GB169063A - Improvements in electrical apparatus for the electro chemical treatment of hydrocarbon vapours - Google Patents

Abstract

169,063. Cherry, L. B. July 20, 1920. Gases, treating with electric discharge; induction and resistance furnaces.-Apparatus for the treatment of hydrocarbon vapours comprises a still 1 and a condenser 2 connected through a strongly heated treating chamber in which the vapours &c. are subjected to a high-frequency discharge. The treating chamber may consist of tubes maintained at red heat. As shown, the tubes 6 are connected near their upper ends by means of T-pieces 10, and their lower ends consist of four-way pieces 12, one branch of each being secured to a curved connecting tube 13, another to a pedestal 7, and the other horizontal branch being closed by a plate 12a which, like the curved tube 13, is removable for cleaning &c. A valved outlet may be provided in the pedestal. A thin axial wire forming the inner electrode passes through an insulator 9 at the top of each tube 6 and is stretched by an insulating weight 17. The tubes 6 may be electrically interconnected or earthed, and the wires connected to alternate leads 18, 19 of the oscillation circuit. Around each tube 6, which may be of iron or steel, is a copper or other solenoid 15, preferably embedded in refractory non-conducting material. and serving to heat the tube by induction. The heating current may be regulated by an auto or ordinary transformer 22, the secondary connections of which are controlled by a rotary switch 24; the character of the product is thus varied. Beneficial results are said to be obtained' by reason of the non-uniform heating of the tubes. Hydrocarbon vapours may be generated in the still from the residue of crude mineral or other oil after distillation of the crude benzene. They may be passed without admixture through the discharge apparatus, for cracking or for the production of aromatic hydrocarbons; any free carbon formed is carried off by the vapour. Alternatively, the hydrocarbon vapours may first be mixed with steam or free hydrogen or a gas containing it, such as natural or coal gas, or with a mixture of steam and the hydrogen-carrying gas, passed through the oil in the still by means of a perforated pipe 28. Hydrocarbons, having a higher percentage of hydrogen are thus obtained. When steam is used, carbon monoxide is obtained instead of free carbon, and may be burnt under the still. Vapour may be treated under high pressure. If the liquid in the still is just below its boiling- point the rate, of flow of the vapour can be regulated by varying the supply of gas or steam. Pyrometers 35 may be provided at various points as shown. Specification 104,330, [Class 1 (i), Chemical processes &c.], is referred to.