REGENERATIVE THERMAL OXIDIZER, SYSTEM COMPRISING A REGENERATIVE THERMAL OXIDIZER AND METHOD OF OPERATING A REGENERATIVE THERMAL OXIDIZER

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a regenerative thermal oxidizer comprising at least a first transfer chamber and at least a second transfer chamber, wherein the first transfer chamber comprises a first bed and the second transfer chamber comprises a second bed; at least one reaction chamber in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber and with the second transfer chamber; and one or more first waste gas inlet for introducing at least a first portion of waste gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer positioned between at least a portion of the first bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber or positioned between at least a portion of the second bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.

Claims

1. A system comprising a regenerative thermal oxidizer, wherein the regenerative thermal oxidizer comprises: at least a first transfer chamber and at least a second transfer chamber, wherein the first transfer chamber comprises a first bed and the second transfer chamber comprises a second bed; at least one reaction chamber in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber and with the second transfer chamber; and one or more first waste gas inlets through which at least a first portion of waste gas can be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, wherein the first waste gas inlets are positioned between at least a portion of the first bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber or positioned between at least a portion of the second bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more first waste gas inlets are positioned between at least a portion of the first bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber, and the regenerative thermal oxidizer comprises one or more second waste gas inlets through which the first portion of waste gas can be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, wherein the second waste gas inlets are positioned between at least a portion of the second bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein at least a second portion of waste gas is introducible into the regenerative thermal oxidizer to flow through the first bed to the reaction chamber or to flow through the second bed to the reaction chamber.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein: the regenerative thermal oxidizer comprises at least a third transfer chamber, wherein the third transfer chamber comprises a third bed; the reaction chamber is in fluid flow communication with the third transfer chamber; and the regenerative thermal oxidizer comprises one or more third waste gas inlets through which the first portion of waste gas can be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, wherein the third waste gas inlets are positioned between at least a portion of the third bed and at least a portion of the reaction chamber.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein at least a second portion of waste gas is introducible into the regenerative thermal oxidizer to flow through the first bed to the reaction chamber, or to flow through the second bed to the reaction chamber, or to flow through the third bed to the reaction chamber.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises: a first waste gas tube for connecting a waste gas source with at least a second waste gas tube, wherein the second waste gas tube connects the first waste gas tube with the regenerative thermal oxidizer ; an oxygen-containing gas tube for connecting an oxygen-containing gas source with the regenerative thermal oxidizer; and a controller; wherein the controller is configured to: direct at least the first portion of waste gas via the first waste gas tube and via the second waste gas tube to the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the first portion of the waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed and/or downstream of at least a portion of the second bed, wherein the waste gas includes at least one oxidizable compound; and direct oxygen-containing gas via the oxygen-containing gas tube to the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the at least one oxidizable compound is oxidized in the reaction chamber.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the controller is configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas via the oxygen-containing gas tube through the first bed and/or through the second bed to the reaction chamber, such that the oxygen-containing gas is preheated by the first bed and/or by the second bed.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the system further comprises a bypass tube for connecting a heat exchanger with the regenerative thermal oxidizer, wherein the controller is configured to direct gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer to the heat exchanger such that the gas is cooled by the heat exchanger.

9. The system of claim 6, wherein the system further comprises a third waste gas tube for connecting the waste gas source with the first transfer chamber and/or with the second transfer chamber, wherein the controller is configured to: direct the first portion of waste gas via the second waste gas tube to the regenerative thermal oxidizer; and direct at least a second portion of waste gas via the third waste gas tube through the first bed and/or through the second bed to the reaction chamber, such that the second portion of the waste gas is preheated by the first bed and/or by the second bed.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the controller is configured to direct the oxygen-containing gas via the oxygen-containing gas tube through the first bed and/or through the second bed to the reaction chamber, such that the oxygen-containing gas is preheated by the first bed and/or by the second bed.

11. The system of claim 6, wherein, during a first cycle, the controller is configured to: direct the first portion of waste gas via the second waste gas tube to the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the first portion of waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed; and direct the second portion of waste gas via the third waste gas tube through the first bed to the reaction chamber, such that the second portion of waste gas is preheated by the first bed; and wherein, during a second cycle, the controller is configured to: direct the first portion of waste gas via the second waste gas tube to the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the first portion of waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the second bed; and direct the second portion of waste gas via the third waste gas tube through the second bed to the reaction chamber, such that the second portion of waste gas is preheated by the second bed.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein, during the first cycle, the controller is configured to: direct flue gas, produced by oxidation of the oxidizable compound of the waste gas in the reaction chamber, from the reaction chamber through the second bed, such that the flue gas is cooled by the second bed; and wherein, during the second cycle, the controller is configured to: direct the flue gas from the reaction chamber through the first bed, such that the flue gas is cooled by the first bed.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the system further comprises a bypass tube for connecting a heat exchanger with the regenerative thermal oxidizer, wherein the controller is configured to direct gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer to the heat exchanger such that the gas is cooled by the heat exchanger.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the first portion of waste gas comprises less than 20.0 vol.-% oxygen.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the second portion of waste gas comprises at least 1.0 vol.-% oxygen.

16. A method of operating a regenerative thermal oxidizer, the method comprising the steps of: directing at least a first portion of waste gas to a reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the first portion of waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of a first bed of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, wherein the waste gas includes at least one oxidizable compound; and directing oxygen-containing gas through the first bed of a first transfer chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer to the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the oxygen-containing gas is preheated by the first bed.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the method further comprises the step of: directing at least a second portion of waste gas through the first bed, such that the second portion of the waste gas is preheated by the first bed.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the method further comprises, during a first cycle, the steps of: directing the first portion of waste gas to the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the first portion of waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed; directing the oxygen-containing gas through the first bed to the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer; and directing the second portion of waste gas through the first bed of the regenerative thermal oxidizer; and during a second cycle, the steps of: directing the first portion of waste gas to the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the first portion of waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of a second bed of the regenerative thermal oxidizer; directing the oxygen-containing gas through the second bed to the reaction chamber of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the oxygen-containing gas is preheated by the second bed; and directing the second portion of waste gas through the second bed of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, such that the second portion of waste gas is preheated by the second bed.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first portion of waste gas comprises less than 20.0 vol.-% oxygen.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the second portion of waste gas comprises at least 1.0 vol.-% oxygen.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0111] The above-mentioned attributes and other features and advantages of the present disclosure and the manner of attaining them will become more apparent and the present disclosure itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the present technique taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0112] FIG. 1 shows a system 1000 according to an embodiment;

[0113] FIG. 2 shows a system 1000 according to an embodiment;

[0114] FIG. 3a shows a transfer chamber 141;

[0115] FIG. 3b shows a cross section view of the transfer chamber 141;

[0116] FIG. 4 shows a regenerative thermal oxidizer 100;

[0117] FIG. 5 shows a system 1000 during a first cycle;

[0118] FIG. 6 shows the system 1000 during a second cycle;

[0119] FIG. 7 shows a system 1000 during a first cycle;

[0120] FIG. 8 shows the system 1000 during a second cycle;

[0121] FIG. 9 shows the system 1000 during a third cycle; and

[0122] FIG. 10 shows a system 1000 during a start-up cycle.

[0123] Hereinafter, above-mentioned and other features of the present disclosure are described in detail. Various embodiments are described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purpose of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments. It may be noted that the illustrated embodiments are intended to explain, and not to limit the disclosure. It may be evident that such embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

[0124] It may be noted that terms like “first”, “second” and “third” are merely used to distinguishing elements, not to count elements. For example, when a “second” element is addressed, this does not imply that a “first” element must be present.

[0125] FIG. 1 schematically shows a system 1000. The system 1000 may comprise a regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0126] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may comprise a first transfer chamber 141 and a second transfer chamber 142. The first transfer chamber 141 may include a first bed 131. The second transfer chamber 142 may include a second bed 132. The first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may be in fluid flow communication with a reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0127] The first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may be physically separated such that the first bed 131 and the second bed 132 are physically separated from each other. The separation can be achieved by a wall which extends in the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. At one side, the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may be open, preferably towards the reaction chamber 120.

[0128] The extension of the wall separating the first bed 131 and the second bed 132 may define an upper end of the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142. For example, an end of the wall separating the first bed 131 and the second bed 132 may define the end of the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142.

[0129] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may comprise a heater 110. The heater 110 may be used to heat at least a portion of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. For example, the reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. Alternatively or additionally, the first bed 131 and the second bed 132 may be heated by the heater 110. The heater 110 may be a burner or an electrical heater.

[0130] The system 1000 may comprise a controller 500. The controller 500 may be configured to control the overall operation of the system 1000. The controller 500 may be configured to control the overall operation of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The controller 500 may be located in an overall control station (not shown) of the system 1000. The controller 500 may be a part of a controlling computer of the system 1000.

[0131] The system 1000 may comprise a first waste gas tube 310. The first waste gas tube 310 may connect a waste gas source 300 and the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0132] Specifically, the first waste gas tube 310 may be connected to a second waste gas tube 360. The second waste gas tube 360 may be connected to one or more waste gas inlet 145, 146, 147, 148 as will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3a and 3b.

[0133] Preferably, one or more first waste gas inlet 145, 146, 147, 148 corresponds to the first transfer chamber 141 and/or one or more second waste gas inlet 145, 146, 147, 148 corresponds to the second transfer chamber 142.

[0134] The one or more first waste gas inlet 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned such that the (first portion of the) waste gas enters the first bed 131 (indicated by a dashed arrow in FIG. 1). Also, the one or more first waste gas inlet 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned such that the (first portion of the) waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 outside the first bed 131 (indicated by a solid arrow in FIG. 1).

[0135] The first waste gas tube 310 may be connected to a third waste gas tube 350. The third waste gas tube 350 may connect the waste gas source 300 and the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142.

[0136] A first portion of waste gas may flow from the waste gas source 300 via the first waste gas tube 310 and the second waste gas tube 360 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. A second portion of waste gas may flow from the waste gas source 300 via the first waste gas tube 310 and the third waste gas tube 350 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0137] A valve 370 may be implemented between the first waste gas tube 310, the second waste gas tube 360 and the third waste gas tube 350. At valve 370, waste gas from the waste gas source 300 may be split into a first portion of waste gas and a second portion of waste gas. A flow rate of the first portion of waste gas and the second portion of waste may be controlled, for example by valve 370.

[0138] The third waste gas tube 350 may comprise at least a first valve 320. The third waste gas tube 350 may comprise at least a second valve 330. When the first valve 320 is open, waste gas may flow from the waste gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the first valve 320 is closed, waste gas may not flow from the waste gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the second valve 330 is open, waste gas may flow from the waste gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the second valve 330 is closed, waste gas may not flow from the waste gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142.

[0139] The pressure at the waste gas source 300 may be higher than at the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the second transfer chamber 142. Also, a pressure unit (not shown) may be disposed along the first waste gas tube 310, the second waste gas tube 360 and/or the third waste gas tube 350 to force the waste gas to the first transfer chamber 141 and/or to the second transfer chamber 142 and/or to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The pressure unit may be a blower. The waste gas source 300 may be an exit or an outlet of a gas treatment unit.

[0140] A gas-liquid separation unit 400, for example a knock-out drum or demister, may be disposed along the first waste gas tube 310, the second waste gas tube 360 and/or the third waste gas tube 350. The gas-liquid separation unit 400 may separate and/or remove liquid components in the waste gas. Preferably, the gas-liquid separation unit 400 is positioned close to the waste gas source 300.

[0141] The system 1000 may comprise an oxygen-containing gas tube 210. The oxygen-containing gas tube 210 may connect an oxygen-containing gas source 200 with the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, preferably with the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the second transfer chamber 142. Oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 via the oxygen-containing gas tube 210 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0142] Specifically, the oxygen-containing gas tube 210 may be connected to the third waste gas tube 360. Oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the third waste gas tube 350. The second portion of waste gas may be mixed with the oxygen-containing gas in the third waste gas tube 350.

[0143] The oxygen-containing gas tube 210 may comprise at least one valve 220. When the valve 220 is open, oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, preferably via the third waste gas tube 350. When the valve 220 is closed, oxygen-containing gas may not flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, preferably may not flow via the third waste gas tube 350 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0144] A pressure unit (not shown) may be disposed along the oxygen-containing gas tube 210 to force the oxygen-containing gas to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, in particular to the first transfer chamber 141 and/or to the second transfer chamber 142 via the third waste gas tube 350. The oxygen-containing gas source 200 may be surrounding air. The pressure unit may be a blower.

[0145] The system 1000 may comprise a flue gas tube 810. As will be described in more details below, an oxidizable compound of the waste gas may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 by oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas. By oxidizing the oxidizable compound, flue gas may be produced in the reaction chamber 120.

[0146] The flue gas tube 810 may connect the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the second transfer chamber 142 with a flue gas outlet 800. Flue gas may flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, in particular from the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 or from the first transfer chamber 141 and/or from the second transfer chamber 142, via the flue gas tube 810 to the flue gas outlet 800.

[0147] The flue gas tube 810 may comprise at least a first valve 820. The flue gas tube 810 may comprise at least a second valve 830. When the first valve 820 is open, flue gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the first valve 820 is closed, flue gas may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is open, flue gas may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is closed, flue gas may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet 800. The flue gas outlet 800 may be the environment of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Thus, flue gas may be released to the environment.

[0148] The pressure in the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the second transfer chamber 142 may be higher than the pressure at the flue gas outlet 800. Also, the flue gas tube 810 may comprise a pressure unit (not shown) to force the flue gas towards the flue gas outlet 800. The pressure unit may be a blower.

[0149] The system 1000 may comprise a bypass tube 710. The bypass tube 710 may connect a heat exchanger 700 with the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, in particular with the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Gas may flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, in particular from the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 to the heat exchanger 700. The gas may be flue gas.

[0150] The gas may be cooled in the heat exchanger 700. For example, the heat exchanger 700 may be configured to transfer (thermal) energy from the gas to the waste gas (e.g., the first portion of waste gas and/or the second portion of waste gas) prior to entry of the waste gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, to the oxygen-containing gas prior to entry of the oxygen-containing gas into the regenerative thermal oxidizer, to a heat recovery system and/or to a superheater.

[0151] The bypass tube 710 may comprise at least one valve 720. When the valve 720 is open, gas may flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 to the heat exchanger 700. When the valve 720 is closed, gas may not flow from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 to the heat exchanger 700.

[0152] The pressure in the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may be higher than the pressure in the heat exchanger. Also, a pressure unit (not shown) may be disposed along the bypass tube 710 to force the gas from the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 to the heat exchanger. The pressure unit may be a blower.

[0153] The heat exchanger 700 may be connected to the flue gas tube 810. Gas exiting the heat exchanger may be introduced into the flue gas tube 810.

[0154] FIG. 2 schematically shows a system 1000. Some of the components of the system 1000 shown in FIG. 2 are equal to the same components of the system shown in FIG. 1. In the following, differences between FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 will be described.

[0155] The system 1000 may comprise a regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may comprise a first transfer chamber 141, a second transfer chamber 142 and a third transfer chamber 143. The first transfer chamber 141 may include a first bed 131. The second transfer chamber 142 may include a second bed 132. The third transfer chamber 143 may include a third bed 133. The first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and the third transfer chamber 143 may be in fluid flow communication with a reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0156] The first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and the third transfer chamber 143 may be physically separated such that the first bed 131, the second bed 132 and the third bed 133 are physically separated from each other. The separation can be achieved by one or more walls which extend in the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. For example, the first transfer chamber 141 and the second transfer chamber 142 may be separated by a first wall. The second transfer chamber 142 and the third transfer chamber 143 may be separated by a second wall.

[0157] The heater 110 may be configured to heat the reaction chamber 120. Alternatively or additionally, the first bed 131, the second bed 132 and the third bed may be heated by the heater 110.

[0158] The system 1000 may comprise a first waste gas tube 310. The first waste gas tube 310 may connect a waste gas source 300 and the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Specifically, the third waste gas tube 350 may connect the waste gas source 300 and the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and the third transfer chamber 143.

[0159] The third waste gas tube 350 may comprise at least a first valve 320, at least a second valve 330, and at least a third valve 340. When the first valve 320 is open, waste gas may flow from the waste gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the first valve 320 is closed, waste gas may not flow from the waste gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. When the second valve 330 is open, waste gas may flow from the waste gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the second valve 330 is closed, waste gas may not flow from the waste gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. When the third valve 340 is open, waste gas may flow from the waste gas source 300 to the third transfer chamber 143. When the third valve 340 is closed, waste gas may not flow from the waste gas source 300 to the third transfer chamber 143.

[0160] The one or more first waste gas inlet 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned such that the (first portion of the) waste gas enters the first bed 131 (indicated by a dashed arrow in FIG. 2). Also, the one or more first waste gas inlet 145, 146, 147, 148 may be positioned such that the (first portion of the) waste gas enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 outside the first bed 131 (indicated by a solid arrow in FIG. 2).

[0161] The system 1000 may comprise an oxygen-containing gas tube 210. The oxygen-containing gas tube 210 may connect an oxygen-containing gas source 200 with the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0162] The system 1000 may comprise a flue gas tube 810. The flue gas tube 810 may connect the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 with a flue gas outlet 800.

[0163] The flue gas tube 810 may comprise at least a first valve 820, at least a second valve 830 and at least a third valve 840. When the first valve 820 is open, flue gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the first valve 820 is closed, flue gas may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is open, flue gas may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the second valve 830 is closed, flue gas may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the third valve 840 is open, flue gas may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the flue gas outlet 800. When the third valve 840 is closed, flue gas may not flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the flue gas outlet 800.

[0164] The system may comprise a purge tube 610. The purge tube 610 may connect the third waste gas tube 350 with the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and the third transfer chamber 143. Gas, preferably flue gas, may flow from the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 to the third waste gas tube 350.

[0165] The purge tube 610 may comprise a first valve 620, a second valve 630 and a third valve 640. When the first valve 620 is open, gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the third waste gas tube 350. When the first valve 620 is closed, gas may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the third waste gas tube 350. When the second valve 630 is open, gas may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the third waste gas tube 350. When the second valve 630 is closed, gas may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the third waste gas tube 350. When the third valve 640 is open, gas may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the third waste gas tube 350. When the third valve 640 is closed, gas may not flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the third waste gas tube 350.

[0166] The purge gas tube 610 may comprise a pressure unit 600 to force the gas towards the third waste gas tube 350.

[0167] FIG. 3a schematically shows a transfer chamber of a regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The transfer chamber will be described with reference to the first transfer chamber 141. Other transfer chambers of the regenerative thermal oxidizer, for example the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 may be designed in a similar or equal or equivalent way.

[0168] The first transfer chamber 141 comprises a bed 131. In FIG. 3a, a cut plane is indicated. The corresponding cross section view is shown in FIG. 3b.

[0169] The first transfer chamber 141 may have a circular or polygonal cross section. The polygonal cross section may be rectangular or square. The cross section may be oriented in a plane perpendicular to a flow direction of the waste gas through the first transfer chamber 141.

[0170] The first transfer chamber 141 may comprise a waste gas inlet 145. The waste gas inlet 145 may be a bore or a hole in the first transfer chamber 141, preferably in a side wall of the first transfer chamber 141. The waste gas inlet 145 may comprise a nozzle.

[0171] When oxygen-containing gas flows through the first bed 131 of the first transfer chamber 141 towards the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100, the waste gas inlet 145 may be formed downstream of at least a portion of the first bed 131.

[0172] The waste gas inlet 145 may be positioned such that the waste gas, preferably the first portion of waste gas, enters the first bed 131 of the first transfer chamber 141. Also, the waste gas inlet 145 may be positioned such that the waste gas, preferably the first portion of waste gas, enters the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 outside the first bed 131 of the first transfer chamber 141.

[0173] The first transfer chamber 141 may comprise two waste gas inlets 145, 146. Preferably the first transfer chamber 141 comprises three waste gas inlets 145, 146, 147, more preferably the first transfer chamber 141 comprises four waste gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148, more preferably the first transfer chamber 141 comprises more than four waste gas inlets (not shown).

[0174] The one or more oxygen-containing gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may be evenly or non-evenly distributed along a circumference of the first transfer chamber 141.

[0175] A distance between a portion of the first bed 131 and a first waste gas inlet 145 may be the same as a distance between the portion of the first bed 131 and a second waste gas inlet 146. Each of the waste gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 may have the same distance to the portion of the first bed 131. In general, the distance may be a distance in the flow direction of oxygen-containing gas through the first transfer chamber 141.

[0176] A distance between one or more of the waste gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 and the portion of the first bed 131 may be different than a distance of at least another one of the waste gas inlets 145, 146, 147, 148 and the portion of the first bed 131.

[0177] FIG. 4 schematically shows a regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 which functions in a similar way as the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 as shown in FIG. 2 and as described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0178] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may comprise a first transfer chamber 141, a second transfer chamber 142 and a third transfer chamber 143. The first transfer chamber 141 may comprise a first bed 131. The second transfer chamber 142 may comprise a second bed 132. The third transfer chamber 143 may comprise a third bed 133.

[0179] The first bed 131 may be positioned (directly) adjacent or between the second bed 132 and the third bed 133. The second bed 132 may be positioned (directly) adjacent or between the third bed 133 and the first bed 131. The third bed 133 may be positioned (directly) adjacent or between the first bed 131 and the second bed 132.

[0180] The regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 may comprise a housing 150. The housing 150 may have a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially circular cross section. The first bed 131, the second bed 132 and the third bed 133 may be positioned in the housing 150.

[0181] The first transfer chamber 141 may comprise one or more first waste gas inlet 145a. The second transfer chamber 142 may comprise one or more second waste gas inlet 145b. The third transfer chamber 143 may comprise one or more waste gas inlet 145c.

[0182] FIG. 5 schematically shows a system 1000 during a first cycle. The system 1000 may be similar or equal to the system as shown in FIG. 1 and described with reference to FIG. 1. Flow paths are indicated in the drawings by bold tubes or bold tube sections.

[0183] During the first cycle, the first portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. The first portion of waste gas may not be directed to the second transfer chamber 142. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the first bed 131 or outside the first bed 131. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed 131.

[0184] The second portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 through the first bed 131 towards the reaction chamber 120. The second portion of waste gas may not be directed to the second transfer chamber 142. For example, valve 320 may be in open state. Valve 330 may be in closed state.

[0185] The second portion of waste gas may flow through the first bed 131 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 5). The first bed 131 may have a higher temperature than the second portion of waste gas such that the second portion of waste gas is preheated. The second portion of waste gas may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0186] Oxygen-containing gas may be directed from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Specifically, oxygen-containing gas may be directed to the third waste gas tube 350. The oxygen-containing gas may be mixed with the second portion of waste gas. The mixture may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may flow through the first bed 131 and may be preheated by the first bed 131. For example, valve 220 may be in open state.

[0187] The at least one oxidizable compound in the waste gas (e.g., first portion of waste gas and second portion of waste gas) may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120. The oxidization may be a reaction of the at least one oxidizable compound of the waste gas with oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas. Flue gas may be produced by the oxidation in the reaction chamber 120. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the waste gas. For example, the oxidation may be an exothermic reaction. Thereby, heat may be produced in the reaction chamber 120. Alternatively or additionally, the reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. However, preferably, the reaction chamber 120 is not heated by the heater during the first cycle.

[0188] The flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the second transfer chamber 142. Specifically, the flue gas may flow through the second bed 132 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 5) of the second transfer chamber 142. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the second bed 132. Thus, the second bed 132 may be heated by the flue gas. At the same time, the flue gas may be cooled by the second bed 132.

[0189] Flue gas may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet 800. For example, valve 830 may be in open state. Valve 820 may be in closed state. Flue gas may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the flue gas outlet.

[0190] FIG. 6 schematically shows the system 1000 during a second cycle. The system 1000 may be similar or equal to the system as shown in FIG. 1 and described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0191] During the second cycle, the first portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. The first portion of waste gas may not be directed to the first transfer chamber 141. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the second bed 132 or outside the second bed 132. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of the second bed 132.

[0192] The second portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 through the second bed 132 towards the reaction chamber 120. The second portion of waste gas may not be directed to the first transfer chamber 141. For example, valve 330 may be in open state. Valve 320 may be in closed state.

[0193] The second portion of waste gas may flow through the second bed 132 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 6). The second bed 132 may have a higher temperature than the second portion of waste gas such that the second portion of waste gas is preheated. The second portion of waste gas may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0194] Oxygen-containing gas may be directed from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Specifically, oxygen-containing gas may be directed to the third waste gas tube 350. The oxygen-containing gas may be mixed with the second portion of waste gas. The mixture may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may flow through the second bed 132 and may be preheated by the second bed 132. Valve 220 may be in open state.

[0195] The at least one oxidizable compound in the waste gas (e.g., first portion of waste gas and second portion of waste gas) may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120 and flue gas may be produced. The reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. However, preferably, the reaction chamber 120 is not heated by the heater 110 during the second cycle.

[0196] The flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the first transfer chamber 141. Specifically, the flue gas may flow through the first bed 131 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 6) of the first transfer chamber 141. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the first bed 131. Thus, the first bed 131 may be heated by the flue gas and the flue gas may be cooled by the first bed 131.

[0197] Flue gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the flue gas outlet 800. For example, valve 820 may be in open state. Valve 830 may be in closed state. Flue gas may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet.

[0198] FIG. 7 schematically shows a system 1000 during a first cycle. The system 1000 may be similar or equal to the system as shown in FIG. 2 and described with reference to FIG. 2. Flow paths are indicated in the drawings by bold tubes or bold tube sections.

[0199] During the first cycle, the first portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 to the first transfer chamber 141. The first portion of waste gas may not be directed to the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the first bed 131 or outside the first bed 131. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer downstream of at least a portion of the first bed 131.

[0200] The second portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 through the first bed 131 towards the reaction chamber 120. The second portion of waste gas may not be directed to the second transfer chamber 142 and/or to the third transfer chamber 143. For example, valve 320 may be in open state. Valves 330 and 340 may be in closed state.

[0201] The second portion of waste gas may flow through the first bed 131 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 7). The second portion of waste gas may be preheated. The second portion of waste gas may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0202] Oxygen-containing gas may be directed from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Specifically, oxygen-containing gas may be directed to the third waste gas tube 350. The oxygen-containing gas may be mixed with the second portion of waste gas. The mixture may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may flow through the first bed 131 and may be preheated by the first bed 131. For example, valve 220 may be in open state.

[0203] The at least one oxidizable compound in the waste gas (e.g., first portion of waste gas and second portion of waste gas) may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120. The oxidization may be a reaction of the at least one oxidizable compound of the waste gas with oxygen of the oxygen-containing gas. Flue gas may be produced by the oxidation in the reaction chamber 120. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the waste gas. For example, the oxidation may be an exothermic reaction. Thereby, heat may be produced in the reaction chamber 120. Alternatively or additionally, the reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. However, preferably, the reaction chamber 120 is not heated by the heater during the first cycle.

[0204] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the third transfer chamber 143. Specifically, the portion of the flue gas may flow through the third bed 133 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 7) of the third transfer chamber 143. The portion of the flue gas may have a higher temperature than the third bed 133. Thus, the third bed 133 may be heated by the portion of the flue gas. At the same time, the portion of the flue gas may be cooled by the third bed 133.

[0205] The portion of the flue gas may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the flue gas outlet 800. For example, valve 840 may be in open state. Valves 820 and 830 may be in closed state. Flue gas may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet 800.

[0206] Another portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the second transfer chamber 142. Preferably, the portion of the flue gas may flow through the second bed 132 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 7). The portion of the flue gas may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the purge tube 610. Preferably, the purge tube 610 is not in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber 141 and/or with the third transfer chamber 143 during the first cycle. For example, valve 630 may be in open state. Valve 620 may be in closed state. Valve 640 may be in closed state.

[0207] The portion of the flue gas may flow from the purge tube 610 to the third waste gas tube 350. From the third waste gas tube 350, the portion of the flue gas may enter the first transfer chamber 141, preferably together with waste gas. By directing a portion of the flue gas through the second transfer chamber 142, the second transfer chamber 142 may be purged or flushed.

[0208] Alternatively, oxygen-containing gas or another gas may be used to purge or flush the second transfer chamber 142. In this case, oxygen-containing gas or another gas may be directed to the second transfer chamber 142 and through the second bed 132 to the reaction chamber 120.

[0209] The portion of the flue gas that is directed through the second bed 132 may be smaller than the portion of the flue gas that is directed through the third bed 133. For example, less than 50 % of the flue gas, preferably less than 40 % of the flue gas, more preferably less than 30 % of the flue gas, more preferably less than 20 % of the flue gas, more preferably less than 10 % of the flue gas, may be directed through the second bed 132. The relative values (percentage values) are based on the total amount of flue gas that flows through the second bed 132 and the third bed 133.

[0210] FIG. 8 schematically shows the system 1000 during a second cycle. The system 1000 may be similar or equal to the system as shown in FIG. 2 and described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0211] During the second cycle, the first portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 to the third transfer chamber 143. The first portion of waste gas may not be directed to the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the second transfer chamber 142. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the third bed 133 or outside the third bed 133. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of the third bed 133.

[0212] The second portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 through the third bed 133 towards the reaction chamber 120. The second portion of waste gas may not be directed to the first transfer chamber 141 and/or to the second transfer chamber 142. For example, valve 340 may be in open state. Valves 320 and 330 may be in closed state.

[0213] The second portion of waste gas may flow through the third bed 133 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 8). The second portion of waste gas may be preheated. The second portion of waste gas may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0214] Oxygen-containing gas may be directed from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may be mixed with the second portion of waste gas in the third waste gas tube 350. The mixture may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may flow through the third bed 133 and may be preheated by the third bed 133. For example, valve 220 may be in open state.

[0215] The at least one oxidizable compound in the waste gas (e.g., first portion of waste gas and second portion of waste gas) may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120. Flue gas may be produced by the oxidation in the reaction chamber 120. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the waste gas. The reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. However, preferably, the reaction chamber 120 is not heated by the heater during the second cycle.

[0216] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the second transfer chamber 142. Specifically, the portion of the flue gas may flow through the second bed 132 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 8) of the second transfer chamber 142. The portion of the flue gas may have a higher temperature than the second bed 132 and the second bed 132 may be heated by the portion of the flue gas.

[0217] The portion of the flue gas may flow from the second transfer chamber 142 to the flue gas outlet 800. For example, valve 830 may be in open state. Valves 820 and 840 may be in closed state. Flue gas may not flow from the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 to the flue gas outlet 800.

[0218] Another portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the first transfer chamber 141. Preferably, the portion of the flue gas may flow through the first bed 131 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 8). The portion of the flue gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the purge tube 610. Preferably, the purge tube 610 is not in fluid flow communication with the second transfer chamber 142 and/or with the third transfer chamber 143 during the second cycle. For example, valve 620 may be in open state. Valve 630 may be in closed state. Valve 640 may be in closed state.

[0219] The portion of the flue gas may flow from the purge tube 610 to the third waste gas tube 350. From the third waste gas tube 350, the portion of the flue gas may enter the third transfer chamber 143, preferably together with waste gas. By directing a portion of the flue gas through the first transfer chamber 141, the first transfer chamber 141 may be purged or flushed.

[0220] Alternatively, oxygen-containing gas or another gas may be used to purge or flush the first transfer chamber 141. In this case, oxygen-containing gas or another gas may be directed to the first transfer chamber 141 and through the first bed 131 to the reaction chamber 120.

[0221] FIG. 9 schematically shows the system 1000 during a third cycle. The system 1000 may be similar or equal to the system as shown in FIG. 2 and described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0222] During the third cycle, the first portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 to the second transfer chamber 142. The first portion of waste gas may not be directed to the first transfer chamber 141 and/or the third transfer chamber 143. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the second bed 132 or outside the second bed 132. The first portion of waste gas may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 downstream of at least a portion of the second bed 132.

[0223] The second portion of waste gas may be directed from the waste gas source 300 through the second bed 132 towards the reaction chamber 120. The second portion of waste gas may not be directed to the first transfer chamber 141 and/or to the third transfer chamber 143. For example, valve 330 may be in open state. Valves 320 and 340 may be in closed state.

[0224] The second portion of waste gas may flow through the second bed 132 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 9). The second portion of waste gas may be preheated. The second portion of waste gas may then be directed to the reaction chamber 120 of the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100.

[0225] Oxygen-containing gas may be directed from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may be mixed with the second portion of waste gas in the third waste gas tube 350. The mixture may be introduced into the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. The oxygen-containing gas may flow through the second bed 132 and may be preheated by the second bed 132. For example, valve 220 may be in open state.

[0226] The at least one oxidizable compound in the waste gas (e.g., first portion of waste gas and second portion of waste gas) may be oxidized in the reaction chamber 120. Flue gas may be produced by the oxidation in the reaction chamber 120. The flue gas may have a higher temperature than the waste gas. The reaction chamber 120 may be heated by the heater 110. However, preferably, the reaction chamber 120 is not heated by the heater during the second cycle.

[0227] A portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the first transfer chamber 141. Specifically, the portion of the flue gas may flow through the first bed 131 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 9) of the first transfer chamber 141. The portion of the flue gas may have a higher temperature than the first bed 131 and the first bed 131 may be heated by the portion of the flue gas.

[0228] The portion of the flue gas may flow from the first transfer chamber 141 to the flue gas outlet 800. For example, valve 820 may be in open state. Valves 830 and 840 may be in closed state. Flue gas may not flow from the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 to the flue gas outlet 800.

[0229] Another portion of the flue gas may be directed from the reaction chamber 120 to the third transfer chamber 143. Preferably, the portion of the flue gas may flow through the third bed 133 (indicated by an arrow in FIG. 9). The portion of the flue gas may flow from the third transfer chamber 143 to the purge tube 610. Preferably, the purge tube 610 is not in fluid flow communication with the first transfer chamber 141 and/or with the second transfer chamber 142 during the third cycle. For example, valve 640 may be in open state. Valve 620 may be in closed state. Valve 630 may be in closed state.

[0230] The portion of the flue gas may flow from the purge tube 610 to the third waste gas tube 350. From the third waste gas tube 350, the portion of the flue gas may enter the second transfer chamber 142, preferably together with waste gas. By directing a portion of the flue gas through the third transfer chamber 143, the third transfer chamber 143 may be purged or flushed.

[0231] Alternatively, oxygen-containing gas or another gas may be used to purge or flush the third transfer chamber 143. In this case, oxygen-containing gas or another gas may be directed to the third transfer chamber 143 and through the third bed 133 to the reaction chamber 120.

[0232] The regenerative thermal oxidizer may be operated in six cycles.

[0233] For example, the first cycle may include a first subcycle and a second subcycle. During the first subcycle, the oxygen-containing gas and/or the second portion of waste gas may flow through the first bed 131 to the reaction chamber 120, the second bed 132 may be purged or flushed, and flue gas may be directed through the third bed 133 towards the flue gas outlet 800. During the second subcycle, the oxygen-containing gas and/or the second portion of waste gas may flow through the first bed 131 to the reaction chamber 120, the third bed 133 may be purged or flushed, and flue gas may be directed through the second bed 132 towards the flue gas outlet 800.

[0234] The second cycle may include a first subcycle and a second subcycle. During the first subcycle, the oxygen-containing gas and/or the second portion of waste gas may flow through the third bed 133 to the reaction chamber 120, the first bed 131 may be purged or flushed, and flue gas may be directed through the second bed 132 towards the flue gas outlet 800. During the second subcycle, the oxygen-containing gas and/or the second portion of waste gas may flow through the third bed 133 to the reaction chamber 120, the second bed 132 may be purged or flushed, and flue gas may be directed through the first bed 131 towards the flue gas outlet 800.

[0235] The third cycle may include a first subcycle and a second subcycle. During the first subcycle, the oxygen-containing gas and/or the second portion of waste gas may flow through the second bed 132 to the reaction chamber 120, the third bed 133 may be purged or flushed, and flue gas may be directed through the first bed 131 towards the flue gas outlet 800. During the second subcycle, the oxygen-containing gas and/or the second portion of waste gas may flow through the second bed 132 to the reaction chamber 120, the first bed 131 may be purged or flushed, and flue gas may be directed through the third bed 133 towards the flue gas outlet 800.

[0236] FIG. 10 schematically shows a system 1000 during a start-up cycle. The system 1000 may be similar or equal to the system as shown in FIG. 2 and described with reference to FIG. 2. Flow paths are indicated in the drawings by bold tubes or bold tube sections.

[0237] During the start-up cycle, the heater 110 may be operated to heat the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100. Preferably, at least the reaction chamber 120 and/or at least one of the first, second and third beds 131, 132, 133 are heated. The heater 110 may be a burner or an electrical heater.

[0238] The heater 110 may heat the reaction chamber 120 to a predetermined temperature, e.g., at least 500° C. or at least 800° C. When the predetermined temperature in the reaction chamber 120 is reached, a first cycle, a second cycle or a third cycle as described above may be performed.

[0239] During the start-up cycle, a gas may flow through at least one of the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and the third transfer chamber 143. The gas may be oxygen-containing gas.

[0240] For example, the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 may be in fluid flow communication with the oxygen-containing gas source 200. Valve 220 may be in open state. Valve 370 may be in closed state. Thereby, oxygen-containing gas may flow from the oxygen-containing gas source 200 to the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143.

[0241] The gas may flow through at least one of the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 to the reaction room 120. From the reaction room 120, the gas may exit the regenerative thermal oxidizer 100 by flowing through at least one of the first transfer chamber 141, the second transfer chamber 142 and/or the third transfer chamber 143 to the flue gas tube 810. Valve 820, valve 830 and/or valve 840 may be in open state.

[0242] Generally, each of the described operations may be performed by the controller 500.