Catalytic reaction chamber for gravity-flowing catalyst particles - which are prevented from becoming pinned to its centre pipe by including apertures in the catalyst transfer conduits

摘要

The reaction chamber comprises (a) an outer, perforated catalyst-retaining screen of cross-sectional area such that reactant stream manifold space is provided between the screen and the chamber; (b) an inner perforated centre pipe concentric to the screen, and providing an annular form catalyst bed; (c) several catalyst inlet conduits which connect the top of the chamber to the catalyst bed; and (d) several vertical catalyst transfer conduits disposed around the centre pipe, extending the whole length of the catalyst bed and contg. (i) several apertures facing the catalyst bed and sized to permit catalyst flow and (ii) several apertures facing the centre pipe and sized to prevent catalyst flow. The invention is partic. for endothermic catlytic reforming processes carried out in the vapour phase. Partic. reforming of naphtha boiling range factions. The process prevents the 'pinning' of catalyst particles in the vicinity of the centre pipe, avoids build-up of stagnant catalyst areas, and allows constant regeneration of particles in all parts of the chamber.