Fluidized bed reactor system

Abstract

A fluidized bed reactor system comprising a vessel adapted to contain a fluidized bed. A plurality of fluid injector means are mounted through the vessel wall for injecting and distributing a fluidizing medium into the lower portion of the vessel. Each injector means is comprised of an injector having a nozzle end projecting into the vessel. The injector is withdrawably mounted through the vessel wall, the nozzle end having at least one downwardly directed orifice. A shield means is provided which is mounted to the vessel wall above the nozzle end for maintaining a nozzle opening in the bed when the injector is withdrawn. The reactor system is further comprised of a fluid supply means in fluid communication with each injector for supplying the fluidizing medium to each nozzle end. When it is required to replace the injector due, for example, to clogging of the orifices or deterioration of the nozzle end, the injector is withdrawn from the vessel, replaced or repaired and then inserted into the vessel. The shield means allows for the easy insertion of the injector into the vessel by maintaining a nozzle opening in the bed, whether fluidized or non-fluidized. The fluidized bed reactor system allows for the replacement or repair of injectors without the necessity for shutting down and/or cleaning out the vessel.