Patent ID: 9073025
Filing Date: 2015-07-07
Classification: B01F,B01J,C10G

Abstract:
1. A method of preparing catalyst slurry, the method comprising: providing a cylindrical vessel comprising at least one gas distribution nozzle at or near the bottom of the vessel, an annular top fluid distributor located at or near the top of the vessel, a catalyst inlet through which catalyst is introduced into the vessel, a first contact point at which catalyst introduced into the vessel first contacts the contents of the vessel, and a discharge outlet whereby catalyst slurry exits the vessel, wherein the top fluid distributor is located within the vessel at or above the first contact point, and comprises a distribution ring comprising a plurality of nozzles positioned therearound; providing a loading hopper, the loading hopper comprising a loading hopper exit in fluid communication with the catalyst inlet of the vessel, and at least one gas inlet whereby the loading hopper may be pressurized; introducing catalyst into the loading hopper; and transferring the catalyst into the vessel via the loading hopper exit and the catalyst inlet by pressurizing the loading hopper to a pressure greater than the pressure of the vessel, by gravity, or by a combination thereof, without utilizing a pump between the loading hopper and the vessel, while spraying, via the top fluid distributor, a base fluid onto the catalyst being transferred into the vessel, whereby the catalyst is wetted with the base fluid.