David W Embry

US Patent:

56264550, May 6, 1997

Filed:

Feb 13, 1996

Appl. No.:

8/600647

Inventors:

James S. Keller - Baton Rouge LA
David W. Embry - Baton Rouge LA

Assignee:

BASF Corporation - Mt. Olive NJ

International Classification:

B65G 4718

US Classification:

414288

Abstract:

A single tube catalyst loading device is provided which consists of a transport belt system, electric motor, and catalyst loading hopper. Using this equipment, it is possible to control the drop rate of catalyst pellets without incurring mechanical damage or breakage of the catalyst. By raising or lowering the hopper section above the transport belt, it is possible to increase or decrease the drop rate of catalyst. Drop rate is the critical parameter in controlling catalyst density within the tubes of an ethylene oxide reactor.