Notched Packing Elements for Rapid Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing structured packing systems for hydrocarbon stripping in catalytic cracking processes require complex and time-consuming assembly, which hinders efficient operation and maintenance, especially in fluidized bed catalytic cracking units where severe cracking conditions generate large quantities of coke, necessitating effective hydrocarbon and coke precursor removal.
Innovation Solution
A structured packing element with a flat rectangular shape featuring notches for interlocking and recesses to form channels, allowing for simplified assembly and enhanced fluid exchange, comprising a series of packing elements arranged in intersecting directions to form a three-dimensional mesh, which can be securely fixed by welding or other means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional structured packing systems are used, then effective hydrocarbon stripping is achieved, but assembly becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The packing structure is divided into modular sectors that can be assembled independently and then connected. Each sector contains standardized packing elements with notches that facilitate systematic assembly, reducing overall complexity while maintaining stripping effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple packing elements are combined into integrated sectors where notches on adjacent elements interlock to form stable structures. This merging reduces the number of separate components to handle and simplifies the assembly process
2Stability of the object's composition
If packing elements are positioned for welding at junction points, then structural stability is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notches are pre-formed on packing elements during manufacturing, enabling preliminary positioning and interlocking before final welding. This preliminary action stabilizes the structure during assembly, reducing the time needed for positioning and alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The notched geometry enables packing elements to self-align and interlock automatically during assembly, reducing the need for precise manual positioning and welding operations. The structure stabilizes itself through the interlocking notches
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a structured packing element (21) in the form of a rectangular flat plate, provided with notches (23) and recesses (22). The notches (23) are intended for interlocking the structured packing elements together to form the structured packing. The recesses (22) are provided to form channels within the structured packing. The present invention also relates to a packing structure obtained by assembling such packing elements (21), the use of such packing for an operation involving contacting a gas and a catalyst, and a method for manufacturing such a structured packing.