Fluid Distribution Device for Catalytic Reactor Clogging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid distribution devices in catalytic reactors are cumbersome to assemble and disassemble, require extensive support systems, and are prone to clogging, leading to premature shutdowns and significant production losses due to fouling in the catalytic bed, especially in reactors with downward flow where the upper layer becomes clogged.

Innovation Solution

A fluid distribution device with multiple conduits that receive distinct parts of the fluid directly from the source, minimizing intermediate connections and using local pressure loss mechanisms integrated with collection and distribution means, allowing for easy installation and reduced clogging risks, enabling efficient distribution and bypassing of clogged layers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If multiple independent vertical cylinders with restriction orifices and grids are installed in the fixed bed to distribute fluid and bypass clogged layers, then the reactor can operate longer before pressure limit is reached, but the assembly and disassembly becomes time-consuming and complex requiring temporary supports and multiple positioning operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating duration before pressure limitVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional elements (conduits, distribution means, pressure drop generation) into a single integrated device that can be easily assembled and disassembled without temporary supports, resolving the contradiction between operational duration and assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is segmented into modular components (conduits, collection means, distribution means) that can be independently assembled and disassembled, reducing the time and complexity of installation while maintaining the ability to bypass clogged layers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If temporary supports are used to hold devices during filling of catalytic bed, then device positioning is enabled, but the dismantling operation becomes longer and supports may be difficult to remove from clogged layer

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice positioningVSAvoiddismantling time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates the temporary supports from the system entirely, integrating the positioning function into the device structure itself, which allows for rapid assembly and disassembly without the time loss associated with support removal

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed to be self-positioning within the reactor bed without requiring external temporary supports, enabling operators to quickly assemble and disassemble the device while maintaining proper positioning throughout the catalytic bed filling process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of energy

If conventional distribution devices are used to distribute fluid among multiple devices, then pressure loss increase is limited, but the devices require upstream connection to common distribution means increasing assembly complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure lossVSAvoidconnection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the fluid distribution into separate conduits that receive fluid directly from the source without common upstream connections, reducing connection complexity while maintaining effective pressure distribution through the catalytic bed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each conduit is equipped with its own local pressure drop generation means, creating localized pressure control at each distribution point rather than relying on a common upstream distribution system, which simplifies connections while maintaining pressure loss control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 device allows for rapid assembly and disassembly, reduces production losses by prolonging reactor operation between maintenance cycles, and is resistant to clogging, ensuring uniform fluid distribution and minimizing the impact of blockages on pressure loss.

Implementation Method 1

means for generating a local pressure drop on said fluid such that: the device comprises means for collecting said fluid, ensuring the fluidic connection between the conveying means and the means for distributing said fluid

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure drop: Pressure Drop

Data Source

PatentEP3820601B1Device for dispensing a fluid, which device can be arranged in a reactor comprising a fixed catalytic bed
Publication Date: 2024.08.07 AXENS SA
  • EP3820601B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP3820601B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3820601B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b

AI summary

The invention relates to a fluid dispensing device (D) which can be arranged in a fixed catalytic bed (C1, C2) of a reactor (R), said device comprising: means for conveying the fluid, said means comprising a plurality of ducts, each directly receiving a separate portion of the fluid; means for dispensing the fluid; and means for generating a local head loss in the fluid, all such that: the device comprises means for collecting said fluid (2a), providing the fluid connection between the ducts of the conveying means and the fluid dispensing means, and the means for generating a local head loss are mounted on the conveying, dispensing or collecting means (2a).