Abstract Apparatus for dividing a stream of pulp into a series of layers containing discrete batches and progressively transferring the batches from layer to layer in controlled fashion so that the height of each layer does not exceed a maximum value at which the pulp at the bottom of a layer has a predetermined minimum gaseous content. The pulp is contacted with oxygen gas under pressure while progressively transferring pulp from one layer to the next in a series. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical pressure vessel including axially spaced floors which define chambers between them, the chambers being subdivided axially into compartments, each floor having an aperture and the compartments and floors being relatively movable to allow pulp in the compartments sequentially to be transferred from one chamber to the next as relative movement occurs.
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the chamber between the top two movable decks is less in height than all subsequent chambers.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
22 words
Apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein the chamber between the top two movable floors is not more than 3 meters high.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
20 words
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein each stationary dividing wall extends substantially the entire height of its associated chamber.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
33 words
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the means for moving the decks comprises a shaft which extends axially in the pressure vessel, the decks being mounted on the shaft for rotation therewith.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
45 words
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein each stationary dividing wall has a lower edge so located relative to its associated movable deck to retain the pulp in each compartment as a discrete batch substantially without intermixing with other batches during movement along the path.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
49 words
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the outlet ports of adjacent movable decks are angularly off-set from one another with respect to a central axis of the vessel, so that substantially all the pulp passing into a compartment is retained in that compartment for a controlled residence period.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
18 words
Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprising means for fluffing pulp on introducing the same to said path.