Abstract: A multistage catalytic reactor of unitized internal construction whereby the vertical support columns for the division plates and the catalyst support grids comprise a unitized structure from the top to the bottom of the reactor and are fixedly attached at their respective ends to the top and bottom of the reactor. The reactor further includes horizontal beams for support of a catalyst support grid or mesh, at least some of said beams being mounted for movement relative to said vertical columns through windows or openings in at least a portion of said columns. The beams are of such length that they either (i) span as a chord across the reactor or (ii) at least one end of the beam abuts a vertical column with sufficient clearance to allow for expansion. At each junction between a beam and a window in a vertical column as well as where a beam end abuts a vertical column, the beam is supported on a rocker means affixed to the column so that the beam is free to move as it expands and contracts.

Abstract: A plurality of cellular shapes for honeycomb structures having cells of uniform size and shape are disclosed having movable expansion joint means built into each individual cell structure, which joints can tolerate large strains without breaking.

Abstract: An exchanger reactor including a shell assembly having a tube bundle assembly mounted in and separate from the shell assembly. Inlet and outlet means are provided to the tube bundle assembly which includes a tube inlet chamber, a tube outlet chamber, tubes extending between the tube inlet and outlet chambers and an expansion means positioned between the inlet means to the tube bundle assembly and the inlet chamber for providing relative movement between the shell assembly and the tube bundle assembly. The shell assembly includes a shell inlet chamber and a shell outlet chamber.