Reactor for synthesis of methanol or other products

A reactor comprising:

• a shell defining an internal space configured to receive a catalyst;
• a domed head portion that includes a startup nozzle including a flange for detachable connection to a reducing flange, the startup nozzle including a manhole access opening through which a maintenance worker can enter the shell of the reactor;
• an inlet nozzle;
• and
• a tube bundle comprising a plurality of tubes arranged in concentric bands about a longitudinal axis of the reactor;
• and wherein:
• the catalyst received within the shell is a solid catalyst, wherein the domed head portion is integral with the shell, without any connecting flanges therebetween;
• the reactor further comprises an outlet nozzle, the outlet nozzle being located proximate a bottom portion of the shell;
• the reactor further comprises a catalyst support plate, wherein the outlet nozzle is arranged below the catalyst support plate;
• the reactor further comprises a plurality of tube support plates, wherein each tube support plate comprises a plurality of circumferential bands, wherein each circumferential band comprises at least one bracket configured to extend about a tube of the tube bundle;
• wherein each tube support plate defines a plurality of radial struts, each radial strut being connected between the circumferential bands of the tube support plate;
• wherein each radial strut is removably secured to at least one of the circumferential bands of each tube support plate;
• and
• further comprising a gas inlet plate, wherein the gas inlet plate is arranged proximate the inlet nozzle, with the inlet nozzle arranged below the gas inlet plate.