Pyrolysis reactor design considerations

Figure 1 shows a computational framework, representing many years of Braun s research and development efforts in pyrolysis technology. Input to the system is a data base including pilot, commercial and literature sources. The data form the basis of a pyrolysis reactor model consistent with both theoretical and practical considerations. Modern computational techniques are used in the identification of model parameters. The model is then incorporated into a computer system capable of handling a wide range of industrial problems. Some of the applications are reactor design, economic and flexibility studies and process optimization and control. 

The considerations and the experimental evidence just described suggest that the reactor design as well as the definition of process conditions need a tool, able to provide reliable predictions for the on-set of fluidization worsening and bed defluidization. Mastellone and Arena [37] proposed a predictive defluidization model valid for low-temperature pyrolysis... 

Both pipe sizes give reactors that are satisfactory from the standpoint of pressure drop and effluent temperature. Although the 4-in. reactor must be longer to achieve the desired conversion, it requires significantly less volume, and this is an important consideration in the design of a pyrolysis furnace. The 6-in. pipe has... 

The data form the basis of pyrolysis models consistent with both theoretical and practical considerations. The resulting models are integrated into a complete reactor simulation, which is then applied in design and optimization work. The simulation includes detailed models describing process-side heat and momentum transfer, thermophysical properties, and fired-side radiative heat transfer. 

---