Center Feed Injection System for Coke Drum Thermal Uniformity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing delayed coking systems face issues with uneven heat distribution and thermal variance due to the uncontrolled injection of high-temperature, high-pressure residual byproducts into coke drums, leading to stress on vessel components and reduced longevity.
Innovation Solution
A center feed injection system with a retractable nozzle and curved pipe segment that directs residual byproducts vertically into the center of the coke drum, ensuring consistent flow and even thermal distribution, reducing thermal cycling stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple linear inlet design is used for dispensing residual byproduct, then the device complexity is reduced, but uneven heat distribution and thermal variance occur in the vessel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by replacing the simple linear inlet design with a curved inlet pipe that directs the residual byproduct flow along a curved path. This curved configuration distributes the hot material more uniformly across the vessel cross-section, eliminating the concentrated thermal impact zone created by linear injection and achieving even heat distribution throughout the vessel.
2Productivity
If high-temperature residual byproduct is injected at high velocity into the vessel, then the productivity of the coking process is improved, but thermal cycling stress increases on vessel components
Solution Approach 1:
The curved inlet pipe modifies the flow trajectory of the high-velocity residual byproduct, distributing it uniformly across the vessel rather than concentrating it at a single impact point. This maintains the high productivity benefits of rapid injection while eliminating the severe thermal cycling stress that would otherwise damage vessel components through repeated localized heating and cooling cycles.
3Device complexity
If a fixed inlet system is used for dispensing byproduct, then the device complexity is reduced, but the system cannot be retracted when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed inlet system into a dynamic, retractable configuration. The inlet pipe is designed to move between an extended position during dispensing operations and a retracted position during storage or non-use periods. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different operational states, protecting the inlet components when not in use while maintaining full functionality during operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The center feed system achieves more uniform heat distribution and reduced stress on vessel components, extending their lifespan and improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a curved pipe segment removably attached to the inlet of a spool, to facilitate even dispensing or dispersion of the residual byproduct into the reservoir vessel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention features a center feed system for use within a delayed coking system, or any other similar system. The center feed system features an inlet sleeve which slidably engages a retractable nozzle, with inlet and outlet, in fluid connection with a feed source of residual byproduct, allowing residual byproduct to flow from the feed source into the interior of a vessel, thus effectuating or inducing even thermal distribution throughout the vessel.