Debottlenecking Catalyst Reactors Though Maximization of the Useable Bed Volume with Johnson Screens’ SSG™
Southwest Process Technology Conference
2013
5th Southwest Process Technology Conference
Southwest Process Technology Conference
Catalysis & Reaction Engineering
Thursday, October 3, 2013 - 9:30am to 10:00am
Limitations on catalyst reactor vessels can create bottlenecks in the production process which can lead to a need for increased capacity. Capital intensive investments may be necessary in order to eliminate the bottleneck which may include the addition of an additional reactor vessel. With limits on the plot plan, this may not be a workable solution. Johnson Screens’, patent pending, SSGTM can add the increased process efficiency and cycle life necessary to extend the operating capability of the unit.
Debottlenecking is achieved through increased catalyst bed volume with the elimination of traditional bed supports comprised of support grids and beams. Incremental catalyst volume increases may be made when compared to traditional outlet collectors and inert media. Minimizing the reactor volume consumed by the distribution and support system increases the net catalyst volume when compared to alternative bed support systems. Johnson Screens SSG increases the distribution of the process fluid at the outlet out the reactor, maximizing the catalyst bed volume usage.
The modular design of the SSG allows for easy installation and maintenance. The design allows for ease of dismantling for inspection of the reactor vessel head during routine maintenance and inspections. The low profile will also reduce interference with any required media exchanges. The design package of the SSG provides the end user with a holistic solution that fulfills debottlenecking needs with limited capital expenditures.