Method and Apparatus for Quasi-Continuous Supply of Polydisperse Bulk Materials into Pressurized Spaces

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The invention describes a method and device for the quasi-continuous feeding of polydisperse bulk materials (which can be in a wide range of particle sizes and materials) into pressurized environments, such as reactors. It uses a special piston press system that forms a tight, gas-impermeable cake of material, allowing for reliable feed at pressures up to 100 bar. Unlike previous systems, this approach does not require additives or pre-treatment with steam to achieve gas tightness, and it works with various types of bulk materials, including waste, coal, or residues from biogas and compost plants. The system also includes mechanisms for removing trapped air during pressing, applying lubricants to reduce friction, and ensuring gas-tight operation with safety features to prevent backflow.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Feeding coal dust, waste, or biomass into pressurized gasification reactors for producing syngas or chemicals.
• Inputting finely or coarsely ground materials into high-pressure combustion chambers for power generation.
• Supplying waste or residues from biogas and compost plants into pressurized processes for energy recovery or further processing.
• Feeding various bulk powders or particles into pressurized chemical reactors without the risk of gas leakage.
• Providing a safe, efficient, and continuous solid feed system for industrial processes that require inert or sealed conditions.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Handles bulk materials with a very wide and flexible grain size distribution, including poorly compacting or sticky materials.
• Does not require additives, steam, or binders for making the feed gas-tight, making it more economical and adaptable.
• Enables quasi-continuous and high-throughput operation, which increases process efficiency and productivity.
• Ensures high safety against gas breakthrough up to 100 bar, even when materials have variable properties.
• Reduces energy losses and water usage compared to slurry feed systems or traditional lock hoppers.
• Improved process control and lower maintenance, as the system can be operated and cleaned more easily and safely.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device for the quasi-continuous feeding of polydisperse bulk materials into pressurized spaces by means of a solid-matter pump in the form of a tamping press with a high throughput and a high gas-breakthrough resistance at pressures up to 100 bar. The method according to the invention is characterized in that polydisperse bulk materials that are uncompacted and/or pre-compacted into compacts and are of a dust-like particle size (