (L1) and / or outlet (L2) to the length of the path, where all commutations marked with Ci in this case are considered. Category D indicates whether at least one pipeline 112 and / or at least one pipeline segment 114 is configured with or without galvanic isolation and / or grounding 125. Galvanic isolation can be configured, for example, using an isolator 124. D1 indicates a type of pipe in which galvanic isolation is provided at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114 and at the outlet 122 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. D2 indicates a type of pipe in which galvanic isolation is provided at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114 and at the outlet 122 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114 and at the grounding 125. D3 indicates a type of pipe in which galvanic isolation is provided only at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. D4 indicates a type of pipe in which grounding 125 is provided only at the inlet 120 of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. D5 denotes a type of pipe in which the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114 is provided without earthing 125 at the inlet 120 and outlet 122 and / or without galvanic isolation at the inlet 120 and outlet 122 . - Category E indicates the direction of fluid flow. Fluids can in principle flow in two directions. Pipe types in which the fluid flows in the first flow direction are called pipe type E1, and pipe types in which the fluid flows in the second flow direction are called pipe type E2. The first and second flow directions may be reversed. Category F identifies the application of alternating current to the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. F1 indicates the connection of a forward conductor 128 intermediate along the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114, with a return conductor 130 connected at the beginning or end of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. F2 indicates the connection of a forward conductor 128 at the beginning of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114, and a return conductor 130 at the end of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114.

[0088] In FIG. 7Ai, a pipeline 112 and / or a pipeline segment 114 of the pipe type A1D1F2 is shown. The pipeline 112 and / or the pipeline segment 114 has a horizontal course. In this embodiment, the device 110 has two isolators 124 arranged after the inlet 120 and before the outlet 122. For further elements of FIG. 7Ai, reference can be made to the description of FIG. 4A. In FIG. 7Ai, possible flow directions Ei are exemplarily indicated by double arrows at the inlet 120 and the outlet 122. In the further FIG. 7, the inlet 120 and the outlet 122 are shown together. The example of FIG. 7Aii shows a pipe type A1D2F2 and differs from FIG. 7Ai in that the device 110 has only one isolator 124 and a ground 125 is provided instead of a second isolator. The example of FIG. 7Aiii shows a pipe type A1D3F2 and differs from FIG. 7Aii in that a ground 125 is not provided. In Fig. 7Aiv, which is a pipe type A1D4F2, the device 110, compared to Fig. 7Aiii, only has a ground 125 instead of an isolator. An embodiment without an isolator 124 or ground 125 is also possible, as shown in Fig. 7Av, which is a pipe type A1D5F2. Figs. 7Ai to 7Avi show pipe types in which alternating current is supplied via connection of a forward conductor 128 at the beginning of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. Fig. 7Avi shows a pipe type A1F1 in which alternating current is supplied midway along the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114.

[0089] In Figure 7Bi, the pipe type BiD1F2, the lengths of the inlet (L1), outlet (L2), and transition section (L3), and the diameters of the inlet (d1), outlet (d2), and transition section (d3) are shown. The device 110 can include pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 with different lengths at the inlet (L1) and / or outlet (L2) and / or transition section (L3) and / or different diameters at the inlet (d1), outlet (d2), and / or transition section (d3). For further elements of Figure 7Bi, reference can be made to the description of Figure 4a. The example of Figure 7Bii shows a pipe type BiD2F2, which differs from Figure 7Bi in that the device 110 has only one isolator 124 and a ground 125 is provided instead of a second isolator. The example of Figure 7Biii shows a pipe type BiD3F2, which differs from Figure 7Bii in that a ground 125 is not provided. In Fig. 7Biv, which is a pipe type BiD4F2, the device 110, compared to Fig. 7Biii, only has a ground 125 instead of an isolator. An embodiment without an isolator 124 or ground 125 is also possible, as shown in Fig. 7Bv, which is a pipe type BiD5F2. Figs. 7Bi to 7Bvi show pipe types in which alternating current is supplied via connection of a forward conductor 128 at the beginning of the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. Fig. 7Bvi shows a pipe type BiF1 in which alternating current is supplied midway along the pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114.

[0090] FIG. 7Ci, a pipe type CiD1F2, illustrates an example in which the apparatus 110 includes a pipeline 112 and / or pipeline segment 114 having a plurality of paths, n, e.g., three, as shown herein. Each path can have different lengths L3, L4, L5 and / or diameters d3, d4, d5. For additional elements of FIG. 7Ci, reference can be made to the description of FIG. 5. The example of FIG. 7Cii illustrates a pipe type CiD2F2, which differs from FIG. 7Ci in that the apparatus 110 includes only one isolator 124 and a ground 125 is provided instead of a second isolator. The example of FIG. 7Ciii illustrates a pipe type CiD3F2, which differs from FIG. 7Cii in that the ground 125 is not provided. In FIG. 7Civ, a pipe type CiD4F2, the apparatus 110 includes only a ground 125 instead of an isolator, as compared to FIG. 7Ciii. An embodiment without isolator 124 or ground 125 is also possible, as shown in Figure 7Cv, and is pipe type CiD5F2. Figures 7Ci-7Cvi show pipe types in which AC is supplied via connection of forward conductor 128 at the beginning of pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114. Figure 7Cvi shows pipe type CiF1 in which AC is supplied midway along pipeline 112 and / or pipe segment 114.

[0091] The apparatus 110 may include a combination of at least two different types of pipes connected in parallel and / or in series. For example, the apparatus 110 may include pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 with different lengths at the inlet (L1) and / or outlet (L2) and / or transition (L3). For example, the apparatus may include pipelines and / or pipeline segments with asymmetric diameters at the inlet (d1) and / or outlet (d2) and / or transition (d3). For example, the apparatus 110 may include pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 with different numbers of passes. For example, the apparatus 110 may include pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 with passes of different lengths per pass and / or with different diameters per pass.

[0092] In principle, any combination of pipes of all types in parallel and / or in series is possible. Pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 can be present in various types of pipe in the form of a construction kit 138, which can be selected and combined as desired depending on the intended application. Figure 8a shows an embodiment of a construction kit 138 with different types of pipe. Figures 8b-8y show examples according to the present invention of combinations of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of the same and / or different types of pipe. Figure 8b shows an example with three horizontal pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of pipe type A1, which are arranged in series. Figure 8c shows two vertical pipes of pipe type A2 connected in parallel and one downstream pipeline 112 and / or downstream pipeline segment 114, also of pipe type A2. Figure 8d shows multiple pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of pipe type A2, all connected in parallel. Figure 8e shows an embodiment in which multiple types of pipes of category B are arranged in series. The pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 can be the same or different types of pipes of Category B, identified by Bi. FIG. 8f shows an embodiment with six pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of Category B, where two pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 are arranged in two parallel strands and two additional pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 are connected downstream. FIG. 8g shows an embodiment with pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of Category C, where two pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 are connected in parallel and one pipeline 112 and / or one pipeline segment 114 is connected downstream. Mixed configurations of Categories A, B, and C are also possible, as shown in FIGS. 8h to 8m. The apparatus 110 can have multiple supply inlets and / or supply outlets and / or production streams.For example, as shown in Figures 8k and 8m, pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of different or same types of pipe may be arranged in parallel and / or in series with multiple supply inlets and / or supply outlets.

[0093] FIGS. 8n-8p show exemplary combinations of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 from categories A, D, and F. FIGS. 8q and 8r show exemplary combinations of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 from categories B, D, and F. FIG. 8s shows an exemplary combination of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 from categories C, D, and F. FIG. 8t shows an exemplary combination of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 from categories A, D, and F. FIG. 8u shows an exemplary combination of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 from categories A, C, D, and F. FIG. 8v shows an exemplary combination of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 from categories B, C, D, and F. FIGS. 8w and 8y show exemplary combinations of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 from categories A, B, C, D, and F. Figure 8x shows an example combination of pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of categories A, B, D, and F. The apparatus 110 can include multiple supply inlets and / or supply outlets and / or production streams. Pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 of different or the same type of pipe of categories A, B, C, D, E, and F can be arranged in parallel and / or series with multiple supply inlets and / or supply outlets. Examples of multiple supply inlets and / or supply outlets and / or production streams are shown in Figures 8o, 8p, 8r, 8s, 8v-8y.

[0094] The use of different types of pipe pipelines 112 and / or pipeline segments 114 may allow for more precise temperature control and / or reaction adaptation in the presence of varying feed and / or reaction selective yields and / or optimized process technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 110 Equipment 111 Reactive Space 112 Pipeline 114 Pipeline Segments 118 Pipe System 120 Entrance 122 Exit 124 Isolator 125 Grounding 126 Single-phase AC power supply and / or AC voltage source 127 Controller 128 forward conductor 130 Return conductor 132 heating wire 134 First Pipeline 136 Second Pipeline 138 Construction Kit

Claims

[Claim 1] An apparatus (110) for heating a fluid, comprising: at least one electrically conductive pipeline (112) and / or at least one electrically conductive pipeline segment (114) for receiving said fluid; at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source (126), where each pipeline (112) and / or each pipeline segment (114) is assigned a single-phase AC power source and / or a single-phase AC voltage source (126) connected to the respective pipeline (112) and / or each pipeline segment (114), each single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source (126) being designed to generate an electric current in the respective pipeline (112) and / or in the respective pipeline segment (114), the electric current being generated when passing through the conductive pipe material; at least one single-phase AC power source and / or at least one single-phase AC voltage source (126) that heats the fluid by Joule heating in each pipeline (112) and / or each pipeline segment (114), the single-phase AC power source and / or single-phase AC voltage source (126) being connected to the pipeline (112) and / or pipeline segment (114) in an electrically conductive manner such that the generated alternating current flows through the pipeline (112) and / or pipeline segment (114) via a forward conductor (128) and back to the AC power source and / or AC voltage source (126) via a return conductor (130); Including, The apparatus (110) includes a plurality of pipelines (112) and / or pipeline segments (114), the pipelines (112) and / or pipeline segments (114) being connected through each other and thus forming a pipe system for receiving a fluid, the pipelines (112) and / or pipeline segments (114) and corresponding inflow and outflow pipelines being connected to each other in a fluid-conducting manner, and the pipelines (112) and / or pipe segments (114) and the inflow and outflow pipelines (112) being galvanically isolated from each other.

Images