Improved rotating packed bed column

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a rotating packed bed column comprising a plurality of packed bed modules arranged to form a column. Each packed bed module includes an outer casing, a rotating wheel for containing liquids and / or solvents arranged within the outer casing, and a liquid inlet for introducing liquids or solvents into the rotating wheel. The column includes a driving arrangement and a shaft arrangement with a rotating shaft mechanically connected to the driving arrangement to transfer torque to the packed bed modules. Each packed bed module comprises a liquid collection compartment for collecting liquids or solvents from the previous packed bed module. At least one Pitot tube is arranged in each liquid collection compartment to convert tangential liquid motion into static pressure for transferring liquid from one packed bed module to a subsequent packed bed module.

Description

Improved Rotating Packed Bed ColumnDescriptionTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure concerns an improved rotating packed bed column equipped with a Pitot tube sequential liquid flow processing.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Rotating packed bed columns are widely used in industrial processes for gasliquid contacting applications, such as absorption, desorption, and distillation. These devices offer advantages over conventional packed columns due to high centrifugal forces they generate, which enhance mass transfer rates.

[0003] In current typical rotating packed bed column, a cylindrical packing material rotates at high speed around a central axis. Liquid is introduced near the axis and flows radially outward through the packing due to centrifugal force, while gas flows inward in a counter-current manner. This arrangement creates a large interfacial area, which creates intense micromixing, and thus high relative velocities between the gas and liquid phases, promoting enhanced mass transfer.

[0004] Despite their advantages, conventional rotating packed bed columns have some technical problems. One of such problems is the need for pumps to transfer liquid between multiple packed bed stages in a multi-stage column configuration. These pumps add complexity, increase the overall equipment, and require additional control systems. The use of conventional pumps can also lead to increased energy consumption, require an more process control and increase maintenance requirements.

[0005] Another issue is that the overall size and footprint of rotating packed bed systems can be a problem in applications where space is limited. Reducing the number of auxiliary components and simplifying the column design could potentially lead to more compact and cost-effective installations.

[0006] In addition, it is known that industrial processes continue to demand higherefficiency and reduced environmental impact. Therefore, there is a need for innovations in rotating packed bed technology. Improvements that can simplify liquid handling, reduce equipment complexity, and maintain or improve mass transfer performance are of particular interest to the field.SUMMARY

[0007] In one aspect, disclosed herein is a rotating packed bed column comprising an outer casing and a plurality of packed bed modules arranged to form a column. Each packed bed module comprises a rotating wheel for containing liquids and / or solvents and is equipped with a liquid inlet for introducing the liquids or solvents. A driving arrangement and a shaft arrangement with a rotating shaft connected to the driving arrangement provide torque to operate the rotating wheel. The shaft is configured to rotate around a defined axis.

[0008] A further aspect of the present disclosure is drawn to the configuration where each packed bed module comprises a liquid collection compartment for collecting liquids or solvents from the previous packed bed module. These liquid collection compartments are equipped with at least one Pitot tube to convert tangential liquid motion into static pressure, facilitating the transfer of liquid from one packed bed module to the next.

[0009] In another aspect, the subject matter disclosed herein concerns the placement of liquid collection compartments outside the rotating wheels and, in certain embodiments, arranged below the rotating wheels. The liquid collection compartments can be delimited by the outer casing and, in some embodiments, are ring-shaped. Additionally, supporting arms are disclosed, with each Pitot tube installed on a relevant supporting arm.

[0010] A further aspect of the present disclosure is drawn to the inclusion of circulation pipes, with each circulation pipe connected between two consecutive liquid collection compartments. Each circulation pipe is configured with an optional intercooling heat exchanger associated with a subsequent packed bed module.

[0011] In another aspect, disclosed herein is the use of a splash screen within the rotating wheel to contain liquids or solvents, positioned farthest from the rotating shaft.The driving arrangement comprises a driving motor, and a transmission arrangement connected to the shaft arrangement to transfer torque from the motor to the rotating shaft.

[0012] A further aspect of the present disclosure is drawn to a seal arranged between the rotating wheel and the outer casing, which is configured to minimize flue gas bypass between adjacent packed bed modules.

[0013] In another aspect, disclosed herein is a method for operating a rotating packed bed column, which involves providing a plurality of packed bed modules arranged in a column. The method comprises driving the rotating wheels using a driving arrangement, injecting liquids or solvents into the rotating wheels to perform heat or mass transfer between liquid and gas phases, and collecting the exiting liquids or solvents in liquid collection compartments positioned outside the rotating wheels. The method further involves operating at least one Pitot tube to convert tangential liquid motion into static pressure, transferring liquid between packed bed modules.

[0014] A further aspect of the present disclosure is drawn to an operating method where the liquid passes through an intercooling heat exchanger arranged between each Pitot tube of a subsequent packed bed module. The method may also comprise the step of reducing turbulence in the liquid collection compartments by damping elements.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] A more complete appreciation of the disclosed embodiments of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:Fig. 1 illustrates a sectional view of a rotating packed bed column according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 2 illustrates a sectional view of a rotating packed bed column circulation pipes and with intercooling heat exchangers, according to the embodiment of Fig. 1;Fig. 3 illustrates a detailed section view of a portion of a rotating packed bed column, according to the embodiment of Fig. 1;Fig 4 illustrates a sectional view of a rotating packed bed column according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 5 illustrate flow charts of the operating method of the rotating packed bed column according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0016] According to one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a rotating packed bed (RPB) column design that implements Pitot tubes for improving the liquid transfer between packed bed sections. Such a technical solution improves liquid handling in RPB columns, which traditionally rely on conventional pumps for liquid transfer.

[0017] The solution, therefore, uses principles of fluid dynamics, specifically Bernoulli’s principle, to convert the tangential motion of the liquid flow motion, into static pressure. This static pressure is then used to drive the liquid from one packed bed section to the following one, arranged beneath the first, without the need for conventional pumps and additional control measures thereof.

[0018] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a rotating packed bed column is shown, wholly indicated with the reference number 1, according to a first embodiment, which comprises a plurality of packed bed modules 2, arranged to form a column. Specifically, each packed bed module 2 is arranged over another one. The rotating packed bed column 1 comprises also an outer casing 1, within which the packed bed modules 2 are arranged.

[0019] Each packed bed module 2 comprises a rotating wheel 21. The rotating wheel 21 is designed to contain liquids and / or solvents. In some cases, the rotating wheel 21 may contain packing material, which can enhance heat or mass transfer between liquid and gas phases within the column.

[0020] Each packed bed module 2 also comprises a liquid inlet 23. The liquid inlet 23 is designed for the introduction of liquids or solvents into the rotating wheel 21. In some embodiments, the liquid inlet 23 may be positioned on the lateral surface of the outer casing 11, allowing for easy access and control of the liquid or solvent introduction process.

[0021] The liquids or solvents introduced through the liquid inlet 23 follow the path indicated with the arrow F, which is typical of the rotating packed bed columns 1.

[0022] The rotating packed bed column 1 also comprises a driving arrangement 3. The driving arrangement 3 is arranged for providing the rotational motion necessary for the operation of the rotating wheels 21. In some cases, the driving arrangement 3 is located at the bottom of the rotating packed bed column 1.

[0023] The driving arrangement 3 comprises a driving motor 31 and a transmission arrangement 32. The driving motor 31 provides the power necessary for the operation of the rotating wheels 21, while the transmission arrangement 32 transfers this power to the rotating wheels 21. This transfer of power may result in the rotation of the rotating shaft 41 around the rotational axis R, which in turn may cause the rotating wheels21 to rotate.

[0024] In some embodiments, a shaft arrangement 4 is mechanically connected to the driving arrangement 3. The shaft arrangement 4 may comprise a rotating shaft 41 that extends vertically through the center of the column. The rotating shaft 41 may be configured to rotate around a rotational axis R and transfer torque to the packed bed modules 2, thereby operating the rotating wheel 21, as mentioned above.

[0025] The shaft arrangement 4 comprises also bearings 42 and 43 to keep the rotating shaft 41 in position about the rotating axis R.

[0026] Still referring to Figures 1 and 2, each packed bed module 2 in the rotating packed bed column 1 comprises a liquid collection compartment 22. The liquid collection compartment 22 collect the liquids or solvents coming from the previous packed bed module 2 and to facilitate the sequential flow of liquids or solvents through the rotating packed bed column 1.

[0027] The collection compartments 22 are delimited by the outer casing 11 (or shell), and they are static with respect to the rotating wheels 21. The collection compartments22 is typically, but not necessarily, characterized by a radial depth ranging from 25 to 50 mm and an axial height between 50 to 200 mm, providing the liquid with a retention time between 1 to 10 seconds. Other embodiments can have different measures and ratios, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. It is seen, in fact,that the measures above mentioned, are reported here just by way of example, and they are in no way limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0028] In the embodiment shown, each liquid collection compartment 22 has a ring shape. Specifically, it has the geometrical shape of a torus with a rectangular crosssection.

[0029] The rotating packed bed column 1 is designed to facilitate liquid transfer between consecutive packed bed modules 2. In the present embodiment, this is achieved through the use of Pitot tubes 5, which are positioned in each liquid collection compartment 22. Each Pitot tube 5 is supported by a supporting arm 51 connected to the outer casing 11.

[0030] The Pitot tubes 5 convert the tangential liquid motion in the liquid collection compartments 22 into static pressure, enabling liquid transfer to the subsequent module without the need for conventional pumps.

[0031] Pitot tubes are devices usually used for measuring fluid flow velocity, and as devices to propel liquids, e.g., used as a pump. The typical structure of a Pitot tube consists of a cylindrical tube with an open end facing the fluid flow. A Pitot tube comprises: static pressure ports, which are located on the side of the tube, these ports experience the static pressure of the fluid. The static pressure is the pressure exerted by the fluid at rest; impact port, which is the open end of the tube facing the flow is known as the impact port. This port is exposed to the total pressure, which is the sum of the static pressure and the dynamic pressure caused by the fluid's velocity; inner tube, which is often a smaller diameter tube inside the main tube, leading to e.g. a diffusor, or a manometer or differential pressure sensor; fixing members, which allow the Pitot tube to be mounted in a desired position within the fluid flow.

[0032] The Pitot tube is usually made of metal, such as stainless steel, to ensure durability and resistance to corrosion.

[0033] The Pitot tubes are supported by a supporting arm 51, which, in the embodiment shown has a curly shape, directed inward into the outer casing 11.

[0034] The operation of a Pitot tube is based on Bernoulli’s principle, which relates to the equal energy continuity along a fluid stream, where the energy remains the same, except for frictional losses. This implies a relation among the pressure of a fluid and its velocity.

[0035] In this case, after that a Pitot tube is placed in the fluid flow with its open end (or the “impact port”) facing directly into the flow, the fluid is allowed to enter the same impact port and travel through the inner tube. As the fluid enters the impact port, it is brought to a stop, causing the dynamic pressure to convert into a measurable increase in pressure, known as the total pressure. The static pressure is simultaneously measured by the static pressure ports. The difference between the total pressure and the static pressure is calculated. This differential pressure is directly related to the fluid’s velocity. Therefore, using Bernoulli’s equation, the fluid velocity can be determined from the pressure differential. The equation is typically expressed as:

[0036] wherein v is the fluid velocity, Ptis the total pressure, Psis the static pressure, and p is the fluid density. The Pitot tubes have several advantages, in particular, they are considered technically simple, accurate and durable. Based on this operation, the Pitot tubes can be used to accelerate and the to pump the fluid.

[0037] Continuing referring to Figures 1 and 2, as mentioned above, each static liquid collection compartment 22 comprises at least one Pitot tube 5, as mentioned, designed to convert the tangential motion of the liquid into static pressure. This conversion, is then based on Bernoulli’s principle, where the increase or decrease in the speed of a fluid is directly related to pressure variations in accordance with the principles shortly disclosed above.

[0038] The static pressure generated by the Pitot tube 5 may then be used to push theliquid from the relevant packed bed module 2 to a subsequent packed bed module 2. This allow eliminating the need for conventional pumps and additional control measures, thereby simplifying the operation of the rotating packed bed column 1.

[0039] Close to, and in particular, above the Pitot tubes 5, there are liquid level indicators 6, to detect the level of the liquid or solvent. The liquid level indicators 6 allows detecting or showing whether the relevant Pitot tube 5 is immersed the liquid.

[0040] The liquid collection compartments 22 may be positioned externally with respect to the rotating wheels 21. This arrangement may provide a path for the liquid to flow from the rotating wheel 21 to the liquid collection compartment 22.

[0041] In some embodiments, each liquid collection compartment 22 is arranged below the relevant rotating wheel 21. This arrangement may take advantage of gravity to facilitate the flow of liquid from the rotating wheel 21 to the liquid collection compartment 22. The typical temperature working range is between 30 °C and 60 °C.

[0042] Each rotating wheel 21 comprises a splash screen 211, which delimits the vertical surface whereby the liquids or solvents are contained farthest from the rotating shaft 41. The splash screen 211 is part of the rotating wheel 21 and maintains the “collected” liquid in rotational motion. Also, the splash screen 211 finally directs the liquid and / or solvent to the liquid collection compartment 22.

[0043] In other words, this arrangement helps containing the liquids and / or solvents within the rotating wheel 21 and prevent them from spilling over into the liquid collection compartment 22. It may also help to direct the flow of the liquids or solvents towards the Pitot tube 5, thereby easing the conversion of the tangential motion of the liquid into static pressure.

[0044] Referring in particular to Fig. 2, each packed bed module 2 in the rotating packed bed column 1 comprises a circulation pipe 7. The circulation pipe 7 connects the Pitot tube 5 liquid withdrawal and finally the liquid injection system of the consecutive rotating wheel section 12. In this way, the flow of liquid from one liquid collection compartment 22 to the next is achieved, thereby enabling sequential liquid handling in the rotating packed bed column 1.

[0045] In some embodiments, each circulation pipe 7 comprises an intercooling heatexchanger 71. The intercoohng heat exchanger 71 may be designed to cool the liquid as it flows through the circulation pipe 7. This cooling process helps to maintain the temperature of the liquid within a desired range, which typically ranges from 40°C and 80°C, to improve the efficiency of the heat or mass transfer process in the rotating packed bed column 1. This intercooling of the solvent is necessary for the control of the optimum operating condition for the general carbon dioxide CO2 capture within the entire rotating packed bed column 1. It is noted that too high temperatures are detrimental. Indeed, at each stage, the temperature increases and the cooling is required to keep the optimum solvent temperature for effective absorption.

[0046] In some embodiments, the intercooling heat exchanger 71 is arranged between each Pitot tube 5 of a subsequent packed bed module 2. This arrangement may allow the liquid to be cooled immediately after it is pushed by the Pitot tube 5, thereby minimizing the risk of overheating.

[0047] The intercooler heat exchanger 71 has a structure that comprises a series of interconnected components, including a housing, heat transfer surfaces, fluid inlet and outlet ports, and a cooling medium circulation system.

[0048] Finally, in some embodiments, the rotating packed bed column 1 may comprise seals, arranged between adjacent rotating wheels 21 and liquid collection compartments 22.

[0049] Referring to Fig. 3, a section view of a portion of the rotating packed bed column 1 is illustrated. The figure shows, in particular, the seal 13, positioned between the rotating wheel 21 and the outer casing 11. As mentioned, this seal 13 is suitable to minimize the flue gas by-pass between adjacent packed bed modules 2.

[0050] Referring also to Fig. 4, a second embodiment of the rotating packed bed column 1, showing a different arrangement of the Pitot tube 5 with respect to the liquid level indicator 6 in the liquid collection compartment 22. More specifically, in the embodiment of Fig. 4 the liquid collection compartment 22 is not coupled to rotating wheel 21, and it is therefore not rotating. The liquid is injected into the liquid collection compartment 22 from the outer bottom part of rotating wheel 21. In some embodiments, the liquid is injected into the liquid collection compartment 22 through the small tubes. The fluid in the liquid collection compartment 22 will then receive kineticenergy that supports a certain tangential now in the liquid collection compartment 22 itself. In the embodiment at issue, there is a much lower speed than that of the embodiment of Fig. 1, where the liquid collection compartment 22 rotates at same speed as the rotating wheel 21, because of the friction loss to the walls and drag from the Pitot tube 5. Therefore, in Fig. 4, the liquid surface is curved shape as gravity becomes significant relative to the centrifugal force. The Pitot tube 5, in such cases, is simpler and enters the liquid surface vertically down, as it is shown in Fig. 4. The support structure of the Pitot tube 5, namely the supporting arms 51, may be designed so that only the tip of the Pitot tube 5 is submerged in the liquid to minimize the drag.

[0051] The embodiment of Fig. 4 produces much less pressure and its structure is simpler, so that it may be sufficient in some applications.

[0052] The operation of the Pitot tube 5 in the rotating packed bed column 1 is as follows.

[0053] Referring in particular, to Fig. 4, it is illustrated a flowchart of the improved rotating packed bed column according to the present disclosure.

[0054] The method 8 of operating a rotating packed bed column 1 comprises the step of providing 81 a plurality of packed bed modules 2 arranged to form a column, with each packed bed module 2 comprising a rotating wheel 21.

[0055] The method 8 also comprises the step of driving 82 the rotating wheels 21 of the packed bed modules 2 by the driving arrangement 3, which, as mentioned above, may comprise motors, gears, or other mechanical means capable of imparting rotational motion to the wheels 21.

[0056] The following step is that of injecting 83 one or more liquids or solvents into the rotating wheels 21, specifically through the liquid inlet 23, to start the heat or mass transfer process between the liquid and gas phases. The injected fluids are subjected to centrifugal forces due to the rotation of the rotating wheels 21, enhancing the mixing and contact area, to improve / enhance the heat and mass transfer processes.

[0057] The method 8 of operating a rotating packed bed column 1 also comprises the additional steps of collecting 84 the liquid and / or solvents exiting the rotating wheels 21 in liquid collection compartments 22 positioned outside the rotating wheels 21.These compartments 22 are designed to accommodate the high-speed tangential motion of the exiting fluids, and they rotate in unison with the wheels 21 to maintain relative positioning and facilitate smooth collection.

[0058] Then there is the step of operating 85 at least one Pitot tube 5, each arranged in a relevant static or liquid collection compartment 22, converts the tangential liquid motion into static pressure. This conversion is required for transferring the liquid from one packed bed module 2 to a subsequent module.

[0059] The Pitot tubes 5 function by detecting the pressure differential created by the liquid’s motion and using this static pressure to drive the fluid through the system. Alternative designs for the Pitot tubes may vary in diameter, length, or positioning to optimize pressure conversion and fluid transfer efficiency.

[0060] Here are the proposed paragraphs in English for the patent description regarding the rotating packed bed column:

[0061] In addition, the rotating packed bed column 1, optimize the gas bubble separation from the liquid process within the collection compartment 22. The liquid entering the Pitot tubes 5, as described above, is directed into the ring-shaped collection compartment 22. Within the collection compartments 22, the relative velocity between the liquid and the stationary Pitot tube 5 nozzles is maintained between 15 to 30 m / s, while the centrifugal force field reaches values in the range of 500 to 2000 m / s2. Under these high centrifugal force conditions, gas bubbles entrained within the liquid are efficiently separated by rising rapidly to the liquid / gas interface and escaping into the gas phase at the inner radius of the collection compartments 22. It is noted that the Pitot tube 5 may still see some microbubbles, since even under the centrifugal force field the gas disengagement may not be completed. Other embodiments can have different measures and ratios, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. It is seen, in fact, that the measures above mentioned, are reported here just by way of example, and they are in no way limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0062] This separation is very important as it mitigates the adverse effects of gas bubbles on downstream equipment, potentially susceptible to performance degradation due to air carryover. Additionally, the presence of gas bubbles can worsen solvent degradation and impose limitations on subsequent carbon dioxide (CO2) compressionand liquefaction processes. By an efficient separation of gas bubbles, the rotating packed bed column 1 contributes significantly to the improved performance and reliability of the rotating wheel 21. This also has the advantage of simplifying the control scheme by eliminating the need for fast-acting control loops, as the Pitot tubes 5 inherently functions as a self-controlling mechanism. This self-regulation occurs because the recovery of pressure decreases as the liquid level approaches the lower part of the Pitot tube 5 opening. By selecting a specific back pressure on the liquid discharge within an optimal range of approximately 30-60% of the liquid collection compartment 22 dynamic pressure, the output pressure of the liquid can be maintained under control, which typically means, by way of example, between 2 to 4 bar. This pressure range is sufficient to overcome the pressure drops across piping, intercoolers, and injection nozzles in the subsequent stage. As a result, the liquid level within the liquid collection compartment 22 and the discharge flow rate naturally balance themselves, eliminating the need for advanced instrumentation and control systems to manage the process. This solution not only improves operational efficiency but also reduces complexity and potential points of failure in the system, making it a suitable solution for liquid level management within the rotating packed bed column 1.

[0063] The method 8 may further comprise the step of passing 86 the liquid through an intercooling heat exchanger 71 arranged between each Pitot tube 5 of a subsequent packed bed module 2. This step implies cooling the liquid to remove excess heat generated during the transfer process. Various types of heat exchangers, such as shell-and- tube or plate heat exchangers, may be employed based on the specific requirements of the process.

[0064] Additionally, the method 8 may comprise the step of reducing 87 the turbulence of the liquid or solvent contained in the liquid collection compartments 22 by damping elements, which, as mentioned above, could be baffles, vanes, or other flowrestricting devices.

[0065] As an additional aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible improving the efficiency of the centrifugal gas bubble separation from the solvent in the ring shaped liquid collection compartment 22. To prevent foaming problems, the solution provides for the use of antifoam agents, in combination with the operation of the rotating packed bed column 1 according to the present disclosure, as described above.

[0066] Reducing the amount of bubbles in the liquid or solvent improves the effectiv- ity of the Pitot tube 5 conversion of dynamic to static pressure, reducing the degradation of the solvent in the subsequent high temperature stripper because of the amount of oxygen is reduced. This also prevents cavitation issues in the high pressure pumps, which transfer the solvent to the stripper through heat exchangers and any flash drum.

[0067] Just to make an exemplary estimate, it is considered the ring shaped liquid collection compartments 22 typically having a diameter of about 3 m in a small industrial application. Also considering an axial height of 0.1-0.2 m, and radial height of the liquid ring of 3-5 cm, it can be estimated a liquid volume of 25-75 liters per compartment 22. Solvent flowrate of such sized unit would be in the order of magnitude of 100 m3 / hr depending on the solvent in use. This gives a change over time for the liquid in the compartment of about 2 seconds. That means we need bubble rising velocity v of ca 0.02 m / s to release bubbles form each compartment 22. Specifically, the following equation holds for v.where, in SI units: g is the gravitational field strength [m / s2];R is the radius of the spherical particle [m]; ppis the mass density of the particle [kg / m3];Pf is the mass density of the fluid [kg / m3]; p is the dynamic viscosity [kg / (m s)].

[0068] Typical values are the following: g is replaced with the centrifugal acceleration 100-300 g = 2000 m / s2R is bubble diameter / 2 = 50* 10'6m; pp, the gas density = ca. 1.5 kg / m3;Pf, the liquid density = ca. 1150 kg / m3; p is dynamic viscosity of the solvent = 5 - 100 cP, using in this case = 0.02 kg / ms; and v = 0.02 m / s.

[0069] It is possible to calculate the cut-off diameter of bubbles that are likely to be separated with dbubbie= 396 pm in this specific case. This is of the same order of magnitude as in large stationary gas / liquid separators in the oil and gas industry.

[0070] The rotating packed bed column 1 disclosed herein is susceptible of industrial application in various chemical processing industries, particularly in applications requiring efficient gas-liquid contacting such as absorption, desorption, and distillation processes. The invention can be used in petrochemical refineries, natural gas processing plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, and other industrial settings where process intensification and enhanced mass transfer are desired.

[0071] While the embodiments described focus on rotating packed bed columns for gas-liquid contacting, it is to be understood that the principles and techniques of the present disclosure may find utility in other industrial applications requiring efficient fluid handling and transfer between multiple processing stages.

[0072] The concepts presented, including the use of Pitot tubes for liquid transfer and the arrangement of packed bed modules, may be adapted for use in other rotating equipment designs or fluid processing systems beyond the specific examples provided, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.ADVANTAGES

[0073] The use of Pitot tubes in this context offers several advantages. An advantage of the present disclosure is that the design may lead to a reduction in the number of conventional pumps required, resulting in a more compact RPB column design.

[0074] Another advantage of the present disclosure is that the rotating packed bed column simplifies the control scheme, as the Pitot tube system is self-controlling and does not require additional control means, with the annexed electronics and maintenanceservices associated. Specifically, the design may result in simpler pipe routing and a reduction in the number of instruments and controls needed, such as level instruments and control valves. Also, such benefits lead to reduced electrical consumption and installation costs, as well as a smaller footprint for the RPB column.

[0075] While aspects of the invention have been described in terms of various specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications, changes, and omissions are possible without departing form the spirt and scope of the claims. In addition, unless specified otherwise herein, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments.

[0076] Reference has been made in detail to embodiments of the disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the disclosure, not limitation of the disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosure. Reference throughout the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or “some embodiments” means that the particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the subject matter disclosed. Thus, the appearance of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" or "in some embodiments" in various places throughout the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiment(s). Further, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0077] When elements of various embodiments are introduced, the articles “a”, “an”, “the”, and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

Claims

Improved Rotating Packed Bed ColumnCLAIMS1. A rotating packed bed column (1), comprising: an outer casing (11); a plurality of packed bed modules (2) arranged to form a column, each packed bed module (2) comprising: a rotating wheel (21) for containing the liquids and / or solvents, arranged within the outer casing (11), and a liquid inlet (23), for the introduction of liquids or solvents into the rotating wheel (21); a driving arrangement (3); a shaft arrangement (4) comprising a rotating shaft (41) mechanically connected to the driving arrangement (3), wherein the rotating shaft (41) is connected to transfer torque to the packed bed modules (2) to operate the rotating wheel (21), wherein the rotating shaft is configured to rotate around a rotating axis (R); characterized in that each packed bed module (2) comprises a liquid collection compartment (22), for collecting the liquids or solvents coming from a previous packed bed module (2); and in that each liquid collection compartment (22) comprises at least one Pitot tube (5) having an inlet opening arranged to face the tangential liquid motion to convert tangential liquid motion into static pressure for transferring liquid from a relevant packed bed module (2) to a subsequent packed bed module (2).

2. The rotating packed bed column (1) of claim 1, wherein the liquid collection compartments (22) are positioned outside the rotating wheels (21).

3. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each liquid collection compartments (22) is arranged below the relevant rotating wheel (21).

4. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein liquid collection compartments (22) is delimited by the outer casing (H).

5. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each liquid collection compartment (22) is ring-shaped.

6. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, comprising supporting arms (51), each Pitot tube (5) is installed on a relevant supporting arm (51).

7. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each packed bed modules (2) comprises a circulation pipe (7), wherein each circulation pipe (7) is connected between two consecutive liquid collection compartment (22), and wherein each circulation pipe (7) comprises an intercooling heat exchanger (71) of a subsequent packed bed module (2).

8. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each rotating wheel (21) comprises a splash screen (211), delimiting the vertical surface whereby the liquids or solvents are contained farthest from the rotating shaft (41),9. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the driving arrangement (3) comprises: a driving motor (31); and a transmission arrangement (32), connected to the shaft arrangement (4), to transfer the torque from the motor (31) to the rotating shaft (41).

10. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a seal (13), arranged between the rotating wheel (21) and the outer casing (11), arranged for minimizing the flue gas by-pass between adjacent packed bed modules (2).

11. The rotating packed bed column (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid collection compartment (22) is configured to receive antifoam agents.

12. A method (8) of operating a rotating packed bed column (1), the method (8) comprising: providing (81) a plurality of packed bed modules (2) arranged to form a column, each packed bed module (2) comprising a rotating wheel (21); driving (82) the rotating wheels (21) of the packed bed modules (2) by the driving arrangement (3); injecting (83) one or more liquids or solvents into the rotating wheels (21) to perform heat or mass transfer between liquid and gas phases; characterized in that the operating method (8) further comprises the steps of: collecting (84) the liquid and / or solvents exiting the rotating wheels (21) in liquid collection compartments (22) positioned outside the rotating wheels (21); and operating (85) at least one Pitot tube (5), each arranged in a relevant liquid collection compartment (22) to convert tangential liquid motion into static pressure for transferring liquid from one packed bed module (2) to a subsequent packed bed module (2).

13. The method (8) of the preceding claim, further comprising the steps of: passing (86) the liquid through an intercooling heat exchanger (71) arranged between each Pitot tube (5) of a subsequent packed bed module (2).

14. The method (8) of any one of claims 12 or 13, further comprising the steps of reducing (87) the turbulence of the liquid or solvent contained in the liquid collection compartments (22) by damping elements.

15. The method (8) of any one of claims 12 - 14, further comprising the steps of adding antifoam agents into the liquid collection compartment (22).-18-

Images