Method and apparatus for conveying a cellulosic feedstock

摘要

A method and apparatus for preparing a cellulosic feedstock are disclosed. Embodiments of the method comprise passing the cellulosic feedstock through an optional impregnation chamber to an outlet of the impregnation chamber, passing the cellulosic feedstock from the outlet of the impregnation chamber to a holding tank having an inlet and an outlet, and conveying the cellulosic feedstock downwardly and laterally as it travels through the holding tank. Embodiments of the apparatus comprise at least one sidewall defining a passage. The passage has an upper portion and a lower portion, and the lower portion has a greater cross-sectional area than the upper portion. At least one inlet is provided adjacent the upper portion, and at least one outlet is provided adjacent the lower portion, at an elevation below the inlet.

主权项

1. A holding tank for a cellulosic feedstock comprising:
at least one sidewall defining a passage having an upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portion having a greater cross sectional area than the upper portion; at least one inlet adjacent the upper portion; at least one outlet adjacent the lower portion, at an elevation below the inlet; and at least one discharge member adjacent the at least one outlet wherein the at least one discharge member comprises a base, an open top that is at least as large as, and is in vertical registration with, the at least one outlet, and at least a first discharge member outlet that is laterally positioned and conveys the cellulosic feedstock laterally across the outlet, wherein (i) the at least one discharge member comprises a first pair of screw conveyors, each conveyor in the first pair rotating about respective first and second generally parallel axes, (ii) the screw conveyors have a first pitch adjacent the first discharge member outlet, and a second pitch narrower than the first pitch distal to the first discharge member outlet, (iii) the axes are generally horizontal and (iv) the cellulosic feedstock is essentially a solid.