Removal device and removal method in a reaction apparatus

Abstract

To safely take out a transportation mechanism equipped inside a reaction vessel.SOLUTION: An extractor 30 takes out a transportation mechanism 13 from a reaction apparatus 10 including: a reaction vessel 11 for reacting a processing object having been introduced to obtain a product material; and the transportation mechanism 13 equipped inside the reaction vessel 11 and configured to transport the processing object. The extractor 30 includes: an accommodation vessel 31 connected airtight to the reaction vessel 11; and a connection member 32 connected to the transportation mechanism 13 inside the accommodation vessel 31. The extractor moves the connection member 32 to take out the transportation mechanism 13 from the reaction vessel 11 and accommodates insides the accommodation vessel 31.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a take-out device and a take-out method in a reaction apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] There is a reaction apparatus that produces a desired product by providing a predetermined atmosphere to a granular or powdered processed material. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a reaction apparatus including a screw feeder main body serving as a pressure reaction vessel, a catalyst supply unit for introducing a catalyst into the screw feeder main body, and a lower hydrocarbon supply unit for introducing a lower hydrocarbon into the screw feeder main body. [[ID=I4]]

[0003] This reaction apparatus has a screw for transferring nano-carbon generated by thermal decomposition of a catalyst and a lower hydrocarbon, a solid delivery unit for delivering the catalyst and nano-carbon transferred by the screw, and a gas delivery unit for delivering the generated hydrogen outside the feeder main body. In this reaction apparatus, nano-carbon that grows over time is continuously discharged outside the reaction vessel together with the used catalyst, and the same amount of unused catalyst is supplied to cause a continuous reaction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Reaction apparatuses equipped with a transport mechanism for transporting products into such reaction vessels are sometimes used to produce highly reactive products. An example of a highly reactive product is the battery material that makes up an all-solid-state lithium-ion battery. Battery material is, for example, a solid electrolyte or positive electrode active material that contains sulfur and lithium as at least part of its components. Battery material is also, for example, a negative electrode material that contains metallic lithium as at least part of its components. On the other hand, these battery materials are known to be highly reactive. For example, solid electrolytes and positive electrode active materials that contain sulfur and lithium as at least part of their components may react with moisture in the air to generate toxic hydrogen sulfide. Furthermore, negative electrode materials containing metallic lithium as at least part of their composition can react with moisture and oxygen in the atmosphere, potentially leading to ignition or deterioration. For these reasons, when fabricating highly reactive battery materials in a laboratory setting, an atmosphere-controlled glove box is used. For example, the inside of a glove box is kept at a dew point temperature of minus 60 degrees Celsius or lower, and the amount of moisture in the air is extremely low. Additionally, the inside of a glove box is controlled by an inert gas such as nitrogen or argon to maintain an environment with extremely low oxygen concentration.

[0006] To enable mass production of such highly reactive battery materials, the inventors developed an improved reaction apparatus based on the one described in Patent Document 1. However, after manufacturing the highly reactive battery materials, it is sometimes necessary to remove the transport mechanism from the reaction apparatus for maintenance. However, removing the transport mechanism in the open air is difficult because the battery material adhering to the transport mechanism reacts with moisture and oxygen in the air.

[0007] This disclosure was made to solve these problems and provides an extraction device and extraction method that can safely extract a transport mechanism installed inside a reaction vessel. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The removal device according to this disclosure is a removal device for removing a transport mechanism from a reaction apparatus which comprises a reaction vessel for reacting a material introduced into the reaction vessel to obtain a product, and a transport mechanism provided inside the reaction vessel for transporting the material, the removal device having a containment container airtightly connected to the reaction vessel, and a connecting member connected to the transport mechanism within the containment container, wherein the connecting member is moved to remove the transport mechanism from the reaction vessel and house it in the containment container.

[0009] The removal method according to this disclosure is a method for removing a transport mechanism from a reaction apparatus comprising a reaction vessel for reacting a material introduced into the reaction vessel to obtain a product, and a transport mechanism provided inside the reaction vessel for transporting the material, wherein a containment container is airtightly connected to the reaction vessel, a connecting member is connected to the transport mechanism inside the containment container, the connecting member is moved to remove the transport mechanism from the reaction vessel, and the transport mechanism is housed inside the containment container. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this disclosure, it is possible to safely remove the transport mechanism installed inside the reaction vessel. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This figure illustrates an example of the configuration of a reaction apparatus to which the extraction device of the embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram of a control device for controlling a reaction apparatus to which an extraction device according to Embodiment 1 is attached. [Figure 3] This figure shows the extraction device according to Embodiment 1 attached to the reaction vessel. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart illustrating the extraction method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5A] This is a process diagram illustrating the extraction method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5B] This is a process diagram illustrating the extraction method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5C]It is a process diagram for explaining the extraction method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5D] It is a process diagram for explaining the extraction method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5E] It is a process diagram for explaining the extraction method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5F] It is a process diagram for explaining the extraction method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing a state where the extraction device according to Embodiment 2 is attached to a reaction vessel. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining another example of the configuration of a reaction device to which the extraction device of the embodiment is applied. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing a state where the extraction device according to Embodiment 1 is attached to the reaction vessel shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view of the bearing shown in FIG. 7 cut along the line IX-IX.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described through embodiments of the invention, but the invention according to the claims is not limited to the following embodiments. Also, not all of the configurations described in the embodiments are essential as means for solving the problems. For clarity of explanation, the following description and drawings have been appropriately omitted and simplified. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same elements, and duplicate explanations are omitted as necessary. Also, in the following description, the positional relationships indicated by terms such as "left", "right", "inside", "outside", "axis", "center", "horizontal", "orthogonal", etc. are based on the positional relationships shown in the drawings, and are for the purpose of facilitating the explanation of the present embodiment, and are not to be understood as limiting the present embodiment.

[0013] First, a reaction device to which the extraction device of the embodiment is applied will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of a reaction device 10 to which the extraction device of the embodiment is applied. FIG. 1 is a side view of the reaction device 10 and shows a state where a part is cut out for easy understanding.

[0014] The reaction device 10 is, for example, a device for producing a product by applying conditions such as a predetermined physical stimulus to a processing material. The type and state of the processing material are not particularly limited, and it may be an inorganic substance such as a metal oxide or metal sulfide containing lithium as one of its components, or it may be an organic substance such as a hydrocarbon. The processing material may be a solid such as a powder or granule, or it may be a fluid such as a liquid or gas. Further, the processing material may pass through an intermediate in the process of changing into the product. The form and state of the intermediate are not particularly limited, but the intermediate may be, for example, the product in each reaction when performing two or more reactions step by step. In that case, the intermediate may be, for example, an anhydrous compound produced by heating a hydrated compound. Alternatively, the intermediate is a fired body in which at least a part of the processing material has undergone grain growth or firing. The intermediate is a state in which at least a part of the processing material has been liquefied or vaporized. The intermediate may have other forms and states than those described above.

[0015] The physical stimulus is not particularly limited as long as it is a means used in the process of changing the processing material into the product. Examples include temperature changes such as heating and cooling. The physical stimulus is, for example, stress transmission such as stirring, mixing, kneading, and pulverization. The physical stimulus is, for example, a reaction involving the transfer of electrons or radicals. The physical stimulus is, for example, contact with a catalyst.

[0016] The type and state of the product are not particularly limited, and the product may be a solid such as a powder or granule, or it may be a fluid such as a liquid or gas. Further, the product may be a mixture containing members other than the product such as a catalyst and a transport auxiliary member. The product may be a mixture containing two or more compounds, such as a main product and a by-product.

[0017] The take-out device of the embodiment is particularly useful when the reaction device 10 produces a highly reactive product such as a sulfide-based solid electrolyte, which is a material for an all-solid-state lithium-ion battery.

[0018] The reaction apparatus 10 mainly consists of a reaction vessel 11, a temperature control area 12, a transport mechanism 13, a first fluid control area 14, a second fluid control area 15, a supply device 16, and a drive device 17. The reaction vessel 11 is a cylindrical member having a supply port 18 for receiving the supplied material and a discharge port 19 for discharging the product. The reaction vessel 11 has an intermediate section between the supply port 18 and the discharge port 19. The number of supply ports 18 may be one or two or more. The outlet port 19 may be located near the end of the reaction vessel 11 or at a location other than the end. The outlet port 19 may be located between two supply ports 18. In the process of obtaining the product from the processed material, there may be one or two or more reaction apparatuses 10. That is, multiple reaction apparatuses 10 may be connected in series or in parallel to carry out multiple reactions.

[0019] The reaction vessel 11 shown in Figure 1 receives the material R10 from the supply port 18. The reaction apparatus 10 uses a transport mechanism 13 located inside the reaction vessel 11 to transport the material R10 received by the reaction vessel 11 toward the discharge port 19. That is, the material R10 supplied to the reaction vessel 11 passes through the intermediate section and moves toward the discharge port 19. The reaction apparatus 10 produces product R11 from raw material R10 by passing the material R10 through the intermediate section of the reaction vessel 11. The transport mechanism 13 then discharges the produced product R11 from the discharge port 19.

[0020] The material used to form the reaction vessel 11 is not particularly limited, but it is desirable that the reaction vessel 11 be made of a material that can withstand temperature changes that occur during the production of the product and contact with the substance supplied into the vessel. The reaction vessel 11 can be made of, for example, alloys, ceramics, carbon, and composite materials containing two or more of these. Alloys are metallic members that contain at least one alloying element such as nickel, cobalt, chromium, molybdenum, tungsten, tantalum, titanium, iron, copper, aluminum, silicon, boron, and carbon. Ceramics are ceramic members such as oxides such as alumina and zirconia, carbides such as silicon carbide and titanium carbide, nitrides such as silicon nitride and titanium nitride, and borides such as chromium boride. Carbon is carbon material such as crystalline graphite and fiber-reinforced graphite.

[0021] The conveying mechanism 13 is not limited in shape or conveying method, as long as it is capable of conveying the processed material or product. The conveying mechanism 13 may be a screw installed inside the reaction vessel 11 so as to extend from the supply port side to the outlet port side of the reaction vessel 11. The conveying mechanism 13 may be a rotating drum installed inside the reaction vessel 11 so as to extend from the supply port side to the outlet port side of the reaction vessel 11. The conveying mechanism 13 may be a belt conveyor installed inside the reaction vessel 11 so as to extend from the supply port side to the outlet port side of the reaction vessel 11. The conveying mechanism 13 may be a blower installed inside the reaction vessel 11. The conveying mechanism 13 may be a vibration generator installed inside the reaction vessel 11. The conveying mechanism 13 may be anything other than those described above.

[0022] The size of the transport mechanism 13 is not particularly limited and may be, for example, shorter than the total length of the reaction vessel 11. The material used to form the transport mechanism 13 is not particularly limited, but it is desirable that the transport mechanism 13 be made of a material that can tolerate temperature changes that occur during product production and contact with the substance supplied into the vessel, similar to the reaction vessel 11. The transport mechanism 13 may be made of, for example, alloys, ceramics, carbon, and composite materials containing two or more of these.

[0023] The conveying mechanism 13 shown in Figure 1 is an example screw, and is pivotally supported at both ends of the reaction vessel 11. However, the support position of the conveying mechanism 13 is not limited to both ends. The conveying mechanism 13 is connected to the drive unit 17 on the side of the supply port 18. The drive unit 17 has a predetermined rotation mechanism such as a motor and rotates the conveying mechanism 13. The drive unit 17 may be set to allow for variable speed control of the conveying speed of the conveying mechanism 13. In this case, the drive unit 17 may be a motor with a variable rotation speed, or it may be a combination of a motor with a constant rotation speed and a reduction gear with a changeable reduction ratio.

[0024] In Figure 1, the screw rotates, causing the material R10 supplied from the supply port 18 to be transported toward the discharge port 19. In the example shown in Figure 1, the transport mechanism 13 has a spiral projection 131 formed around an axis that extends in the left-right direction in Figure 1. As this projection 131 rotates while in contact with the material R10, the transport mechanism 13 transports the material R10 from left to right in Figure 1.

[0025] The cross-sectional shapes of the reaction vessel 11 and the conveying mechanism 13 in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the conveying mechanism 13 may be combinations defined by Reuleaux constant-width figures. In this case, the cross-sectional shape of the convex portion 131 of the conveying mechanism 13 may have a shape that is a combination of multiple arcs corresponding to Reuleaux constant-width figures. For example, if the cross-sectional shape of the reaction vessel 11 is circular, the cross-sectional shape of the conveying mechanism 13 may be a Reuleaux constant-width figure composed of three arcs.

[0026] Note that the shape of the protrusion 131 shown in Figure 1 is just one example, and the shape of the protrusion 131 is not limited to this. The protrusion 131 may have a different shape for each region of the reaction vessel 11. For example, the pitch of the spiral of the protrusion 131 may vary for each region of the reaction vessel 11. Also, the spiral shape of the protrusion 131 may have two or more spirals instead of just one. Furthermore, the protrusion 131 may have parts that are not spiral. This allows the reaction apparatus 10 to set the speed at which objects move and their behavior when moving for each region inside the reaction vessel 11. The conveying mechanism 13 has at least one function, such as conveying objects inside the reaction vessel 11, as well as stirring, mixing, kneading, or grinding.

[0027] The temperature control region 12 includes a temperature control device, i.e., a heating device or a cooling device, and controls the temperature of the reaction vessel 11 at a predetermined position in the intermediate part between the supply port 18 and the outlet port 19. The temperature control region 12 shown in Figure 1 has a heating device that surrounds the cylindrical reaction vessel 11 in the intermediate part of the reaction vessel 11. The heating device includes any temperature-controllable heater, such as a sheath heater, coil heater, or ceramic heater. The heating device performs heating in a range from room temperature to about 900 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the temperature control region 12 can set different temperatures for each region in the intermediate part of the reaction vessel 11 along the conveying direction of the conveying mechanism 13, which will be described later. The temperature control region 12 can control the temperature change applied to the processed material R10 in the first fluid control region 14 and the second fluid control region 15, which will be described later.

[0028] Furthermore, the temperature control region 12 may include a temperature control unit for controlling a heating device or a cooling device. For example, the temperature control region 12 may have temperature sensors such as thermocouples, thermistors, or radiation thermometers at predetermined locations on the reaction vessel 11 for monitoring the temperature. Also, if the heating device operates on the principle of heating by passing an electric current through it, the temperature of the reaction vessel 11 may be controlled by monitoring the current value, power value, etc.

[0029] The temperature control region 12 may have a configuration that heats or cools by circulating water, oil, or the like. Alternatively, the temperature control region 12 may have a configuration that cools using a Peltier element or a blower. With the above configuration, the temperature control region 12 can set various temperature distributions along the transport direction of the transport mechanism 13 in the reaction vessel 11.

[0030] The first fluid control region 14 is located in the reaction vessel 11 between the supply port 18 and the second fluid control region 15. The first fluid control region 14 includes a configuration for passing the first fluid into the reaction vessel 11 in a predetermined area in the intermediate section. For example, the first fluid control region 14 includes a first fluid supply pipe 141, a first valve 142, and a first fluid discharge pipe 143. The first fluid supply pipe 141 supplies the first fluid to the reaction vessel 11. The first valve 142 adjusts the flow rate of the first fluid supplied from the first fluid supply pipe 141. The first fluid discharge pipe 143 discharges the fluid in the first fluid control region 14 to the outside of the reaction vessel 11.

[0031] With the above configuration, the reaction apparatus 10 reacts the material R10 with the first fluid in the first fluid control region 14 to produce an intermediate product. The reaction apparatus 10 can promote the reaction with the first fluid by transporting the material R10 while the transport mechanism 13 is driven and bringing it into contact with the first fluid. The reaction apparatus 10 also discharges the fluid after the reaction to the outside of the first fluid control region 14. The state and form of the first fluid are not limited as long as it is fluid. That is, the first fluid may be a gas, a liquid, or a slurry in which powder or granular material is dispersed in a liquid. The components constituting the first fluid may be one type or two or more types. That is, the first fluid may be a mixed gas of hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen, and argon.

[0032] The second fluid control region 15 is located in the reaction vessel 11 between the first fluid control region 14 and the outlet 19. The second fluid control region 15 includes a configuration for passing the second fluid into the reaction vessel 11 in an intermediate region different from the first fluid control region 14. For example, the second fluid control region 15 includes a second fluid supply pipe 151, a second valve 152, and a second fluid discharge pipe 153. The second fluid supply pipe 151 supplies the second fluid to the reaction vessel 11. The second valve 152 adjusts the flow rate of the second fluid supplied from the second fluid supply pipe 151. The second fluid discharge pipe 153 discharges the fluid in the second fluid control region 15 to the outside of the reaction vessel 11. The state and form of the second fluid are not limited as long as it is fluid. That is, the second fluid may be a gas, a liquid, or a slurry in which powder or granular material is dispersed in a liquid. The components constituting the second fluid may be one type or two or more types. In other words, the second fluid may be a mixed gas of hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen.

[0033] With the above configuration, the reactor 10 reacts the intermediate material that has passed through the first fluid control region 14 with the second fluid in the second fluid control region 15 to produce product R11. The reactor 10 can promote the reaction with the second fluid by transporting the intermediate material while the transport mechanism 13 is driven and bringing it into contact with the second fluid. The reactor 10 also discharges the fluid after the reaction to the outside of the second fluid control region 15.

[0034] The reaction apparatus 10 has a control device that controls each of the components shown in Figure 1. Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the control device 40 of the reaction apparatus 10 with the extraction device 30 according to the embodiment attached. As shown in Figure 2, the control device 40 has a temperature control unit 41, a first fluid control unit 42, a second fluid control unit 43, a third fluid control unit 44, a transport mechanism drive control unit 45, an overall control unit 46, and a storage unit 47.

[0035] Each component of this control device 40 may be implemented with dedicated hardware. Alternatively, some or all of each component may be implemented by general-purpose or dedicated circuits, processors, etc., or combinations thereof. Some or all of each component of each device may be implemented by a combination of the aforementioned circuits, etc., and programs. As the processor, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), etc., can be used.

[0036] The temperature control unit 41 controls the temperature of the reaction vessel 11 in the temperature control region 12. For example, the temperature control unit 41 heats, maintains a constant temperature, or cools the reaction vessel 11 using the temperature control device described above, in response to the output of one or more temperature sensors (not shown) for controlling the temperature.

[0037] Figure 3 shows the extraction device according to Embodiment 1 attached to the reaction vessel. The first fluid control unit 42 controls the flow of the first fluid in the first fluid control region 14. The first fluid control unit 42 includes control of the first valve 142 for pumping the first fluid. The second fluid control unit 43 controls the flow of the second fluid in the second fluid control region 15. The second fluid control unit 43 includes control of the second valve 152 for pumping the second fluid. The third fluid control unit 44 controls the flow of the third fluid in the third fluid control region 33 within the containment container 31 that constitutes the extraction device 30, which will be described later. The third fluid control unit 44 includes control of the inlet valve 332 and the outlet valve 334 for flowing the third fluid. The extraction device 30 will be described in detail later.

[0038] The transport mechanism drive control unit 45 controls the operation of the drive unit 17. For example, the transport mechanism drive control unit 45 drives the motor of the drive unit 17 in response to the output of a rotation sensor (not shown) for monitoring the motor's rotation speed. The overall control unit 46 can also perform overall operations that connect each function, such as issuing operational instructions to the transport mechanism drive control unit 45 in response to the temperature of the reaction vessel 11 supplied by the temperature control unit 41.

[0039] The memory unit 47 stores programs for the reaction device 10 to implement the above-described functions. The memory unit 47 may include non-volatile memory such as flash memory or an SSD (Solid State Drive). It may also include an information input / output unit (not shown) that accepts user input, such as buttons, switches, or a touch panel. The information input / output unit may include a display device for presenting information to the user.

[0040] The configuration of the reaction apparatus 10 is not limited to the configuration described above. For example, there may be two or more transport mechanisms 13. That is, the reaction apparatus 10 may have multiple transport mechanisms 13 arranged in parallel. Also, the reaction vessel 11 is not limited to one whose central axis extends horizontally, but may be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal. The reaction apparatus 10 has a first fluid control region 14 and a second fluid control region 15 in its intermediate section, but may also have a configuration for passing another fluid through it. That is, the reaction apparatus 10 may have three or more fluid control regions. Note that there may be fewer than two fluid control regions, or none at all.

[0041] Furthermore, as long as there is a means to transport the processed material from the supply port 18 towards the discharge port 19, the transport mechanism 13 can use means other than a screw, as described above.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 1, the reaction vessel 11 is positioned so that its central axis extends horizontally and has a supply port 18 and a discharge port 19. A supply / drive unit 20, which includes a supply device 16 for supplying the material to be processed and a drive device 17 for driving the conveying mechanism 13, is detachably connected to the supply port 18 side.

[0043] A flange 21 is provided on the outer circumference of the supply port 18 side of the reaction vessel 11. Similarly, a flange 22 is provided on the outer circumference of the side of the supply / drive unit 20 facing the supply port 18. Both flange 21 and flange 22 are provided with a plurality of bolt holes (not shown) at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction. The supply / drive unit 20 can be connected to the reaction vessel 11 by screwing bolts (not shown) into these bolt holes. It is desirable that a sealing means, such as a rubber O-ring, be provided between flange 21 and flange 22 to prevent the intrusion of outside air. However, the method of connecting the reaction vessel 11 and the supply / drive unit 20 is not limited to this.

[0044] A partition 23 is provided between the flange 21 of the reaction vessel 11 and the temperature control region 12. The partition 23 is movable so as to be perpendicular to the central axis of the reaction vessel 11. By closing the partition 23, the space inside the reaction vessel 11 is separated from the space outside the reaction vessel 11. In other words, by closing the partition 23, substances present outside the reaction vessel 11 are prevented from entering the reaction vessel 11. Alternatively, by closing the partition 23, toxic substances present inside the reaction vessel 11 are prevented from being released to the outside of the reaction vessel 11.

[0045] The substances present outside the reaction vessel 11 are not limited in type, as long as they can react with residual products inside the reaction vessel 11 to generate toxic substances. The substances present outside the reaction vessel 11 may be, for example, air, oxygen, or water vapor. The substances present outside the reaction vessel 11 may be a liquid, such as water, or a solid, such as potassium permanganate. The removal device 30 according to this embodiment is used to remove the transport mechanism 13 from such a reaction vessel 11. The location where the partition 23 is provided is not particularly limited and may be anywhere other than between the flange 21 of the reaction vessel 11 and the temperature control region 12. The removal device 30 according to this embodiment will now be described.

[0046] <Embodiment 1> Referring to Figure 3, the configuration of the extraction device according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 3 shows the state in which the extraction device 30 is attached to the reaction vessel 11. In Figure 3, the right side of the dashed line shows the configuration of the reaction vessel 10 with the supply / drive unit 20 removed, and the left side of the dashed line shows the configuration of the extraction device 30.

[0047] As shown in Figure 3, the extraction device 30 mainly consists of a containment container 31, a connecting member 32, a third fluid control region 33, and a partition 34. The third fluid control region 33 includes a third fluid supply pipe 331, an inlet valve 332, a third fluid discharge pipe 333, and a discharge valve 334. The containment container 31 is airtightly connected to the supply port 18 side of the reaction vessel 11. In the example shown in Figure 3, a flange 37 is provided on the side of the containment container 31 facing the supply port 18 of the reaction vessel 11, and a sealing portion 38 is provided on the opposite side. A cylindrical portion 35 is integrally formed on the flange 37 so as to extend toward the reaction vessel 11 side.

[0048] The cylindrical portion 35 is provided with a flange 36 on its outer circumference. The flange 36 has bolt holes at positions corresponding to the multiple bolt holes of the flange 21. The extraction device 30 can be connected to the reaction vessel 11 by screwing bolts (not shown) into the bolt holes of the flange 21 and flange 36. It is desirable that a sealing means, such as a rubber O-ring, be provided between the flange 21 and flange 36 to prevent the intrusion of outside air. However, the method of connecting the reaction vessel 11 and the extraction device 30 is not limited to this. The reaction vessel 11 and the extraction device 30 may be connected by at least a portion of them touching each other, or they may be connected without any parts touching each other. That is, the reaction vessel 11 and the extraction device 30 may be connected indirectly via a connecting jig or hood.

[0049] The containment container 31 is a component that houses the transport mechanism 13 after it has been withdrawn from the reaction vessel 11. It is desirable that the containment container 31 be made of a material that can tolerate contact with the processed material and products adhering to the transport mechanism 13 housed inside. For example, the containment container 31 may be made of a corrosion-resistant material such as stainless steel or fluororesin. The containment container 31 may also be made of the same material as the reaction vessel 11. One side of the containment container 31 is connected to the flange 37, and the other side is connected to the sealing portion 38 by welding or the like. The sealing portion 38 is positioned to close one of the openings of the containment container 31.

[0050] A partition 34 is provided in the cylindrical portion 35 between flange 36 and flange 37. The partition 34 includes, for example, a valve body that can move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the conveying mechanism 13. The partition 34 switches between an open state and a closed state between the reaction vessel 11 and the containment vessel 31. By closing the partition 34, the space inside the containment vessel 31 is sealed off from the outside space by the partition 34 and the sealing portion 38. In other words, the partition 34 is a sealing mechanism that seals off the space inside the containment vessel 31 containing the conveying mechanism 13 from the intrusion of gas from the outside. Note that various other embodiments can be used instead of the partition 34, as long as the space inside the containment vessel 31 can be sealed off from the intrusion of gas from the outside. For example, the partition 34 can be a slide valve or a gate valve.

[0051] It is preferable that the containment container 31 is expandable and contractible to match the shape of the transport mechanism 13. For example, the length of the containment container 31 can be changed to match the length of the transport mechanism 13. In the example shown in Figure 3, a bellows that is expandable and contractible along the axial direction of the transport mechanism 13 is used as the containment container 31. A bellows is a cylindrical, bellows-shaped member with a hollow interior. Alternatively, the containment container 31 may consist of multiple cylindrical bodies connected in a telescopic manner. The containment container 31 may also be an expandable and contractible elastic member such as a rubber tube.

[0052] A connecting member 32 is provided inside the containment container 31, which is connected to the transport mechanism 13. The connecting member 32 may be, for example, a clamping member comprising an opening / closing member into which the transport mechanism 13 is inserted, and a clamping screw provided on the opening / closing member. With the transport mechanism 13 inserted between the opening / closing members, the transport mechanism 13 is connected to the clamping member by tightening the clamping screw. The connecting member 32 may be operated by, for example, a motor, compressed air, hydraulics, etc. In other words, the connecting member 32 may be powered. The connecting member 32 may also use a clamping mechanism that clamps the transport mechanism 13 using hydraulics, etc., and fixes it by friction. Furthermore, the connecting member 32 may have a structure that allows for movement, extension and retraction, rotation, etc. For example, after inserting the transport mechanism 13 into the connecting member 32, the transport mechanism 13 may be fixed to the connecting member 32 by rotating the connecting member 32. In addition, there may be interposed members such as hooks or chains between the transport mechanism 13 and the connecting member 32. The connecting member 32 may have a control unit for receiving command signals for operation and controlling the operation. The command signal may be transmitted by connecting the control device that controls the reaction device and the extraction device by wire using a cable or the like, or it may be transmitted wirelessly by radio waves or the like. The command signal may be transmitted by wire or wirelessly via a remote controller.

[0053] The connecting member 32 is connected to the sealing portion 38 on the side of the containment container 31 opposite to the reaction vessel 11. As shown in Figure 3, the connecting member 32 is connected to the transport mechanism 13 when the containment container 31 is retracted. By extending the containment container 31 from this state, the connecting member 32 moves together with the containment container 31, allowing the transport mechanism 13 to be withdrawn from the reaction vessel 11 and housed inside the containment container 31.

[0054] The third fluid supply pipe 331, inlet valve 332, third fluid discharge pipe 333, and discharge valve 334 are included in the third fluid control region 33 within the containment container 31. The third fluid control region 33 allows the third fluid to pass through the containment container 31. The third fluid supply pipe 331 is provided between the partition 34 and the flange 37 of the cylindrical section 35. The third fluid supply pipe 331 supplies the third fluid to the containment container 31. The inlet valve 332 adjusts the flow rate of the third fluid supplied from the third fluid supply pipe 331. The third fluid discharge pipe 333 discharges the fluid from the third fluid control region to the outside of the containment container 31. The third fluid discharge pipe 333 is provided with a discharge valve 334 that adjusts the amount of third fluid discharged.

[0055] The third fluid supply pipe 331 supplies an inert gas into the containment container 31, for example, to create an inert gas atmosphere inside the containment container 31. The inert gas is, for example, argon gas, helium gas, nitrogen gas, etc. By creating an inert gas atmosphere inside the containment container 31 in this way, it becomes possible to safely remove the transport mechanism 13 from the reaction vessel 11 even if highly reactive products are attached to the transport mechanism 13. Alternatively, instead of creating an inert gas atmosphere inside the containment container 31, the inside of the containment container 31 may be reduced to a vacuum atmosphere below atmospheric pressure by reducing the pressure inside the containment container 31. In this case, the removal device 30 may include a pressure reduction mechanism such as a rotary pump or a mechanical booster pump for reducing the pressure inside the containment container 31. For example, after reducing the pressure inside the containment container 31 to below atmospheric pressure using a pressure reduction mechanism, inert gas may be supplied to the containment container 31 from the third fluid supply pipe 331, and then the inside of the containment container 31 may be further reduced to below atmospheric pressure using a pressure reduction mechanism. The above operations may also be repeated as needed. In this way, the atmosphere inside the containment container 31 can be suitably adjusted. The third fluid supply pipe 331 may also be equipped with a detection device for detecting the atmosphere inside the containment container 31. The detection device may include, for example, a pressure gauge, a hygrometer, an oxygen concentration meter, a hydrogen sulfide concentration meter, and the like.

[0056] Here, with reference to Figures 4 and 5A-5F, the method for removing the transport mechanism 13 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the removal method according to Embodiment 1. Figures 5A-5F are process diagrams illustrating the removal method according to Embodiment 1.

[0057] As shown in Figure 4, first, the containment container 31 is either evacuated or filled with an inert gas (S11). When the containment container 31 is filled with an inert gas, the control device 40 closes the partition 34 and opens the inlet valve 332 and the outlet valve 334, allowing the inert gas to be supplied from the third fluid supply pipe 331. When the containment container 31 is evacuated, the control device 40 closes the partition 34 and reduces the pressure inside the transport mechanism 13 using a depressurization mechanism (not shown). This prevents the substance adhering to the transport mechanism 13 from reacting with the atmosphere when the containment container 31 is connected to the reaction vessel 11, even if the substance is highly reactive, making it possible to connect the extraction device 30 to the reaction vessel 11 more safely.

[0058] Next, the supply and drive unit 20 is removed while supplying inert gas into the reaction vessel 11 (S12). For example, the control device can open the first valve 142 and supply inert gas to the reaction vessel 11 from the first fluid supply pipe 141. At this time, the partition 23 is open. This state is shown in Figure 5A. In the example shown in Figure 5A, removing the supply and drive unit 20 leaves the left side of the reaction vessel 11 open.

[0059] Then, the containment container 31 is hermetically connected to the reaction vessel 11 (S13). Specifically, the control device 40 opens the first valve 142, the discharge valve 334, and the inlet valve 332, and while supplying inert gas from the first fluid supply pipe 141, the supply / drive unit 20 is removed, and the containment container 31 is connected to the open reaction vessel 11. At this time, the partitions 23 and 34 are open, and the inlet valve 332 is closed. The method for hermetically connecting the reaction vessel 11 and the containment container 31 can be, for example, by screwing bolts into the bolt holes of flanges 21 and 36. This state is shown in Figure 5B. As shown by the arrow from left to right in Figure 5B, the containment container 31 is connected from the left side of the reaction vessel 11. At that time, the side of the transport mechanism 13 that was connected to the supply / drive unit 20 is inserted into the inside of the containment container 31. The method for airtightly connecting the reaction vessel 11 and the containment vessel 31 is not limited to the above method; other methods may be used. The reaction vessel 11 and the containment vessel 31 may be indirectly connected without any parts touching each other, such as by using jigs or sleeves, as long as they are airtightly connected. The airtightness of the connection between the reaction vessel 11 and the containment vessel 31 may be confirmed by an airtightness test using a test gas such as nitrogen gas or helium gas. For example, the test gas may be supplied to the reaction vessel 11 or the containment vessel 31, and airtightness may be defined as a state in which no leakage of the test gas is observed at the connection between the reaction vessel 11 and the containment vessel 31.

[0060] As described above, in S11, the containment container 31 is in a vacuum or filled with inert gas. Therefore, even if the flow rate of the inert gas supplied from the first fluid supply pipe 141 is insufficient, the possibility of air entering the reaction vessel 11 can be suppressed, thereby increasing safety. Note that if the inert gas supplied in S12 is in a sufficient flow rate to fill the containment container 31 and prevent any substances adhering to the transport mechanism 13 during the connection of the containment container 31 from reacting with the air, the step in S11 may be omitted. Subsequently, the containment container 31 is airtightly connected to the reaction vessel 11 (S13).

[0061] Then, the connecting member 32 is connected to the transport mechanism 13 inside the containment container 31 (S14). For example, if a clamp member comprising an opening / closing member and a clamp screw is used as the connecting member 32, the transport mechanism 13 can be connected to the clamp member by inserting the transport mechanism 13 into the opening / closing member and tightening the clamp screw. This state is shown in Figure 5C. As shown in Figure 5C, when the transport mechanism 13 is connected to the connecting member 32, the discharge valve 334 is in the closed state.

[0062] Then, while extending the containment container 31, the connecting member 32 is moved to remove the transport mechanism 13 from the reaction vessel 11 (S15). This state is shown in Figure 5D. As shown in Figure 5D, extending the reaction vessel 11 causes the connecting member 32 to move in the direction indicated by the arrow from right to left. As the connecting member 32 moves, the transport mechanism 13 is removed from the reaction vessel 11. After the transport mechanism 13 is housed in the containment container 31, the partition 34 is closed to seal the containment container 31 (S16). The partition 23 is also closed, sealing the space inside the reaction vessel 11. This prevents the product inside the reaction vessel 11 from being exposed to the atmosphere.

[0063] Then, the extraction device 30 is removed from the reaction device 10 (S17). For example, by removing the bolts that were screwed into the bolt holes of flange 21 and flange 36, the connection between the reaction vessel 11 and the containment vessel 31 is released. This state is shown in Figure 5F. In this way, according to Embodiment 1, the transport mechanism 13 can be housed in the space of the sealed containment vessel 31 without being exposed to the atmosphere. This makes it possible to handle the transport mechanism 13 safely even if highly reactive substances are attached to it.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5F, it is also possible to clean the transport mechanism 13 while it is housed in the containment container 31. In other words, the containment container 31 can also be used as a cleaning container for cleaning the transport mechanism 13. For example, if a sulfur-containing compound is attached to the transport mechanism 13, water can be supplied into the containment container 31 while the transport mechanism 13 is housed inside the container 31. Hydrogen sulfide generated by the reaction between the sulfur-containing compound and water can be discharged from the third fluid discharge pipe 333.

[0065] As described above, the connecting member 32 connected to the transport mechanism 13 can be rotatably provided. That is, the connecting member 32 functions as a rotating mechanism capable of rotating the transport mechanism 13. For example, the connecting member 32 can rotate the transport mechanism 13 connected to it by the operation of the control unit. When cleaning the transport mechanism 13, the transport mechanism 13 connected to the connecting member 32 can be rotated by rotating the connecting member 32 inside the containment container 31. In this way, cleaning can be accelerated by rotating the connecting member 32 during the cleaning of the transport mechanism 13.

[0066] After hydrogen sulfide generation ceases, the water used as the cleaning solution is discharged from the containment container 31, and a dry, inert gas is supplied from the third fluid supply pipe 331 to dry the transport mechanism 13. For this reason, the containment container 31 may be equipped with a discharge section for discharging the cleaning solution after washing. The transport mechanism 13 after washing may be removed from the containment container 31, or it may be attached to the reaction apparatus 10 while still contained in the containment container 31. Thus, the removal device 30 of this embodiment can be applied not only to the removal of the transport mechanism 13 but also to various other processes, including the washing of the transport mechanism 13.

[0067] Furthermore, the extraction device 30 may be equipped with various detection devices for monitoring the internal conditions of the containment container 31. Examples of such detection devices include a thermometer, a hygrometer, a gas concentration meter capable of detecting hydrogen sulfide, and a camera for observing the inside of the containment container 31.

[0068] The transport mechanism 13 described above ranges in length from a lightweight one of about 20-30 cm to one of several meters in length and weighing several hundred kilograms. For this reason, it is preferable that the containment container 31 be supported when it is extended. With the lower side of the containment container 31 supported by a support member, the connecting member 32 can be moved by extending the containment container 31 with a transport heavy machine such as a crane. In other words, the transport heavy machine becomes the drive mechanism for moving the connecting member. For example, in Figure 3, a support member (not shown) that supports the containment container 31 can be provided between the flange 37 of the cylindrical part 35 and the partition 34. Alternatively, the containment container 31 can be extended by supporting the vicinity of the discharge valve 334 on the left side of the sealing part 38 with a crane and moving the crane to the left. This prevents the transport mechanism 13 from falling downwards when it is pulled out of the reaction vessel 11.

[0069] The transport equipment is not limited to cranes; it may also be a transport trolley with wheels, or a winch that winds up a wire via a pulley. The control unit of the transport equipment may be operated via the controller of the reaction device 10 or the transport device 30 by synchronizing with the control unit provided in the extraction device 30 or the control device 40 of the reaction device 10. If the transport mechanism 13 is lightweight, the container 31 may be extended or retracted manually.

[0070] Furthermore, while Embodiment 1 describes an example where the central axis of the cylindrical reaction vessel 11 coincides with the rotation axis of the transport mechanism 13, and the containment container 31 expands and contracts along this axis, the embodiment is not limited to this. The containment container 31 can expand and contract to match the shape of the transport mechanism 13. For example, if the reaction vessel 11 is curved and the transport mechanism 13 curves to match the shape of the reaction vessel 11, the containment container 31 can expand and contract to match the curve of the transport mechanism 13. Note that the cross-sectional shape of the reaction vessel 11 is not limited to a circle or an ellipse. The cross-sectional shape of the reaction vessel 11 may be a square or rectangle, or a polygon other than a square. <Embodiment 2> Figure 6 shows the extraction device according to Embodiment 2 attached to the reaction apparatus. The difference in Embodiment 2 from Embodiment 1 is that the containment container 31 is not expandable or contractible. As shown in Figure 6, the containment container 31A is a cylindrical member with a length corresponding to the length of the transport mechanism 13. The containment container 31A can be made of a material that can tolerate contact with the processed material and products adhering to the transport mechanism 13 housed inside, such as a corrosion-resistant material such as stainless steel or fluororesin. Note that the cross-sectional shape of the containment container 31A is not limited to circular or elliptical. The cross-sectional shape of the containment container 31A may be a quadrilateral such as a square or rectangle, or a polygon other than a quadrilateral.

[0071] In the example shown in Figure 6, the connecting member 32 is provided so as to be movable within the containment container 31A, from the right side to the left side of the containment container 31A. The transport mechanism 13 and the connecting member 32 are connected when the connecting member 32 is located on the right side of the containment container 31A. After the transport mechanism 13 and the connecting member 32 are connected, the transport mechanism 13 can be withdrawn from the reaction vessel 11 by moving the connecting member 32 together with the transport mechanism 13 to the left side of the containment container 31.

[0072] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. In the above example, the supply and drive unit 20 was removed and the extraction device 30 was connected, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in Figure 7, a removable lid 50 may be provided on the side of the reaction vessel 11 where the outlet 19 is located, and the containment container 31 may be connected to the reaction vessel 11 with the lid 50 removed. Specifically, the side of the reaction vessel 11 where the outlet 19 is located is provided with the lid 50, the lid 50, the partition 51, and the bearing 52. The conveying mechanism 13 is provided on the side of the lid 50. The conveying mechanism 13 is inserted so that the stopper 53 contacts the bearing 52 and is rotatably supported. The partition 51 is provided between the lid 50 and the bearing 52. In this case, in Figure 8, the containment container 31 is connected to the right side of the reaction vessel 11, and the direction of withdrawal of the conveying mechanism 13 is to the right. As shown in Figure 9, an anti-rotation member 54 may be provided around the bearing 52. The anti-rotation member 54 includes a protrusion 55 that fits into a recess (not shown) provided on the inner circumference of the reaction vessel 11. The anti-rotation member 54 prevents the bearing 52 from rotating in conjunction with the rotation of the transport mechanism 13. The anti-rotation member 54 may also have an involute spline shape. When the connection between the transport mechanism 13 and the containment container 31 is released after the containment container 31 has been placed inside the containment container 31, the partition 51 can be closed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 10 Reactor 11 Reaction vessel 12 Temperature control range 13. Conveying mechanism 14. First Fluid Control Domain 15. Second Fluid Control Region 16 Feeding device 17 Drive unit 18 supply ports 19 Outlet 20 Supply and Drive Units 21 Flange 22 Flange 23 partitions 30 Removal device 31 Containment container 32 Connecting member 33 Third Fluid Control Domain 34 partitions 35 Cylinder part 36 Flange 37 Flange 38 Sealing part 40 Control device 41 Temperature Control Unit 42 First Fluid Control Unit 43 Second Fluid Control Unit 44 Third Fluid Control Unit 45 Transport mechanism drive control unit 46 Overall Control Unit 47 Memory section 50 Lid 51 partitions 52 Bearings 53 Stopper 54 Anti-rotation member 55 Convex part 131 Convex part 141 1st fluid supply pipe 142 First Valve 143 1st fluid discharge pipe 151 2nd fluid supply pipe 152 Second valve 153 2nd fluid discharge pipe 331 Third fluid supply pipe 332 Inlet valve 333 Third fluid discharge pipe 334 Exhaust valve

Claims

1. A removal device for removing a transport mechanism from a reaction apparatus comprising a reaction vessel for reacting a material introduced into the reaction vessel to obtain a product, and a transport mechanism provided inside the reaction vessel for transporting the material, A containment container having an expandable portion is airtightly connected to the reaction vessel, A connecting member connected to the aforementioned transport mechanism, It has, The connecting member is moved to remove the transport mechanism from the reaction vessel and place it inside the containment container. Retrieval device.

2. The connecting member is connected to the transport mechanism when the storage container is retracted. By extending the aforementioned containment container, the transport mechanism is removed from the reaction vessel and placed inside the containment container. The extraction device according to claim 1.

3. A removal device for removing a transport mechanism from a reaction apparatus comprising a reaction vessel for reacting a material introduced into the reaction vessel to obtain a product, and a transport mechanism provided inside the reaction vessel for transporting the material, A containment container is airtightly connected to the reaction vessel, A connecting member connected to the aforementioned transport mechanism, A blocking mechanism that blocks off at least a portion of the space of the containment container housing the transport mechanism, A pressure reduction mechanism that enables the reduction of pressure inside the containment container, or an inert gas supply mechanism that enables the supply of inert gas into the containment container, It has, The connecting member is moved to remove the transport mechanism from the reaction vessel and place it inside the containment container. Retrieval device.

4. The system further includes a control unit for controlling the operation of the connecting member. The extraction device according to claim 1.

5. The system further includes a cleaning mechanism for cleaning the transport mechanism while it is housed in the aforementioned container. The extraction device according to claim 3.

6. The conveying mechanism is further equipped with a rotating mechanism that allows the conveying mechanism to be rotated within the containment container when cleaning the conveying mechanism. The extraction device according to claim 5.

7. A support member that supports the aforementioned container, With the container being supported by the support member, a drive mechanism moves the connecting member, Furthermore, The extraction device according to claim 1.

8. A removal device for removing a transport mechanism from a reaction apparatus comprising a reaction vessel for reacting a material introduced into the reaction vessel to obtain a product, and a transport mechanism provided inside the reaction vessel for transporting the material, A containment container is airtightly connected to the reaction vessel, A connecting member connected to the aforementioned transport mechanism, It has, The connecting member is moved to remove the transport mechanism from the reaction vessel and place it inside the containment container. The reaction vessel is a cylindrical member having a supply port for receiving the material to be processed and a discharge port for discharging the product. The conveying mechanism is a screw that extends from the supply port side to the outlet side of the reaction vessel and rotates to convey the processed material supplied from the supply port toward the outlet. The aforementioned container is expandable and contractible along the axial direction of the screw. Retrieval device.

9. A method for removing a transport mechanism from a reaction apparatus comprising a reaction vessel for reacting a material introduced into the apparatus to obtain a product, and a transport mechanism provided inside the reaction vessel for transporting the material, A containment container having an expandable portion is airtightly connected to the reaction vessel, A connecting member is connected to the aforementioned transport mechanism. The connecting member is moved to remove the transport mechanism from the reaction vessel, and the length of the containment container is changed to accommodate it inside the containment container. How to take out.

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