Fluid distributor for fixed-bed catalytic reaction zones

Claim 1

In a catalytic reaction chamber, containing a fixed-bed of catalyst particles, an inner catalyst fluid distribution device which comprises, in cooperative relationship: (a) a fluid inlet conduit; (b) a first plurality of spaced-apart, perforated fluid distribution conduits in open communication with said fluid inlet conduit and disposed in a plane perpendicular to the vertical plane containing the axis of said fluid inlet conduit; (c) a second plurality of perforated fluid distribution conduits, having a nominal diameter greater than said first distribution conduits, one each of which is coaxially and concentrically disposed around each of said first distribution conduits; and (d) annular-form, spaced-apart stabilizing discs, having a major diameter substantially the same as the internal diameter of said second distribution conduits, surrounding said first distribution conduits and disposed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis thereof, said adjacent pairs of said stabilizing discs forming individual internal chambers, containing both first and second distribution conduit perforations, along the length of said first and second conduits, and said discs also providing for annular stagnant internal chambers between perforations to impede transfer of heat to the quench fluid.