How to operate the reactor to obtain high temperature

### Methods for Achieving High Temperatures in a Reactor

To achieve high temperatures in a reactor, several heating methods can be used, depending on the required temperature and process conditions:

1. **Water Heating**:

- Used when the required temperature is not high.

- Two types of water heating systems: open and closed.

- Open systems are simpler, consisting of a circulating pump, water tank, piping, and a control valve.

- High-pressure water systems require high mechanical strength, and the reactor's exterior coils create thermal resistance, reducing heat transfer efficiency.

2. **Steam Heating**:

- For temperatures below 100°C, subatmospheric steam is used.

- For temperatures between 100°C and 180°C, saturated steam is used.

- For higher temperatures, high-pressure superheated steam is used.

- This method is often referred to as a steam-heated reactor (tank).

3. **Heating with Other Media**:

- For high-temperature operations or to avoid high-pressure systems, other media can be used, such as:

- Mineral oil (275-300°C)

- Diphenyl ether mixture (boiling point 258°C)

- Molten salt (140-540°C)

- Liquid lead (melting point 327°C)

4. **Electric Heating**:

- Resistance wire is wrapped around the reactor's insulation or mounted on an insulator, creating a small gap between the wire and the reactor.

- Electrically heated reactors are simpler, lighter, and easier to operate.

- They eliminate the need for pumps, furnaces, and chimneys, making them cost-effective and easy to regulate.

- However, operating costs are higher, and thermal efficiency is below 85%.

- Suitable for temperatures below 400°C and in areas with low electricity prices.

Each method has its advantages and is chosen based on the specific requirements of the reactor and the process.