Magnetic Plug Catalyst Feeder for Polymerization Jamming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Catalyst feeders for polymerization processes using solid catalysts are prone to jamming due to the susceptibility of spring-loaded pins, leading to feeder failure and inefficiencies in catalyst feeding.
Innovation Solution
A catalyst feeder design incorporating a plug with radially disposed magnets that align with end plate magnets to apply magnetic forces for controlled seating and unseating, reducing the likelihood of jamming and enabling continuous magnetic control of plug movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-loaded pin mechanism is used to reseat the plug, then the plug can be reseated with the housing, but the spring and pin are susceptible to being jammed when solid catalyst enters, causing feeder failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring-loaded pin system with a magnetic field-based system. Magnets are positioned in the housing to generate magnetic forces that act on magnetized plugs, eliminating the mechanical components (springs and pins) that are susceptible to jamming by solid catalyst particles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the housing and the plug. Instead of direct mechanical contact between the pin and plug, the magnetic field serves as a non-contact intermediary to apply forces for seating and unseating the plug, preventing catalyst particles from causing jams.
2Ease of operation
If the plug is rotated to an unseated position to dislodge flush fluid, then additional catalyst can be loaded, but the plug must be precisely controlled to move between seated and unseated positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic magnetic control where the strength and direction of magnetic forces are varied to control the plug's movement. By adjusting the magnetic field configuration, the system can dynamically transition the plug between seated and unseated positions, enabling precise control without complex mechanical mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, distribution) to control plug positioning. By varying these magnetic parameters, the system achieves precise control over the plug's axial position and rotation, simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining ease of 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 magnetic control mechanism enhances the reliability and efficiency of catalyst feeding by minimizing jamming and allowing for continuous operation, ensuring consistent feeding of solid catalysts into polymerization reactors.
Implementation Method 1
each one of the first plurality of magnets is axially aligned with one of the second plurality of magnets, thereby applying a first magnetic force on the plug in a first axial direction towards a first seated position
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a catalyst feeder for a polymerization process that uses a solid catalyst. A catalyst feeder includes a housing, a plug disposed radially inside the housing and rotatable relative to the housing, and an end plate coupled to the housing. If the plug is in a first rotational position, each one of a first plurality of magnets coupled, to an axial end of the plug is axially aligned with one of a. second plurality of magnets coupled to a surface of the end plate facing towards the axial end of the plug, thereby moving the plug towards a first seated position in relation to the housing. If the plug is in a second rotational position, the plurality of first magnets and the plurality of second magnets are axially offset from each other, thereby moving the plug towards an unseated position in relation to the housing.