Method and apparatus for installing and removing catalyst carriers

Abstract

A method for placing a catalyst support (10) in a first selected reaction tube (8a) of a tubular reactor (1), the method comprising: i) providing an installation tool (20), the installation tool comprising: a) a mounting frame (21); b) a movable ram (22) mounted to the mounting frame and configured to push one or more catalyst supports into a first selected reactor tube; c) one or more anchors (23) for releasably attaching the mounting frame to the tubular reactor; and ii) attaching the installation tool (20) to the tubular reactor (1) by engaging one or more anchors (23) with one or more reaction tubes (8b) located along the first selected reaction tube (8a) to align the movable ram (22) with the first selected reaction tube (8a); iii) actuating the movable ram (22) to push one or more catalyst supports (10) into the first selected reactor tube (8a); Includes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for the installation and removal of catalysts. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an installation tool, method, and system for installing a catalyst in a reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Further, the present disclosure relates to methods and accessories for discharging such a reaction tube in which a catalyst is installed and initially at least partially filled with the catalyst. Further, the present disclosure relates to a catalyst and related components for installation in such a reaction tube.

Background Art

[0002] Conventional so-called fixed-bed tubular reactors typically have a cylindrical shape and include a reactor shell with a plurality of tubes that are usually directly filled with catalyst particles. During use, a heat transfer medium flows outside these tubes through the reactor shell, thereby adjusting the temperature of the catalyst inside the tubes by heat exchange across the entire tube wall. Thus, if the reaction is an exothermic reaction, the heat transfer medium can remove heat from the catalyst, and if the reaction is an endothermic reaction, the heat transfer medium can supply heat to the catalyst.

[0003] In some reactions, the heat effect of the reaction is moderate, so the heat effect of the reaction is not a problem or can be easily managed. In some cases, the heat effect is small enough that large-diameter tubes can be used. This has the advantage of having a large amount of catalyst present inside the tubes.

[0004] However, for more exothermic or endothermic reactions, efficient heat transfer to the heat transfer medium through the tube wall is required to be able to control the conditions inside the reactor, maintain a stable operating temperature, and avoid the occurrence of harmful effects. Such effects can include, in the case of exothermic reactions, side reactions that occur, damage to the catalyst due to sintering of catalytic active sites, etc., and in the worst case, thermal runaway. The harmful effects of endothermic reactions can include quenching of the reaction.

[0005] ​​​​​​​​​​ To achieve the desired efficiency, the surface area of ​​the tube wall per unit length must be maximized. Traditionally, this has been achieved by installing a large number of small-diameter tubes. In some reactions, size limitations mean that the tubes have an inner diameter of only about 15-40 mm. However, the use of this large number of tubes increases the cost and complexity of the reactor.

[0006] Therefore, in an attempt to mitigate these problems, multiple catalysts are configured such that the catalyst is not directly packed into the reaction tube but is instead located inside the reaction tube. Career Alternative approaches have been developed, particularly for more exothermic or endothermic reactions, which are housed within these structures.

[0007] Such catalysts Career The first type is described in International Publication No. 2011 / 048361. This configuration seeks to optimize heat transfer in the tube wall so that larger tubes and larger amounts of smaller catalyst particles can be used for more exothermic or even endothermic reactions. Catalyst described in International Publication No. 2011 / 048361 Career The apparatus includes an annular container for holding the catalyst during use. The container has a perforated inner wall defining the tube, a perforated outer wall, a top surface that closes the annular container, and a bottom surface that closes the annular container. The surface that closes the bottom of the tube is formed by the inner wall of the annular container. A skirt extends upward from the perforated outer wall of the annular container from the bottom surface or near the bottom surface of the container to a position below the location of the seal. A seal is located on the top surface or near the top surface and extends from the container by a distance that extends beyond the outer surface of the skirt.

[0008] Such catalysts Career The second type is described in International Publication No. 2012 / 136971. In this configuration, the catalyst CareerThe present invention relates to a container for holding a monolithic catalyst during use, wherein the container has a bottom surface that closes the container and a skirt that extends upward from the bottom surface of the container to a position below the location of the seal and separated from the seal, and the skirt is positioned such that there is a space between the outer surface of the monolithic catalyst and the skirt, and a seal that is located on or near the upper surface of the monolithic catalyst and extends from the monolithic catalyst by a distance that extends beyond the outer surface of the skirt.

[0009] Such catalysts Career The third type is described in International Publication No. 2016 / 050520. In this configuration, the catalyst Career It includes a container for holding the catalyst during use. The container has a bottom surface and a top surface that close the container. Career The exterior wall extends from the bottom to the top, and the seal is, Career It extends from the container by the distance that extends beyond the outer wall. Career The exterior wall has an opening located below the seal.

[0010] The method, tools, and system are suitable for insertion into reaction tubes within tubular reactors and any catalyst. Career It can be applied to this.

[0011] A tubular reactor contains hundreds or, in some cases, thousands of such catalysts. Career Furthermore, catalysts may be present, and therefore, rapid and efficient loading is important for the user. Career And for optimal reactor performance, loading is performed on the catalyst in the reaction tube. Career Proper alignment of the catalyst should be ensured. In heat exchange tubular reactors, the catalyst should be positioned so as to prevent uncontrolled heating or cooling. Career It is also desirable to place it in the heat exchange zone. Furthermore, if necessary, the catalyst from the reaction tube Career It is desirable to establish equipment and methods suitable for the discharge of [the substance].

[0012] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide catalysts that address these issues. Career The objective is to provide an apparatus and method for loading and unloading.

Summary of the Invention

[0013] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a method of installing a catalyst in a first selected reaction tube of a tubular reactor, Career comprising: i) preparing an installation tool, the installation tool comprising a) an installation frame and b) a movable ram mounted on the installation frame and configured to push one or more catalysts into the first selected reaction tube, and Career c) one or more anchors for releasably attaching the installation frame to the tubular reactor, and ii) attaching the installation tool to the tubular reactor by engaging one or more anchors with one or more reaction tubes positioned along the first selected reaction tube to align the movable ram with the first selected reaction tube, and iii) operating the movable ram to push one or more catalysts into the first selected reaction tube. Career A method including these steps is provided.

[0014] Career In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides an installation tool for installing a catalyst in a selected reaction tube of a tubular reactor, the installation tool comprising a) an installation frame and b) a movable ram mounted on the installation frame and configured to push one or more catalysts into the selected reaction tube, and Career c) one or more anchors for engaging one or more reaction tubes positioned along the selected reaction tube to releasably attach the installation frame to the tubular reactor. An installation tool including these components is provided.

[0015] Career In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides an installation system for installing a catalyst in a reaction tube of a tubular reactor, the installation system comprising Career ​Provided in a second aspect, an installation tool configured to be installed in a headspace or a footer space of a tubular reactor; A power source that can be arranged outside the tubular reactor and is configured to move a movable ram of the installation tool; One or more hoses for supplying power from the power source to the installation tool; An installation system comprising the above is provided.

[0016] The method and system can be applied to any catalyst adapted to be inserted into a tubular reactor. Career It can be applied to.

[0017] In some embodiments, the power source may alternatively be arranged inside the tubular reactor.

[0018] Preferably, the installation tool can facilitate the loading of the catalyst into the reaction tube of the tubular reactor. The installation tool can facilitate the correct alignment of the catalyst during loading. In particular, the engagement of one or more anchors can improve the alignment between the movable ram and the selected reaction tube. Advantageously, the engagement of one or more anchors in one or more reaction tubes along the first selected reaction tube can avoid the need for any part of the fixing system to be in or extend within the first selected reaction tube. This can result in a simpler and faster loading method. Career During loading. Career Correct alignment can be facilitated.

[0019] One or more reaction tubes along the first selected reaction tube may be one or more reaction tubes directly adjacent to the first selected reaction tube, or one or more reaction tubes near the first selected reaction tube.

[0020] In step ii) of the method of the first embodiment, the installation tool can be mounted such that the installation frame is located in the headspace or footer space of the tubular reactor outside the reaction tube. The installation frame may be located above the upper tube sheet of the tubular reactor or below the lower tube sheet of the tubular reactor. In the case of a vertically oriented tubular reactor, the catalyst is located from the top end of the tubular reactor. Career It is generally preferable to load the following. As a result, in some preferred embodiments, the installation tool may be located above the upper tube sheet in the headspace of a vertically oriented tubular reactor.

[0021] Preferably, the installation tool can be sized to fit into the headspace or footer space of the tubular reactor. Step i) of the method of the first embodiment may further include inserting the installation tool into the headspace or footer space of the tubular reactor through the access opening of the tubular reactor.

[0022] Preferably, the installation tool can be sized to accommodate the movement of the installation frame into and out of the headspace or footer space. This allows for the complete removal of the installation tool from the tubular reactor after loading is complete, which means there is no need for any parts to remain in the operating tubular reactor that could obstruct the flow of gases in and out of the reaction tubes.

[0023] The movable ram may be electrically powered or manually driven. The movable ram may be switchable between an electrically powered mode in which the movable ram moves under electric power and a manually driven mode in which the movable ram is manually driven. The movable ram may be hydraulic, pneumatic, or electromechanical.

[0024] Preferably, the electric ram is catalytically increased and consistent insertion force. Career Providing power to the ram can improve its operating efficiency. However, in some situations, it may be preferable to use a manually driven ram or to manually drive a normally powered ram.

[0025] In some embodiments, the installation tool may be coupled to a power source for moving a movable ram, which may be located outside the tubular reactor. Positioning the power source outside the tubular reactor is advantageous when internal space is limited. The power source can be a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric source. For example, in some embodiments, the power source may be a hydraulic source coupled to the installation tool by one or more hydraulic hoses that can extend through the access opening of the tubular reactor. This configuration allows for the use of a larger hydraulic source (which cannot fit through the access opening) and also reduces the size of the installation tool.

[0026] In some other embodiments, the installation tool may include a power source located inside the tubular reactor to move the movable ram. In such cases, the power source may be a hydraulic source, a pneumatic source, or a power supply. For example, in some embodiments, the power source may be a power supply, such as an electric motor mounted directly to the installation frame.

[0027] In step iii) of the method of the first embodiment, one, two, three or more catalysts Career The insertion set may be pushed into the first selected reaction tube by a single stroke of the movable ram. Step iii) of the method of the first embodiment may be repeated one or more times to push one or more further insertion sets into the first selected reaction tube.

[0028] The mounting frame holds one or more catalysts. Career A loading station can be defined for receiving the catalyst. The loading station may have one, two, three, or more catalysts. Career The movable ram may be configured to hold the insertion set of the catalyst Career The insertion set may be configured to be pushed into the first selected reaction tube in a single stroke.

[0029] Preferably, a catalyst CareerForming the insertion set into an insertion set can improve operational efficiency by shortening the loading time of the installation tool, especially when the insertion set is pre-formed. In addition, the insertion set contains the catalyst within the set. Career Maintaining relative alignment between components can also help reduce the possibility of misalignment during insertion into the reaction tube.

[0030] By pushing the insertion set into the first end of the first selected reaction tube, one or more catalysts are inserted. Career The catalyst can be pushed out from the second end of the first selected reaction tube. For example, the installation tool first pushes out the catalyst. Career When used in a reaction tube filled with a catalyst, Career By pushing the first end, the catalyst Career The catalyst in the reaction tube can be discharged from the second end. Career It can be efficiently replaced. First, all catalysts in the reaction tube can be replaced. Career This can be replaced in this way (for example, if a complete refresh of the catalyst in the reaction tube is desired). Alternatively, the catalyst at the second end. Career Only a few of these may be replaced in this manner (for example, if replacement of the initial boiler in the reaction tube is desired, for example, due to catalyst poisoning). The second end may be the lower end or the upper end of the tubular reactor.

[0031] The method of the first embodiment may further include removing from the installation tool one or more anchors that are not aligned with the reaction tube when the movable ram is aligned with the first selected reaction tube. To facilitate this, one or more anchors may be removable from the installation tool.

[0032] When loading several reaction tubes, particularly those around or near a tubular reactor, the reaction tubes may not always be positioned directly beneath each anchor of the installation tool. In such cases, the anchors may be removed from the installation frame. For example, in an installation tool with four anchors, one, two, or three anchors may be removed. The anchors remaining attached to the installation frame can be used to secure the installation tool.

[0033] The method of the first embodiment may further include stabilizing the installation tool using one or more stabilizing legs coupled to the installation frame.

[0034] Stabilizing legs can function to provide stability to the installation tool, for example, to reduce or prevent swinging, tilting, or inclination of the installation frame during use. Each stabilizing leg may comprise, for example, height-adjustable screws, legs, pads, plates, etc. Each stabilizing leg may be configured to directly or indirectly contact the tube sheet between reaction tubes by having dimensions small enough to fit between reaction tubes, for example. Alternatively, each stabilizing leg may be configured to extend across one or more reaction tubes by having, for example, a footplate.

[0035] Stabilizing legs may be used in conjunction with anchors. For example, each anchor may have an associated stabilizing leg. Stabilizing legs may be provided on or near the anchor. For example, if the installation tool has a substantially quadrilateral basic shape, each corner may be provided with an anchor and a stabilizing leg. Stabilizing legs may be engaged by footplates against the protruding surfaces of the tube sheet and / or reaction tubes before or after engaging with the anchor to reduce or eliminate lifting or tilting of the installation frame while the anchor is being fixed.

[0036] The method of the first embodiment may further include leveling the installation tool by adjusting one or more stabilizing legs.

[0037] Preferably, stabilizing legs may be used to ensure that the longitudinal (e.g., vertical) axis of the movable ram is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the reaction tube.

[0038] One or more stabilizing legs may be used in place of one or more anchors that are removed from the installation tool. As described above, one or more anchors may need to be removed because they do not align with the reaction tube. In such cases, stabilizing legs may be used to level and / or stabilize the installation tool. For example, if the installation tool has a basic shape that is approximately quadrilateral, three corners may be fixed with anchors and one corner may be stabilized with a stabilizing leg, or for example, two corners may be fixed with anchors and two corners may be stabilized with a stabilizing leg, or for example, one corner may be fixed with anchors and three corners may be stabilized with a stabilizing leg.

[0039] One or more anchors may be manually, hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically extendable. In some other embodiments, one or more anchors may be spring-loaded anchors, optionally equipped with spring-loaded cam devices.

[0040] In step ii) of the method of the first embodiment, each of the one or more anchors may be extended to grip the inner surface of the reaction tube. In some embodiments, one or more anchors can be extended using manual, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric drive force. The same power source can be used to actuate the anchors and move the movable ram. For example, the same hydraulic source may be connected to both. Alternatively, the anchors may be actuated by a dedicated power source provided on or adjacent to the mounting frame. For example, a manual hydraulic pump may be used.

[0041] In some other embodiments, one or more anchors may be spring-loaded and biased to extend to grip the inner surface of the reaction tube.

[0042] The mounting frame may include multiple anchor mounts for connecting anchors to the mounting frame. The multiple anchor mounts may connect one or more catalysts to the selected reaction tube. Career The mounting frame may surround an opening that allows passage. The mounting frame may comprise, for example, three anchor mounts arranged in a triangular arrangement around the opening, or four anchor mounts arranged in a quadrilateral arrangement around the opening.

[0043] If the installation tool is located within a footer space for mounting to the lower tube sheet, the installation tool may be provided with one or more braces. The braces may span between the installation frame and the contact area of ​​the tubular reactor. For example, the braces may extend from the platform of the installation frame and contact, for example, the floor of the tubular reactor, supporting the installation frame and / or acting to push it up against the lower tube sheet. The braces may be provided with one or more extendable legs coupled to the platform. The extendable legs may be extendable, for example, manually, pneumatically or hydraulically.

[0044] The movable ram is one or more catalysts Career The system may include an alignment device for aligning the catalyst with a first selected reaction tube. The alignment device may include one or more catalysts. Career The alignment device may include a first engaging portion that engages with a second engaging portion. The first engaging portion may be elastic and / or spring-loaded. Preferably, the alignment device has one or more catalysts on the central axis of the first selected reaction tube. Career It is equipped with a centering device for aligning the parts.

[0045] Preferably, the alignment device is used during insertion of the catalyst Career By assisting in alignment, the efficient operation of installation tools can be facilitated. For example, a catalyst Career If they are manually loaded into the installation tool, they may be oriented slightly off-vertical. The alignment device is catalytic at the start of the insertion stroke. CareerIt can capture and vertically align the catalyst. In this way, loading the installation tool allows the operator to use the catalyst during each loading operation. Career Because there is no need to verify the precise alignment, it can be done more quickly.

[0046] The movable ram is one or more catalysts Career The mixture is simultaneously pushed into a second selected reaction tube and, optionally, one or more further selected reaction tubes, and one or more catalysts. Career It may be configured to push into the first selected reaction tube. By acting on the movable ram, one or more catalysts Career The first selected reaction tube is simultaneously pushed in, along with one or more catalysts. Career The mixture is then pushed into the second selected reaction tube, and optionally one or more catalysts are added. Career The catalyst can be forced into one or more further selected reaction tubes. To facilitate this, a movable ram can be used to push one or more catalysts into one or more reaction tubes. Career A first ram section for pushing the first selected reaction tube and one or more catalysts Career It may also include a second ram section for simultaneously pushing the catalyst into a second selected reaction tube, and optionally one or more catalysts. Career It may include one or more additional ram sections for simultaneously pushing into one or more further selected reaction tubes.

[0047] Preferably, the catalyst is loaded by simultaneously loading two, three or more reaction tubes using an installation tool. Career This allows for faster reloading.

[0048] The method of the first embodiment is iv) Disengaging one or more anchors from one or more reaction tubes located along the first selected reaction tube, v) Reattaching the installation tool to the tubular reactor by moving the installation tool by engaging one or more anchors with one or more reaction tubes located along the second selected reaction tube in order to align the movable ram with the second selected reaction tube, vi) Activate the movable ram to activate one or more catalysts Career Push it into the second selected reaction tube, It can further include:

[0049] The stabilizing legs may be repositioned and / or adjusted as necessary for loading the second selected reaction tube.

[0050] The installation system of the third embodiment is: A second installation tool, provided in a second embodiment and configured to be installed in the headspace or footer space of the same tubular reactor, One or more hoses for supplying power from the power source to the second installation tool, It can be further equipped with...

[0051] In some embodiments, two, three, or more installation tools can be used simultaneously.

[0052] In a fourth embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a catalyst in the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career A method for installing a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor comprises a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. This method, i) Multiple catalysts including a catalyst Career To prepare, ii) Prepare a support unit, iii) Support unit and multiple catalysts Career The support unit is placed inside the reaction tube, thereby aligning with the second tube sheet, and multiple catalysts are also placed inside. Career These are arranged in a stacked configuration that contacts the support unit, and as a result, all catalysts in the reaction tube are located within the heat exchange zone. This provides a method that includes [something].

[0053] In a fifth aspect, the disclosure relates to a support unit for installation in the reaction tubes of a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor comprises a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. The support unit has a first end configured to engage with the support surface of the tubular reactor when the support unit is installed in the reaction tube, and a catalyst that abuts against the support unit. Career It comprises a long body having a second end configured to engage with the end of the laminate, The length of the elongated body is such that all of the catalyst in the reaction tube is located within the heat exchange zone. Career Set to support the laminate, Provides a support unit.

[0054] Preferably, the support unit is a catalyst containing a catalyst. Career It can function to prevent it from being positioned at the height of the second tube sheet. Instead, all catalysts containing a catalyst Career It may be located within the heat exchange zone. This allows all catalysts to be located within the heat exchange zone. Career Because heat exchange with the reactor becomes easier, the performance of the tubular reactor can be further optimized.

[0055] Preferably, the support unit is a catalyst Career Provides physical support to the catalyst Career It can function to maintain the desired arrangement within the reaction tube.

[0056] The support unit may include an internal channel for transferring liquids and gases through the support unit. Preferably, the internal channel can be designed so that the presence of the support unit does not obstruct the flow of liquids and gases during the operation of the reaction tube.

[0057] The support unit may include or be composed of tubular elements.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first tube sheet may be a side tube sheet, the second tube sheet may be a lower side tube sheet, and the support unit may be installed so as to be at the height of the lower tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The catalysts in the reaction tube may be arranged in a stacked configuration at the upper end of the support unit so that all of them are positioned above the height of the lower tube sheet in the heat exchange zone. After insertion, the support unit may be positioned at the bottom of the stacked configuration and may optionally be engaged with the support surface of the tubular reactor. The support surface may be a platform, may be temporary, or may be installed inside the tubular reactor.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first tube sheet may be a first end tube sheet, the second tube sheet may be a second end tube sheet, and the support unit may be installed so as to be aligned with the second end tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The catalysts in the reaction tube may be arranged in a stacked configuration on one side of the support unit such that all of them are located on one side of the second end tube sheet in the heat exchange zone.

[0060] The support unit is first pushed into the reaction tube, followed by multiple catalysts. Career They may be pushed in. This may be especially true if loading is from the top end of the reaction tube. Alternatively, the support unit may contain multiple catalysts. Career It may then be pushed into the reaction tube last. This is especially possible if loading is performed from the bottom of the reaction tube.

[0061] Preferably, the support unit may be configured to be pushed into the reaction tube using the installation tools and / or installation systems of the second and third embodiments described above. Beneficially, efficient operation is facilitated by providing an installation tool configured to perform multiple functions.

[0062] The support unit has one or more catalysts to form the insertion set. CareerIt may be attached to the tubing. The attachment may be removable or permanent. The insertion set may be pushed into the reaction tube in a single motion with the support unit at the front.

[0063] The support unit uses one or more catalysts to form an insertion set using cooperative formations. Career It may be attached.

[0064] The method of the fourth embodiment may further include providing a spacer element for aligning the support unit with the inner surface of the reaction tube. The spacer element may optionally function as a seal between the support unit and the inner surface of the reaction tube.

[0065] The method of the fourth embodiment may further include forming a seal between the support unit and the inner surface of the reaction tube so that liquids and gases passing along the reaction tube can be preferentially directed to flow through the interior of the support unit. To facilitate this, the support unit may further provide a seal for sealing between the support unit and the inner surface of the reaction tube, and optionally the seal may be a spacer element for aligning the support unit with the inner surface of the reaction tube. Since the sealing function is secondary to the alignment function, some bypasses of the seal may be permitted.

[0066] The method of the fourth embodiment may further include selecting the material and any contents of the support unit so as to be nonreactive to the intended process conditions of the tubular reactor.

[0067] In a sixth embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a catalyst placed in the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career A method for installing a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor comprises a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. This method, i) Multiple catalysts including a catalyst Career To prepare, ii) Prepare a spacer unit, iii) Multiple catalysts Career After being placed inside the reaction tube, it is placed in the spacer unit, thereby aligning the spacer unit with the first tube sheet, and multiple catalysts are placed inside. Career These are arranged in a stacked configuration that contacts the spacer unit, and as a result, all catalysts in the reaction tube are located within the heat exchange zone. This provides a method that includes [something].

[0068] In a seventh aspect, the disclosure relates to a spacer unit for installation in the reaction tubes of a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor comprises a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. The spacer unit is the catalyst Career It comprises a long body having a first end configured to engage with the end of the laminate and a second end configured to engage with the installation tool, The length of the elongated body is such that all of the catalyst in the reaction tube is located within the heat exchange zone. Career It is set to allow the laminate to move sufficiently into the reaction tube. A spacer unit is provided.

[0069] Preferably, the spacer unit contains a catalyst Career It can function to prevent it from being positioned at the height of the first tube sheet. Instead, all catalysts containing a catalyst Career It may be located within the heat exchange zone. This allows all catalysts to be located within the heat exchange zone. Career Because heat exchange with the reactor becomes easier, the performance of the tubular reactor can be further optimized.

[0070] The spacer unit may include an internal channel for transferring liquids and gases through the spacer unit. Preferably, the internal channel can be designed so that the presence of the spacer unit does not obstruct the flow of liquids and gases during the operation of the reaction tube.

[0071] The spacer unit may include or consist of tubular elements.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first tube sheet may be an upper tube sheet, the second tube sheet may be a lower tube sheet, and the spacer unit may be installed so as to be at the height of the upper tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The catalysts in the reaction tube may be arranged in a stacked configuration below the spacer unit so that all of them are located below the height of the upper tube plate in the heat exchange zone. Installing the spacer unit involves pushing the spacer unit into the reaction tube, which in turn pushes the uppermost catalyst into place. Career Multiple catalysts in the reaction tube such that the catalyst inside is positioned below the height of the upper tube plate. Career This may also include moving it downward. These embodiments are particularly suitable when the reactor is vertically aligned.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first tube sheet may be a first end tube sheet, the second tube sheet may be a second end tube sheet, and the spacer unit may be installed so as to be aligned with the first end tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The catalysts in the reaction tube may be arranged in a stacked configuration on one side of the spacer unit such that all of them are located on one side of the first end tube sheet in the heat exchange zone. These embodiments are particularly suitable when the reactor is horizontally aligned.

[0074] The method of the sixth embodiment is a catalyst Career Once the installation is complete, remove the spacer unit from the reaction tube and the catalyst at the very end. Career The outermost catalyst in a stacked array is positioned at a point where the catalyst inside is located within the heat exchange zone. Career It could also include leaving something behind.

[0075] The method of the sixth embodiment is a catalyst at the outermost end. CareerThis may further include inserting a secondary spacer unit. The secondary spacer unit may comprise a spacing portion that extends to the outside of the reaction tube and a support portion on the outer end of the reaction tube. Thus, the secondary spacer unit is positioned relative to the outermost catalyst. Career It can span between the reactor and the support surface of the tubular reactor. The support surface may be a support grid extending across the open end of the reaction tube.

[0076] The spacer unit is a catalyst Career It does not need to be attached and can move freely within the reaction tube to facilitate its removal. Alternatively, the spacer unit may be one or more catalysts to form an insertion set. Career It may be attached to the reaction tube. The attachment may be removable or permanent. The insertion set may be pushed into the reaction tube in a single operation, with the spacer unit being the last part to be inserted.

[0077] Spacer unit with one or more catalysts Career When attached to form an insertion set, this is on the spacer unit and one or more catalysts Career The above cooperative formation may be provided using the above cooperative formation. To facilitate this, the spacer unit is one or more catalysts Career The spacer unit may include one or more cooperative formations provided on it for engaging with one or more cooperative formations above.

[0078] The materials and any contents of the spacer unit may be non-reactive to the intended process conditions of the tubular reactor.

[0079] The elongated body may have a contact surface for engaging with the end face of the reaction tube, optionally with respect to the reference surface of the reaction tube. The contact surface may include an outwardly extending flange having an outer diameter set to be larger than the inner diameter of the reaction tube.

[0080] The second end of the elongated body may be equipped with a socket for engaging with the movable ram of the installation tool.

[0081] The first end of the elongated body is the catalyst Career It may be provided with a skirt for engaging with the end of the annular rim or annular recess, Career It may be provided at the end of the

[0082] The length of the spacer unit is fixed between the first end of the spacer unit and the contact surface of the spacer unit, and the spacer unit is inserted into the reaction tube until the contact surface engages with the reference surface of the reaction tube and optionally with the end face of the reaction tube, thereby enabling the outermost catalyst of the stacked arrangement in the reaction tube to be positioned within the reaction tube. Career The position may be controlled.

[0083] Multiple catalysts Career The spacer unit may be configured to be installed in the reaction tube using one identical installation tool. The installation tool uses a movable ram to install multiple catalysts. Career The spacer unit can also be pushed into the reaction tube.

[0084] Preferably, the spacer unit may be configured to be pushed into the reaction tube using the installation tools and / or installation systems of the second and third embodiments described above. Beneficially, efficient operation is facilitated by providing an installation tool configured to perform multiple functions.

[0085] In the eighth embodiment, the present disclosure first describes a catalyst Career A method for at least partially discharging a reaction tube of a tubular reactor which is at least partially filled with a catalyst, Career Each of these contains a catalyst and has a seal that engages with the inner surface of the reaction tube. This method, i) Prepare multiple ejector units, ii) Install one or more first discharge sets of ejector units at the first end of the reaction tube to remove the catalyst at the outermost end of the reaction tube. Career By bringing it into contact with and moving it, the catalyst in the reaction tube Career Push it towards the second end of the reaction tube, iii) By placing one or more ejector unit successor discharge sets at the first end of the reaction tube and moving them into contact with the discharge sets of one or more ejector units already inside the reaction tube, the catalyst is moved. Career Further push it toward the second end of the reaction tube, iv) Three or more catalysts Career The step of repeating step iii) once or more until the substance is moved to the second end of the reaction tube and discharged from the second end of the reaction tube, This provides a method that includes [something].

[0086] In the ninth embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the process of moving a catalyst from the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career An ejector unit for removing a catalyst Career It comprises a long body having a first end configured to engage with a and a second end configured to engage with an installation tool, The maximum diameter of the elongated body is set to be smaller than the inner diameter of the reaction tube so that the ejector unit can slide freely within the reaction tube. We provide ejector units.

[0087] Preferably, the ejector unit enables efficient complete or partial discharge of the reaction tube and the catalyst inside the reaction tube. Career It can function to facilitate the efficient exchange of catalysts. Career Once the ejector is discharged from the reaction tube, the ejector unit can be easily removed from the reaction tube. In particular, if the reaction tube is oriented vertically, the ejector unit may self-eject from the lower end of the reaction tube under the influence of gravity.

[0088] For example, if it is desirable to completely discharge the reaction tube for maintenance or inspection of the reaction tube, all catalysts Career One or more ejector unit discharge sets can be sequentially installed at the first end of the reaction tube until the last catalyst is discharged from the second end. CareerThe moment of discharge is evident to the operator due to the appearance of the first installed discharge section located at the second end.

[0089] For example, one or more poisoned catalysts Career If it is desirable to partially drain the reaction tube to replace the catalyst, then the required number of catalysts Career A sufficient number of ejector units can be sequentially installed at the first end of the reaction tube until the catalyst is discharged from the second end. For example, three ejector unit discharge sets can be installed at the lower end of the reaction tube to discharge three catalysts. Career The discharged set can be discharged from the upper end of the reaction tube. Subsequently, the discharged set can be self-discharged from the lower end of the reaction tube under the influence of gravity.

[0090] Catalyst in the reaction tube Career new catalyst Career If it is desirable to replace it with a new catalyst, this can be achieved without first draining the reaction tube. Career The first end of the reaction tube is placed there, thereby removing the old catalyst. Career The catalyst can be discharged from the second end. Conveniently, a discharge set of one or more ejector units is installed at the first end of the reaction tube in the first step, followed by the new catalyst. Career The last old catalyst may be installed. Career The point at which the catalyst is discharged from the reaction tube becomes apparent to the operator due to the appearance of the discharge set at the second end. This allows old catalyst to remain in the reaction tube due to miscounting. Career This avoids the drawback that there may be some remaining residue.

[0091] The ejector unit is a catalyst. Career It may be equipped with a rigid part for pushing the catalyst into the tube. The rigid part preferably applies a uniform force to the catalyst. Career It may be any shape that functions to push. Appropriately, the ejector unit may have or be composed of tubular elements.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first end may be the upper end of the reaction tube, and the second end may be the lower end of the reaction tube.

[0093] The ejector unit may be configured to have a maximum diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the reaction tube so that it can slide freely within the reaction tube.

[0094] The method of the eighth aspect is, v) Catalyst Career After the reaction tube is discharged from its second end, the ejector units are made capable of sliding out of the second end of the reaction tube under the influence of gravity. It may also include the following.

[0095] The ejector unit may be of any length that can be installed inside the tube. The length may be one, two, three or more catalysts, depending on the space in the installation device and / or reactor that allows it. Career This can be accommodated. If necessary, an ejection set with two or more ejector nits can be used.

[0096] A first ejection set and / or a subsequent ejection set may comprise two or more ejector units that are mounted to one another. The mounting may be removable or permanent. To facilitate this, an ejector unit may further comprise one or more cooperative formations provided on or toward the first end of the ejector unit to engage with one or more cooperative formations on or toward the second end of another ejector unit.

[0097] Furthermore, the first end of the ejector unit may be configured to engage with the end of another ejector unit.

[0098] The second end of the elongated body may be equipped with a socket for engaging with the movable ram of the installation tool.

[0099] The first end of the elongated body is the catalyst CareerIt may be provided with a skirt for engaging with the end and / or the end of another discharge unit.

[0100] The first discharge set and subsequent discharge sets may each be pushed into the reaction tube with a single stroke of the installation tool.

[0101] catalyst Career And multiple ejector units may be configured to be inserted into the reaction tube using one identical installation tool. The installation tool is a catalyst Career Furthermore, a movable ram can be used to push multiple ejector units into the reaction tube.

[0102] Preferably, the ejector unit may be configured to be pushed into the reaction tube using the installation tools and / or installation systems of the second and third embodiments described above. Beneficially, efficient operation is facilitated by providing an installation tool configured to perform multiple functions.

[0103] In a tenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to a catalyst placed in the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career A method of installing, i) Multiple catalysts Career To prepare, ii) Multiple catalysts Career Two or more of these are engaged with each other to form an insertion set, iii) Load the insertion set into the installation tool, iv) Using the installation tool to push the insertion set into the reaction tube, This provides a method that includes [something].

[0104] In an eleventh embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a plurality of catalysts for insertion into the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career and multiple catalysts Career Each of them is a catalyst Career It is equipped with a container that extends between the upper and lower ends for holding the catalyst during use, Each catalyst CareerIt comprises one or more upper cooperative formations provided on or toward the upper end of the container, and one or more lower cooperative formations provided on or toward the lower end of the container, One or more upper cooperative formations are configured to engage with one or more lower cooperative formations. Multiple catalysts Career Two or more of these are adjacent catalysts Career They can be attached together in a stacked arrangement, such that they are engaged together by the engagement of one or more lower cooperative formations and one or more upper cooperative formations. Multiple catalysts Career To provide.

[0105] Preferably, a plurality of catalysts Career By engaging two or more of them together, a catalyst is created. Career Forming the insertion set allows the catalyst to be inserted during insertion. Career Efficient operation can be facilitated by assisting in the alignment of the components. For example, cooperative formations can help the catalyst in the insertion set. Career This can facilitate the correct relative alignment of the catalysts. In this way, two, three or more catalysts can be aligned. Career These can be efficiently and elastically coupled to one another so as to have a common longitudinal axis.

[0106] In addition, the use of cooperative formation to generate insertion sets is catalytic Career The efficiency of the operation can be improved by facilitating manual operation. In particular, two, three or more catalysts can be operated manually with one hand in a single action. Career It can be loaded into the installation tool.

[0107] The installation tool may be the installation tool of the second embodiment described above.

[0108] The insertion set contains at least two, optionally at least three, and optionally more than three catalysts. Career It may include.

[0109] The insertion set is a catalyst. CareerIt can have a stacked arrangement of adjacent catalysts Career Each catalyst Career They are engaged with each other using cooperative formations provided on or toward the upper end and on or toward the lower end. The engagement may be releasable or permanent.

[0110] One or more upper cooperative formations and one or more lower cooperative formations are adjacent to the catalyst Career They may be configured to engage and disengage through relative rotational motion of adjacent catalysts. Career They may be locked together by rotation. One or more upper cooperative formations and one or more lower cooperative formations may form one or more bayonet mounts.

[0111] Multiple catalysts Career A second insertion set can be provided, which can be formed by engaging two or more of the first insertion sets. The engagements may be releasable or permanent. The installation tool may be used to further push the first insertion set into the reaction tube by pushing the second insertion set into the reaction tube after the first insertion set.

[0112] Each container has a bottom surface at the lower end, a top surface at the upper end, and an extension between the bottom surface and the top surface. Career It can be equipped with an exterior wall.

[0113] Each container is Career An additional seal extending beyond the exterior wall may be provided, and this is optional. Career The exterior wall may have an opening located below the seal.

[0114] One or more upper cooperative formations may be provided above the seal.

[0115] Each container may further include an annular chamber for holding a catalyst during use, the annular chamber having a perforated inner chamber wall defining an inner channel, a perforated outer chamber wall, a top surface that closes the annular chamber, and a bottom surface that closes the annular chamber.

[0116] This method, tool, system, and related components can be usefully used in a wide range of processes. Suitable examples of use include processes and reactors for exothermic reactions such as reactions for the production of methanol, reactions for the production of ammonia, methanation reactions, shift reactions, oxidation reactions such as the formation of maleic anhydride and ethylene oxide reactions. Particularly preferred use is in processes and reactors for carrying out the Fischer-Tropsch reaction.

[0117] Endothermic reactions such as pre-reforming and dehydrogenation can also be carried out in conjunction with this method, tools, system, and related components.

[0118] Catalysts of this Disclosure Career The catalyst may be filled, partially filled, or contain any catalyst suitable for the intended reaction. For example, a Fischer-Tropsch catalyst may be used for the Fischer-Tropsch reaction. A cobalt-containing Fischer-Tropsch catalyst is preferred. The catalyst may be provided as catalyst particles or a catalyst monolith. The catalyst may be provided as a single bed of catalyst or as multiple beds of catalyst. Catalyst Career The catalyst may be configured to facilitate axial and / or radial flow through it. In some embodiments, the catalyst Career It may be configured to preferentially promote radial flow through the catalyst.

[0119] Catalysts of this Disclosure Career It may be formed from any suitable material. Such material is generally selected to withstand the operating conditions of the tubular reactor. Catalyst Career It can be manufactured from carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel, other alloys, or any material that can withstand the reaction conditions.

[0120] Catalysts of this Disclosure Career Preferably, this can enable the catalyst to be used in highly exothermic or endothermic reactions in a medium. CareerThis may allow for the use of large reaction tubes, which would lead to significant weight and cost reductions in reactors of a given capacity. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0121] Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described only as examples with reference to the attached drawings. [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a tubular reactor. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the interior of the tubular reactor. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram of the installation system. [Figure 4] This is a side view of the installation tool for the installation system. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the installation frame of the installation tool. [Figure 6] This is a magnified view of a portion of Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the alignment device for the installation tool. [Figure 8] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the reaction tube layout of the tubular reactor. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of the catalyst carrier. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the decomposed catalyst carriers. [Figure 11] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the catalyst carrier. [Figure 12] This is a side view of a stacked arrangement of two catalyst carriers. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view of the support unit. [Figure 15] Figure 14 is a side view of the support unit. [Figure 16] Figure 14 is a top view of the support unit. [Figure 17] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the support unit shown in Figure 14, which is installed in a reaction tube having multiple catalyst carriers. [Figure 18] This is a perspective view of the spacer unit. [Figure 19]Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the spacer unit. [Figure 20] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the spacer unit shown in Figure 18, which is installed in the reaction tube above the catalyst carrier. [Figure 21] This is a perspective view of the ejector unit. [Figure 22] Figure 21 is a side view of the ejector unit. [Figure 23] Figure 21 is a top view of the ejector unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0122] Hereinafter, aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure will be described, simply as an example, in relation to a vertically oriented tubular reactor having a plurality of vertical reaction tubes extending between an upper tube sheet and a lower tube sheet. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure may also be applicable to other forms of tubular reactors that may employ other orientations.

[0123] Furthermore, any references to orientation in this specification; for example, terms such as top, bottom, upper, lower, upward, and downward are used in relation to the orientation of a part as shown in the drawings to which they are referred, but should not be considered to limit the potential orientation of such a part in actual use. For example, a part described as being oriented vertically may be oriented horizontally.

[0124] Figure 1 shows a typical layout of a tubular reactor 1 of the present disclosure. The tubular reactor 1 comprises a housing 2. The interior of the housing may be divided into a head space 3, a heat exchange zone 4, and a footer space 5 by two tube sheets, an upper tube sheet 6 and a lower tube sheet 7. The upper tube sheet 6 separates the head space 3 from the heat exchange zone 4. The lower tube sheet 7 separates the footer space 5 from the heat exchange zone 4.

[0125] Multiple reaction tubes 8 extend between the upper tube sheet 6 and the lower tube sheet 7. A large number of reaction tubes 8 may be provided; for example, there may be 20 to 5000 reaction tubes 8. Each reaction tube 8 may have an inner diameter of, for example, 20 to 150 mm. In some embodiments, the inner diameter may be approximately 85 mm.

[0126] Each reaction tube 8 is a catalyst Career The array is designed to be filled or substantially filled with 10 (not shown) stacked arrangements. Suitable catalyst Career Ten examples are shown in Figures 9 to 13, and will be explained further below. In particular, catalysts Career It is desirable that 10 generally covers all or substantially all of the length of the reaction tube 8 between the upper tube sheet 6 and the lower tube sheet 7, that is, all or substantially all of the length of the heat exchange zone 4.

[0127] Generally, catalysts Career 10 is loaded into the upper end of the reaction tube 8 when filling the reaction tube 8, and discharged from the lower end of the reaction tube 8 when discharging the reaction tube 8. However, it can be understood that the reverse can also occur. This is the catalyst at the upper end of the reaction tube 8. Career This may be particularly desirable when replacement is necessary. In such cases, for example, the upper catalyst Career Load 10 into the lower end of the reaction tube 8 and the catalyst at the upper end Career By pushing 10 out of the reaction tube 8, the catalyst at the upper end Career 10 can be discharged from the upper end of the reaction tube 8.

[0128] The headspace 3 provides access to the upper end of the reaction tube 8, allowing the catalyst to enter. Career This allows for loading 10 into the reaction tube 8. The access opening 11 may be provided in the housing 2 to allow access to the headspace 3. The access opening 11 may be, for example, a manhole or other access panel that can be selectively opened and closed.

[0129] The footer space 5 provides access to the lower end of the reaction tube 8, allowing the catalyst to be released from the reaction tube 8. CareerIt is possible to take out 10 items.

[0130] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a catalyst Career An installation tool 20 is provided that can be used to install 10 inside the reaction tube 8.

[0131] As shown in Figures 2 to 7, the installation tool 20 generally comprises at least an installation frame 21, a movable ram 22 attached to the installation frame 21, and one or more anchors 23 for fixing the installation frame 21 to one of the tube sheets of the tubular reactor 1.

[0132] As shown in Figure 5, the installation frame 21 may include a platform 24 from which four support legs 25 extend, each terminating at a leg 26. The legs 26 may be separate. However, in the illustrated example, a first pair of legs 26 are joined together to form a first support plate 27a, and a second pair of legs 26 are joined together to form a second support plate 27b.

[0133] The mounting frame 21 may be provided with a plurality of anchor mounts for connecting anchors 23 to the mounting frame 21. Each anchor mount may be provided on one of the legs 26. The anchor mount may be provided with an opening 28 in the leg 26 that is sized and shaped to receive the anchors 23.

[0134] Multiple anchor mounts, for example, the opening 28, are used for the catalyst, as will be further described below. Career An opening 40 can be enclosed to accommodate the passage of 10 into the reaction tube 8. The opening 40 may be located in the center between the anchor mounts.

[0135] The installation frame 21 may include, for example, three anchor mounts arranged in a triangular pattern around the opening 40, or four anchor mounts arranged in a quadrilateral pattern around the opening 40, as shown in the illustrated example in Figure 5.

[0136] One or more handles 29, for example a pair of handles 29, can be provided to lift the installation tool 20. The handles 29 may be attached to the platform 24.

[0137] The movable ram 22 is a catalyst Career The configuration may include pushing one or more of the 10 into the reaction tube 8.

[0138] The movable ram 22 may be an electric ram or a manually driven ram. The movable ram 22 may be switchable between an electric mode in which the movable ram 22 moves under electric power and a manual mode in which the movable ram 22 is manually driven. The movable ram 22 may be a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electromechanical ram.

[0139] The movable ram 22 may be attached to the platform 24 of the mounting frame 21, and at least a portion of it may protrude through a ram opening 41 provided in the platform 24, as shown in Figure 5. The longitudinal axis of the movable ram 22 may be aligned with the opening 40.

[0140] The movable ram 22 is a catalyst when in use. Career The system may include an alignment device 50 that aligns the catalyst 10 with the selected reaction tube 8a. As shown in more detail in Figures 7 and 8, the alignment device 50 is a catalyst. Career The alignment device 50 may have a first engaging portion that engages with a second engaging portion of the 10. The alignment device 50 may be coupled to the end of the movable ram 22 or it may be located under the platform 24. In particular, the alignment device 50 may be coupled to the movable piston of the movable ram 22 and move with it.

[0141] The first engaging portion may be elastic and / or spring-loaded. The first engaging portion may include a pin 51 that can be slidably mounted in a hole 52 of the collar 53. A spring 54 may be provided to bias the pin 51 into an extended form. The pin 51 may be located in the center of the collar 53. The distal end of the pin 51 may be a catalyst CareerA head 55 may be provided, which can be molded to engage with a portion of 10. The head 55 may have a conical surface 56.

[0142] The collar 53 may have a rim 57 facing downwards. A gap space 58 may be provided between the rim 57 and the pin 51.

[0143] The installation tool 20 may form part of an installation system further comprising a power source 30. The power source 30 may be located outside the tubular reactor 1 and configured to move the movable ram 22 of the installation tool 20. For example, as shown in Figure 3, one or more hoses 31 may be provided to supply power from the power source 30 to the installation tool 20. The power source 30 may be a hydraulic source, a pneumatic source, or a power supply. In some embodiments, the power source 30 may be a power supply, for example, an electric motor that can be directly mounted to the installation frame 21. However, in other embodiments, the power source 30 may be a hydraulic source, for example, a hydraulic power unit (HPU) 32, a hydraulic power pack, or other hydraulic pump. The HPU 32 may be located outside the housing 2 and connected to the installation tool 20, in particular the movable ram 22, by one or more hoses 31.

[0144] The anchor 23 functions to releasably engage the installation frame 21, and therefore the installation tool 20, with the tubular reactor 1.

[0145] Anchors 23 may be provided at each anchor mount of the installation frame 21. For example, each opening 28 may have an associated anchor 23.

[0146] The anchor 23 may be removable from the mounting frame 21.

[0147] As is most clearly shown in Figure 6, each anchor 23 may include an anchor that is manually, hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically extendable. Alternatively, each anchor 23 may be a spring-loaded anchor, for example, equipped with a spring-loaded cam device.

[0148] In the example shown in Figures 5 and 6, the anchor 23 is hydraulically actuated and comprises an anchor housing 60 extending through the opening 28 and a leg 61 that can be extended radially outward by hydraulic action. The anchor housing 60 may be coupled to the leg 26 and / or support plates 27a, 27b. The leg 61 can move between a retracted configuration that can be inserted into the reaction tube 8 and an extended configuration that can grip the inner surface of the reaction tube 8.

[0149] The anchor 23 may be configured to engage with one or more reaction tubes 8b arranged along the selected reaction tube 8a so as to releasably attach the installation frame 21 to the tubular reactor 1. As shown in Figure 8, the reaction tubes 8b may be one or more reaction tubes 8 directly adjacent to the first selected reaction tube 8a, or one or more reaction tubes located near the first selected reaction tube 8a.

[0150] The anchor 23 can be extended using manual, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric force (e.g., HPU 32). The same power source 30 can be used to actuate the anchor 23 and move the movable ram 22. Alternatively, the anchor 23 may be actuated by a dedicated power source located on or adjacent to the mounting frame 21. For example, a manually operated hydraulic pump may be provided for this function.

[0151] The installation tool 20 may also be provided with stabilizing legs 70. The stabilizing legs 70 can function to stabilize and / or level the installation frame 21 before, during, and / or after engagement of the anchor 23 in the reaction tube 8.

[0152] Each stabilizing leg 70 may be provided with a pin 72 or similar object protruding through an opening 71 in the mounting frame 21. The opening 71 may be provided in each leg 26 of the mounting frame 21. Each support plate 27a, 27b may be provided with one or more openings 71.

[0153] The pin 72 may be axially movable relative to the opening 71. In one example, the pin 72 and the opening 71 may have mutually engaging threads that allow the pin 72 to be rotated to adjust the proportion of the pin 72 that extends downward below the leg 26.

[0154] The stabilizing legs 70 may be used in conjunction with the anchors 23. For example, each anchor 23 may have an associated stabilizing leg 70. The stabilizing legs 70 may be provided on or near the anchors 23. In the example shown in Figure 5, where the installation frame 21 has a roughly quadrilateral basic shape, anchors 23 and stabilizing legs 70 may be provided at each corner.

[0155] The stabilizing legs 70 may be directly or indirectly engaged by plates with the surfaces of the tube sheets 6, 7 and / or reaction tubes 8 before engaging with the anchors 23 in order to reduce or eliminate lifting or tilting of the installation frame 21 during extension of the anchors 23.

[0156] The installation frame 21 has one or more catalysts Career A loading station 65 for receiving 10 can be defined. The loading station 65 may have an air gap 64 within an installation frame 21 that extends from the opening 40 to the alignment device 50, for example between the support legs 25.

[0157] Cover panels 66 may be provided on one or more sides of the mounting frame 21. On one side, a catalyst for the loading station 65 may be provided. Career A door 67 may be provided that can be opened and closed to allow loading of 10. The door 67 may be equipped with a door sensor to prevent the movement of the movable ram 22 unless the door 67 is closed.

[0158] The installation tool 20 may include a control unit 75. The control unit 75 may include a user interface 76 that provides one or more actuators and one or more indicators for controlling and monitoring the operation of the installation tool 20. The control unit 75 may be mounted on the installation frame 21, or it may be a separate unit that can be operably connected to at least the movable ram 22. The connection may be wired or wireless.

[0159] The installation tool 20 may be equipped with one or more sensors. In addition to the door sensor mentioned above, other sensors may be provided. For example, a tilt sensor may be provided to interrupt the operation of the movable ram 22 if the angle of the longitudinal axis of the movable ram 22 deviates from the longitudinal axis of the reaction tube 8 by more than a threshold amount. For example, an insertion force sensor may be provided to limit the maximum insertion force applied by the movable ram 22.

[0160] The catalyst relating to this disclosure can be used together with the installation tool 20. Career Ten examples are shown in Figures 9 to 13. However, according to this disclosure, the catalyst Career It will be understood that 10 can take various forms. For example, a catalyst, as in the examples described herein. Career Item 10 may take other forms, including but not limited to those disclosed in International Publication No. 2011 / 048361, International Publication No. 2012 / 136971, and International Publication No. 2016 / 050520, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0161] catalyst Career 10 can generally include a container of a size smaller than the internal dimensions of the reaction tube 8 in which it is placed during use. Generally, catalyst Career A seal is provided that is sized to interact with the inner wall of the reaction tube 8 when 10 is in a predetermined position inside the reaction tube 8. Career Parameters such as length and diameter can be selected to accommodate different reactions and configurations of the reaction tube 8.

[0162] As shown in Figures 9 to 13, Career 10 may include a container 100 for holding the catalyst in use. The container 100 may generally have a bottom surface 101 that closes the lower end of the container 100 and a top surface 102 that closes the upper end of the container 100. Career The exterior wall 103 may extend from the bottom surface 101 to the top surface 102. The seal 104 is Career The container 100 can extend only as far as the distance that extends beyond the outer wall 103. Career The exterior wall 103 may have an opening 105 located below the seal 104.

[0163] As shown in Figure 9, in at least some embodiments, the catalyst Career More specifically, 10 may include an annular container 110 for holding a catalyst in use. The annular container 110 may include a perforated inner container wall 111 defining an inner channel 112 and a perforated outer container wall 113 which may be arranged concentrically around the perforated inner container wall 111. An annular top surface 114 may close the upper end of the annular container 110, and an annular bottom surface 115 may close the lower end of the annular container 110. The lower end of the inner channel 112 may be closed by a channel end face 116, except for one or more drain openings (not shown) which may be provided at the lower end of the inner channel 112. The channel end face 116 may be formed integrally with or separately from the inner container wall 111.

[0164] As shown in the exploded view of Figure 10, the catalyst Career 10 can be formed from several individual components that can be assembled together by any suitable means, including welding, for example. In some embodiments, such components may include a perforated inner tube 120, a perforated intermediate tube 121, an outer tube 122, a bottom cap 123, an annular top ring 124, an upper cap 125, and an annular seal ring 126.

[0165] catalyst Career10 may be formed from any suitable material. Such material is generally selected to withstand the operating conditions of the reactor. Generally, catalyst Career It is manufactured from carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel, other alloys, or any material that can withstand the reaction conditions.

[0166] The appropriate thickness of the components is approximately 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, preferably approximately 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0167] The perforated inner tube 120 may have a perforated inner container wall 111. The perforated intermediate tube 121 may have a perforated outer container wall 113. The outer tube 122 is Career The outer wall 103 may be included and define the opening 105. The bottom cap 123 may have a bottom surface 101 and / or an annular bottom surface 115. The bottom cap 123 may also extend across the perforated inner tube 120 and have a channel end surface 116. The annular upper ring 124 and upper cap 125 may have an annular upper surface 114 and may have at least a portion of the upper surface 102. The annular seal ring 126 may have a seal 104.

[0168] The size of the perforations in the perforated inner tube 120 and the perforated intermediate tube 121 is selected to allow for a uniform flow of reactants and products through the catalyst while keeping the catalyst within the annular vessel 110. Therefore, it can be understood that their sizes depend on the size of the catalyst particles used. In an alternative configuration, the perforations may be larger, but with a filter mesh covering the perforations to ensure the catalyst remains within the annular vessel 110.

[0169] It can be understood that perforation may be any suitable configuration. In fact, when it is stated that a wall or tube is perforated, all that is required is that there are means to allow reactants and products to pass through the wall or tube.

[0170] The bottom surface 101, for example, the bottom cap 123, is another catalyst CareerIt may be molded to engage with the upper end of 10. For example, the bottom surface 101 may have an annular recess 130 around the perforated inner tube 120. The upper cap 125 may be another catalyst Career The upper cap can be shaped to engage with the annular recesses 130. For example, the upper cap 125 may have an annular ring 131 rising from the annular plug body 132. The annular ring 131 can be shaped and sized to fit into the annular recesses 130, as shown in Figure 13.

[0171] The bottom surface 101, for example, the bottom cap 123 and / or the channel end face 116, may include one or more drainage holes. If one or more drainage holes are present, they may be covered by a filter mesh.

[0172] The annular top ring 124 can be shaped and sized to engage with the upper end of the outer tube 122. The annular plug body 132 of the upper cap 125 can have an outer diameter configured to engage with the central opening of the annular upper ring 124. The engagement between the upper cap 125 and the annular upper ring 124 can function to hold the annular seal ring 126 in place.

[0173] The upper cap 125 may have a central inlet 134 within the annular plug body 132 to allow liquid and gas to enter the upper end of the inner channel 112. The annular ring 131 may have a lateral opening 133 that allows liquid and gas to reach the central inlet 134.

[0174] Career The exterior wall 103 may be smooth or it may be molded. Suitable shapes include pleats, corrugations, and the like.

[0175] Career The opening 105 in the outer wall 103 may have any configuration. In some embodiments, the opening 105 may be a hole or a slot.

[0176] The seal 104 can be formed in any suitable manner. However, it is generally sufficiently compressible to accommodate the minimum diameter of the reaction tube 8. The seal 104 is generally a flexible sliding seal. In some embodiments, the seal 104 is Career Exterior wall 103 or catalyst Career It may be equipped with a deformable flange 140 extending from the upper surface 102 of 10. The flange 140 is a catalyst Career When 10 is inserted into the reaction tube 8, it can be sized to be larger than the inner diameter of the reaction tube 8 so that it deforms to fit inside the reaction tube 8 and interact with the reaction tube 8.

[0177] In the example shown in Figure 9, the deformable flange 140 comprises the outer portion of the annular seal ring 126. The inner portion 141 of the annular seal ring 126 can define a clamping surface that is held between the upper cap 125 and the annular upper ring 124. The deformable flange 140 may be inclined with respect to the inner portion 141. The deformable flange 140 is a catalyst Career It may be sloped towards the top of 10.

[0178] Career The outer wall 103 may be continuous above the seal 104. Thus, the seal 104 may optionally be part of the upper surface 102, including the catalyst. Career It may be placed on top of 10, or Career If it is positioned above the opening 105 of the exterior wall 103, Career They may be placed at appropriate points on the exterior wall 103.

[0179] catalyst Career 10 may be configured to allow them to be mounted together in a stacked array. For example, adjacent catalysts. Career 10 may be engaged together by the engagement of one or more cooperative formations.

[0180] In several embodiments, each catalyst Career10 may include an upper cooperating formation 150 provided on or towards the upper end of the container 100 and a lower cooperating formation 151 provided on or towards the lower end of the container 100.

[0181] Adjacent catalysts Career 10 is one catalyst Career The catalyst adjacent to the lower cooperating formation 151 on 10 Career Can be engaged together by engagement with the upper cooperating formation 150 of 10.

[0182] The upper cooperating formation 150 and the lower cooperating formation 151 can be configured to be engaged and disengaged by the relative rotational movement of the adjacent catalysts 10. For example, the upper cooperating formation 150 and the lower cooperating formation 151 may take the form of a bayonet fitting. Career In some embodiments, the upper cooperating formation 150 is provided above the seal 104. For example, the upper cooperating formation 150 may be provided on the upper part of the annular ring 131 and / or on the upper part of the outer wall 103 or as part of it.

[0183] In some embodiments, the upper cooperating formation 150 is provided above the seal 104. For example, the upper cooperating formation 150 may be provided on the upper part of the annular ring 131 and / or Career May be provided on the upper part of the outer wall 103 or as part of it.

[0184] Catalyst Career Two or more of the catalysts 10 can be engaged together to form an insertion set as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, for example. The insertion set may include, for example, two, three or more catalysts 10 stacked one on top of the other. Career 10 may be provided. Catalyst Career 10 may be permanently engaged with each other by means such as welding. However, more preferably, the catalysts 10 are releasably engaged with each other. The releasable engagement can be performed, for example, by the above-described cooperating formations 150, 151. Career 10 are releasably engaged with each other. The releasable engagement can be performed, for example, by the above-described cooperating formations 150, 151 of the catalyst.

[0185] The loading station 65 of the installation tool 20 may be configured to hold an insertion set of one, two, three or more catalysts 10, and the movable ram 22 is a catalyst Career 10 may be configured to hold an insertion set of one, two, three or more catalysts 10, and the movable ram 22 is a catalyst CareerA set of 10 may be configured to be pushed into the first selected reaction tube 8a of the tubular reactor 1 in a single stroke.

[0186] The installation tool 20 can be used to install the catalyst 10 in the first selected reaction tube 8a of the tubular reactor 1. The use of the installation tool 20 is described merely as an example when it is positioned in the headspace 3. Career In the first step, the installation frame 21 can be inserted through the access opening 11 of the tubular reactor 1 into the headspace 3 or the footer space 5 of the tubular reactor 1. The installation frame 21 may be lifted by the handle 29 manually or using a hoist.

[0187] The installation frame 21 can be connected to a power source 30 by a hose that can pass through the access opening 11.

[0188] Next, the installation frame 21 can be placed on the upper tube sheet 6. The installation frame 21 may be aligned with the selected reaction tube 8a to be filled such that the upper end of the selected reaction tube 8a is aligned with the opening 40 between the legs 26 of the installation frame 21.

[0189]

[0190] Next, if any of the legs 26 and their openings 28 are not aligned with the reaction tube 8b adjacent to the selected reaction tube 8a, the anchor 23 of each such leg 26 can be removed.

[0191] Next, one or more anchors 23 remaining attached to the installation frame 21 may be inserted into the reaction tube 8b such that the legs 26 and, if present, the support plates 27a, 27b contact the upper surfaces of the reaction tubes 8 and / or the upper tube sheet 6. The legs 26 and / or the support plates 27a, 27b may extend across the upper surfaces of the plurality of reaction tubes 8.

[0192] ​Next, the installation frame 21 may be stabilized using one or more stabilizing legs 70. The pin 72 may be actuated to engage with the upper tube sheet 6 between the reaction tubes 8. The stabilizing legs 70 may engage with the upper tube sheet 6 in particular at each position where the anchor 23 has been removed. However, the stabilizing legs 70 may still be engaged at positions where the anchor 23 is present.

[0193] Next, the stabilizing legs 70 may be adjusted to make the mounting frame 21 horizontal and / or so that the longitudinal (e.g., vertical) axis of the movable ram 22 is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the selected reaction tube 8a.

[0194] Next, open door 67, and the catalyst Career 10 or more catalysts Career An insertion set including 10 can be loaded into the loading station 65.

[0195] Next, with the door 67 closed again, the user interface 76 can be used to activate the installation tool 20, thereby activating the movable ram 22. The movable ram 22 then activates one or more catalysts. Career 10 can be pushed into the first selected reaction tube 8a.

[0196] During the movement of the movable ram 22, the alignment device 50 moves the catalyst Career 10 can be captured and vertically aligned. The conical surface 56 of the head 55 on the pin 51 is particularly important during the initial movement of the movable ram, as the rim 57 is at the top of the catalyst. Career Before contacting 10, the top catalyst Career It can engage with the central inlet 134 of the 10. Due to the inclined surface of the conical surface 56, the movement of the head 55 is directed towards the uppermost catalyst. Career 10 (and any other connected catalysts) Career 10) is biased toward correct vertical alignment. During the subsequent movement of the movable ram 22, the pin 51 may be retracted into the hole 52 against the biasing force of the spring 54, thereby moving the rim 57 toward the catalyst with the annular ring 131 housed within the gap space 58 of the alignment device 50. Career It can engage with the upper surface 102 of 10. During the subsequent movement of the movable ram 22, the catalyst Career 10 can be forcibly driven into the reaction tube 8a.

[0197] The process involves a catalyst being placed inside the selected reaction tube 8a. Career This may be repeated one or more times to insert one or more additional sets of 10.

[0198] The selected reaction tube 8a is able to react to the catalyst to the desired extent. Career Once filled in 10, the installation frame 21 can be removed by disengaging one or more anchors 23. The installation frame 21 can then be moved to align with another selected reaction tube 8a and reinstalled in the same manner as described above. Thus, each reaction tube 8 of the tubular reactor 1 can be sequentially filled using the installation tool 20.

[0199] The installation tool 20 is a catalyst Career The 10 may be configured to be installed simultaneously in two or more reaction tubes 8. For example, the movable ram 22 is a catalyst Career A first ram section for pushing 10 into the first selected reaction tube 8a, and a catalyst Career It may include a second ram section for simultaneously pushing 10 into a second selected reaction tube 8a. A third ram section may also be provided for simultaneously filling a third selected reaction tube 8a. Four or more ram sections may be provided as needed. The ram sections may be driven by a common actuator, such as a single hydraulic piston.

[0200] During insertion into reaction tube 8, the catalyst Career The seal 104 may be tightly engaged with the inner surface of the reaction tube 8. In particular, the engagement of the seal 104 with the reaction tube 8 may cause deformation of the seal 104.

[0201] The deformation of seal 104 indicates that the catalyst inside reaction tube 8 after installation is affected. CareerIt is possible to generate a resistance force that can help maintain the axial position of 10. Further, the deformation of the seal 104 can be used to facilitate a liquid-tight and / or gas-tight seal between the upper end of the catalyst Career 10 and the inner surface of the reaction tube 8.

[0202] When installed in the reaction tube 8, the catalysts Career 10 can form a vertically stacked arrangement with their longitudinal axes aligned and coincident.

[0203] In use in the tubular reactor 1 with downflow, the reactant(s) flow downward through the reaction tube 8, and thus first contact the upper surface 102 of the catalyst Career 10 at the top in the stack formation. The seal 104 blocks the passage of the reactant(s) around the side surface of the catalyst Career 10. Thus, the upper surface 102 guides the reactant inward to the central inlet 134 through the side opening 133 at the upper end of the inner channel 112 within the inner container wall 111 defined by the perforated inner tube 120.

[0204] Next, the reactant enters the annular container 110 through the perforated inner tube 120 and then passes radially through the catalyst bed towards the outer container wall 113 defined by the perforated intermediate tube 121. During this passage, the reactant contacts the catalyst and a reaction occurs to form a product.

[0205] Next, the unreacted reactant and the product flow out of the annular container 110 through the perforated intermediate tube 121. Then, the Career outer wall 103 defined by the outer tube 122 guides the reactant and the product Career upward between the inner surface of the outer wall 103 and the perforated intermediate tube 121 until reaching the opening 105 of the outer wall 103. Career Then they are guided through the opening 105 and Career flow downward between the outer surface of the outer wall 103 and the inner surface of the reaction tube 8 where heat transfer occurs.

[0206] Next, the unreacted reactant and the product are the catalysts at the bottom in the stack formation Career The upper surface 102 of 10 can come into contact with the upper surface 102, and the aforementioned process can be repeated. This pattern can be repeated as the reactants and products pass through the layer formation until they are collected from the lower end of the reaction tube 8.

[0207] Some of the product, particularly the liquid product, passes through the discharge holes provided at the channel end face 116 to the catalyst below the inner channel 112. Career It can be discharged into the inner channel 112 of 10. Then such a product is released into the catalyst. Career The 10 stacked formations can be continuously discharged and collected from the lower end of the reaction tube 8.

[0208] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a support unit 200 for installation inside the reaction tube 8 of a tubular reactor 1 is provided.

[0209] As shown in the figures, for example as shown in Figures 14 to 17, the support unit 200 has a first end 202 configured to engage with the support surface of the tubular reactor 1 when the support unit 200 is installed inside the reaction tube 8, and a catalyst that contacts the support unit 200. Career The structure includes a long body 201 having a second end 203 configured to engage with the end of the 10-layer laminate.

[0210] The elongated body 201 may include a tubular member 204. The tubular member 204 may be hollow and may define an internal bore 205 that extends completely through the elongated body 201 from a first end 202 to a second end 203.

[0211] The diameter of the elongated body 201 is the catalyst Career It may be set to engage with 10. For example, the upper rim 210 of the elongated body 201 provided at or toward the second end 203 is the catalyst Career The bottom surface 101 of the 10 can have a diameter of a size that engages with, for example, the bottom cap 123. In some embodiments, the upper rim 210 is a catalyst Career They may be sized to engage within the 10 annular recesses 130.

[0212] The support unit 200 may further include a spacer element 207 for aligning the support unit 200 with the inner surface of the reaction tube 8. The spacer element 207 may extend radially outward from the elongated body 201.

[0213] The materials and optional contents of the support unit 200 may be non-reactive to the intended process conditions of the tubular reactor 1.

[0214] The elongated body 201 may be provided with identification markings 211 indicating that it does not contain a catalyst. The identification markings 211 may be etched, printed, painted, or coated onto the outer surface of the elongated body 201, for example.

[0215] The support unit 200 contains one or more catalysts to form an insertion set. Career It may be attachable to 10. For example, the support unit 200 may be one or more catalysts Career It may include one or more cooperative formations 206 for engaging with one or more cooperative formations of 10. The cooperative formations 206 may be provided on or toward the second end 203. In some embodiments, the cooperative formations 206 are catalysts Career The 10 containers may be configured to engage with a lower cooperative formation 151 provided above or toward the lower end of the lower end of the container 100.

[0216] The cooperative formation 206 and the lower cooperative formation 151 may be configured to engage and disengage by relative rotational motion. For example, the cooperative formation 206 and the lower cooperative formation 151 may take the form of bayonet mounts.

[0217] During use, the support unit 200 and multiple catalysts are used. Career 10 is a support unit 200 that is aligned with the lower tube sheet 7 and multiple catalysts CareerThe 10 may be arranged in a stacked configuration that contacts the support unit 200 and installed inside the reaction tube 8 such that all catalysts inside the reaction tube 8 are located within the heat exchange zone 4. For example, all catalysts inside the reaction tube 8 may be positioned above the height of the lower tube sheet 7 in the heat exchange zone 4.

[0218] To facilitate this, the length of the elongated body 201 is such that the bottom catalyst is as shown in Figure 17. Career With 10 above the level of the lower tube sheet 7, the catalyst Career It can be appropriately configured to support 10 stacks.

[0219] Generally, after insertion, the support unit 200 is positioned at the bottom of the stacked arrangement. The support unit 200, particularly the first end 202, may engage with the support surface 12 of the tubular reactor 1.

[0220] During installation, for example, in a vertically oriented tubular reactor 1, the support unit 200 is first pushed onto the upper end of the reaction tube 8, followed by multiple catalysts. Career 10 may be pushed in. The support unit 200 may be installed alone or as part of an insertion set with the support unit 200 at the front. Alternatively, the catalyst Career The 10 and the support unit 200 may be installed at the lower end of the reaction tube 8 with the support unit 200 being the last to be installed.

[0221] The support unit 200 may be installed in the reaction tube 8 using the installation tool 20, as described above. In particular, the second end 203 may be configured to be pushed by the movable ram 22. For example, the elongated body 201 may have a flange 212 at or toward the second end 203, which is sized and shaped to engage with the rim 57 of the alignment device 50, as shown in Figure 16.

[0222] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a spacer unit 300 is provided for installation inside the reaction tube 8 of a tubular reactor 1.

[0223] As shown in the illustration, for example as shown in Figures 18 to 20, the spacer unit 300 is a catalyst Career The elongated body 301 has a first end 302 configured to engage with the end of the 10 stacked bodies, and a second end 303 configured to engage with an installation tool, which may be the installation tool 20 described above.

[0224] The elongated body 301 may include a tubular member 304. The tubular member 304 may be hollow, and may define an internal bore 305 that extends completely through the elongated body 301 from a first end 302 to a second end 303.

[0225] The elongated body 301 may optionally have a contact surface 306 for engaging with the end face of the reaction tube 8 with respect to the reference plane of the reaction tube 8. The contact surface 306 may be provided on or toward the second end 303. The contact surface 306 may have an outwardly extending flange 307 having an outer diameter configured to be larger than the inner diameter of the reaction tube 8.

[0226] The second end 303 of the elongated body 301 may be provided with a socket 308 for engaging with the movable ram 22 of the installation tool 20. The inner flange 311 may be provided within the socket 308, which can be engaged by the movable ram 22, in particular by the rim 57 of the alignment device 50.

[0227] The diameter of the elongated body 301 is the catalyst Career It may be configured to engage with 10. For example, the lower edge 310 of the elongated body 301 provided at or toward the first end 302 is the catalyst Career The upper surface 102 of 10, for example, the upper cap 125 and / or the annular upper ring 124 and / or Career It may have a diameter sized to engage with the upper end of the outer wall 103. For example, the lower rim 310 may be provided on the annular skirt 312.

[0228] The material and any contents of the spacer unit 300 may be non-reactive to the intended process conditions of the tubular reactor 1.

[0229] When using, the catalyst Career As shown in Figure 20, the spacer unit 300 is aligned with the upper tube sheet 6, and the catalyst Career The 10 may be arranged in a stacked configuration that contacts the spacer unit 300, and may be placed inside the reaction tube 8 following the spacer unit 300 so that all of the catalyst inside the reaction tube 8 is located within the heat exchange zone 4 (for example, as described above).

[0230] The catalyst at the outermost end (e.g., the top) of the stacked arrangement in the reaction tube 8 Career The position of 10 can be controlled by fixing the length of the spacer unit 300 between the lower rim 310 and the contact surface 306, and inserting the spacer unit 300 into the reaction tube 8 until the contact surface 306 engages with the reference surface of the reaction tube 8, for example, the upper end surface of the reaction tube 8.

[0231] The length of the elongated body 301 is such that all of the catalyst in the reaction tube 8 is located within the heat exchange zone 4. Career The system can be configured to allow the 10 stacks to be sufficiently moved into the reaction tube 8.

[0232] The spacer unit 300 may be installed so as to be positioned at the height of the upper tube sheet 6, and the catalyst Career Unit 10 is arranged in a stacked configuration below the spacer unit 300, and all of the catalyst in the reaction tube 8 is positioned below the height of the upper tube sheet 6 in the heat exchange zone 4.

[0233] catalyst Career After positioning 10 in the desired location, the spacer unit 300 can be left inside the reaction tube 8, or the spacer unit can be removed from the reaction tube 8 to reach the catalyst at the outermost end. Career The catalyst at the outermost end of the stacked array is positioned at a point where the catalyst inside is located within the heat exchange zone 4. Career You can keep 10.

[0234] Optionally, instead of spacer unit 300, a secondary spacer unit can be placed at the outermost catalyst. CareerIt may be installed relative to 10. The secondary spacer unit is the catalyst at the outermost end. Career The secondary spacer unit may extend between 10 and the support surface of the tubular reactor 1. For example, the support surface may be an upper support grid extending across the open end of the reaction tube 8. The secondary spacer unit supports the catalyst in the reaction tube 8 during the operation of the tubular reactor 1. Career This can mitigate or prevent upward creep of 10.

[0235] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a catalyst Career An ejector unit 400 is provided for use when discharging 10 from the reaction tube 8.

[0236] As shown in the illustration, for example, as shown in Figures 21 to 23, the ejector unit 400 is a catalyst Career The elongated body 401 includes a first end 402 configured to engage with the end of the 10 stacked bodies, and a second end 403 configured to engage with an installation tool, which may be the installation tool 20 described above.

[0237] The elongated body 401 may include a tubular member 404. The tubular member 404 may be hollow and may define an internal bore 405 that extends completely through the elongated body 401 from a first end 402 to a second end 403.

[0238] The maximum diameter of the elongated body 401 is set to be smaller than the inner diameter of the reaction tube 8 so that the ejector unit 400 can slide freely within the reaction tube 8.

[0239] The first end 402 of the ejector unit 400 may also be configured to engage with the second end 403 of another ejector unit 400.

[0240] The ejector units 400 may be mountable to each other to form an ejection set.

[0241] The ejector unit 400 may include a cooperative formation (not shown) on or toward the first end for engaging with a cooperative formation (not shown) on or toward the second end 402 of another ejector unit 400 or toward the second end 403.

[0242] The second end 403 of the elongated body 401 may be provided with a socket 406 for engaging with the movable ram 22 of the installation tool 20. The inner flange 411 may be provided within the socket 406, which can be engaged by the movable ram 22, in particular by the rim 57 of the alignment device 50.

[0243] The first end 402 is a catalyst Career It may also have a skirt 415 for engaging with the ends of the 10 and / or the ends of another discharge unit 400. For example, the lower rim 408 of the skirt 415 is a catalyst Career For example, the upper cap 125 and / or the annular upper ring 124 and / or the upper surface 102 of 10. Career The lower rim 408 may have a diameter sized to engage with the upper end of the outer wall 103. The lower rim 408 may also be sized to engage with the inner flange 411 of the ejector unit 400 below.

[0244] When used, catalyst Career In one embodiment, the reaction tube 8, which is initially at least partially filled in 10, contains the catalyst at the top of the reaction tube 8. Career It comes into contact with 10 and moves downward, thereby causing the catalyst inside the reaction tube 8. Career To push 10 toward the lower end of the reaction tube 8, it can first be discharged (partially or entirely) by placing a first discharge set of one or more ejector units 400 at the upper end of the reaction tube 8.

[0245] The ejector unit 400 can be pushed into the reaction tube 8 using the installation tool 20.

[0246] Subsequently, one or more additional ejection sets of the ejector unit 400 are inserted and brought into contact with the ejector unit 400 already located in the reaction tube 8, and moved further downward, thereby releasing the catalyst. Career 10 can be further pushed toward the second end of the reaction tube 8.

[0247] In this way, the catalyst in reaction tube 8 Career Part or all of 10 can be moved to the lower end of the reaction tube 8 and discharged from the lower end.

[0248] The final catalyst Career After the 10 is discharged from the lower end of the reaction tube 8, the multiple ejector units 400 can slide freely within the reaction tube 8 and thus slide away from the lower end of the reaction tube 8 under the influence of gravity.

[0249] Further aspects and embodiments of this disclosure are described in the following sections. Item A1. Catalyst in the first selected reaction tube of the tubular reactor. Career A method of installing, i) Providing installation tools, and the installation tools are, a) Installation frame and b) Mounted on an installation frame, and one or more catalysts Career A movable ram configured to push into the first selected reaction tube, c) One or more anchors for removably attaching the mounting frame to the tubular reactor, To be equipped with, ii) Attaching the installation tool to the tubular reactor by engaging one or more anchors with one or more reaction tubes located along the first selected reaction tube in order to align the movable ram with the first selected reaction tube, iii) Activate the movable ram to activate one or more catalysts Career Pushing it into the first selected reaction tube, A method including this is provided. The method of item A2. step ii), wherein the installation tool is mounted such that the installation frame is located in the headspace or footer space of the tubular reactor outside the reaction tube, and optionally, the installation frame is located above the upper tube plate of the tubular reactor or below the lower tube plate of the tubular reactor. Section A3. The method of Section A1 or Section A2, further comprising step i) inserting an installation tool into the headspace or footer space of a tubular reactor through an access opening of the tubular reactor. Item A4. The movable ram is either an electrically driven ram or a manually driven ram, in any manner described in items A1 through A3. Item A5. The method of Item A4, wherein the movable ram is switchable between an electric mode in which the movable ram moves under power and a manual mode in which the movable ram is driven manually. Item A6. The installation tool is coupled to a power source for moving a movable ram located outside the tubular reactor, and optionally the power source comprises a hydraulic source, a pneumatic source, or a power source, in any of the methods described in items A1 to A5. Item A7. The installation tool comprises a power source located inside the tubular reactor for moving the movable ram, optionally comprising a hydraulic source, a pneumatic source, or a power source, in any of the methods described in items A1 to A6. Section A8. In step iii), one, two, three, or more catalysts Career The insertion set is pushed into the first selected reaction tube by one stroke of a movable ram, in any of the methods described in items A1 to A7. Item A9. The method of item A8, wherein step iii) is repeated one or more times to push one or more additional insertion sets into the first selected reaction tube. Item A10. Insert one or more catalysts by pushing the insertion set into the first end of the first selected reaction tube. Career The method of item A8 or A9, wherein the substance is extruded from the second end of the first selected reaction tube. Item A11. Any method of items A1 to A10, further comprising removing from the installation tool one or more anchors that are not aligned with the reaction tube when the movable ram is aligned with the first selected reaction tube. Item A12. Any method of items A1 to A11, further comprising stabilizing the installation tool using one or more stabilizing legs that are coupled to the installation frame. Item A13. The method of item A12, further comprising leveling the installation tool by adjusting one or more of the stabilizing legs. Section A14. One or more stabilizing legs are used in place of one or more anchors removed from the installation tool, as in the method of Section A12 or A13. Section A15. In step ii), each of one or more anchors is extended to grip the inner surface of the reaction tube, as in any of the methods described in sections A1 to A14. Item A16. One or more anchors are extended using manual, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric power, in the manner of Item A15. Item A17. The method of item A15, wherein one or more anchors are spring-loaded and biased to extend to grip the inner surface of the reaction tube. Item A18. The movable ram is one or more catalysts. Career A method according to any of items A1 to A17, comprising an alignment device for aligning with a first selected reaction tube. Item A19. The alignment device is one or more catalysts. Career The method of item A18, comprising a first engaging portion that engages with a second engaging portion, wherein optionally the first engaging portion is elastic and / or spring-loaded. Item A20. The movable ram is one or more catalysts. Career The mixture is simultaneously pushed into a second selected reaction tube and, optionally, one or more further selected reaction tubes, along with one or more catalysts. Career It is configured to push into the first selected reaction tube, and by acting on a movable ram, one or more catalysts Career The first selected reaction tube is filled with one or more catalysts. CareerThe second selected reaction tube is used, and optionally one or more catalysts are added. Career The method described in items A1 through A19, which involves simultaneously pushing the mixture into one or more further selected reaction tubes. Section A21. iv) Disengaging one or more anchors from one or more reaction tubes located along the first selected reaction tube, v) Reattaching the installation tool to the tubular reactor by moving the installation tool by engaging one or more anchors with one or more reaction tubes located along the second selected reaction tube in order to align the movable ram with the second selected reaction tube, vi) Activate the movable ram to activate one or more catalysts Career Push it into the second selected reaction tube, It can further include: Item A22. Catalyst in the selected reaction tube of the tubular reactor. Career An installation tool for installing, a) Installation frame and b) Mounted on an installation frame, and one or more catalysts Career A movable ram configured to push into the selected reaction tube, c) One or more anchors for engaging with one or more reaction tubes positioned along selected reaction tubes to releasably attach the mounting frame to the tubular reactor, We provide installation tools equipped with these features. Item A23. The movable ram is a manual, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electromechanical ram, which is the installation tool of item A22. Item A24. The installation frame contains one or more catalysts. Career A mounting tool according to item A22 or A23, which defines a loading station for receiving a load. Item A25. The loading station has one, two, three, or more catalysts. Career The movable ram is configured to hold the insertion set of the catalyst Career The installation tool of item 24 is configured to push the insertion set into the first selected reaction tube in a single stroke. Item A26. An installation tool from any of items A22 through A25, in which one or more anchors are detachable from the installation tool. Item A27. One or more anchors are extendable to grip the inner surface of the reaction tube, and are installation tools from items A22 through A26. Item A28. One or more anchors are equipped with an anchor that is manually, hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically extendable, as an installation tool of any of items A22 through A27. Item A29. One or more anchors are spring-loaded anchors, optionally equipped with a spring-loaded cam device, and are installation tools from any of items A22 through A27. Item A30. An installation tool according to any of items A22 through A29, further comprising one or more stabilizing legs that are coupled to the installation frame. Item A31. The movable ram is one or more catalysts. Career An installation tool from any of items A22 to A30, comprising an alignment device for aligning with the first selected reaction tube. Item A32. The alignment device is one or more catalysts. Career An installation tool of item A31 comprising a first engaging portion for engaging with a second engaging portion, wherein the first engaging portion is optionally elastic and / or spring-loaded. Item A33. The movable ram is used to deliver one or more catalysts to the first selected reaction tube. Career A first ram section for pushing in and one or more catalysts into a second selected reaction tube. Career It comprises a second ram portion for simultaneously pushing in, and optionally one or more catalysts. Career An installation tool from item A22 to item A32, comprising one or more additional ram sections for simultaneously pushing into one or more further selected reaction tubes. Item A34. The installation frame is provided with multiple anchor mounts for connecting anchors to the installation frame, and the multiple anchor mounts connect one or more catalysts to the selected reaction tubes. Career Surrounding the opening that accepts the passage, An installation tool from item A22 through item A33. Item A35. The installation frame comprises three anchor mounts arranged in a triangular pattern around the opening, or four anchor mounts arranged in a quadrilateral pattern around the opening. Installation tool for item A34. Item A36. Catalyst in the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career An installation system for installing, A mounting tool, one of items A22 to A35, configured to be installed in the headspace or footer space of a tubular reactor, A power source that can be positioned outside the tubular reactor and is configured to move the movable ram of the installation tool, One or more hoses to supply power from the power source to the installation tool, We provide an installation system that includes the following features. Section A37. The installation tool described in item A22 to A35, which is configured to be installed in the headspace or footer space of the same tubular reactor, One or more hoses for supplying power from the power source to the second installation tool, It can be further equipped with... Item A38. The installation system of item A36 or A37, comprising a manual source, hydraulic source, pneumatic source, or power supply. Item B1. Catalyst in the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career A method for installing a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor comprises a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. This method, i) Multiple catalysts including a catalyst Career To prepare, ii) Prepare a support unit, iii) Support unit and multiple catalysts Career The support unit is placed inside the reaction tube, thereby aligning with the second tube sheet, and multiple catalysts are also placed inside. Career These are arranged in a stacked configuration that contacts the support unit, and as a result, all catalysts in the reaction tube are located within the heat exchange zone. This provides a method that includes [something]. Item B2. The first tube sheet is a side tube sheet, the second tube sheet is a lower side tube sheet, and the support unit is installed so as to be at the height of the lower tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The method of item B1, wherein all catalysts in the reaction tube are arranged in a stacked configuration at the upper end of the support unit such that they are all located above the height of the lower tube sheet in the heat exchange zone. Item B3. The method of item B2, wherein, after insertion, the support unit is located at the bottom of the stacked array and optionally engages with the support surface of the tubular reactor. Item B4. The first tube sheet is the first end tube sheet, the second tube sheet is the second end tube sheet, and the support unit is installed so as to be aligned with the second end tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The method of item B1, wherein all of the catalysts in the reaction tube are arranged in a stacked configuration on one side of the support unit such that they are all located on one side of the second end tube sheet in the heat exchange zone. Item B5. Multiple catalysts after the support unit is first pushed into the reaction tube. Career The method by which it is pushed in is one of the methods from item B1 to item B4. Item B6. Support unit contains one or more catalysts Career The insertion set is attached to the support unit to form an insertion set, and optionally, the insertion set is pushed into the reaction tube in a single motion with the support unit at the front, by any of the methods described in items B1 to B5. Item B7. The support unit uses cooperative formations to form an insertion set with one or more catalysts Career The method of attachment described in item 6. Item B8. Any method of items B1 to B7, further comprising providing a spacer element for aligning the support unit with the inner surface of the reaction tube. Item B9. Any method of items B1 to B8, further comprising forming a seal between a support unit and the inner surface of the reaction tube so that liquids and gases passing along the reaction tube are guided to flow preferentially through the interior of the support unit. Item B10. Any method of items B1 to B9, further comprising selecting the materials and any contents of the support unit so as to be non-reactive to the intended process conditions of the tubular reactor. Item B11. A support unit for installation on the reaction tubes of a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor is of a type comprising a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. The support unit has a first end configured to engage with the support surface of the tubular reactor when the support unit is installed in the reaction tube, and a catalyst that abuts against the support unit. Career It comprises a long body having a second end configured to engage with the end of the laminate, The length of the elongated body is such that all of the catalyst in the reaction tube is located within the heat exchange zone. Career Set to support the laminate, Provides a support unit. Item B12. One or more catalysts to form an insertion set. Career A support unit for item B11 that can be attached to the following. Item B13. One or more catalysts Career A support unit of item B12, further comprising one or more cooperative formations for engaging with one or more cooperative formations of the B12. Item B14. Any support unit according to items B11 to B13, further comprising a spacer element for aligning the support unit with the inner surface of the reaction tube. Item B15. A support unit according to any of items B11 to B14, further comprising a seal for sealing the space between the support unit and the inner surface of the reaction tube, wherein optionally the seal is a spacer element for aligning the support unit with the inner surface of the reaction tube. Item B16. A support unit according to any of items B11 through B15, wherein the material and any contents of the support unit are non-reactive to the intended process conditions of the tubular reactor. Section C1. Catalyst in the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. CareerA method for installing a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor is of a type that includes a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. This method, i) Multiple catalysts including a catalyst Career To prepare, ii) Prepare a spacer unit, iii) Multiple catalysts Career After being placed inside the reaction tube, it is placed in the spacer unit, thereby aligning the spacer unit with the first tube sheet, and multiple catalysts are placed inside. Career These are arranged in a stacked configuration that contacts the spacer unit, and as a result, all catalysts in the reaction tube are located within the heat exchange zone. This provides a method that includes [something]. Section C2. The first tube sheet is the upper tube sheet, the second tube sheet is the lower tube sheet, and the spacer unit is installed so as to be at the height of the upper tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The method of item C1, wherein all of the catalysts in the reaction tube are arranged in a stacked configuration below the spacer unit so that they are located below the height of the upper tube plate in the heat exchange zone. Section C3. Installing the spacer unit involves pushing the spacer unit into the reaction tube and the catalyst at the top. Career Multiple catalysts in the reaction tube such that the catalyst inside is positioned below the height of the upper tube plate. Career The method of term C2, which includes moving downwards. Section C4. The first tube sheet is the first end tube sheet, the second tube sheet is the second end tube sheet, and the spacer unit is installed so as to be aligned with the first end tube sheet, and multiple catalysts Career The method of item C1, wherein all of the catalysts in the reaction tube are arranged in a stacked configuration on one side of the spacer unit such that they are located on one side of the first end tube sheet in the heat exchange zone. Item C5. Catalyst at the outermost end Career The outermost catalyst in a stacked array configuration, positioned at a point where the catalyst inside is located within the heat exchange zone. CareerAny method from item C1 to C4 further includes removing the spacer unit from the reaction tube so as to leave a portion of it. Section C6. Catalyst at the outermost end Career This further includes inserting a secondary spacer unit into the catalyst at the outermost end, and optionally the secondary spacer unit is positioned at the outermost end. Career The method of item C5, wherein the support surface spans between the reactor and the support surface of the tubular reactor, and optionally the support surface is a support grid extending across the open end of the reaction tube. Section C7. The spacer unit comprises one or more catalysts to form an insertion set. Career The insertion set is attached and pushed into the reaction tube in a single operation, with the spacer unit being the last part, by any of the methods described in items C1 through C6. Section C8. On the support unit and one or more catalysts Career Spacer units are used to form an insertion set using cooperative formations provided on top of one or more catalysts. Career The method of attachment according to item C7. Section C9. The length of the spacer unit is fixed between the first end of the spacer unit and the contact surface of the spacer unit, and the spacer unit is inserted into the reaction tube until the contact surface engages with the reference surface of the reaction tube and optionally with the end face of the reaction tube, thereby enabling the outermost catalyst of the stacked arrangement in the reaction tube to be positioned within the reaction tube. Career The position of is controlled in one of the ways of terms C1 to C8. Item C10. Multiple catalysts Career The spacer unit is configured to be installed in the reaction tube using one identical installation tool, as described in any of the methods of items C1 through C9. Item C11. The installation tool uses a movable ram to install multiple catalysts. Career The method of item C10, which involves pushing the spacer unit into the reaction tube. Item C12. A spacer unit for installation in the reaction tubes of a tubular reactor, wherein the tubular reactor is of a type comprising a plurality of reaction tubes extending between a first tube sheet and a second tube sheet, and a heat exchange zone is provided between the first tube sheet and the second tube sheet. The spacer unit is the catalyst CareerIt comprises a long body having a first end configured to engage with the end of the laminate and a second end configured to engage with the installation tool, The length of the elongated body is such that all of the catalyst in the reaction tube is located within the heat exchange zone. Career It is set to allow the laminate to move sufficiently into the reaction tube. A spacer unit is provided. Item C13. One or more catalysts to form an insertion set. Career A spacer unit of item C12 that can be detachably attached. Item C14. One or more catalysts Career The spacer unit of item C13, further comprising one or more cooperative formations provided on the spacer unit for engaging with one or more cooperative formations above. Item C15. The spacer unit material and any contents are non-reactive to the intended process conditions of the tubular reactor, as specified in any of the spacer units from items C12 to C14. Item C16. A spacer unit according to any of items C12 to C15, wherein the elongated body has a contact surface for engaging with the end face of the reaction tube, optionally with respect to the reference surface of the reaction tube. Item C17. The spacer unit of item C16, wherein the contact surface comprises a flange extending outward, having an outer diameter set to be larger than the inner diameter of the reaction tube. Item C18. A spacer unit according to any of items C12 to C17, wherein the second end of the elongated body is provided with a socket for engaging with the movable ram of the installation tool. Item C19. The first end of the elongated body is a catalyst. Career It is equipped with a skirt for engaging with the end of the catalyst, optionally, Career It is equipped with an annular skirt for engaging with an annular rim or annular recess provided at the end, A spacer unit from item C12 to item C18. Item D1. First, the catalyst Career A method for at least partially discharging a reaction tube of a tubular reactor which is at least partially filled with a catalyst, CareerEach of these contains a catalyst and has a seal that engages with the inner surface of the reaction tube. This method, i) Prepare multiple ejector units, ii) Install one or more first discharge sets of ejector units at the first end of the reaction tube to remove the catalyst at the outermost end of the reaction tube. Career By bringing it into contact with and moving it, the catalyst in the reaction tube Career Push it towards the second end of the reaction tube, iii) By placing one or more ejector unit successor discharge sets at the first end of the reaction tube and moving them into contact with the discharge sets of one or more ejector units already inside the reaction tube, the catalyst is moved. Career Further push it toward the second end of the reaction tube, iv) Three or more catalysts Career Repeat step iii) at least once until the substance is moved to the second end of the reaction tube and discharged from the second end of the reaction tube, This provides a method that includes [something]. Item D2. The method of item D1, wherein the first end is the upper end of the reaction tube and the second end is the lower end of the reaction tube. Item D3. The method of item D1 or D2, wherein the ejector unit is configured to have a maximum diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the reaction tube so that it can slide freely within the reaction tube. Section D4. v) Catalyst Career After the reaction tube is discharged from its second end, the ejector units are made capable of sliding out of the second end of the reaction tube under the influence of gravity. Any method of terms D1 to D3, further including the above. Item D5. Any method according to items D1 to D4, comprising two or more ejector units, the first ejection set and / or subsequent ejection sets being mounted to one another. Item D6. Any method according to items D1 to D5, wherein the first discharge set and the subsequent discharge set are each pushed into the reaction tube in one stroke of the installation tool. Section D7. Catalyst Career And multiple ejector units are configured to be inserted into the reaction tube using one identical installation tool, as in any of the methods described in items D1 through D6. Item D8. The installation tool uses a movable ram to install the catalyst. Career The method of item D7, which involves pushing multiple ejector units into the reaction tube. Item D9. Catalyst from the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career An ejector unit for removing a catalyst Career It comprises a long body having a first end configured to engage with a and a second end configured to engage with an installation tool, The maximum diameter of the elongated body is set to be smaller than the inner diameter of the reaction tube so that the ejector unit can slide freely within the reaction tube. We provide ejector units. Item D10. The ejector unit of item D9, wherein the first end of the ejector unit is configured to engage with the end of another ejector unit. Item D11. An ejector unit of item D9 or D10, which is attachable to one or more other ejector units to form an ejection set. Item D12. The ejector unit of item D11, further comprising one or more cooperative formations provided on or toward the first end of the ejector unit for engaging with one or more cooperative formations on or toward the second end of another ejector unit. Item D13. An ejector unit according to any of items D9 to D12, wherein the second end of the elongated body is provided with a socket for engaging with the movable ram of the installation tool. Item D14. The first end of the elongated body is a catalyst. Career An ejector unit according to any of items D9 to D13, comprising a skirt for engaging with the end and / or the end of another ejector unit. Item E1. Catalyst in the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career A method of installing, i) Multiple catalysts Career To prepare, ii) Multiple catalysts Career Two or more of these are engaged with each other to form an insertion set, iii) Load the insertion set into the installation tool, iv) Using the installation tool to push the insertion set into the reaction tube, A method that includes this. Item E2. The insertion set contains at least two, optionally at least three, and optionally more than three catalysts. Career The method of item E1, comprising: Item E3. The insertion set is adjacent to the catalyst. Career each catalyst Career The catalyst is releasably engaged with each other using cooperative formations provided on or toward the upper end and on or toward the lower end. Career The method of item E1 or item E2, comprising a stacked arrangement of the following. Item E4. Adjacent catalysts Career The method of item E3, in which both are locked to rotate. Section E5. The insertion set comprises a first insertion set and a second insertion set comprises multiple catalysts. Career Formed by releasably engaging two or more of the above, the installation tool is used to further push the first insertion set into the reaction tube by pushing the second insertion set into the reaction tube after the first insertion set. One of the methods described in items E1 through E4. Item E6. Multiple catalysts for insertion into the reaction tube of a tubular reactor. Career and multiple catalysts Career Each of them is a catalyst Career It is equipped with a container that extends between the upper and lower ends for holding the catalyst during use, Each catalyst Career It comprises one or more upper cooperative formations provided on or toward the upper end of the container, and one or more lower cooperative formations provided on or toward the lower end of the container, One or more upper cooperative formations are configured to engage with one or more lower cooperative formations. Multiple catalysts Career Two or more of these are adjacent catalysts Career They can be attached together in a stacked arrangement, such that they are engaged together by the engagement of one or more lower cooperative formations and one or more upper cooperative formations. Multiple catalysts Career To provide. Item E7. One or more upper cooperative formations and one or more lower cooperative formations adjacent to a catalyst Career Multiple catalysts of item E6, configured to engage and disengage by relative rotational motion. Career . Item E8. Multiple catalysts of item E7, wherein one or more upper cooperative formations and one or more lower cooperative formations form one or more bayonet mountings. Career . Section E9. Each container has a bottom surface at the lower end, a top surface at the upper end, and an extension between the bottom and top surfaces. Career Multiple catalysts from any of items E6 to E8, comprising an outer wall Career . Item E10. Each container is, Career It also includes a seal that extends beyond the exterior wall, and optionally, Career The outer wall has an opening located below the seal, and multiple catalysts of item E9 Career . Item E11. Multiple catalysts of item E10, wherein one or more upper cooperative formations are provided above the seal. Career . Item E12. Each vessel further comprises an annular chamber for holding a catalyst during use, the annular chamber having a perforated inner chamber wall defining an inner channel, a perforated outer chamber wall, a top surface closing the annular chamber, and a bottom surface closing the annular chamber, wherein each vessel comprises a plurality of catalysts from any of items E9 to E11. Career . Item E13. Multiple catalysts from any of items E6 through E12. Career one of them is a catalyst Career .

Claims

1. A method for installing a catalyst carrier, which is a container for holding a catalyst, in a first selected reaction tube of a tubular reactor, i) Providing an installation tool, wherein the installation tool is a) Installation frame and b) A movable ram mounted on the mounting frame and configured to push one or more catalyst carriers into the first selected reaction tube, c) One or more anchors for removably attaching the mounting frame to the tubular reactor, To be equipped with, ii) Attaching the installation tool to the tubular reactor by engaging the one or more anchors with one or more reaction tubes located along the first selected reaction tube in order to align the movable ram with the first selected reaction tube, iii) A method comprising acting the movable ram to push the one or more catalyst carriers into the first selected reaction tube.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in step ii), the installation tool is mounted such that the installation frame is located in the headspace or footer space of the tubular reactor outside the reaction tube.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising step i) inserting the installation tool into the headspace or footer space of the tubular reactor through the access opening of the tubular reactor.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the movable ram is an electrically driven ram or a manually driven ram.

5. The installation tool is coupled to a power source for moving the movable ram, which is located outside the tubular reactor. or The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the installation tool comprises a power source located inside the tubular reactor for moving the movable ram.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein in step iii), one, two, three, or more insertion sets of catalyst carriers are pushed into the first selected reaction tube by one stroke of the movable ram.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein one or more catalyst carriers are pushed out from the second end of the first selected reaction tube by pushing the insertion set into the first end of the first selected reaction tube.

8. The installation tool is further stabilized using one or more stabilizing legs coupled to the installation frame, and / or The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more stabilizing legs are used in place of any one of the one or more anchors that are removed from the installation tool.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein in step ii), each of the one or more anchors is extended to grip the inner surface of the reaction tube.

10. The movable ram includes an alignment device for aligning one or more catalyst carriers with the first selected reaction tube, The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the alignment device comprises a first engaging portion that engages with a second engaging portion of one or more catalyst carriers.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the movable ram is configured to push one or more catalyst carriers into a second selected reaction tube and push one or more catalyst carriers into the first selected reaction tube, and by operating the movable ram, one or more catalyst carriers are pushed into the first selected reaction tube and one or more catalyst carriers into the second selected reaction tube.

12. iv) Disengaging one or more anchors from one or more reaction tubes located along the first selected reaction tube, v) Moving the installation tool to reattach the installation tool to the tubular reactor by engaging one or more anchors with one or more reaction tubes located along the second selected reaction tube in order to align the movable ram with the second selected reaction tube, vi) Activating the movable ram to push one or more catalyst carriers into the second selected reaction tube, The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising:

13. An installation tool for installing a catalyst carrier, which is a container for holding a catalyst, in a selected reaction tube of a tubular reactor, a) Installation frame and b) A movable ram mounted on the mounting frame and configured to push one or more catalyst carriers into the selected reaction tube, c) One or more anchors for engaging with one or more reaction tubes positioned along the selected reaction tubes in order to releasably attach the mounting frame to the tubular reactor, Installation tool equipped with these features.

14. The installation tool according to claim 13, wherein the movable ram is manual, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electromechanical.

15. The installation tool according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the installation frame defines a loading station for receiving one or more catalyst carriers.

16. The installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein one or more of the anchors are extendable to grip the inner surface of the reaction tube.

17. The one or more anchors are equipped with manually, hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically extendable anchors, or The installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the one or more anchors comprises spring load anchors.

18. The installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising one or more stabilizing legs connected to the installation frame.

19. The installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the movable ram comprises an alignment device for aligning one or more catalyst carriers with the selected reaction tube.

20. The installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the movable ram comprises a first ram portion for pushing one or more catalyst carriers into the selected reaction tube and a second ram portion for simultaneously pushing one or more catalyst carriers into a second selected reaction tube.

21. The installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the installation frame comprises a plurality of anchor mounts for connecting the anchors to the installation frame, and the plurality of anchor mounts surround an opening that receives the passage of the one or more catalyst carriers into the selected reaction tube.

22. An installation system for installing a catalyst carrier, which is a container for holding a catalyst inside the reaction tube of a tubular reactor, An installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 21, configured to be installed in the headspace or footer space of the tubular reactor, A power source that can be positioned outside the tubular reactor and is configured to move the movable ram of the installation tool, One or more hoses for supplying power from the power source to the installation tool, An installation system equipped with the following features.

23. A second installation tool according to any one of claims 13 to 21, configured to be installed in the headspace or footer space of the same tubular reactor, One or more hoses for supplying power from the power source to the second installation tool, The installation system according to claim 22, further comprising the following:

24. The installation system according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the power source is manual, hydraulic, pneumatic, or powered by an electric source.

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