WO2021019176A1

WO2021019176A1 - Device for forming and distributing a two-phase fluid flow

Info

Publication number: WO2021019176A1
Application number: PCT/FR2020/051378
Authority: WO
Inventors: Anne-Marie BILLET; Frédéric DA COSTA; Ignace COGHE; Hélène CHAUMAT; Audrey DEVATINE; Carine JULCOUR
Original assignee: Institut National Polytechnique De Toulouse; Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique; Université Toulouse Iii-Paul Sabatier
Priority date: 2019-07-29
Filing date: 2020-07-27
Publication date: 2021-02-04
Also published as: FR3099392A1; FR3099392B1

Abstract

Device for forming and distributing a two-phase fluid flow, comprising: - a first chamber (5) supplied with a first fluid phase and a second chamber (7) supplied with a second fluid phase and separated from the first chamber by a partition (9); - a plurality of ducts (14), each comprising a first open end (15) in the first chamber (5), said ducts (14) passing through said partition (9) and extending into the second chamber (7) to a second open end (16), said ducts (14) being provided for circulating the first fluid phase from the first end (15) to the second end (16); - each of the ducts (14) being defined by a lateral wall (17) provided, in the second chamber (7), with an inlet (18) to allow the second phase to be introduced into each of the ducts (14), the second phase to be brought into contact with the first phase and a two-phase fluid flow to be formed in the ducts (14), - a perforated plate provided with through-holes (11) separating the first chamber (5) and/or the second chamber (7) into two sub-chambers. Assembly comprising a plurality of said devices. System comprising such a device and an apparatus (101) to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow. Method for manufacturing said device.

Description

Title: TRAINING AND DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR A FLUID FLOW

DIPHASIC.

TECHNICAL AREA

A device for forming, creating, generating, and delivering a two-phase fluid flow is disclosed.

The two phases of the two-phase flow can be a liquid phase and a gas phase or two immiscible liquid phases.

The expected two-phase flow can in particular be a Taylor flow, that is to say a flow comprising a succession of gas bubbles and liquid plugs.

The device according to the invention can be called to simplify distribution device, for example gas and liquid distribution device, or distributor, for example gas and liquid distributor.

The device according to the invention can be used to supply any device operating with a two-phase supply, for example gas-liquid or liquid-liquid.

The device according to the invention can in particular find its application in the context of powering all devices, such as multiphase reactors or contactors (gas-liquid or liquid-liquid), which operate with phases circulating in co-current. descending or ascending, to ensure a uniform distribution of these phases on the input section of these devices.

These devices can in particular be fixed bed reactors, or monolith reactors, or absorbers of the monolith type. They may be reactors with a heterogeneous catalyst or absorbers for scrubbing gas, used in particular in the oil industry.

The device according to the invention is preferably applied to monolithic reactors and absorbers. It should be remembered that monolithic reactors are reactors comprising solid blocks - for example made of metal, plastic, ceramic or resin - pierced with channels inside which a catalyst can be found. This catalyst can be present on the walls of the channels or be in suspension. These channels are generally thin - for example with a diameter which may be of the order of 1 mm -, and close - with, for example, a distance between the channels which may be less than 1 mm.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

In multiphase chemical contactors or reactors, and more particularly in fixed bed reactors, or monolithic reactors, for example for heterogeneous catalysis, the quality of the distribution of fluids on the straight inlet section (i.e. above of the bed of particles, or at the inlet of the multiple channels of a monolith), drastically conditions the efficiency and therefore the overall productivity of the contactor or reactor.

This is particularly true in the case of monolithic reactors used in two-phase flow, for which no radial exchange is possible between the channels, thus generating the conservation of the initial distribution of fluids throughout the reactor.

The technology of fluid distribution devices, or distributors, has therefore been the subject of studies for many years.

Thus, the distributors most commonly used in industry for supplying gas and liquid to multiphase contactors, in particular fixed bed catalytic catalysts are: perforated plates with separate supply of the phases; - trays with perforated chimneys; trays with bell mixer channels; - trays with "gas lift" effect tubes, sometimes called "vapor lift", the principle of which is based on the entrainment of the liquid by the gas. All these distributors do not always ensure a good distribution of fluids in the reactors.

Poor fluid distribution has an impact on reactor performance. It creates the risk of establishment of preferential passages for fluids (in particular liquid), and therefore the risk of short residence times for the reagents, or even the risk of establishment of areas with low fluid circulation, (called " dead zones ”). Such areas with low fluid circulation induce the risk of hot spots appearing, and therefore of premature deactivation of the catalyst, or even thermal runaway of the reaction.

The distributors used for the gas and liquid supply of monolith reactors are in particular:

- perforated plates: The quality of the distribution depends on the pressure drop across the plate. For a low pressure drop (ie, for example less than 100-200 mm of water), the jets of liquid above the monolith are thicker and lead to less good distribution of the liquid phase in the channels. The droplets formed when passing through the plate must be finer than the diameter of the channels to be evenly distributed.

- capillary assemblies: The distribution in the monolith turns out to be non-uniform over the section of the monolith. A slight rotation of the assembly leads to a modification of the pressure drop and therefore of the distribution.

- beds of balls: If the spheres are small, they sometimes block the entrance to certain channels; in addition, at high liquid flow, the bed can be flooded.

- open tubes or nozzles: The spray cone of the nozzle is not always constant with the flow of liquid, and therefore does not always spray the inlet section of the reactor on the same surface. In addition, this configuration of bringing fluids into contact by free mixing promotes the coalescence of bubbles or drops.

- Stacks of short monoliths, with different openings (called “monolith stocks” in English): These devices have often given good results, in particular in terms of reproducibility of the pressure drop. You can stack 2 or 3 monoliths, or even more. This type of device does not, however, prevent the appearance of passages preferred for fluids.

- liquid ejectors: This is in fact a very good simultaneous distributor of gas and liquid, which allows the liquid to be pre-saturated with gas before supplying the reactor. It generates a dispersion of fine bubbles in the liquid, which is at the origin of a homogeneous distribution of the fluids in the channels of the monolith and a better contact surface between the phases. Acting as a compressor, the ejector pushes the fluids into the monolith, involving high velocities of the fluids in the channels.

However, the dispersion of fine bubbles in the liquid phase is not always uniform, the distribution of fluids in the channels is not optimal. Moreover, in the case of the supply of a device of the monolith type, if the bubbles are smaller than the channels of the monolith then the Taylor flow structuring cannot be obtained.

Examples of dispensers are described in the following documents.

Document WO-A1-2007 / 023225 [1] relates to a device for filtering and distributing a gas phase and a liquid phase constituting the feed to a reactor comprising a fixed catalytic bed, said reactor operating. with downward cocurrent of gas and liquid and the liquid phase being loaded with clogging particles.

This device comprises a distributor plate formed by a substantially horizontal base plane and integral with the walls of the reactor, on which are fixed substantially vertical chimneys, provided with an upper opening for the admission of gas and a lower opening for the gas. evacuation of the gas-liquid mixture intended to supply the catalytic bed. These chimneys are pierced over a certain fraction of their height with a side slot or side openings for the admission of the liquid.

The internal diameter of the chimneys is generally between 10 mm and 150 mm, and preferably between 25 mm and 80 mm.

The main purpose of this device is to ensure filtration of impurities. The major drawback of this device is that the chimneys can clog.

Document EP-A1-0462753 [2] relates to a device for mixing fluids in a catalytic reactor with several beds. The main purpose of this device is to mix fluids of different temperatures and compositions in a small area.

This device can be qualified as a falling film multitubular reactor. It comprises two separate chambers, namely a first chamber supplied with gas (upper chamber) and a second chamber supplied with liquid (chamber below). The supply of liquid and gas is carried out via concentric tubes with an annular slot for the liquid. The structure of this device does not allow the creation of a Taylor flow.

Document FR-A-3043339 [3] relates to a device for filtering and distributing a gas phase and a liquid phase, capable of being placed upstream of a fixed catalytic bed of a reactor operating at co-current of gas and liquid.

This device includes:

a solid tray extending in a horizontal plane on which are fixed substantially vertical chimneys open at their upper and lower ends, these chimneys being provided with openings over at least a fraction of their height;

- several removable baskets able to contain and retain a filter medium.

Each basket is provided with a basket support means cooperating with a chimney of the tray to support the filter basket.

The main purpose of this device is to ensure filtration of impurities. But, in addition to the risk of clogging, this device requires the installation of many elements such as baskets and supports, prohibiting its manufacture in order to supply a monolith whose channels are thin and close as we have already seen. specified above.

Document WO-A2-2009 / 092875 [4] relates to a device for filtering and predistributing a gas phase and a liquid phase constituting the feed to a catalytic reactor operating with a downward cocurrent of gas and liquid, the liquid phase being loaded with clogging particles.

This device is placed upstream of a distributor plate and consists of:

- a perforated plate with orifices, horizontal and integral with the walls of the reactor, on which are fixed vertical chimneys open at their upper end for admission gas and at their lower end for evacuating the gas, this plate supporting a filtration bed surrounding the chimneys;

- At least one tube extending vertically from an upper level located above the level of the upper end of the chimneys and which remains contained inside the filtration bed.

Here again, the main purpose of this device is to filter the impurities. Like the device of document [3], this device has an internal geometry that is too complex to be able to be used with a monolith.

The document WO-A1-2006 / 076923 [5] relates to a distribution plate for distributing, uniformly distributing the vapor and the liquid on the cross section of a reactor operating with a downward cocurrent flow of gas and liquid. liquid.

This very simple device has the drawback of allowing preferential passages for fluids, because it can have, depending on the operating flow rates, pressure gradients or jet effects, induced by the general fluid supplies, upstream of the plate. .

Document FR-A1-2996465 [6] relates to a distribution and filtration plate suitable for a downward cocurrent liquid gas flow, in a fixed bed reactor for the treatment of heavy clogging loads, which may include several beds of catalysts. , each plate then being positioned upstream of each catalytic bed.

This plate is formed from top to bottom by: a perforated support supporting a filtration layer;

- A solid plate comprising several vertical distribution elements open at their upper end for the admission of gas and comprising a row of holes for the admission of liquid;

- at least one high porosity dispersive element located below the solid plate.

Here too, the main purpose of this device is to ensure filtration of the impurities, namely the clogging particles contained in a load. Like the previous device, this device comprises perforated plates which, because they are sensitive to the conditions of the upstream fluid supply, do not distribute these fluids homogeneously over the straight section at the inlet of the apparatus.

All the fluid distributors listed and described above, currently used, especially in the chemical industry, are not entirely satisfactory, whether they are distributors for fixed-bed reactors, or distributors for reactors or monolithic absorbers.

These distributors do not ensure a distribution of the fluids of good quality, namely a good homogeneity, uniformity of the distribution of the fluids on the inlet section of the device supplied, such as a fixed bed reactor or a monolith reactor. .

The problem of poor distribution or distribution of fluids arises with particular acuity in the case of reactors or absorbers of the monolith type, since, in these devices:

- any poor distribution of fluids at the inlet of the device's channels spreads to the outlet thereof. This poor distribution therefore impacts the performance of the device to a greater extent than in grain bed or packed reactors or contactors;

- The fluid supply must be distributed in equivalent flow rates over the different channels, but also according to the same flow regime, preferably a Taylor flow.

Since the distribution of fluids obtained with the devices described above is not suitable for monoliths, it is a considerable obstacle to the development in the industry of reactors or absorbers of the monolith type.

There is therefore, in view of the above, a need for a device for forming and distributing a two-phase fluid flow, also called a distributor, which does not have the drawbacks, defects, limitations and disadvantages of the devices of the art. prior art, such as the devices described in the foregoing, and which ensures in particular a distribution of fluids of better quality than in the devices of the prior art, namely in particular better homogeneity or uniformity, on the inlet section of the device powered: - on the one hand, the distribution of fluids in terms of flow rates, and

- on the other hand of the type or regime of flow in the channels in the case of a monolith type device.

In other words, there is a need for a new distributor technology, and associated specifications, which make it possible to obtain good spatial homogeneity, in terms of flow rates and flow structure, of the supply of water. phases at the inlet of the device to be fed, in particular at the inlet of a monolithic reactor or absorber.

There is also a need for a device which allows great flexibility in terms of the ranges of the overall feed rates.

Based on the flow rates to be treated in the industrial environment and the contact surface to be developed between the phases to ensure a satisfactory mass exchange, there is also in particular a need for a device which makes it possible to obtain a Taylor flow of which the bubble passage frequency is high, preferably greater than 100 Hz.

The aim of the present invention is to provide a device for forming and distributing a two-phase fluidic flow which, among other things, meets the needs listed above and which solves the problems of the devices of the prior art.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

This object, and others still, are achieved, in accordance with the invention, by a device for forming and distributing a two-phase fluidic flow comprising:

- a first chamber comprising at least one orifice for the admission of a first fluid phase inside said first chamber, and a second chamber comprising at least (one or more) one orifice for the admission of a second fluid phase immiscible with the first fluid phase inside said second chamber, the first and second chambers being distinct and separated by a partition, and the at least one orifice (the orifice (s)) for the 'admission of a first fluid phase inside said first chamber, and the at least one orifice (the orifice (s)) for the admission of a second fluid phase inside the second chamber being distinct;

- several channels, each comprising a first end open in the first chamber, said channels passing through said partition and extending in the second chamber to a second open end opening out to the outside of a wall of the second chamber remote from said partition, said channels being provided for the circulation of the first fluid phase from the first end to the second end;

- each of the channels being defined by a side wall, and said side wall being provided, in the second chamber, with an inlet to allow the introduction of the second fluid phase into each of the channels, the contacting of the second phase fluid with the first fluid phase and the formation of a two-phase fluid flow in each of the channels (beyond the entry in the direction of flow of the first phase);

a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes which separates the first chamber into two sub-chambers, and / or a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes which separates the second chamber into two sub-chambers.

These perforated plates can each have a greater or lesser thickness, for example a thickness which can range from 1 mm to a few mm (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 mm) up to 1 cm to a few cm (2, 3, 4, 5, ... 10 cm).

The through holes of each of the perforated plates can have any shape. For example, they can have the shape of a polygon (for example square, pentagon, hexagon, rectangle, rhombus ...), of circle (in other words, they can be circular), or of ellipse.

The through holes of each of the plates may have a larger dimension, such as a diameter, for example from 1 mm to 3 mm.

Depending on the internal dimensions of the device and the importance of the overall feed rate of one of the fluid phases, it is possible to decide to place such a perforated plate or floor, only in the first chamber, or else only in the second chamber, or well still in both rooms. Said perforated plates can be placed at different positions, for example at different heights in the first and second chambers.

The device according to the invention has never been described in the prior art. It has a particular structure, configuration, geometry which has never been described or even suggested in the prior art.

It is in particular characterized by two separate, non-communicating supply chambers separated by a wall, each of these chambers being dedicated to a different fluid phase, namely respectively a first fluid phase and a second fluid phase, the second fluid phase. being immiscible with the first fluid phase. For example, the first phase can be a liquid phase and the second phase can be a gas phase, or the first phase can be a liquid phase and the second phase can also be a liquid phase but which is not miscible with the gas. first phase.

Each of the chambers is further provided with at least one orifice, specifically for the admission of the first fluid phase or of the second fluid phase, and the device according to the invention is also characterized in that the orifice (s) ) for the admission of a first fluid phase inside said first chamber, and the orifice (s) for the admission of a second fluid phase inside the second chamber are distinct, or even distant.

The device according to the invention is further characterized by the channels described above which allow the two phases not to meet, not to be brought into contact, only at the level of the inputs for the second phase; these inlets can optionally also be called junctions, depending on their shape), in order to thus form a two-phase fluid flow in the channels which leaves the device through the second open ends opening out to the outside of the second chamber and of the device.

The device according to the invention is finally defined by the presence of a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes which separates the first and / or the second chamber into two sub-chambers.

Thus in the case where the second chamber is separated by a perforated plate provided with through holes, the perforated plate provided with through holes is in further crossed by the channels and defines a first sub-chamber (of the second chamber) between the partition and the perforated plate, and a second sub-chamber in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber; the at least one orifice for the admission of the second fluid phase located in the first sub-chamber, and the inlets with which the side walls of the channels located in the second sub-chamber (of the second chamber) are provided.

The supply of the second fluid phase is thus previously homogenized in the first sub-chamber (of the second chamber) (which can be qualified as a homogenization chamber), before entering the second sub-chamber (of the second chamber) by means of this perforated plate (or horizontal floor in the case of a vertical device) provided with through holes and traversed by the channels. This avoids the preferential paths of the second fluid phase, such as a gas, to the closest inlets with which the side walls of the channels are provided.

In the case where the first chamber is separated by a perforated plate provided with through holes, the perforated plate provided with through holes thus defines a first sub-chamber (of the first chamber) between the partition and the perforated plate, and a second under - chamber in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber; the at least one orifice for the admission of the first fluid phase located in the second sub-chamber and the first open ends of the channels in the first chamber located in the first sub-chamber.

The first fluid phase supply is thus homogenized beforehand in the second sub-chamber (of the first chamber) (which can be qualified as a homogenization chamber), before entering the first sub-chamber (of the first chamber) by means of this perforated plate (or horizontal floor in the case of a vertical device) provided with through holes. This avoids the preferential paths of the first fluid phase, such as a liquid, to the open ends closest to the channels.

The device according to the invention can comprise a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes only in the first chamber. Or the device according to the invention can comprise a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes only in the second chamber.

Or again, the device according to the invention can comprise a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes in the first chamber and the second chamber.

Even better homogeneity of the distribution of fluids in the different channels is obtained when perforated plates are present in the first chamber and the second chamber and the mixing of the fluids is rapid.

The device according to the invention meets the needs listed above, does not have the drawbacks of the devices of the prior art and provides a solution to the problems of the devices of the prior art.

The device according to the invention makes it possible to generate, in each channel at the level of the inlet to the second end of each of these connection channels, a structured two-phase flow (for example gas-liquid or liquid-liquid) in which the two fluid phases are in close contact and obey a desired flow regime, namely for example a flow comprising bubbles (or drops) of liquid of smaller diameter than the channel, or else a Taylor flow, that is, that is to say a flow comprising a succession of gas bubbles and liquid plugs. Taylor flow is most often desired because it provides a high contact area.

Thanks to the device according to the invention, in the case where a Taylor flow is generated in the channels, it has been surprisingly demonstrated that the frequency of passage of the bubbles exceeds 100 Hz (that is to say that more than 100 bubbles per second pass through each channel). Such a high frequency, greater than 100 Hz, has never been mentioned in the description of the devices of the prior art. This frequency of passage of bubbles can even exceed 300 Hz, even 400 Hz (that is to say that more than 400 bubbles per second pass in each channel).

In all the channels of the device according to the invention, there is the same quantity of each phase, for example the same quantity of gas and liquid and there is a two-phase flow organized, for example with a succession of gas bubbles and liquid caps. A typical shape of bubbles is a gun bullet shape. All the channels of the device according to the invention work in the same way.

The device, namely the fluid distributor, according to the invention makes it possible to supply an apparatus with two premixed phases, according to a desired flow regime. These phases are distributed in the different channels (of the device as well as of the reactor or absorber of the monolith type) with a much better homogeneity (see the Figures, and in particular Figures 17, 18 and 20) than that which has been observed with the devices of conventional distribution, of the prior art, such as the devices described above, and in particular the devices with perforated plates.

The device according to the invention allows for the first time good spatial homogeneity of the two-phase supply of a monolithic reactor or absorber, which thus eliminates one of the obstacles which opposed the implementation of these reactors in the reactor. industry instead of packed reactors.

The quantitative characterization of the quality of the distribution of the phases between the different channels has been demonstrated by visual or global criteria (observation of flow regimes, bubbling frequency: see examples below). Moreover, it was also verified that the pressure drop generated by the flow of fluids through the distributor according to the invention is low.

The device according to the invention, which can in particular be qualified as a device for injecting fluids into the channels of an apparatus, such as a reactor, guarantees good homogeneity of the distribution of the two fluids over the entire section of this apparatus. , such as a reactor (case of a fixed bed reactor, packed), or in the different channels of this device (case of a monolithic reactor or absorber)

The device according to the invention allows good control of the introduction of the two phases into its internal channels. As a result, the two phases are distributed homogeneously on leaving the device according to the invention, in order to water a fixed bed or to supply the channels of a monolith.

The device according to the invention also has the advantage of being of a simple design and manufacture, of being compact, of being perfectly sealed, and of not having any moving parts. Depending on the material in which the dispenser is made, it will be able to withstand the chemicals considered in the various potential industrial applications; Once the dimensions of the channels and their arrangement have been decided, the realization of the dispenser, by 3D printing, is simple.

Advantageously, the channels are parallel to each other.

Advantageously, the channels are arranged in rows.

Advantageously, the two-dimensional spatial distribution of the channels on the cross section of the device, in particular at the level of said wall of the second chamber remote from said partition, and the dimensions and shapes of the sections of the channels are identical to the two-dimensional spatial distribution on the section. right of a device supplied by the device and the dimensions and shapes of the channels of said device.

In other words, the dimensions, the positioning and the internal topology of the channels of the device according to the invention are generally specifically adapted to the geometry of the device to be supplied using the device according to the invention.

Thus, in particular in the case of a monolith reactor, the channels of the device according to the invention generally have the same diameter and the same spatial distribution over the cross section as the channels of the monolith itself.

This specific configuration therefore generally requires the use of additive manufacturing techniques. Once the dimensions of the channels and their arrangement have been decided, the realization of the dispenser, by 3D printing, is simple.

Advantageously, the inlets of the channels are in one or more shapes chosen from the following shapes: orifice in the side wall of the channel connected to a tube; flush orifice, flush with the side wall of the canal; the side wall of the channel possibly forming a venturi, and the tube or orifice being provided in the restriction of the venturi.

The orifices and tubes of the inlets of the channels may have dimensions, such as diameters, which vary, for example from 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Tubes can have varying lengths

Advantageously, the channels are channels with a circular cross section. Advantageously, the channels can then have a diameter of 1 to 10 mm, preferably 2 to 6 mm, more preferably 3 to 5 mm, better still 4 to 5 mm.

But any other shape is possible for this straight section.

For example, the cross section of the channels can have the shape of a polygon (for example square, pentagon, hexagon, rectangle, rhombus ...), or of an ellipse.

In the case of channels whose cross section has a shape other than circular, then the cross section of the channels can advantageously have a larger dimension of 1 to 10 mm, preferably 2 to 6 mm, more preferably 3 to 5 mm. mm, better 4 to 5 mm.

The channels having such "small" diameters can be qualified as fine or capillary channels.

As has already been specified, the diameter of the channels is generally chosen so as to be identical to the diameter of the channels of the device, such as a monolith reactor, to be supplied, with the two-phase fluid flow formed with the device according to invention.

For example, if the diameter of the channels of the device, such as a monolith reactor, to be supplied with the two-phase fluidic flow formed with the device according to the invention is 2 mm then the diameter of the channels of the device according to invention will also be 2 mm.

Below 1 mm in diameter, the operation of the device is less easy, while if the diameter is too large then the gas bubble (in the case where the second phase is a gas and the first phase is a liquid) will not be well confined, formed, sheared.

In other words, it is necessary (in the case of a vertical device) that, in the channels, the capillary effects are greater than the effects of gravity, so that the gas bubble is pushed by the liquid. Advantageously, the device is a one-piece device, which greatly facilitates its manufacture by an additive manufacturing technique, for example by a manufacturing technique that uses a 3D printer.

The material which constitutes the device according to the invention is preferably chosen from materials which are resistant to the fluids which pass through it, in other words to the first fluid phase and to the second fluid phase, in particular if these fluids are corrosive and / or at high temperature and / or under pressure.

In other words, the material from which the dispenser is made is generally chosen so as to resist the chemicals contemplated in the various potential industrial applications.

Advantageously, the material which constitutes the device according to the invention is also chosen from the materials allowing manufacture of the device by an additive manufacturing technique, for example by a manufacturing technique which uses a 3D printer.

Preferably, the device according to the invention is made of a material chosen from metals such as aluminum and titanium, metal alloys such as steel and titanium or aluminum alloys, organic polymers and resins such as as ABS and acrylic resins, and all the materials allowing the device to be manufactured by an additive manufacturing technique.

Advantageously, the device according to the invention is substantially vertical, the first chamber and the second chamber are superimposed, (the first chamber and the second chamber being arranged one above the other, namely the first chamber arranged in the above the second chamber or vice versa; and preferably the first chamber is arranged above the second chamber), said partition being substantially horizontal, and said channels being substantially vertical.

The perforated plate (s) (floor (s)) mentioned above is (are) then also substantially horizontal (s).

Advantageously, the device according to the invention is provided with means of connection with an apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow such as a fixed bed reactor or a monolithic reactor or absorber. Indeed, the device according to the invention must be able to be connected to this device to be supplied, such as a fixed bed reactor or a monolith reactor, while ensuring a good seal between the device and this device.

These connection means may in particular consist of a system of joints and clamping flanges.

Advantageously, the device according to the invention can be provided with centering pins to ensure the exact correspondence of the channels with the channels of the device to be supplied, in particular the channels of a monolithic reactor or absorber.

The invention also relates to an assembly or assembly comprising several devices according to the invention as described above.

This assembly or assembly can comprise several devices according to the invention, without any limitation on the number of these devices.

For example, this assembly or assembly can comprise from 2 to ten devices according to the invention, generally within the limit of 1 or 2 meters of bulk.

In this assembly, the devices can be assembled, in particular side by side with common power supplies, in particular interposed.

The invention further relates to a system comprising a device according to the invention, as described above, or an assembly as described above, and at least one device to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow formed by the device or the assembly according to the invention.

There is no limitation on the number of devices which can be powered by the device according to the invention or by the assembly or assembly comprising several devices according to the invention. One or more devices can be powered.

The devices to be supplied can thus number from 1 to ten, generally within the limits of a footprint of 1 to 2 meters.

In the case of a single device, it can supply a single device or several devices, such as monolithic reactors or absorbers, in series, in particular stacked. In the case of a set of devices, each of these devices can power one or more devices.

The devices to be supplied can be devices operating with fluid phases circulating in co-current, for example with downward co-current.

Advantageously, the apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluidic flow is a fixed bed reactor or a monolith reactor or absorber.

The device to be supplied is generally provided with connection means cooperating with the connection means of the device according to the invention in order to ensure a good seal between the device according to the invention and this device.

Indeed, the system must be able to be used at the pressure and at the temperature desired for the apparatus such as a fixed bed reactor or a monolithic reactor or absorber.

As seen above, in the case of feeding a monolithic reactor or absorber, it is necessary to ensure the exact connection of the channels of the distributor with those of the monolith reactor, for example by using centering pins.

The applications of the device according to the invention relate in particular to all devices, reactors and multiphase absorbers (gas-liquid or liquid-liquid) requiring operation with fluids circulating in downward co-current and a uniform distribution of these fluids over the section d. device input. These are therefore fixed bed reactors, for example in the petroleum processing industry, as well as so-called monolith devices (catalytic reactors or absorbers).

Examples of fluids and reactions, with the associated operating conditions, which can be carried out in the devices capable of being supplied by the device according to the invention, are the following:

(1) Catalytic reactions for the treatment of liquid hydrocarbons:

- Catalytic addition of a heavy hydrocarbon and a light hydrocarbon;

- Synthesis of ethylbenzene, an intermediate in the production of styrene;

- Hydrogenation of fossil oils comprising C = C double bonds (for example: hydrogenation of petroleum terpenes): pressure from 1 to 30 bar, temperature from 40 to 150 ° C; - Hydrogenation of fatty acid triglycerides contained in vegetable oils (food industry): pressure from 1 to 30 bars, temperature from 40 to 100 ° C.

(2) Absorption of gaseous compounds: pressure from 1 to 20 bar, ambient to cold temperature:

Reactive absorption of acidic compounds from natural gas;

- Reactive absorption of CO2 present in gaseous effluents leaving the factory.

Finally, the invention relates to a method of manufacturing the device according to any one of the preceding embodiments in which the device is manufactured by an additive manufacturing technique, in particular with a 3D printing machine.

The invention will be better understood on reading the following detailed description of particular embodiments. This description is given by way of illustration and without limitation and is given in relation to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[Fig. 1] is a top view of an embodiment (first embodiment) of the device according to the invention.

[Fig. 2] is a vertical sectional view along the line G-G of FIG. 1 of an embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[Fig. 3] is a vertical sectional view along the line J-J of Figure 1 of an embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[Fig. 4] is a three-dimensional perspective view of an embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[Fig. 5] is a side view of an embodiment of the device according to the invention, with the dimensions. The dimensions in mm indicated in this figure are given by way of illustration and not by way of limitation.

[Fig. 6] is a horizontal sectional view, along the line AA of FIG. 5, of an embodiment of the device according to the invention, with the dimensions. The dimensions in mm indicated in this figure are given by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. [Fig. 7] is a vertical sectional view, along the line CC of FIG. 6, of an embodiment of the device according to the invention, with the dimensions. The dimensions in mm indicated in this figure are given by way of illustration and not by way of limitation.

[Fig. 8] is another three-dimensional perspective view from another angle, of an embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[Fig. 9] is a three-dimensional perspective view of an embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[Fig. 10] is an enlarged view in cross section which shows the rows of channels and the geometry of the inlets provided in these channels in the second chamber (here the lower chamber) of an embodiment of the device according to the invention. In other words, this Figure is a horizontal section on the upper line of the bottom flange of an embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[Fig. 11] is a three-dimensional sectional view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention, in which a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes separates the first chamber into two sub-chambers, and another plate perforated (or floor), provided with through holes separates the second chamber into two sub-chambers.

[Fig. 12] is a three-dimensional sectional view of yet another embodiment of the device according to the invention in which a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes separates the first chamber into two sub-chambers, and the second chamber does not include a perforated plate (or floor) separating it into two sub-rooms.

[Fig. 13] is a three-dimensional perspective view of a system, an assembly constituted by the assembly of an embodiment of a device according to the invention and of a monolith reactor.

[Fig. 14] is a three-quarter sectional view in three-dimensional perspective and enlarged of a part of the system, the assembly shown in Figure 13 and consisting of the assembly of an embodiment of a device according to the invention and of a monolith reactor.

[Fig. 15] is a three-quarter sectional view in three-dimensional perspective of the system, the assembly shown in FIG. 13, and constituted by the assembly of an embodiment of a device according to the invention and of a monolith reactor.

[Fig. 16] is a photograph which shows a background image of the 12 consecutive canals, filled with water.

[Fig. 17] is a photograph which shows an image of the 12 channels supplied with air and water.

[Fig. 18] is a photograph which shows a binarized image (via gray level thresholding) of the flow in row A of 12 channels as shown in Figure 10. [Fig. 19] gives the frequency diagrams for each of the 12 channels of row A (see Figure 10), obtained by Fourier transformation. For each diagram, on the abscissa is plotted the frequency (in Hz), and on the ordinate is plotted the representativeness (dimensionless, between 0 and 1) of the frequency along the abscissa.

[Fig. 20] is a graph which shows the flow regimes obtained in row A of 12 channels (Figure 10) for different overall gas supply flow rates Q. _G (on the abscissa, L.min ¹ ) and liquid QL ( on the y-axis, L.min ¹ ).

[Fig. 21] is a vertical section in three-dimensional external view, which shows a simulated geometry of a device according to the invention (such as that shown in Figure 11), implemented in Example 2, in which a perforated plate ( or floor), provided with through holes separates the first chamber into two sub-chambers, and another perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes separates the second chamber into two sub-chambers.

In this Figure the “empty” areas are in fact walls or solid elements which have not been meshed for the simulation of the flow. In other words, these parts were not represented (or "meshed") in the simulation because they do not accommodate flow phases) [Fig. 22] is a three-dimensional vertical sectional view in external view, which represents a simulated geometry of a device according to the invention, implemented in Example 2, in which a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes separates the second bedroom into two sub-bedrooms.

In this Figure the “empty” areas are in fact walls or solid elements which have not been meshed for the simulation of the flow.

[Fig. 23] is a three-dimensional vertical section in external view, which represents a simulated geometry of a comparative dispensing device, not in accordance with the invention, implemented in example 2. This dispensing device is a device of the “spray shower” type. », In which a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes, separates the second chamber into two sub-chambers.

[Fig. 24] is a view in vertical section, which represents a simulated geometry of a device according to the invention, implemented in Example 2, in which a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes separates the first chamber. into two sub-chambers, and another perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes, separates the second chamber into two sub-chambers.

The geometry of Figure 24 therefore comprises two perforated plates or floors.

[Fig. 25] is a vertical sectional view which represents a simulated geometry of a device according to the invention, implemented in Example 2, in which a perforated plate (or floor), provided with through holes separates the second chamber into two sub-bedrooms.

This device does not have a floor in the upper chamber (see figure 2). [Fig. 26] is a three-dimensional perspective view which represents a vertical section of a device of the “spray shower” type not in accordance with the invention which is connected to a monolith block.

DETAILED PRESENTATION OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS

An embodiment of the device, "dispenser", according to the invention is described in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15.

The device described in these Figures has a substantially cylindrical shape with a circular outer cross section, but other shapes and sections could be easily envisioned by those skilled in the art, for example a polygonal section, in particular square or hexagonal.

The device described in these Figures is shown in a substantially vertical arrangement but it could be disposed otherwise, for example horizontally or with an angle of inclination relative to a vertical axis.

In FIG. 2, the device for forming and distributing a two-phase fluidic flow according to the invention comprises an enclosure made of a material as defined above.

This enclosure is defined by an upper wall (1), a lower wall (2) and an internal side wall of rectangular section (3).

In the upper wall (1) can be provided a removable cover (4) optionally transparent or a porthole.

In this enclosure, is defined a first chamber (5) (in the figures, this chamber is an upper chamber but it could, conversely, be a lower chamber) intended to receive a first fluid phase, for example a liquid phase. .

This first chamber (5) comprises at least one orifice (6) for the admission of the first fluid phase inside said first chamber (5), which can for example be called the liquid inlet orifice ( 6). In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, two inlet ports (6) are shown but the first chamber (5) could only include a single port or more than two inlet ports, for example 3, 4, or even 6 or 8 inlet ports.

In the event that the first chamber (5) only comprises a single inlet orifice, it could in particular be a single circular orifice which allows a more homogeneous supply of the first fluid phase.

In general, the preferred geometry of the intake port (s), whatever the number, is a circular geometry.

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the orifices (6) are arranged, by way of example, in the side wall (3) of the first chamber (5) but one or more orifices could also be provided in the upper wall (1). One could even consider only a single orifice or several orifices provided in the upper wall (1) for supplying the first chamber (5) with a first fluid phase such as a liquid.

Then, in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the two orifices (6) for the admission of the first fluid phase inside the first chamber (5) are arranged diametrically opposed. on the circumference of the first chamber (5) but other arrangements could be provided. When the first chamber (5) comprises several intake openings, then they are distributed regularly around the circumference of the first chamber (5).

In this enclosure is also defined a second chamber (7) (in the figures this chamber is a lower chamber but it could, conversely, be an upper chamber) intended to receive a second fluid phase, for example a gas phase.

This second chamber (7) comprises at least one orifice (8) for the admission of the second fluid phase inside said second chamber (7), which can for example be called gas inlet orifice ( 8).

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, two inlet ports (8) are shown but the second chamber (7) could not include only one port or more than two inlet ports, eg 3, 4, or even 6 or 8 inlet ports.

In the event that the second chamber (7) only comprises a single inlet orifice, it could in particular be a single circular orifice which allows a more homogeneous supply of the second fluid phase.

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the orifices (8) are arranged, by way of example, in the side wall of the second chamber (7).

Then, in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the two openings (8) for the admission of the second fluid phase inside the second chamber (7) are arranged diametrically opposed. on the circumference of the second chamber (7) but other arrangements could be provided. When the second chamber (7) comprises several intake openings (8), then they are distributed regularly around the circumference of the second chamber (7).

As shown in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the first (5) and the second chamber (7) are distinct and separated by a partition (9), and the at least one orifice ( 6) for the admission of a first fluid phase inside said first chamber (5), and the at least one orifice (8) for the admission of a second fluid phase inside the second bedroom (7) are quite distinct.

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the device being vertical, the partition wall (9) is horizontal.

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, a perforated plate (10) provided with through holes (11) separates the second chamber (7) into a first sub-chamber (12) defined between the partition ( 9) and the perforated plate (10) and a second sub-chamber (13) in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber (12) via the through holes (11). The two orifices (8) for the admission of the second fluid phase (gas) located in the first sub-chamber (12).

This perforated plate (10), which in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, is horizontal, can therefore be called a perforated floor and provides a prior homogenization of the gas flow before it passes through the second sub-chamber (13).

The through holes (11) of the perforated plate (10) can have any shape. For example, they can have the shape of a polygon (for example square, pentagon, hexagon, rectangle, rhombus ...), of circle (in other words, they can be circular), or of ellipse.

The through holes (11) of the perforated plate (10) may have a larger dimension, such as a diameter, for example from 1 mm to 3 mm.

The perforated plate (10) can be placed in various positions, for example at different heights, in the second chamber (7) so that the first sub-chamber (12) and the second sub-chamber (13) may have variable sizes.

The perforated plate (10) can be placed for example halfway up in the second chamber (7).

This perforated plate (10) in the second chamber (7) can however be omitted if a perforated plate is provided in the first chamber, but it is preferable that it be present for the aforementioned purposes of homogenization of the stream.

It should be noted that a perforated plate provided with through holes (not shown in Figures 1 to 10 and 13 to 15) can also be provided in the first chamber (5) (see below and Figures 11 and 12). This perforated plate then separates the first chamber (5) into a first sub-chamber defined between the partition (9) and said perforated plate, and a second sub-chamber in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber via holes crossing. If a perforated plate is thus provided in the first chamber (5), then a perforated plate (10) provided with through holes (11) may be provided in the second chamber (7) as described above, or else this perforated plate may be omitted in the second chamber (7).

The device according to the invention further comprises several channels (14), each comprising a first open end (15) in the first chamber (5), said channels (14) passing through said partition (9) and extending into the second. chamber (7) up to a second open end (16) opening out to the outside of a wall (2) of the second chamber (7) remote from said partition (9). This wall (2) is none other than the wall bottom of the enclosure. In these channels (14) circulates the first fluid phase from the first end (15) to the second end (16).

Thus in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the channels (14) have a mouth (15) provided in the first upper chamber (5) and these channels (14) protrude beyond the partition (9) over a certain length inside the first chamber (5) before opening at their first end (15) into the first chamber (5).

Other configurations are possible for the end of the channels (14). In particular, the channels may not protrude beyond the partition (9) inside the first chamber (5) and their first end (15) may then be in the form of a simple flush orifice, flush. , on the surface of the partition (9) on the side of the first chamber (5).

The channels (14) extend into the second chamber (7), pass through the lower wall (2) or base of the enclosure and of the second chamber (7), up to a second open end (16) opening out to the exterior of the lower wall (2) of the enclosure and of the second chamber (7).

The channels (14) can optionally see their section enlarge when passing through the wall (2) as shown in particular in Figure 2.

This widening of the channels (14) when passing through the wall (2) is however only shown by way of example and is not mandatory, the section of the channels (14) may in fact remain the same when through the wall (2).

Through this second open end (16) leaves the two-phase flow which can feed an apparatus such as an absorber or a monolith reactor (see Figures 13 to 15).

Each of the channels (14) is defined by a side wall (17), and said side wall (17) is provided, in the second chamber (7), with an inlet (18) or lateral opening to allow the introduction of the second phase (here a gas) in each of the channels (14), the placing of the second phase in contact with the first phase and the formation (beyond these inlets (18) in the direction of flow of the first phase) of a two-phase fluid flow in the channels. This entry (18) or lateral opening in the channels (14), within the second chamber (7), can be located at any point along the length of these channels (14) in the second chamber (7) , in other words at any height in the second chamber (7).

Preferably this inlet (18) or lateral opening in the channels (14), within the second chamber (7) is located towards the middle of the length, towards the middle of the height of these channels in the second chamber in case in particular where a little of the first phase would enter the second chamber supplied in the second phase.

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, a preferred embodiment is shown in which the inlets (18) with which the channels are provided are located in the second sub-chamber (13) defined under the plate. perforated or perforated floor (10). This preferred embodiment allows a uniform gas supply to all inlets (18).

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the channels (14) are parallel to each other and they are arranged in rows. More exactly, in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, the channels (14) are 84 in number and are arranged in 7 rows each of 12 channels (14).

The channels (14) shown in Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, are channels with a circular cross section, but straight sections with other shapes can be considered, for example a polygonal section, in particular square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or in rhombus, or else an elliptical section.

The channels (14) may have a larger dimension, such as a diameter, as specified above, of

1 to 10 mm, preferably 2 to 6 mm, more preferably 3 to 5 mm, better still 4 to 5 mm.

The channel inputs (18) can be in one or more forms.

For example, the channels of the device shown in Figures 1-10, as well as Figures 13-15, have inlets (18) in each row. These inlets (18) have the following shapes: orifice in the side wall of the channel connected to an orthogonal tube with the side wall of the channel (i.e. forming a T-fitting with the side wall of the channel) or to a tube inclined horizontally or vertically with respect to the side wall of the channel according to, simple flush orifice, leveling (therefore not forming a T bar) in the side wall of the channel. This orthogonal or inclined tube has a length of 1 or 2 mm, and its diameter is 0.5 to 2 mm and this flush hole has a diameter of 0.5 to 2 mm.

The flush orifice and the tubes have in the Figures a circular cross section but other shapes are possible: polygons, in particular square, rhombus, etc.

The device of Figures 1 to 10, as well as that shown in Figures 13 to 15, is provided with means for connection with an apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow such as a fixed bed reactor or a monolith reactor.

In Figures 1 to 10, as well as in Figures 13 to 15, these connection means consist of a system of clamping flanges (19) located at the base of the device.

Another clamp system (20) is provided at the top of the device for connection with other devices or pipelines.

Figures 5, 6, and 7 are views of the embodiment of the device according to the invention as shown in Figures 1 to 4 with ribs.

These dimensions are given only by way of example and can in no way constitute a limitation of the dimensions of the device and of the constituent parts thereof.

The dimensions of the device, distributor according to the invention, can in fact vary between wide limits.

For example, the device according to the invention may have a height of 71 mm, and a diameter of 88 mm with external flanges, this diameter possibly being less if the device does not have flanges. The height of the lower chamber (7) (chamber for the gas phase) can then be 29 mm. One of the advantages of the device according to the invention is that it can be very compact with very small channel dimensions, this is made possible in particular when the device is a one-piece device manufactured by 3D printing.

As the device, distributor according to the invention, has the essential function of supplying with a two-phase flow (gas and liquid, or two liquids) an apparatus such as a chemical reactor, its dimensions are therefore variable, adapted to the destination reactor. . Likewise, the overall phase flow rates which feed the device according to the invention are dictated by the flow rates necessary for the reactor.

Figure 10 shows the 7 rows, lines (called rows, lines A, B, C, D, E, F, and G) of channels (14) - each row, line comprising 12 channels - of the embodiment of the device according to the invention shown in Figures 1 to 7 and 8 and 9. Figure 10 shows various examples of the inlet configuration provided for the second phase (gas).

These configurations of the inlets, inlet ports, are as follows for lines, rows, A, B, C, D, E, F, and G:

Line A: Flush hole, that is to say without an extension tee tube, with a diameter of 1 mm. Line B: Tee tube (forming a “T” with the channel) with an extension tube 2.5mm long from a 1mm diameter hole in the channel.

Line C: Tee tube (forming a "T" with the channel) with an extension tube 2.5mm long from a 1.5mm diameter hole in the channel.

Line D: Flush hole, that is to say without extension tee tube, with a diameter of 2 mm.

Line E: Tee tube (forming a “T” with the channel) with an extension tube 2.5mm long from a 2mm diameter hole in the channel. The extension tube is arranged with an orientation of 22 ° on the vertical axis in order to free the gas inlet orifice as much as possible with respect to the following channel and therefore to be located between two channels of the following line.

Line F: Tee tube (forming a “T” with the channel) with an extension tube 2.5mm long from a 2mm diameter hole in the channel. Line G: Tee tube (forming a “T” with the channel) with an extension tube 1.5 mm long from a 2 mm diameter hole in the channel.

Another embodiment of the device, “dispenser”, according to the invention is described in Figure 11.

In this embodiment of the device, described in Figure 11, a perforated plate (21) provided with through holes (22) is further provided in the first chamber (5). This perforated plate (21) then separates the first chamber (5) into a first sub-chamber (23) defined between the partition (9) and said perforated plate (21), and a second sub-chamber (24) in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber (23) via the through holes (22).

The perforated plate (21) can be placed in various positions, for example at different heights, in the first chamber (5), so that the first sub-chamber (23) and the second sub-chamber (24) can have varying sizes.

The perforated plate (21) can be placed, for example, halfway up in the first chamber (5).

Apart from the presence of a perforated plate (21) provided with through holes (22) in the first chamber (5), the device of this embodiment described in FIG. 11 is substantially similar to the device of the described embodiment. in Figures 1 to 10, and the description of the device of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 10, also applies to the device of the embodiment of Figure 11.

In particular, in the device of the embodiment described in Figure 11, a perforated plate (10) provided with through holes (11) is also provided in the second chamber (7) as described above for the embodiment of Figures 1 to 10.

However, it should be noted that in the device of the embodiment described in Figure 11, the first chamber (5) comprises only one orifice (6), provided in the upper wall (1), for the admission. of the first fluid phase inside said first chamber (5). In Figure 11 this single orifice (6) is a circular orifice provided in the upper wall (1) which allows a simpler supply (therefore technically easier) in the first fluid phase.

In addition, the device of the embodiment described in Figure 11 does not include, like the devices of Figures 1 to 10 and 13 to 15, means for connection with an apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow such as a fixed bed reactor. or a monolith reactor, these connection means possibly consisting of a system of clamping flanges (19) located at the base of the device.

However, the device of FIG. 11 could of course be provided with means for connection with an apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow.

A clamping clamp system (20) is provided at the top of the device for possible connection with other devices or pipes.

Yet another embodiment of the "dispenser" device according to the invention is described in Figure 12.

In this embodiment, depicted in Figure 12, a perforated plate (21) provided with through holes (22) is provided in the first chamber (5). This perforated plate (21) then separates the first chamber (5) into a first sub-chamber (23) defined between the partition (9) and said perforated plate (21), and a second sub-chamber (24) in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber (23) via the through holes (22).

The through holes (22) of the perforated plate (21) can have any shape. For example, they can have the shape of a polygon (for example square, pentagon, hexagon, rectangle, rhombus ...), of circle (in other words, they can be circular), or of ellipse. The through holes (22) of the perforated plate (21) may have a larger dimension, such as a diameter, for example from 1 mm to 3 mm.

Apart from the presence of a perforated plate (21) provided with through holes (22) in the first chamber, the device of this embodiment described in Figure 12 is similar to the device of the embodiment described in Figures 1 to 10, and the description of the embodiment of the device of Figures 1 to 10, also applies to the embodiment of Figure 12.

However, in the embodiment described in Figure 12, a perforated plate provided with through holes is no longer provided in the second chamber (7) as described above for the embodiment of Figures 1 to 10 and 11.

It should also be noted that, in the device of the embodiment described in Figure 12, the first chamber (5) comprises only one orifice (6), provided in the upper wall (1), for the admission of the first fluid phase inside said first chamber (5). In FIG. 12 this single orifice (6) is a circular orifice provided in the upper wall (1) which allows a simpler supply of the first fluid phase.

In addition, the device of the embodiment described in Figure 12 does not include, like the devices of Figures 1 to 10 and 13 to 15, means of connection with an apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow such as a fixed bed reactor. or a monolith reactor, these connection means possibly consisting of a system of clamping flanges (19) located at the base of the device.

However, the device of Figure 12 could obviously be provided with means of connection with an apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow.

Finally, a clamping flange system (20) is not provided at the top of the device for connection with other devices or pipes. But, again, the device of Figure 12 could of course be provided with a clamping flange system (20) at the top of the device for connection with other devices or pipes.

In FIGS. 13 to 15, there is shown a system comprising a device according to the invention (100) and an apparatus for supplying (101) with a two-phase fluid flow, namely a monolith reactor (101). The monolith reactor (101) is assembled with the device according to the invention by means of the flange (19) provided at the base of the device according to the invention (100) and a flange (102) provided at the top of the monolith reactor (101), a flat gasket is placed between these flanges and this gasket is crushed by clamping with screws (103).

The device according to the invention (100) shown in Figures 13 to 15 is that described in Figures 1 to 10, but it is obvious that other devices according to the invention could be used, such as those of Figures 11 and 12 provided with suitable flanges (19).

It is noted, in particular in FIG. 15, that the channels (14) of the distributor device (100) have the same diameter and the same spatial distribution on the cross section as the channels of the monolith reactor (101).

Several superimposed monolith reactors can be provided.

The invention will now be described with reference to the following examples, given by way of illustration and without limitation.

Example 1.

In this example 1, a device according to the invention is manufactured and this device is used to form a two-phase water-gas flow.

This device is the device shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 already described above.

The device according to the invention, used in Example 1 which follows (see Figures 1 to 10 and in particular Figures 8 and 9) comprises 7 rows of 12 channels (see in particular Figure 10), positioned according to a distribution model corresponding to that of resin monoliths available, which thus allows performance tests to be carried out with these monoliths. The device according to the invention, used in Example 1, comprises two separate chambers (5, 7) supplied with one or the other of the two fluids.

The first chamber (5) or upper chamber ensures the distribution of the first phase, namely water, in the channels, or capillaries, and the two-phase mixing is carried out in each capillary at the level of the second chamber (7), or lower chamber, using dedicated junctions, or inlets (18).

In this lower chamber (7), the supply in the second phase, namely air, is first pre-homogenized in a first sub-chamber (12), by means of a "floor" (10) passed through. by the channels (14) and pierced with orifices (11) (see in particular Figure 9). Each of the 7 rows of channels (14) offers, within the distributor according to the invention, in the lower supply chamber (7), the same topology for the junction of gas and liquid, but the 7 rows available have enabled to constitute 7 different configurations for this junction, connection in "T" or connection by flushing orifice, according to diameters ranging from 1 to 2 mm (see in particular Figure 10).

The internal geometry of the dispenser (see in particular Figures 1 to 7, in particular Figures 5 to 7) was designed using dedicated software (“Autodesk Inventor ^® ”).

The device was made from UV photopolymerizable acrylic resin in a 3D printing machine (3D printer from the 3D System ^® company using "Polyjet ^® " technology).

More exactly, the production by 3D printing of the device for generating / distributing two-phase flow according to the invention took place according to the following protocol:

- Sizing and modeling of a 3D digital model using software

CAD ("Autodesk Inventor ^® ").

- Preprocessing: Conversion of the native "ipt" file into ".571" format ("Standard

Tesselation Language ”), which is the format used for the slicing operation. In other words, during this step, the configuration of the printing and the virtual cutting of the 3D model into slices corresponding to the thickness of the layers of the material to be stacked during the 3D printing are carried out. - Loading of the parameterized file into the 3D printer implementing the "Polyjet ^® " technology.

- Printing of the object by successive stacking of layers of photosensitive resin, (acrylate-type photopolymerizable UV resin, called “Visijet M3”; in the jargon used in this field, this resin is qualified as being an “ABS” Like ") UV light cured and generation of wax building supports.

- Post-treatment: removal of the object from the printer and passage in an oven at 80 ° C for 24 hours to melt the wax (24 hours).

- Removal of the object from the oven and air cooling.

The quality of the homogeneity of the distribution of the two phases in the different channels could be qualitatively evaluated by means of direct observations, video recordings and photographs of the flows at the outlet of each of the rows of 12 channels by means of transparent capillaries adapted to the dispenser.

Thus, Figures 16 and 17 show raw images for row A (defined in Figure 10) comprising 12 channels, with overall flow rates (to supply 12 channels) of air and water of 0.72 L / min. and 1.21 L / min, respectively.

Figure 16 shows a background image of the 12 consecutive channels, filled with water.

Figure 17 shows an image of the 12 channels supplied with air (second phase introduced through the inlets in the channels located in the second chamber) and water. This image shows that a homogeneous two-phase flow and Taylor flow type is indeed obtained in all the channels.

The frequencies of passage of the bubbles in the channels were measured using a strobe on the one hand (not illustrated), and an image analysis on the other hand (Figures 16 to 19), and this for different overall liquid and gas feed rates.

Thus, Figures 16 and 17 show the shots for row A of 12 channels (see Figure 10) used for image processing with the “Matlab ^® ” software (overall air and water flow rates: 0 , 72 L / min and 1.21 L / min, respectively) Figure 18 is the binarized image digitally with MATLAB ^® (via thresholding grayscale) of the flow in the row A of channels 12 as shown in Figure 17.

Figure 19 gives the frequency diagrams for each of the 12 channels of row A (see Figure 10), obtained by Fourier transformation.

It is observed in Figure 19 that frequencies up to 400 Hz could be obtained, attesting to the existence of short bubbles and short stoppers in rapid movement. This makes this device according to the invention extremely interesting from the point of view of the interfacial area offered between the two phases present, at high flow rates.

Tests conducted for row A of channels (defined in Figure 10) with different overall air and water supply flow rates (gas injected in the lower chamber, liquid in the upper chamber, using a single side port for each chamber), made it possible to map the flow structures obtained simultaneously in the 12 channels.

Thus, Figure 20 shows the flow regimes obtained in row A of 12 channels (Figure 10) for different overall gas and liquid feed rates.

We can clearly see in this Figure that, according to logic, the flow regime varies from the flow with small bubbles (called "bubbly") for low gas flows associated with large liquid flows (boxed in thick line bottom left in Figure 20), up to the annular flow (gaseous core with a liquid film on the wall) for high gas flow rates associated with low liquid flow rates (boxed in thick lines at the top right on Figure 20).

Example 2.

The tests carried out in this example are tests are carried out in simulated devices simulating real devices.

In this example, digital simulations of the flow of the same fluid are therefore carried out, but injected at a different temperature in each of the two chambers. supply of a device according to the invention (distributor) in the embodiment shown in Figure 11.

This distributor therefore comprises, in the first supply chamber, a perforated plate placed at an equal distance from the partition wall of the chambers and from the fluid supply port. Likewise, the device has, in the second supply chamber, a perforated plate placed at an equal distance from the partition wall of the chambers and from the lower floor of the second chamber. For this second chamber, two supply orifices are positioned one opposite the other, in the upper sub-chamber.

Numerical simulations of the flow of the same fluid, but injected at a different temperature, into each of the two supply chambers of a device according to the invention (distributor) in an embodiment with a plate are also carried out. perforated in the second chamber only (Figures 1 to 10 and 13 to 15).

Finally, numerical simulations of the flow of the same fluid are carried out in a conventional distributor, not in accordance with the invention, of the “spraying shower” type) with perforated plates is also simulated for comparison, and this in the same flow and temperature conditions, and according to a grid with the same characteristics):

This distributor (Figure 26) comprises two supply chambers (104 and 105), with a perforated plate (106) at the bottom of the second chamber (105). The first chamber (104), supplied with cold water at 20 ° C (first fluid phase) through a central orifice, has at its bottom orifices which open into non-perforated channels laterally (107) (unlike the channels ( 14) of the device according to the invention which have inlets (18)). These orifices are the upper orifices of the channels (107). These non-perforated channels (107) pass through the second chamber (105). The second chamber (105), supplied with hot water at 70 ° C (second fluid phase) via 2 side orifices (108), is in contact with the perforated plate (106). The plate (106) also includes the lower orifices of the channels (107) coming from the first chamber (104). Thus, this perforated plate (106) separates this second chamber (105) into two sub-chambers in fluid communication (second fluid phase). The second sub-chamber (lower chamber 109) of the second chamber therefore receives both the first and second fluid phases. At the bottom of this second sub-chamber (109), a perforated plate (110) distributes these 2 fluids (cold water and hot water) to the apparatus or the reactor located below: it has been shown in the example, on leaving this spraying plate (110), a set of 84 channels (111) simulating a monolith block and arranged as in the case where the distributor is a distributor according to the invention.

The digital simulations were carried out with the commercial simulation tool Ansys Workbench ^® version 18.2, and in particular using its drawing software (Ansys Workbench ^® Design Modeler), meshing (Ansys Workbench ^® Meshing) and using its digital solver (Ansys Workbench ^® FLUENT). Due to the vertical plane of symmetry admitted by the device according to the invention, only one half of the distributor is shown, in order to reduce calculation times. Thus, for each of the 7 rows of 12 channels, only 6 channels are taken into account in the volume shown, ie a total of 42 channels (see Figures 21, 22, 24 and 25). The internal geometry of the distributor (that is to say the volume through which the fluid passes) is represented using approximately 800,000 meshes of characteristic size 2.10 ⁴ m. The validity of this mesh was checked by a preliminary study of sensitivity of the results to the number and to the smoothness of the meshes.

In these simulations, the first chamber is supplied with water at 20 ° C at a flow rate of 0.049 kg / s, and the second chamber with water at 70 ° C at an equivalent flow rate (0.049 kg / s). The lateral perforations of the channels, present in the second chamber (valid for Figures 21, 22, 24 and 25), are therefore the seat of a mixture of water at 20 ° C and water at 70 ° C. Thus, the differences in flow rate at the outlet of the channels, as well as the comparison of the average temperatures at the outlet of the different channels, reflect the quality of the homogeneity of the distribution of fluids (in terms of partial flow rates) in the various channels.

Two internal geometries of the first chamber of the distributor according to the invention are therefore studied:

Geometry 1: Device, distributor, according to the invention, with perforated plates in the middle of the first chamber and of the second fluid supply chamber (Figures 21 and 24). Geometry 2: Device, distributor according to the invention with a perforated plate in the second chamber only (Figures 22 and 25).

Finally, a conventional sprayer type sprayer with perforated plates (Figures 23 and 26) is also simulated for comparison, under the same flow and temperature conditions, and according to a mesh with the same characteristics:

Geometry 3: “spray shower” type distributor (Figures The result of the simulations is first used in terms of the distribution of the total flow in the 42 simulated channels (Figures 23 and 26).

The following table I gives the standard deviation on the flow rates of liquid leaving the various channels:

Table I.

It clearly appears a better homogeneity of the distribution of the fluids in the different channels, for the device according to the invention and in particular for the device according to the invention with perforated plates in the two supply chambers.

Then, the temperature fields (which represent the mixture of a hot fluid and a cold fluid) in the channels of the 3 simulated distributors are compared. It can be seen by observing these temperature fields that the mixing of hot water and cold water is rapid for the devices according to the invention, as soon as the hot water enters through the perforations, lateral entries (18) of the channels (14). On the other hand, for the spray shower type distributor, it is noted that the temperature heterogeneities persist over nearly 2 cm in the channels of the fed monolith.

Claims

1. Device for forming and distributing a two-phase fluidic flow comprising:

- a first chamber (5) comprising at least one orifice (6) for the admission of a first fluid phase inside said first chamber (5), and a second chamber (7) comprising at least one orifice ( 8) for the admission of a second fluid phase immiscible with the first fluid phase inside said second chamber (7), the first (5) and the second chamber (7) being distinct and separated by a partition (9), and the at least one orifice (6) for the admission of a first fluid phase inside said first chamber (5), and the at least one orifice (8) for the admission of 'a second fluid phase inside the second chamber (6) being distinct;

- several channels (14), each comprising a first open end (15) in the first chamber (5), said channels (14) passing through said partition (9) and extending into the second chamber (7) up to a second open end (16) opening out to the outside of a wall (2) of the second chamber (7) remote from said partition (9), said channels (14) being provided for the circulation of the first fluid phase from the first end (15) to the second end (16);

- each of the channels (14) being defined by a side wall (17), and said side wall (17) being provided, in the second chamber (7), with an inlet (18) to allow the introduction of the second fluid phase in each of the channels (14), contacting the second fluid phase with the first fluid phase and forming a two-phase fluid flow in each of the channels (14);

a perforated plate (or floor) (21), provided with through holes (22) which separates the first chamber (5) into two sub-chambers (23, 24) and / or a perforated plate (or floor) (10), provided with through holes (11) which separates the second chamber (7) into two sub-chambers (12, 13).

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the second chamber (7) is separated by a perforated plate (10) provided with through holes (11), said perforated plate (10) provided with through holes (11) being further traversed by the channels (14) and defining a first sub-chamber (12) between the partition (9) and the perforated plate (10), and a second sub-chamber (13) in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber (12) ); the at least one orifice (8) for the admission of the second fluid phase located in the first sub-chamber (12), and the inlets (18) with which the side walls of the channels located in the second sub-chamber are provided bedroom (13).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first chamber (5) is separated by a perforated plate (21) provided with through holes (22), said perforated plate (21) provided with through holes (22) defining a first sub-chamber (23) between the partition (9) and the perforated plate (21), and a second sub-chamber (24) in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber (23); the at least one orifice for the admission of the first fluid phase (6) located in the second sub-chamber (24) and the first open ends (15) of the channels (14) in the first chamber (5) located in the first sub-chamber (23).

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the channels (14) are parallel to each other.

5. Device according to claim 4, wherein the channels (14) are arranged in rows.

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two-dimensional spatial distribution of the channels (14) on the cross section of the device, in particular at the level of said wall (2) of the second chamber (7) remote from said said device. partition (9), and the dimensions and shapes of the sections of the channels (14) are identical to the distribution two-dimensional spatial on the cross section of a device supplied by the device and the dimensions and shapes of the channels of said device.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlets (18) of the channels (14) are in one or more shapes chosen from the following shapes: orifice in the side wall of the channel connected to a tube; flush orifice, flush with the side wall of the canal; the side wall of the channel possibly forming a venturi, and the tube or orifice being provided in the restriction of the venturi.

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the channels (14) are channels with a circular cross section.

9. Device according to claim 8, wherein the channels (14) have a diameter of 1 to 10 mm, preferably 2 to 6 mm, more preferably 3 to 5 mm, better still 4 to 5 mm.

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the device is a one-piece device.

11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the device is made of a material chosen from metals, metal alloys, organic polymers and resins, and all the materials allowing manufacture of the device by an additive manufacturing technique. .

12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is substantially vertical, the first chamber (5) and the second chamber (7) are superposed, said partition (9) being substantially horizontal, and said channels (14). ) being substantially vertical.

13. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, which is provided with connection means (19) with an apparatus to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow.

14. An assembly comprising several devices according to any one of claims l to 13.

15. System comprising a device according to any one of claims 1 to 13 (100) or an assembly according to claim 14, and at least one apparatus (101) to be supplied with a two-phase fluid flow formed by said device or said assembly.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the apparatus (101) to be supplied with a two-phase fluidic flow is an apparatus operating with fluid phases circulating in co-current, for example in downward co-current; preferably, said apparatus (101) to be supplied with two-phase fluidic flow is a fixed bed reactor or a monolithic reactor or absorber.

17. A method of manufacturing the device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the device is manufactured by an additive manufacturing technique, in particular with a 3D printing machine.