Systems and methods for catalyst/hydrocarbon product separation
US7078439B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 7, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jul 18, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 6, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D21/0045
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
This invention relates to methods and apparatus for separating liquid products and catalyst particles from a slurry used in a Fischer-Tropsch reactor system. The preferred embodiments of the present invention are characterized by a separation system that uses a sedimentation chamber, which contains at least one inclined channel that enhances the settling of particles within the slurry. The enhanced settling separates the slurry into a catalyst-rich bottom stream and a catalyst-lean overhead stream. The catalyst-rich bottom product stream is preferably recycled to the reactor, while the catalyst-lean overhead stream can be further processed by a secondary separation system to produce valuable synthetic fuels. The inclined channel may be provided by a structure selected from the group consisting of tube, pipe, conduit, sheets, trays, walls, plates, and combinations thereof.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.