Patent ID: 7115668
Filing Date: 2006-10-03
Classification: C10G

Abstract:
1. A process for the production in continuous of hydrocarbons from synthesis gas which comprises: a. continuously feeding to the bottom of a reactor for Fischer-Tropsch reactions, containing in suspension in the reaction product a catalyst based on supported cobalt, a synthesis gas consisting essentially of hydrogen and carbon monoxide; b. continuously discharging from the head of the reactor, a vapour stream consisting essentially of light reaction products and non-reacted reaction gas; c. continuously discharging from the reactor, the heavy reaction product consisting essentially of a liquid hydrocarbon phase containing the catalyst, in suspension; d. condensing the light hydrocarbon products and sending at least part of them to a collection container maintained under pressure and at a temperature higher than 150° C. and the possible remaining part to be discharged, at room temperature, or to subsequent treatment units; e. subjecting the heavy reaction product to a separation treatment which comprises: e f. sending the heavy reaction product, in liquid phase, having a content of fine or sub-micronic particles lower than 5 ppm to subsequent treatment units, or discharging it and cooling it to room temperature; g. recycling to the reaction reactor the solids coming from the primary separation and micro/ultra-filtration steps; and h. periodically washing the separation and micro/ultrafiltration devices by means of flushings with the light hydrocarbon condensate.