SELF CLEANING REACTOR SYSTEM

摘要

This invention relates to a self cleaning reactor and to a process for the oligomerization of ethylene that employs a self-cleaning reactor. The reactor includes a mass of inert, particulate cleaning bodies that are entrained by the liquid in the reactor and scour the internal surfaces of the reactor during normal operation. This scouring action reduces the level of fouling on the reactor surfaces. Foulant material (polyethylene) is removed from the process on a continuous basis but the cleaning bodies remain within the reactor.

主权项

1. A self cleaning, continuous flow reactor, said reactor comprising
1) at least one inlet line for liquid reactants; 2) at least one outlet line for liquid products; 3) a mixing system to mix liquid contained within said reactor; 4) a mass of cleaning bodies contained within said reactor, with the provisos that
a) said mixing system provides sufficient liquid velocity to suspend said cleaning bodies within said reactor;b) said cleaning bodies have a particle size of from 2 millimeters to 2 centimeters; andc) said cleaning bodies are retained within said reactor during operation of the reactor.