GB321910A - Process and apparatus for the production, from hydrocarbon material, of gases or liquids of changed molecular weight - Google Patents

Abstract

321,910. Henry, I. W. May 17, 1928. Induction furnaces; heating by electricity.- Fluid or solid hydrocarbons are cracked in the presence of steam in a vessel 1 of non-magnetic ceramic bricks, pyrex glass, &c. containing lumps 38 of carbon, graphite or other refractory conductive material together with lumps 39 of nickel or other catalytic metal, heat being applied by means of a high tension alternating current generated in a generator 43 and circulating in a metal pipe 25 within which a current of cooling water flows. Oil is passed in by a pipe 57 and passes off at the top by a pipe 9, residues being withdrawn by a clearing aperture 5. Water is supplied by a pipe 22, is vaporized in a coil 18 and passes into the vessel 1 by an opening 24. The vapours pass to a receiver 11 which is itself surrounded by a cooling coil through which the alternating current circulates, and which contains fragments 38a, 39a of refractory conducting material. From the receiver the vapours pass to a cooling coil 13 and out through a pipe 15. An audion or vacuum radio tube may be substituted for the generator 43. When solid material such as coal or shale is being treated it may-be stratified with the current conducting lumps 38, 39. The apparatus may be used for preparing gasoline and benzine.