System for distributing catalyst in a cryogenic heat exchanger, and associated method

Abstract

The invention relates to, among other things, a distribution system (1000) for distributing catalyst (200) in a cryogenic heat exchanger (30) having a feed inlet (301) for feeding catalyst (200) opening onto a distribution plane (P), the distribution system (1000) comprising: - a connection and control device (10') for connecting a distribution device (20) for catalyst (200) to the feed inlet (301) for feeding catalyst (200) of the cryogenic heat exchanger (30), and controlling the distribution of catalyst (200) in the distribution plane (P), - a dispersion device (10'') for dispersing a catalyst (200) intended for the feed inlet (301) for feeding catalyst (200) of a cryogenic heat exchanger (30), - a vibration device (100) for vibrating the cryogenic heat exchanger (30).

Description

CATALYST DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM IN A CRYOGENIC HEAT EXCHANGER, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of heat exchangers, more particularly to heat exchangers for hydrogen liquefaction. More specifically, the invention relates to catalyst distribution systems suitable for connection to a plate and wave heat exchanger for filling it with a catalyst powder intended to initiate a physicochemical reaction. It also relates to a method of catalyst distribution using such a distribution system.

[0002] Brazed plate and wave heat exchangers are classically used in the cryogenic industry for the separation and liquefaction of gases, particularly in the energy and petrochemical sectors.

[0003] These heat exchangers consist of a series of parallel metal plates between which intercalated elements, such as corrugated structures or waves, are typically inserted, forming finned heat exchange structures. The stacked plates create a series of flat passages for the various fluids to be heat exchanged.

[0004] Thus, a heat exchanger has internal metallic passages forming cavities through which a fluid circulates. Depending on the requirements, a cryogenic heat exchanger can be designed for the liquefaction of a gas using several dedicated fluids.

[0005] During the manufacture of the heat exchanger, the plates, finned spacer elements and other constituent elements of the heat exchanger are pressed together and then joined together by brazing in a vacuum furnace.

[0006] Today, brazed plate and wave heat exchangers are being adapted to new liquefaction processes. This is the case with hydrogen liquefaction processes.

[0007] Hydrogen, for example, is more stable at low temperatures in its parahydrogen state compared to its orthohydrogen state. At low temperatures, particularly the liquefaction temperature, orthohydrogen tends to spontaneously transform into parahydrogen, releasing unwanted heat.

[0008] In order to keep hydrogen in a liquid state, two options exist.

[0009] One option is to continuously extract the heat released by the conversion of orthohydrogen to parahydrogen. In practice, this technique proves to be particularly energy-intensive and not industrially viable.

[0010] A second option is to convert orthohydrogen to parahydrogen. An exothermic catalytic reaction combined with cooling allows for the conversion of most of the orthohydrogen to parahydrogen. Spontaneous conversions of orthohydrogen to parahydrogen are then reduced.

[0011] This second option is one of the frameworks within which the present invention can be included, without being limited to it.

[0012] To achieve this, a catalyst, for example in the form of catalytic powder, is inserted into the brazed plate and wave heat exchanger from an upper section configured to receive the catalyst. During this insertion, the catalyst flows by spillage from catalyst storage means to the upper section of the heat exchanger, which has a feed inlet, and then to the lower section of the heat exchanger, which has a collection outlet.

[0013] A good distribution of the catalyst within the heat exchanger naturally promotes the efficiency rate of the heat exchanger.

[0014] However, ensuring proper distribution of the catalyst within the heat exchanger, both vertically and horizontally, particularly between the top and bottom sections, is currently impossible because the filling process is imprecise. As a result, the catalyst is not evenly distributed between the upper and lower sections.

[0015] The invention therefore aims to resolve the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0016] To this end, a catalyst distribution system is proposed for a cryogenic heat exchanger having a catalyst supply inlet leading to a distribution plane, the distribution system comprising:

[0017] - a connection and control device enabling the connection of a catalyst distribution device to the catalyst supply inlet of the cryogenic heat exchanger, and the control of catalyst distribution in the distribution plane,

[0018] - a catalyst dispersion device intended for the catalyst feed inlet of a cryogenic heat exchanger,

[0019] - a vibration device for the cryogenic heat exchanger.

[0020] The distribution system according to the invention provides a system for optimizing catalyst distribution in a cryogenic heat exchanger by combining distribution, catalyst dispersion with heat exchanger vibration, and catalyst distribution control. This combination provides an efficient solution for ensuring catalyst distribution.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the connection and control device and the dispersion device share the same tubular body having an upstream end and a downstream end.

[0022] The use of the same tubular body has the advantage of being able to carry out the operations of supplying, controlling and dispersing the catalyst from the same inlet of the heat exchanger.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the upstream end is configured to be connected to the catalyst distribution device and the downstream end is configured to be connected to said supply inlet, the upstream end and the downstream end being connected to each other by a catalyst flow passage delimited by a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall comprising a control orifice opening into the flow passage, the control orifice being configured to allow the introduction into the flow passage of a measuring means intended to control the catalyst level in the heat exchanger.

[0024] Thanks to the invention, it is possible to control the distribution of the catalyst within the heat exchanger, particularly in the upper part of the heat exchanger. Furthermore, the insertion of a means for measuring the catalyst distribution rate through a specially designed control orifice creates a non-permanent measuring means that can be removed from the exchanger. This measuring means can then be reused to monitor the distribution in another heat exchanger.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the tubular body includes a closable end, and the dispersion device includes:

[0026] - a means for closing the closable end of the tubular body,

[0027] - a means for dispersing the catalyst, comprising:

[0028] - a dispersion plate configured to disperse the catalyst by centrifugal force in the heat exchanger, and

[0029] - a rotation guide extending along an axis of rotation and mounted for rotation relative to the closing means,

[0030] The rotation guide is fixed to the dispersion plate and configured to transmit a rotational force to the dispersion plate.

[0031] the rotation guide being configured to position the dispersion plate in the heat exchanger opposite said feed inlet.

[0032] Thanks to such a dispersion device, it is possible to distribute the catalyst more evenly and extensively within the heat exchanger, particularly in the upper part. When the catalyst, for example in the form of catalytic powder, flows through the tube body to reach the heat exchanger's feed inlet, it flows into the heat exchanger by gravity to reach the dispersion plate. Rotating the dispersion device, via its guide, generates a centrifugal force that disperses the catalytic powder evenly and extensively throughout the heat exchanger.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the vibration device comprises:

[0034] - a means of generating vibrational waves,

[0035] - a vibration belt configured to surround at least part of a main body of the heat exchanger,

[0036] the vibration belt supporting the means of generating vibrational waves,

[0037] the means of generating vibratory waves being configured to transmit vibratory waves to said main body via said vibration belt.

[0038] The vibration device according to the invention provides a simple and cost-effective solution for vibrating a heat exchanger. By at least partially surrounding the main body of the heat exchanger with the vibration belt, it is possible to increase the surface area of ​​the main body of the exchanger that receives the vibrations from the wave-generating means via said belt.

[0039] The vibration of the main body of the heat exchanger promotes the flow of the catalyst from an upper part of the exchanger through which the catalyst is inserted to a lower part of the exchanger.

[0040] Thus, the invention makes it possible to distribute the catalyst more homogeneously and extensively inside the heat exchanger between its upper and lower parts.

[0041] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for distributing catalyst in a cryogenic heat exchanger having a catalyst supply inlet using a distribution system as described in the present invention, the method comprising the following steps:

[0042] a) introduction of the catalyst through the feed inlet of the cryogenic heat exchanger from the distribution device via the connection and control device,

[0043] b) dispersion of the catalyst in the heat exchanger using the dispersion device,

[0044] c) vibrating the cryogenic heat exchanger using the vibration device.

[0045] Combining these steps improves catalyst distribution in a heat exchanger. Specifically, this process prevents an inhomogeneous catalyst distribution that is detrimental to the physicochemical reaction of hydrogen.

[0046] According to one embodiment, step c) is implemented before or simultaneously with step b).

[0047] Vibrating the cryogenic heat exchanger before or simultaneously with catalyst dispersion helps to limit catalyst accumulation in the distribution plane.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the process comprises the following step:

[0049] d) inspection of the distribution of the catalyst in the distribution plane using a measuring means.

[0050] Controlling the catalyst distribution in the distribution plane allows adjusting the catalyst supply or the vibration of the exchanger in order to optimize this distribution.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the process comprises the following steps carried out in order:

[0052] e) cessation of vibration of the main body,

[0053] f) displacement of the vibration device along a longitudinal axis of the main body,

[0054] g) execution of steps a) to c).

[0055] These steps allow the position of the vibration device to be adjusted along the body of the exchanger, so that it is possible to vibrate a desired part of said main body.

[0056] According to one embodiment, prior to step a), the method includes a step of fixing the connection and control device and the dispersion device to the supply inlet of the heat exchanger.

[0057] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent during the reading of the detailed description that follows, for the understanding of which reference should be made to the attached drawings.

[0058] The diagram represents a perspective view of a distribution head of a cryogenic heat exchanger.

[0059] The diagram represents a cross-sectional perspective view of the upper part of the distribution head illustrating a catalyst distribution.

[0060] Larepresents a cross-sectional view along plane P to illustrate an example of passage stacking.

[0061] Lare represents a perspective view of two connection devices according to the invention mounted on the distribution head shown in figures 1 and 2, as well as a catalyst distribution device.

[0062] Lare represents a partial cross-sectional view of laillant illustrating a single connection and control device from which a measuring means is inserted.

[0063] Lare represents an enlarged isolated view of a connection and control device shown in figures 4 and 5,

[0064] The diagram represents a perspective view of a power inlet of the distribution head equipped with a section adapter.

[0065] Figure 1 represents a perspective view of the power inlet equipped with the connection and control device as shown in Figure 2.

[0066] Figure 1 represents an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the section adapter shown in Figure 2.

[0067] This represents a cross-sectional view of the

[0068] The diagram represents a cross-sectional view of a sealing and blocking device.

[0069] Lare represents a cross-sectional view of the connection and control device shown in the, equipped with a measuring means.

[0070] Lare represents a cross-sectional view of the dispersion device.

[0071] Lare represents a perspective view of a dispersion plate of the dispersion device.

[0072] The diagram represents a perspective view of a distribution head of a cryogenic heat exchanger.

[0073] The diagram represents a cross-sectional perspective view of the upper part of the distribution head illustrating a catalyst distribution.

[0074] Larepresents a cross-sectional view along plane P to illustrate an example of passage stacking.

[0075] Lare represents a perspective view of a vibration device according to the invention taken in isolation.

[0076] Lare represents a perspective view of the vibration device of claim 1 mounted on a cryogenic heat exchanger.

[0077] A brazed plate and wave heat exchanger 30 consists of a set of parallel plates between which corrugated structures or waves can be inserted, forming finned heat exchange structures. As shown in Figure 31, such stacked exchange structures form a stack of flat passages for different fluids to be connected for heat exchange.

[0078] To ensure the liquefaction of a gas, such as hydrogen, a cryogenic heat exchanger 30 generally includes a distribution head 32, arranged opposite a collection head (not shown). The distribution head 32 distributes the fluid entering the heat exchanger 30, and the collection head collects the fluid exiting the heat exchanger 30.

[0079] Figures 1 and 2 represent a distribution head 32 of a cryogenic heat exchanger 30. Such a distribution head 32 may have one or more supply inlets 301 intended to supply the distribution head 32 of the heat exchanger 30 with a fluid, generally gaseous, which is intended to be liquefied following its circulation through a series of passages constituting the heat exchanger 30.

[0080] The supply inlets 301 of a distribution head 32 are designed to open at the level of the stack of exchange structures 31 formed by cavities through which the gas to be liquefied flows. The characteristic size of these cavities is on the order of a millimeter and they have high length-to-width ratios.

[0081] In the context of an application to the liquefaction of hydrogen, the use of a catalyst 200 makes it possible to convert most of the hydrogen in orthohydrogen form into parahydrogen.

[0082] To achieve this, we seek to coat the passages traversed by hydrogen with a catalyst 200 in the form of catalysis powder.

[0083] The catalyst 200 can be introduced from the supply inlet(s) 301 to reach the cavities 31A of the exchange structures 31 into which these supply inlets 301 open.

[0084] Lare represents an example of a stack of exchange structures 31 accessible from the distribution head 32 by the supply inlets 301, and forming a distribution plane P of the catalyst 200.

[0085] Today, it is difficult to estimate the distribution of the catalyst 200 in the distribution plane P. At best, a distribution can be estimated as a function of, for example, the sizing of the cryogenic heat exchanger 30, particularly the dimensions of its distribution head 32, the cross-section of the feed inlets 301 and the flow rate and insertion speed of the catalyst 200 introduced by the feed inlets 301.

[0086] However, the actual distribution of catalyst 200 in the cavities 31A accessible from the distribution plane P cannot be known.

[0087] Furthermore, it is difficult to obtain a homogeneous and extensive distribution of the catalyst 200 in the distribution plane P. Indeed, the catalyst 200 entering the heat exchanger 30 from its feed inlet 301 flows by gravity into a zone Z0 of the distribution plane P accessible from this feed inlet 301, so that only this zone Z0 of the distribution plane P opposite this feed inlet 301 is covered with catalyst 200. At best, this zone Z0 of the distribution plane P covered with catalyst 200 can be extended by, for example, increasing the feed rate of the catalyst 200 supplied from the feed inlet 301.

[0088] However, such a distribution of the catalyst 200 in the distribution plane P is not sufficiently homogeneous, nor even extensive, so that the best performance of the heat exchanger is not achieved.

[0089] The invention falls within this context and proposes a distribution system 1000 of catalyst 200 in a cryogenic heat exchanger 30 having a supply inlet 301 of catalyst 200 opening onto the distribution plane P, the distribution system 1000 comprising a connection and control device 10', a dispersion device 10'' of the catalyst 200, and a vibration device 100 of the cryogenic heat exchanger 30.

[0090] The invention proposes such a connection and control device 10' to a supply inlet 301 of a distribution head 32 of a cryogenic heat exchanger 30 allowing a measuring means 40 to access the internal volume of the distribution head 32 in order to control the level of catalyst 200 in the distribution plane P.

[0091] The invention proposes such a dispersion device 10'' of the catalyst 200. This dispersion device 10'' is advantageously provided for the same supply inlet 301 of the cryogenic heat exchanger 30 allowing a dispersion means 15 to access the internal volume of the distribution head 32 in order to distribute the catalyst 200 homogeneously and extensively in the distribution plane P.

[0092] The invention proposes such a vibration device 100. This vibration device 100 is advantageously designed to vibrate the main body 301 of a heat exchanger 30.

[0093] According to one embodiment of the invention, the connection and control device 10' and the dispersion device 10'' share the same tubular body 13 so that they form the same connection, control and dispersion device 10'', hereinafter referred to as the catalyst device 10', 10''.

[0094] At the, we have represented two such devices for catalyst 10', 10''. Each device for catalyst 10', 10'' is intended to be connected to a supply input 301 of the cryogenic heat exchanger 30.

[0095] The use of a 10', 10'' catalyst device for each 301 supply inlet advantageously increases the number of access points inside the distribution head 32.

[0096] A catalyst distribution device 20 is provided to distribute the catalyst 200 it contains into the distribution head 32 via catalyst devices 10', 10'' mounted on the supply inlets 301.

[0097] The catalyst distribution device 20 200 may include a control valve 21 to control the catalyst distribution.

[0098] Provision will be made for any means of support capable of suspending this distribution device 20 above the distribution head 32 in order to allow the flow by gravity of the catalyst 200 which it contains.

[0099] An upstream end 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' is configured to be connected to the catalyst distribution device 20 200.

[0100] A so-called downstream end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' is configured to be connected to the supply inlet 301 of the distribution head 32 to which it is associated.

[0101] As shown, a catalyst device 10', 10'' is intended, among other things, for connecting the catalyst distribution device 20 200 to the catalyst supply inlet 301 200 to which it is connected.

[0102] Laillustre une configuration du dispositif pour catalyst 10', 10'' où, une position du moyen de mesure 40 dans la tête de distribution 32 à regard à région de la plane de distribution P.

[0103] With reference to the configuration of the catalyst device 10', 10'' where, the catalyst device 10', 10'' includes the tubular body 13 having a closable end 103.

[0104] We will now describe the device for catalyst 10', 10'' in its intended configuration as a 10' connection and control device.

[0105] As illustrated, the catalyst device 10', 10'' extends between the upstream end 101 configured to be connected to the distribution device 20 and the downstream end 102 configured to be connected to the supply inlet 301.

[0106] The upstream end 101 and the downstream end 102 are connected to each other by a flow passage 120 of catalyst 200 which has a peripheral wall 121.

[0107] The catalyst 200 flowing, via a preferentially flexible conduit 22, from the catalyst distribution device 20 enters through the upstream end 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' through the flow passage 120 to reach the downstream end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' and enter the feed inlet 301 to open into the volume of the distribution head 32.

[0108] The peripheral wall 121 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' advantageously includes a control orifice 122 opening into the flow passage 120.

[0109] The control orifice 122 is advantageously sized to allow the introduction of the measuring means 40 into the flow passage 120.

[0110] The introduction of a measuring means 40 in the flow passage 120 advantageously allows access to the supply inlet 301 to control the decatalyst level 200 in the distribution plane P accessible by the distribution head 32.

[0111] According to one example, the measuring means 40 is a sensor, such as an ultrasonic and / or radiation sensor.

[0112] Such measurement means make it possible to emit and receive by reflection waves in a region of the heat exchanger 30 formed by at least a part of the distribution plane P. The reflection of the waves in the accessible part of the distribution plane P makes it possible to identify the distribution of the catalyst 200 in this part of the distribution plane P.

[0113] The distribution of catalyst 200 can thus be measured in this region.

[0114] It will be understood that the device for catalyst 10', 10'' and at least one means of measuring 40 of the level of catalyst filling 200 form a kit for measuring the distribution of catalyst 200 in a cryogenic heat exchanger 30.

[0115] Of course, each catalyst device 10', 10'' can be used for the insertion of the measuring means 40, or each catalyst device 10', 10'' can be used for the insertion of a dedicated measuring means 40.

[0116] We will now describe the device for catalyst 10', 10'' in its intended configuration as a 10'' dispersion device.

[0117] In the embodiment illustrated in figures 1 to 9, the ends 103, 102 extend along the same longitudinal axis A0 of the tubular body 13.

[0118] The closable end 103 of the tubular body 13 is configured to be closed by an openable closing means 14, that is to say that the closing means 14 is provided to close or open said closable end 103. Furthermore, the closable end 103 is configured to be equipped with a dispersion means 15 of the catalyst 200 (represented with reference to figure 8), the dispersion means 15 of which is rotationally fixed to the openable closing means 14.

[0119] The closable end 103 and the second end 102 are connected to each other by the flow passage 130 of catalyst 200 which includes the peripheral wall 131 of the tubular body 13.

[0120] With reference to the, the dispersion means 15 of the catalyst 200 comprises a dispersion plate 151 fixedly connected to a rotation guide 152.

[0121] The dispersion plate 151 is designed to disperse the catalyst 200 by centrifugal force in the heat exchanger 30, being driven in rotation by the rotation guide 152.

[0122] In the illustrated example, the rotation guide 152 is a rotation shaft.

[0123] The rotation guide 152 extends along a rotation axis A2.

[0124] The rotation guide 152 is rotationally coupled with the shuttering means 14 by means of a drive means 153 such as a bearing ring, so that only a rotational movement of the rotation guide 152 relative to the shuttering means 14 is permitted.

[0125] Furthermore, the rotation guide 152 has a length that allows the dispersion plate 151 to be positioned in the distribution head 32 in relation to said feed inlet 301, as shown in Figure 8. It will be understood that this configuration is achieved in the assembled state of the device for catalyst 10', 10'' on the feed inlet 301.

[0126] The configuration achieved, positioning the dispersion plate 151 opposite the feed inlet 301, allows for homogeneous dispersion of the catalyst 200 flowing from this feed inlet 301. The drive of the dispersion plate 151 by the rotation guide 152 allows the generation of a centrifugal force propelling the catalyst 200 into a large part of the distribution plane P.

[0127] With reference to the, an enlargement of the dispersion plate 151 has been shown. As shown, it includes a hollow head 151A which is conical in shape.

[0128] Such a conical shape has the advantage of forming a container for at least part of the catalyst 200 flowing from said feed inlet 301. Thus, the catalyst 200 flowing by gravity from the feed inlet 301 can be collected before being dispersed by the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the dispersion plate 151.

[0129] As can be seen on this same page, the dispersion plate 151 includes fins 151B designed to promote the dispersion of the catalyst 200 collected by the dispersion plate 151.

[0130] From a peripheral edge 151C of the dispersion plate 151, each fin 151B has an increasing height towards the center of the dispersion plate 151, i.e. the center of the hollow head 151A.

[0131] According to the illustrated example, from a peripheral edge 151C of the dispersion plate 151, each fin 151B has a successively increasing and then decreasing height towards the center of the dispersion plate 151, i.e. the center of the hollow head 151A.

[0132] Advantageously, the height of the fins 151B at the level of the peripheral edge 151C of the dispersion plate 151 coincides with said peripheral edge 151C, or alternatively it is located below the peripheral edge 151C.

[0133] As shown, the fins 151B extend from a face 151A' of the hollow head 151A located opposite the rotation guide 152. Thus, it is ensured that the catalyst 200 collected by the hollow head 151A is struck by the fins 151B when the distribution head 32 is rotated.

[0134] According to a configuration not shown, the tubular body 13 may have a diameter between 0.5 and 1 times the diameter of said supply inlet 301.

[0135] Of course, the use of each device for catalyst 10', 10'' allows to increase the dispersion of the catalyst in the distribution plane P.

[0136] The catalyst device 10', 10'' shown advantageously includes a section adapter 11 configured to adapt a tubular portion 3011 of the feed inlet 301 to a portion of the peripheral wall 131 of the second end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10''.

[0137] We will now describe an adapter of section 11 of the device for catalyst 10', 10''.

[0138] The catalyst device 10', 10'' shown advantageously includes a section adapter 11 configured to adapt a tubular portion 3011 of the feed inlet 301 to a portion of the peripheral wall 121 of the downstream end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10''.

[0139] The section 11 adapter can be either press-fitted into the tubular portion 3011 of the power inlet 301 or welded to it. Preferably, the section 11 adapter is removable from the tubular portion 3011 of the power inlet 301.

[0140] As will be described in more detail later, there is also a mounting system 80 to ensure mounting and alignment of the catalyst device 10', 10'' relative to the fuel inlet 301.

[0141] Figures 7A and 7B represent assembly steps in which the section adapter 11 is first mounted on the tubular portion 3011 of the supply inlet 301 of the distribution head 32.

[0142] The 11 section adapter may advantageously be made of mixed material so that it can conform to a mixed joint weld between two materials allowing both a connection to the 10', 10'' catalyst device and a connection to the 301 supply inlet.

[0143] The section adapter 11 advantageously includes a first portion 110 configured to be connected to the power inlet 301 and a second portion 111 configured to be connected to the catalyst device 10', 10''.

[0144] Advantageously, the first portion 110 is made of a first material and the second portion 111 is made of a second material. For example, the first material may be aluminum alloy, like the material constituting the feed inlet 301 and the distribution head 32, and the second material may be stainless steel.

[0145] A first positioning means 50 of the device for catalyst 10', 10'' is provided to clamp in a fixed manner the tubular portion 3011 of the feed inlet 301.

[0146] The section adapter 11, particularly its second portion 111, advantageously forms a second positioning means 60 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' configured to fixably clamp at least the downstream end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10''.

[0147] A clamping collar 112 may be provided at the second portion 111 of the section adapter 11 in order to ensure the clamping of the downstream end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' when it is connected to the second portion 111.

[0148] As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the second portion 111 of the adapter with section 11 may advantageously include a first annular projection 111A corresponding to a second annular projection 102A provided at the downstream end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10''. An annular groove 111C, 102C may be provided between the annular projections 111A, 102A to receive a sealing gasket 113 in this groove 111C, 102C in order to ensure sealing between the annular projections 111A, 102A.

[0149] The clamping collar 112 advantageously includes an annular recess 112A designed to receive the annular projections 111A, 102A. A screw pin 112B of the collar 112 ensures that the collar 112 is tightened around the second portion 111 of the section adapter 11.

[0150] The clamping of the downstream end 102 of the device for catalyst 10', 10'' can advantageously be carried out by the second positioning means 60 which can be provided for this purpose.

[0151] The first positioning means 50 and the second positioning means 60 are intended to form the fixing system 80 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' allowing to ensure the alignment of the catalyst device 10', 10'' with respect to the inlet 301 of the heat exchanger 30.

[0152] The first positioning means 50 comprises a first clamping portion 51 and a second clamping portion 52 complementary to each other, the first clamping portion 51 and the second clamping portion 52 being configured to be of complementary shape to the tubular portion 3011 of the feed inlet 301.

[0153] The first clamping portion 51 and the second clamping portion 52 are designed to be fastened together using additional fastening means 53, here formed by bolt-nut pairs 53A arranged through first blind holes 53B formed in the clamping portions 51 and 52. The first clamping portion 51 and the second clamping portion 52 can be disassembled so that they can be reused.

[0154] In addition, the first positioning means 50 and the second positioning means 60 are intended to be fixed together.

[0155] For this purpose, as shown in more detail, in addition to the first positioning means 50 and the second positioning means 60, the fastening system 80 includes longitudinal attachment means 70 suitable for connecting together the second positioning means 60 and the first positioning means 50, so as to maintain in an aligned position the peripheral wall 121 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' relative to the tubular portion 3011 of the catalyst supply inlet 301 200 of the heat exchanger 30. It will be understood that this configuration is achieved when the catalyst device 10', 10'' is fixed to the section adapter 11, as shown in the.

[0156] As shown in the figure, the attachment of the second positioning means 60 to the first positioning means 50 is achieved using the longitudinal fastening means 70. These longitudinal fastening means 70 are here formed by longitudinal rods 70A provided to pass through second through holes 70C formed in the positioning means 50, 60 and complementary clamping bolts 70B.

[0157] Thus, each rod 70A exerts a fastening force oriented along an attachment axis A3 perpendicular to a main axis A1 of said tubular portion 3011.

[0158] As represented, the second positioning means 60 includes an annular projection 61 in which the through holes 70C are formed.

[0159] These longitudinal fastening means 70 are advantageously independent of each other. The independent tightening of each makes it possible to obtain a precise alignment of the section adapter 11, that is to say of the downstream end 102 of the device for catalyst 10', 10'' which will be received there, to the supply inlet 301 of the distribution head 32.

[0160] Once the section adapter 11 is assembled, it is possible to connect the downstream end 102 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' to the section adapter 11 forming the second positioning means 60, so that the downstream end 102 of the positioning device is held fixed to the second positioning means 60.

[0161] The elements of the catalyst device 10', 10'' connected to each other or to the heat exchanger 30 by an assembly advantageously include sealing gaskets to make these elements sealed between each other.

[0162] As shown in figures 6 and 9, the control port 122 is provided with a tubular extension 122A projecting from the peripheral wall 121 of the flow passage 120 and intended to facilitate access of the measuring means 40 of the distribution to the flow passage 120.

[0163] The tubular extension 122A advantageously extends along an inclined longitudinal axis A1 with an angle of inclination less than 90°, preferably less than 60°, relative to a longitudinal axis A of the flow passage 120. This inclination makes it easier to insert the measuring means 40 of the distribution into the flow passage 120.

[0164] The upstream end 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' can also be provided with a tubular extension 101B which also advantageously extends along a longitudinal axis A2 inclined at an angle of inclination less than 90°, preferably less than 60°, relative to the longitudinal axis A of the flow passage 120. This inclination helps to promote the flow of the catalyst 200 intended to pass through the flow passage 120.

[0165] It may be provided that the tubular extension 122A of the control port 122 includes a sealing means 123 (shown in the figure) ensuring a seal between the measuring means 40 and the control port 122, more particularly the tubular extension 122A. This sealing means 123 may advantageously also form a locking means capable of retaining the measuring means 40 in the control port 122 in a locked position.

[0166] According to an example of an embodiment shown in the figure, this sealing and blocking means 123 can be, for example, a stuffing box.

[0167] As shown, the sealing and blocking means 123 may include:

[0168] As shown in the figure, the sealing and locking means 123 comprises a main body 123A and a secondary body 123B. The secondary body 123B is mounted within the main body 123A to provide a seal against it. The sealing and locking means 123 advantageously comprises an outer surface 123A3 designed to be press-fitted or screwed into the inspection port 122, so as to provide a seal between this outer surface 123A3 and a contact surface of the inspection port 122.Once the seal is ensured at the control orifice 122, it is possible to insert the measuring means 40 from a first opening 123A1 of the sealing and locking means 123, to fit it by force through the circular thread 123B1, so as to seal the connection between the measuring means 40 and the sealing and locking means 123, and to allow the insertion of the measuring means 40 through a second opening 123A2 of the sealing and locking means 123.

[0169] We will now describe the vibration device 100.

[0170] As shown in Figures 12 to 16, the vibration device 100 is intended to be fixed to the main body 301 of a cryogenic heat exchanger 30, the vibration device 100 comprising a means 102 for generating vibration waves and a vibration belt 101 configured to partially surround the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30,

[0171] The vibration belt 101 is advantageously designed to support the means of generating vibrational waves 102.

[0172] The vibration wave generation means 102 is configured to transmit vibration waves to said main body 301 via said vibration belt 101.

[0173] Each first support 101A and second support 101B is formed by a plate having a longitudinal wall 103 having a flat surface 103' intended to be applied against the main body 301.

[0174] Each longitudinal wall 103 is configured to extend along a width of a wall 310, 320 of the main body 301 against which it is applied.

[0175] In contrast to the flat surface 103', each longitudinal wall 103 has stiffening reinforcements 103A designed to strengthen its structure.

[0176] The first support 101A is configured to be applied against a first wall 310 of the main body 301, and the second support 101B is configured to be applied against a second wall 320 of the main body 301.

[0177] Optionally, a surface compensation means 104 may be provided, configured to be disposed between at least one support and the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30. The surface compensation means 104 may also be provided to be fixed to the flat surface 103' of the support, by gluing for example, so that the fixing of the support 101A, 101B pre-equipped with such a compensation means 104 is improved.

[0178] The surface compensation means 104 is intended to compensate for the gaps that may exist between the flat surface 103' of the longitudinal wall 103 of the support and the wall 310, 320 of the heat exchanger 30 against which this support 101A, 101B is applied.

[0179] The use of a surface compensation means 104 makes it possible to improve the transmission of vibration waves by increasing the contact area of ​​the flat surface 103' of the longitudinal wall 103 of the support with the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30.

[0180] It can be foreseen that the surface compensation means 104 is made of a deformable material such as a plywood plate.

[0181] Said first wall 310, 320 of the main body 301 and said second wall 310, 320 of the main body 301 are opposite each other.

[0182] Support elements 101C are configured to connect the first support 101A and the second support 101B.

[0183] Furthermore, these retaining elements 101C, here longitudinal rods, are intended to apply a clamping force between the first support 101A and the second support 101B, so as to press the supports 101A, 101B against the main body 301.

[0184] To ensure this clamping force, the ends of the longitudinal rods 101C can be threaded to each receive a clamping bolt.

[0185] The first support 101A and the second support 101B with the retaining elements 101C ensure a tight hold of the vibration belt 101 against the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30, so that the vibration waves of the generating means 102 can be transmitted largely to the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30.

[0186] The first support 101A, the second support 101B and the retaining elements 101C of the supports to each other form a rigid non-deformable structure, so that the transmission of vibration waves to one of the supports 101A, 101B is transmitted to the other support 101A, 101B.

[0187] The first support 101A, the second support 101B and the retaining elements 101C of the supports 101A, 101B are advantageously adapted to the dimensions of the heat exchanger 30, so as to also retain the retaining elements 101C against the main body 301. This ensures the formation of a vibration belt 101 that is stationary relative to the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30.

[0188] The longitudinal wall 103 of each support 101A, 101B may include fastening means 103'' for attaching a generation means 102. In the illustrated example, the fastening means 103'' are formed by threaded holes in the longitudinal wall 103 of the associated support 101A, 101B, into which retaining bolts (not shown) for the generation means 102 can be received. These fastening means 103'' ensure that the vibration wave generation means 102 is held securely against the dedicated support 101A, 101B.

[0189] A 600 frequency control unit for the vibration of the 101 vibration belt can be provided.

[0190] The control unit 600 is preferentially configured to cause the main body 301 of the cryogenic heat exchanger 30 to vibrate at a frequency equal to its resonant frequency.

[0191] The 600 control unit is connected to the 102 means of generating vibration waves, so as to be able to control its vibration frequency.

[0192] At least one vibration wave frequency sensor 601 can be applied against the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 in order to measure its vibration frequency.

[0193] The control unit 600 can be configured to adapt the vibration frequency of the vibration wave generation means 102 according to the vibration frequency measured by the frequency sensor 601.

[0194] Once the vibration device 100 is mounted on the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30, the lifting device(s) can be removed.

[0195] Regardless of the attachment of the vibration device 100, the supply inlet(s) 301 is connected to a catalyst distribution device 200.

[0196] The method for vibrating the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 consists of vibrating said main body 301 to optimize the flow of the catalyst 200 along the main body 301 of the exchanger 30, from its upper part, which includes the distribution inlet(s) 301 through which the catalyst 200 enters, to its lower part. Vibrating the main body 301 promotes the diffusion of the catalyst 200 along it from the distribution plane P of the distribution head 32.

[0197] The vibration of the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 at its resonant frequency improves the propagation of the diffusion of the catalyst 200 in the main body 301 of the exchanger 31.

[0198] The distribution of catalyst 200 via the supply inlet(s) 301 can advantageously be carried out once the vibration of the main body 301 of the heat exchanger has been activated. Of course, it is also possible to supply the heat exchanger 31 with catalyst 200 before or simultaneously with its vibration.

[0199] The position of the vibration device 100 relative to the main body 301 can advantageously be adjusted along the latter, so that it is possible to set into vibration a desired part of said main body 301.

[0200] We will now describe the use of the 10', 10'' catalyst device in its intended configuration as a 10' connection and control device.

[0201] The flexible conduit 22 intended to connect the catalyst distribution device 20 to the upstream end 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' is preferably connected to the upstream end 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10''. The flexible conduit 22 is held at the upstream end 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' by a clamp 112' provided at the second portion 111 of the adapter section 11.

[0202] The measuring means 40 advantageously comprises a wire element 41 at the end of which is located a measuring head 42. The measuring head 42 may be a camera or an endoscope, for example. The measuring head 42 is designed to emit and receive waves by reflection in a region of the heat exchanger 30 formed by at least a portion of the distribution plane P in which the measuring head 42 is located.

[0203] In a preferred but not limiting operational configuration, the measuring means 40 is inserted, through the measuring head 42, into the control port 122 via the sealing and blocking means 123.

[0204] The sealing and locking means 123 can be adjusted to release or block the movement of the wire element 41 relative to the sealing and locking means 123. Thus, it is possible to adjust the position of the measuring head 42 in the distribution head 32 of the heat exchanger 30 to a desired measuring position.

[0205] It will be understood that the desired measurement position can be determined based on the waves received from the measuring head 42, via the wire element 41. These received waves can be advantageously used to provide a representation of the region of the exchanger observed by the measuring head 42, this region corresponding to a part of the distribution plane P.

[0206] Once the flexible conduit 22 and the measuring means 40 are fixed to the catalyst device 10', 10'', the distribution head 32 can be supplied with catalyst 200 by triggering, for example, the distribution of catalyst 200 from the distribution device 20 by unlocking its control valve 21. The catalyst 200 can then flow into the distribution head 32, via the flexible conduit 22, from the catalyst 200 distribution device 20 by entering the upstream end 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' and passing through the flow passage 120 to reach the supply inlet 301 to which the catalyst device 10', 10'' is connected.

[0207] At the same time as the filling of the distribution head 32 with catalyst 200 is carried out, or alternatively after this has been completed, the measuring means 40 allows the state of filling and the distribution of the catalyst 200 of the observed region to be measured.

[0208] The position of the measuring head 42 in the distribution head 32 can be adjusted during the catalyst filling operation 200 by adjusting the sealing and blocking means 123, or alternatively, the control valve 21 of the distribution device 20 can be closed to allow a further adjustment of the position of the measuring head 42 in the distribution head 32.

[0209] Thus, it is possible to lock the measuring means 40 in the heat exchanger 30 in a predetermined position in order to be able to carry out the measurements necessary to control the distribution of the catalyst 200 inside the heat exchanger 30.

[0210] When the two supply inlets 301 of the distribution head 32 are equipped with a catalyst device 10', 10'' as described, it is possible to control the catalyst distribution of all or part of the distribution plane P.

[0211] Controlling the distribution of catalyst 200 inside the heat exchanger 30 advantageously allows control of the level of catalyst 200 at the level of the distribution plane P.

[0212] Measuring the distribution of catalyst 200 in the distribution plane P allows, for example, the identification of an undesired accumulation of catalyst 200 in a region of the distribution plane P, or alternatively to confirm a good distribution of the catalyst in this distribution plane P.

[0213] We will now describe the use of the 10', 10'' catalyst device in its intended configuration as a 10'' dispersion device.

[0214] In this configuration, the dispersion means 15 can be mounted from the closable end 103 of the tubular body 13. For this, the dispersion means 15 is inserted by its hollow head 151A from the closable end 103 and passes through the tubular body 13. The rotation guide 152 carried by the closing means 14 is then at least partially between the closable end 103 and the second end 102 of the tubular body 13.

[0215] In a preferred configuration, the dispersion plate 151 is located in the distribution head 32 opposite the tubular portion 3011, i.e. the supply inlet 301.

[0216] The fixing of the sealing means 14 to the sealable end 103 of the dispersion device 15 is achieved using a clamping collar 103'.

[0217] The attachment of the sealing means 14 to the sealable end 103 of the dispersion device 15 is preferably sealed, so as to prevent leakage of catalyst 200.

[0218] The fixing of the sealing means 14 also makes the rotation axis A2 of the rotation guide 152 coaxial with the longitudinal axis A0 of the tubular body 13, and therefore with the main axis A1 of said tubular portion 3011.

[0219] Thus, the rotation axis A2 of the rotation guide 152, the longitudinal axis A0 of the tubular body 13 and the main axis A1 of said tubular portion 3011 are found to be coaxial with each other, that is to say that their axis coincides.

[0220] As shown in the assembled state, a portion 152D of the rotation guide 152 is accessible from outside the catalyst device 10', 10''. This portion 152D is advantageously designed to be attached to a drive motor configured to transmit a rotational speed to the rotation guide 152.

[0221] Once the flexible conduit 22 and the dispersion means 15 are fixed to the catalyst device 10', 10'', the distribution head 32 can be supplied with catalyst 200 by triggering, for example, the distribution of catalyst 200 from the distribution device 20 by unlocking its control valve 21. The catalyst 200 can then flow into the distribution head 32, via the flexible conduit 22, from the catalyst 20 distribution device 20 by entering the side inlet 101 of the catalyst device 10', 10'' and passing through the flow passage 130 to reach the supply inlet 301 to which the catalyst device 10', 10'' is connected.

[0222] Prior to or simultaneously with the supply of catalyst 200, the rotation of the rotation guide 152 is triggered, causing the dispersion plate 151 to rotate.

[0223] The catalyst 200 flowing from the feed inlet 301 first spills onto the dispersion plate 151, and is collected by the container formed by the hollow head 151A, before being projected by the latter by means of a centrifugal force generated by the rotation of said plate 151. The dispersion of the catalyst 200 in the distribution head 32 of the heat exchanger 30 then advantageously makes it possible to extend the dispersion of the catalyst 200 in an extended area Z1 of the distribution plane P compared to an area of ​​the distribution plane P corresponding approximately to the diameter of the feed inlet 301.

[0224] The use of fins 151A advantageously increases the dispersion of the catalyst 200 in the distribution plane P by adding a vertical component to the trajectory of the catalyst 200.

[0225] When the two supply inlets 301 of the distribution head 32 are equipped with a catalyst device 10', 10'' as described, it is possible to significantly increase the catalyst distribution of all or part of the distribution plane P.

[0226] We will now describe the assembly and use of the vibration device 100 within the framework of the invention.

[0227] First, the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 is oriented so as to place its supply inlet(s) 301 in a high position to allow the catalyst 200 to flow by gravity from the supply inlet(s) 301 and enter the distribution head 32.

[0228] In this position, the first support 101A and the second support 101B are brought into position opposite each other, each against a wall 310, 320 of the main body 301 of the heat exchanger. The walls 310, 320 of the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 against which the supports 101A, 101B are placed are opposite each other. One or more lifting devices may be used for this purpose.

[0229] Once the two supports 101A, 101B have been positioned against the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30, they can be fixed to each other using the retaining elements 101C.

[0230] Each support 101A, 101B is then supported by its flat surface 103' against the wall 310, 320 of the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 against which it is applied. Of course, a surface compensation means 104 can be provided.

[0231] As indicated, the clamping force of the supports 101A, 101B against the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 can be adjusted using bolt tightening at the threaded ends of the longitudinal rods 101C.

[0232] The clamping force is sufficient to immobilize the supports 101A, 101B against the main body 301 of the heat exchanger 30 and to limit its movement relative to the main body 301 during a subsequent vibration step.

[0233] The means for generating vibrational waves 102 can be pre-mounted to the first support 101A intended to receive it, or alternatively it can be fixed to its support 101A, 101B once the supports 101A, 101B are held against the main body 301.

[0234] Although this description refers to specific embodiments, modifications may be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Furthermore, individual features of the various embodiments illustrated or mentioned may be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

Catalyst (200) distribution system (1000) in a cryogenic heat exchanger (30) having a catalyst (200) feed inlet (301) opening onto a distribution plane (P), the distribution system (1000) comprising: - a connection and control device (10') allowing the connection of a catalyst (20) distribution device (20) to the catalyst (200) feed inlet (301) of the cryogenic heat exchanger (30), and the control of the distribution of catalyst (200) in the distribution plane (P), - a catalyst (200) dispersion device (10'') intended for the catalyst (200) feed inlet (301) of a cryogenic heat exchanger (30), - a vibration device (100) of the cryogenic heat exchanger (30). Distribution system (1000) according to the preceding claim, in which the connection and control device (10') and the dispersion device (10'') share the same tubular body (13) having an upstream end (101) and a downstream end (102). Distribution system (1000) according to claim 2, wherein the upstream end (101) is configured to be connected to the catalyst distribution device (20) (200) and the downstream end (102) is configured to be connected to said feed inlet (301), the upstream end (101) and the downstream end (102) being connected to each other by a catalyst (200) flow passage (120) delimited by a peripheral wall (121), the peripheral wall comprising a control orifice (122) opening into the flow passage (120), the control orifice (122) being configured to allow the introduction into the flow passage (120) of a measuring means (20) intended to control the level of catalyst (200) in the heat exchanger (30). Distribution system (1000) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the tubular body (13) comprises a closable end (103), and the dispersion device (10'') comprises: - an openable closing means (14) for the closable end (103) of the tubular body (13), - a dispersion means (15) for the catalyst (200), comprising: - a dispersion plate (151) configured to disperse the catalyst (200) by centrifugal force in the heat exchanger (30), and - a rotation guide (152) extending along an axis of rotation and mounted for rotation relative to the closing means (14), the rotation guide (152) being integral with the dispersion plate (151) and configured to transmit a rotational force to the dispersion plate (151), the rotation guide (152) being configured to position the dispersion plate (151) in the heat exchanger with respect to said power input (301). Distribution system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration device (100) comprises: - a means for generating vibration waves (102), - a vibration belt (101) configured to surround at least part of a main body (301) of the heat exchanger (30), the vibration belt (101) supporting the means for generating vibration waves (102), the means for generating vibration waves (102) being configured to transmit vibration waves to said main body (301) via said vibration belt (101). Method of distributing catalyst (200) in a cryogenic heat exchanger (30) having a catalyst (200) feed inlet (301) using a distribution system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps: a) introducing the catalyst (200) through the feed inlet (301) of the cryogenic heat exchanger (30) from the distribution device (20) via the connection and control device (10'), b) dispersing the catalyst (200) in the heat exchanger (30) using the dispersion device (10''), c) vibrating the cryogenic heat exchanger (30) using the vibration device (100). A method according to the preceding claim, wherein step c) is carried out prior to or simultaneously with step b). A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following step: d) inspection of the distribution of the catalyst (200) in the distribution plane (P) using a measuring means (20). A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following steps carried out in order: e) stopping the vibration of the main body (301), f) moving the vibration device (100) along a longitudinal axis (A) of the main body (301), g) carrying out steps a) to c). A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein prior to step a), the method includes a step of attaching the connection device (10') and the dispersion device (10'') to the supply inlet (301) of the heat exchanger (30).

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