System and process for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor unit

Abstract

The invention is directed to a system for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor unit whereby the reactor unit comprises the reactor itself, an installation and at least one temperature senor, and that the system features at least one measuring device which measures the build-up of deposits on a reactor wall and / or installa- tions in the reactor unit, as well as a control unit, preferably to control cleaning time intervals based on date given by the at least one measuring device and the at least one temperature sensor. The invention is further directed to a process using such a system.

Description

[0001] System and process for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor unit

[0002] The invention is directed to a system for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor unit whereby the reactor unit comprises the reactor itself, an installation and at least one temperature senor, and that the system features at least one measuring device which measures the build-up of deposits on a reactor wall and / or installations in the reactor unit, as well as a control unit, preferably to control cleaning time intervals based on date given by the at least one measuring device and the at least one temperature sensor. The invention is further directed to a process using such a system.

[0003] Roasting is a metallurgical process involving the heating of ore in the presence of oxygen to bring about thermal decomposition and oxidation reactions. This process is crucial in the extraction of metals from their ores, and it serves several important purposes:

[0004] One of the primary applications of roasting is the conversion of metal sulfides into metal oxides. For example, zinc sulfide (ZnS) can be oxidized to zinc oxide (ZnO) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), which can be further processed into sulfuric acid. Similarly, roasting copper sulfides results in the production of copper oxides, facilitating the extraction of pure copper. Also, pyrite roasting is a typical application. By converting metal sulfides to oxides, roasting makes the material also more amenable to subsequent reduction processes. Oxides are generally more reactive and easier to reduce than sulfides. Further, roasting helps in the removal of volatile impurities such as arsenic, antimony, and sulfur from the ore. This is especially important in the processing of ores that contain these harmful elements. Finally, roasting can also be used to eliminate organic materials and carbonates present in the ore, ensuring that the final metal extraction process is not hindered by these impurities.

[0005] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO Roasting can take place in different types of reactors. Reverberatory furnaces are used for the roasting of sulfide ores and involve a long horizontal furnace where the ore is heated indirectly by flames. Multiple hearth roasters consist of several hearths arranged in a vertical stack, this equipment allows the ore to move from one hearth to the next, undergoing roasting at different stages. Rotary kilns are long cylindrical furnaces that rotate to provide uniform heating. They are suitable for continuous processing and are used for ores that require longer roasting times. Finally, fluidized bed reactors provide a number of advantages in roasting processes.

[0006] Basically, fluidized bed systems are widely used in industrial processes for the treatment and transformation of particulate materials. The fundamental principle of a fluidized bed system is the suspension of solid particles in an upward flow of fluid, typically gas or liquid, creating a fluid-like state. This fluidization enhances the mixing and contact between the particles and the fluid, leading to improved heat and mass transfer rates compared to fixed or moving bed systems.

[0007] One of the key advantages of fluidized bed systems is their superior heat transfer capabilities. The constant motion of particles ensures uniform temperature distribution throughout the bed, which is particularly beneficial for processes that require precise thermal control, such as combustion or roasting.

[0008] Roasting in fluidized bed systems is a highly efficient method used extensively in the metallurgical and chemical industries for processing ores and other particulate materials. This technique leverages the unique advantages of fluidized bed technology, such as superior heat and mass transfer rates, uniform temperature distribution, and enhanced reaction kinetics, to achieve optimal roasting conditions.

[0009] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO In a fluidized bed roasting system, fine ore particles are suspended in an upward flow of fluidizing gas, typically air, which creates a turbulent, fluid-like state. This fluidization ensures that the particles are evenly distributed and in constant motion, allowing for thorough mixing and consistent contact with the gas. The result is a highly efficient heat transfer process that maintains a uniform temperature throughout the bed, which is critical for achieving consistent roasting.

[0010] The fluidized bed reactor used in roasting processes generally consists of several key components: a fluidizing gas distributor (often a perforated plate or nozzle grid), a reactor chamber, and a system for introducing and removing the solid particles. The ore particles are fed into the reactor chamber, where they are fluidized by the injected gas. The continuous movement of particles in the bed promotes even heating and prevents the formation of hot spots, which can lead to uneven roasting and product quality issues.

[0011] One of the primary advantages of fluidized bed roasting is its ability to operate at relatively low temperatures compared to traditional roasting methods, such as rotary kilns or fixed-bed reactors. The enhanced heat transfer rates in a fluidized bed allow for efficient roasting at temperatures typically ranging from 500°C to 900°C, depending on the specific ore and desired reaction. This lower temperature operation minimizes the thermal stress on the equipment, leading to longer operational life and reduced maintenance costs.

[0012] Fluidized bed roasting also offers improved reaction kinetics due to the increased surface area contact between the gas and solid phases. The constant movement of particles ensures that fresh surfaces are continuously exposed to the gas, enhancing the oxidation and reduction reactions essential for roasting. This results in faster processing times and higher throughput compared to conventional methods.

[0013] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO Another significant benefit of fluidized bed roasting is its ability to handle a wide variety of ore types and compositions. Whether dealing with sulfide ores like zinc, copper, and iron, or complex polymetallic ores, fluidized bed systems can be adapted to suit the specific characteristics of the feed material. This versatility makes fluidized bed roasting a valuable tool in the metallurgical industry, where different ores often require tailored processing techniques.

[0014] In addition to its processing advantages, fluidized bed roasting is also more environmentally friendly. The efficient mixing and uniform temperature control help to minimize the formation of undesirable by-products. Modem fluidized bed systems are often equipped with advanced emission control technologies that capture and treat these pollutants, reducing the environmental impact of the roasting process.

[0015] Overall, roasting in fluidized bed systems represents a significant advancement in ore processing technology. Its superior heat transfer and reaction rates, combined with operational flexibility and environmental benefits, make it an ideal choice for modem metallurgical operations. As industries continue to seek more efficient and sustainable processing methods, the adoption of fluidized bed roasting is likely to grow, driving further innovations and improvements in this critical area.

[0016] Coming back to any roasting process independent of the used reactor type, caking as well as the formation of agglomerates are one of the biggest problems to dealt with. : During the roasting process, ores can form cakes or agglomerates that hinder efficient heat transfer and gas flow, which is why it is a significant issue that can adversely affect the efficiency and performance of the process. These agglomerates are masses of ore particles that stick together, forming larger lumps that disrupt the fluidization of the bed. Caking is even worse as it sticks to the wall of the reactor or any installations. This can lead to several operational problems and challenges.

[0017] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO In detail, agglomerates and broken offs caking can cause blockages in the system, including in feed lines, discharge outlets, and gas distribution grids. These blockages can lead to pressure build-ups and operational instability, potentially causing unplanned shutdowns and increased maintenance requirements.

[0018] Further, caking particularly hinders process control in the fluidized bed since the primary function of a fluidized bed system is to ensure that fine particles are suspended and uniformly mixed in the gas flow. Caking disrupts this balance, leading to poor fluidization. Large agglomerates or demolition of previously deposited material are heavier and tend to settle at the bottom of the bed, causing dead zones where fluidization is ineffective. Moreover, caking changes the reactor geometry which affects the flow mechanics and thus changes the fluidized bed.

[0019] Moreover, one of the key advantages of fluidized bed roasting is its excellent heat transfer capabilities. However, caking reduces the surface area available for heat exchange between the gas and the solid particles and affect the heat transfer between the particles and installations, especially the boiler. This results in uneven temperature distribution, hot spots, and inefficient roasting of the ore.

[0020] Summing up, particularly in a fluidized bed a number of disadvantages arise when caking is formed: To compensate for the inefficiencies caused by caking, operators may need to increase the gas flow rate or the operating temperature. This is undermining one of the main benefits of fluidized bed roasting, which is its energy recovery. Inconsistent roasting due to caking lead to variations in the quality of the final product. Some particles may be over-roasted while others remain underroasted, resulting in a heterogeneous product that may not meet the required specifications. Inefficient roasting can lead to the production of more by-products and pollutants. For example, incomplete oxidation of sulfide ores can result in

[0021] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO higher emissions of sulfur dioxide, which is harmful to the environment. The need for additional pollution control measures can further increase operational costs. These disadvantages are of particular importance if the roasting process takes place in a fluidized bed system.

[0022] Consequently, dealing with caking often requires frequent maintenance interventions to remove agglomerates and clean the system independent from the used reactor type. This leads to increased downtime and reduces overall productivity. Maintenance activities can also be labor-intensive and costly.

[0023] Therefore, it is crucial to balance the frequency of cleaning intervals. If cleaning intervals are too long, significant caking and its associated disadvantages, as described above, will occur. However, excessively frequent cleaning intervals lead to extended downtimes and consequently reduced productivity, which must also be avoided.

[0024] So, the task underlying the invention is to implement appropriate control measures for optimizing the cleaning intervals and as a consequence to maintain efficient and stable operation of a roaster.

[0025] This task is solved with a system with the features of claim 1 .

[0026] The present invention relates to a sophisticated system for monitoring agglomeration within a reactor unit. The reactor unit includes a reactor, a boiler, and at least one temperature sensor. This system is designed to enhance operational efficiency and longevity by accurately detecting and addressing the build-up of deposits within the reactor unit. The system is characterized by its use of at least one measuring device to monitor deposit accumulation on the walls of the reactor and other installations within the reactor unit. Additionally, a control unit is implemented to record the data provided by both the measuring device(s) and the

[0027] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO temperature sensor(s) and / or to further process the data provided by both the measuring device(s) and the temperature sensor(s) and / or to regulate a control variable of the process based on the data provided by both the measuring device^) and the temperature sensor(s), preferably to regulate cleaning intervals based on data provided by both the measuring device(s) and the temperature sensor(s).

[0028] The core of the invention lies in its ability to monitor and manage the agglomeration process within the reactor unit. The system employs a measuring device that specifically detects the build-up of deposits on the reactor's walls or any installations within the reactor unit. By doing so, it ensures that the reactor operates efficiently, preventing the adverse effects of excessive deposit accumulation. The control unit further enhances this capability by using the data from the measuring device(s) and temperature sensor(s) to determine optimal cleaning intervals, thus maintaining the reactor's performance and preventing potential downtimes.

[0029] The system features preferably a radar distance measurement device installed within the reactor. This radar device plays a crucial role in continuously monitoring the distance between the instrument installation and the opposite wall of the reactor. This precise measurement allows for the detection of even minor variations in the wall's surface, indicating the build-up of deposits. The advantage of using radar technology is its high accuracy and reliability in harsh industrial environments, ensuring consistent and dependable monitoring.

[0030] Another embodiment of the system includes vibration instruments to monitor the effects of hammering devices on the reactor walls and other installations. These vibration instruments are adept at detecting changes in the structural integrity of the reactor walls caused by deposit build-up. The data collected from these instruments help in assessing the effectiveness of hammering devices in removing

[0031] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO deposits, thereby optimizing the cleaning process and maintaining the reactor's efficiency.

[0032] To further enhance the system's reliability, at least two measuring devices are preferably included. This redundancy ensures that even if one device fails or provides inaccurate data, the other can compensate, thereby maintaining continuous and accurate monitoring of the reactor unit.

[0033] To enhance the reliability and accuracy of the monitoring process, the system integrates multiple measuring devices. The system's robustness is further enhanced by employing at least two different measurement methods. This multifaceted approach allows increasing the accuracy of deposit detection since by using different technologies. The used devices employ different measurement methods, such as radar and vibration analysis, providing a robust, cross-verified dataset. This multi-faceted approach significantly improves the detection and management of agglomerates, ensuring the reactor remains clean and functional.

[0034] In another referred embodiment, the system combines a radar distance measurement device with vibration instruments. The radar device monitors the distance to the opposite wall, while the vibration instruments assess the impact of hammering devices. This combination provides a dual-layer monitoring system, ensuring that any build-up of deposits is accurately detected and effectively managed.

[0035] The system is specifically designed for use in a roaster reactor, particularly wherein additional oxygen and / or energy is introduced. This adaptation ensures that the unique operational conditions and challenges of roaster furnaces are effectively addressed, enhancing the system's applicability and efficiency in such environments. Beside the aspect of cleaning intervals, the data could preferably use to optimize to optimize the process control during the startup of the reactor

[0036] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO unit (particularly the heating rate), to control the oxygen content added into the reactor and / or the fluidizing gas velocity.

[0037] The primary application of the system is within a fluidized bed reactor. As already explained above, fluidized bed reactors are prone to deposit build-up due to their operating conditions, and the system's design is tailored to address these specific challenges, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. There are several types of fluidized bed reactors, each with unique characteristics and applications.

[0038] A stationary fluidized bed, also known as a fixed fluidized bed, is the basic type of a fluidized bed reactor where the gas flow rate is carefully controlled to maintain the particles in a state of fluidization without causing significant particle entrainment. This creates a stable bed of particles that behaves similarly to a fluid, providing efficient mixing and heat transfer.

[0039] In a stationary fluidized bed, the gas is introduced through a distributor plate at the bottom of the reactor. As the gas flows upward, it passes through the bed of solid particles, lifting and suspending them in the gas stream. The gas velocity is kept within a range that ensures the particles are fluidized but not carried out of the reactor, maintaining a stationary fluidized state.

[0040] One of the key advantages of stationary fluidized beds is their ability to achieve uniform temperature distribution throughout the reactor. The constant mixing of particles ensures that heat is evenly distributed, which is essential for processes that require precise thermal control, such as chemical reactions, combustion, and roasting.

[0041] One common type is the bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) reactor, which operates by passing gas through a bed of solid particles at a velocity high enough to lift and suspend the particles, creating a bubbling effect similar to boiling water. This

[0042] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO system is characterized by good mixing and heat transfer, making it suitable for processes such as combustion of solid fuels, where uniform temperature and efficient reaction kinetics are crucial.

[0043] Another variant is the circulating fluidized bed (CFB) reactor. In CFB reactors, the gas velocity is significantly higher than in BFB reactors, causing the particles to be entrained in the gas stream and circulated throughout the reactor and external devices, such as cyclones, to separate the particles from the gas. This type of reactor is particularly advantageous for processes requiring longer particle residence times and continuous circulation, such as fluid catalytic cracking in petroleum refining.

[0044] Spouted bed reactors are designed with a conical or tapered bottom and operate by injecting gas at high velocity through a central nozzle, creating a spout of particles that move upward in the center and downward along the walls. For high- temperature applications, turbulent fluidized bed reactors provide a beneficial design. These reactors operate at gas velocities between those of bubbling and circulating fluidized beds, producing a highly turbulent environment that enhances mixing and heat transfer. Pressurized fluidized bed reactors (PFBR) are another specialized type, operating under elevated pressures to increase reaction rates and thermal efficiency.

[0045] Each type of fluidized bed reactor offers distinct advantages and is selected based on the specific requirements of the industrial process, such as temperature control, particle size distribution, reaction kinetics, and product uniformity. The choice of reactor impacts the efficiency, scalability, and environmental performance of the process, making it a critical consideration in industrial applications.

[0046] In configurations where the reactor features membrane walls, the system benefits from improved heat transfer and consistent temperature control. Temperature

[0047] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO sensors are strategically placed to monitor both the reactor wall temperatures and the internal conditions of the fluidized bed. This detailed temperature monitoring helps maintain optimal reaction conditions, preventing overheating or cold spots that could impair reactor performance.

[0048] The system includes at least two temperature sensors, strategically positioned to measure different aspects of the reactor's environment. One sensor measures the temperature of the oven wall, while the other measures the gas flow temperature. This dual-sensor approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the reactor's thermal conditions, aiding in precise e.g. control of the cleaning process or any other process varable.

[0049] A preferred embodiment of the system is specifically focusing on installations such as a boiler and a cooler. The innovative aspect of this system lies in its ability to continuously monitor and assess the state of these installations to ensure optimal operation and to prevent issues related to agglomeration and deposit buildup.

[0050] The primary installation referenced in this claim is preferably a boiler downstream of the reactor. The boiler plays a crucial role in the overall reactor unit by transferring heat.. To ensure the boiler operates efficiently and to prevent the detrimental effects of deposits and agglomeration, the system is equipped with vibration instruments. These vibration instruments are strategically placed to monitor the impact of hammering devices on the reactor wall. Hammering devices are commonly used to dislodge any accumulated deposits or caking that may form on the interior surfaces of the reactor wall. By monitoring the vibrations caused by these devices, the system can assess the effectiveness of the hammering process, ensuring that the deposits are adequately removed without causing damage to the reactor wall. This continuous monitoring allows for timely interventions, reducing the risk of severe caking and associated operational disruptions.

[0051] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO Additionally, the claim introduces a cooler, preferably a fluidized bed cooler. The cooler is another vital component of the reactor unit, responsible for managing the temperature of the processed material and ensuring it reaches a suitable temperature for further handling or processing. To optimize the performance of the cooler and prevent issues related to uneven cooling or material build-up, the system is equipped with a radar distance measurement device installed within the reactor cooler. This radar distance measurement device is designed to measure the distance from its installation point to the opposite wall of the reactor cooler. By continuously monitoring this distance, the system can detect any build-up of material or deposits that may hinder the cooling process. Variations in the measured distance indicate the presence of deposits, prompting maintenance actions to clear any obstructions and restore efficient cooling.

[0052] The integration of these advanced monitoring tools - vibration instruments in the boiler and a radar distance measurement device in the cooler (preferably designed as a fluidized bed cooler)- provides a comprehensive solution for maintaining the operational integrity of the reactor unit. By continuously assessing the state of these installations, the system ensures that any issues related to agglomeration, deposit build-up, or cooling inefficiencies are promptly addressed. This proactive approach minimizes downtime, enhances the overall efficiency of the reactor unit, and extends the lifespan of the critical components.

[0053] In summary, this embodiment provides a sophisticated system that leverages advanced monitoring technologies to maintain the efficiency and functionality of a reactor unit's boiler and cooler. The use of vibration instruments to monitor the effect of hammering devices on the reactor wall and the radar distance measurement device to track build-up in the cooler represents a significant advancement in ensuring the continuous and reliable operation of fluidized bed reactor systems.

[0054] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO The reactor also features cooling coils, which are monitored using temperature and pressure instruments. These instruments provide critical data on the cooling system's performance, ensuring that it operates within safe parameters and effectively removes excess heat from the reactor.

[0055] In another configuration, the system includes temperature sensors positioned to measure both the oven's internal temperature and the temperature of a heat transfer medium in the reactor's cooling device. This dual measurement ensures that both the reactor's internal conditions and the cooling system's performance are continuously monitored and optimized.

[0056] The invention also covers a process for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor. This process involves using at least one measuring device to detect deposit buildup on the reactor walls or installations, combined with temperature measurements inside the reactor. The control unit then determines the cleaning intervals based on the collected data, ensuring efficient and timely cleaning.

[0057] The process for monitoring deposit build-up can be implemented using radar distance measurement and / or vibration measurements caused by hammering. This dual approach ensures accurate detection of deposits and effective cleaning, maintaining the reactor's performance and extending its operational life.

[0058] This comprehensive system and process for monitoring and managing agglomeration in reactor units offer significant advantages in terms of efficiency, reliability, and operational longevity, ensuring that reactors operate at optimal conditions with minimal downtime.

[0059] In summary, the proposed system and process offer a sophisticated solution for monitoring and managing agglomerates in fluidized bed reactors and boilers. By integrating advanced measurement techniques and a robust control system, the

[0060] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO invention enhances operational efficiency, reduces maintenance requirements, and ensures the reliable performance of reactor units.

[0061] Further developments, advantages and possible applications of the invention can also be taken from the following description of the drawing. All features described and / or illustrated form the subject-matter of the invention per se or in any combination, independent of their inclusion in the claims or their back-reference.

[0062] Fig. 1 shows schematically a system for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor unit according to the invention.

[0063] In Figure 1 , the reactor unit 10 the roasting reactor is depicted as a standard fluidized bed reactor 11 . However, other types of known roasting reactors are also possible for this process. In a typical fluidized bed reactor setup, the material to be processed, in particulate form, is fed through conduit 12. Fluidizing gas is introduced via conduit 13 and passes through a reactor nozzle grate 14. This gas flow lifts the particles, creating a fluidized bed 15 above the nozzle grate 14. To control the reactor temperature, additional water can be added through conduit 16, with the water being sprayed above the fluidized bed 15, often using not- shown water lances.

[0064] Particles are removed from the fluidized bed 14 via conduit 19. Thereby, they are passing a heat exchanger 31 , which is preferably designed as a fluidized bed cooler. Also this heat exchanger is an installations wherein caking and deposits are found, which is why at least the temperature has to be monitored carefully with temperatures sensors. A further monitoring, e.g. with radar distance measurement is additionally possible but not mandatory.

[0065] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO Simultaneously, very fine particles are transported into a freeboard zone 17 above the fluidized bed 15 and are then extracted along with the fluidizing gas through conduit 18. The particle / gas mixture from conduit 18 is sent via a boiler 30 into a cyclone 20, where the particles are separated from the gas stream. The gas exits the cyclone 20 via conduit 21 , while the particles are redirected into conduit 22 to be withdrawn via conduit 19.

[0066] To regulate the reactor temperature, additional water can be injected through conduit 19, often using water lances that are not shown in the diagram. Optionally, a boiler 30 is foreseen to ensure efficient heat transfer.

[0067] The core concept of the invention is the integration of an advanced control system. This system includes at least one measuring device 41 , 42 to monitor the build-up of deposits on the reactor wall and / or installations within the reactor unit, as well as at least one temperature sensor 43. Data from these measuring devices and temperature sensors are transmitted to the control unit 40 for analysis, as indicated by the dotted line. Based on this analysis, the control unit determines the timing of the next cleaning cycle, ensuring it is scheduled according to the actual condition of the reactor unit 10, particularly in the installation.

[0068] Preferably, the measuring device 41 is a radar distance measurement device installed in the reactor 11 to monitor the distance from the instrument installation to the opposite wall. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring device 42 can be vibration instruments to assess the impact of hammering devices on the reactor wall and / or installations within the reactor unit 10. For monitoring installations within the reactor unit 10 with a vibration instrument, the boiler 30 is particularly preferred.

[0069] Utilizing multiple measuring devices, particularly a substantial number of temperature sensors 43, enhances the precision of the measurements, resulting in more

[0070] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO accurate outcomes. So, the system offers several advantages, including enhanced accuracy in monitoring deposit build-up through the use of multiple measuring devices 41 , 42 and temperature sensor(s) 43. This precision leads to a very accurate data analysis and optimal scheduling of cleaning cycles based on the actual conditions within the reactor unit 10. Particularly the combination of radar and vibration measurement technologies provides comprehensive monitoring, ensuring efficient maintenance and prolonged operational life of the reactor unit 10.

[0071] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO List of references

[0072] 10 reactor unit 11 fluidized bed reactor

[0073] 12, 13 conduit

[0074] 14 nozzle grate

[0075] 15 fluidized bed

[0076] 16 conduit 17 freeboard zone

[0077] 18, 19 conduit

[0078] 20 cyclone

[0079] 21 , 22 conduit

[0080] 30 boiler 31 cooler

[0081] 40 control unit

[0082] 41 , 42 measuring device

[0083] 43 temperature sensor

[0084] July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO

Claims

Claims1. A system for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor unit (10) whereby the reactor unit (10) comprises a reactor (11 ), an installation (30, 31 ) and at least one temperature senor (43), characterized in that the system features at least one measuring device (41 , 42) which measures the build-up of deposits on a reactor wall and / or installations in the reactor unit (10), and a control unit (40) preferably to control cleaning time intervals based on date given by the at least one measuring device (41 , 42) and the at least one temperature sensor (43).

2. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the least one measuring device (41 , 42) is a radar distance measurement device installed in the reactor (11 ) to monitor the distance from the radar distance measurement device to an opposite wall.

3. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the least one measuring device (41 , 42) is a vibration instrument to monitor the effect of hammering devices on a reactor wall and / or an installation (30) in the reactor unit (10).

4. A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two measuring devices (41 ,42) are foreseen.

5. A system according to claim 4, characterized in that the at least two measuring devices (41 ,42) use different measurement methods.

6. A system according to claim 5, characterized in the at least one measuring device (41 ) is a radar distance measurement device installed in the reactor (11 ) to monitor the distance from the radar distance measurement deviceJuly 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WOto an opposite wall and that at least one measuring device (42) is a vibration instrument to monitor the effect of hammering devices on a reactor wall and / or an installation (30, 31 ) in the reactor unit (10).

7. A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reactor (11 ) is a roaster wherein additional oxygen and / or energy is introduced.

8. A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reactor (11 ) is a fluidized bed reactor.

9. A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reactor (11 ) features at least partly membrane walls.

10. A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two temperature senores (43) are foreseen, whereby at least one of which is positioned so that it measures the temperature of a reactor wall and one of which is positioned so that gas flows around.11 . A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one installation is a boiler (30), which is preferably equipped with vibration instruments to monitor the effect of hammering devices on a reactor wall and / or a cooler (31 ), preferably a fluidized bed cooler, which is preferably equipped with a radar distance measurement device installed in the reactor cooler (31 ) to monitor the distance from the radar distance measurement device to an opposite wall.

12. A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reactor (11 ) features cooling coils, which are equipped with temperature and / or pressure instruments.July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO13. A system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two temperature sensors (43) whereby at least one of which is positioned so that it measures the temperature in the reactor (11 ) and whereby at least one of which is positioned so that it measures the temperature of a heat transfer medium in a cooling device of the reactor (11 ).

14. A process for monitoring agglomeration in a reactor, characterized in that build-up of deposits on a reactor wall and / or installations in the reactor are measured with at least one measuring device, that temperature inside the reactor is measured with at least one temperature sensor and that cleaning time intervals are determined by a control unit based on date given by the at least one measuring device and the at least one temperature sensor.

15. A process according to claim 14, characterized in that the build-up of deposits is measures via a radar distance measurement and / or via measuring vibration caused by hammering.July 23, 2025 O 1 P 380 WO

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