VÁLVULA ROTATÓRIA, CALHA PARA UMA VÁLVULA ROTATÓRIA E MÉTODO PARA REDUZIR EROSÃO EM UMA VÁLVULA ROTATÓRIA

Abstract

ROTARY VALVE, TROUGH FOR A ROTARY VALVE AND METHOD FOR REDUCING EROSION IN A ROTARY VALVE. A blow-off rotary valve is described in this document. More particularly, a blow-off rotary valve having a modified geometry to reduce wear on the pneumatic conveying of particulate and / or bulk material is described.

Description

1 / 24 Rotary valve, trough for a rotary valve and method for reducing erosion in a rotary valve. FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

[001] The present invention relates to a rotary blow-off valve. More particularly, the present invention relates to a rotary blow-off valve having a modified geometry to reduce wear on the pneumatic conveying of particulate and / or bulk material. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[002] Pneumatic pressure conveying is used to transport particulate and / or bulk materials along a pipeline. The technique is employed to transport materials over distances typically in the range of about 10 m to 200 m, and in some cases, even longer. Pneumatic conveying avoids the need for conveyor belts or similar devices, which can be bulky and costly to maintain.

[003] Rotary blow-off valves have been used to deliver bulky, high-wear, high-viscosity materials to pneumatic conveying lines for many years. Exemplary materials that can be conveyed are “alternative fuels” or “rejected by-products” (RDF). These materials may include wood chips, production waste, shredding fraction, shredded tires, recycled scrap, and waste dirt.

[004] Some material parameters may be grain size, where smaller particles flow more easily than large particles; grain size, where more regular particles flow more easily than irregularly shaped particles; bulk density, where Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 7 / 90 2 / 24 Lighter particles flow more easily than heavier particles; moisture, where dry particles flow more easily than wet particles; and fat content, where fattier particles flow with more resistance than clean particles.

[005] The main task of rotary blow-off valves for RDF or similar materials is to introduce lightweight, abrasive, sticky, and bulk materials into a narrow conduit that is under positive pressure. The materials are supplied to a hopper dosing device that is positioned above the rotary valve. The valve comprises cellular rotors that act as buckets to transport the material from above the valve to below the valve. As the cellular rotors rotate around the geometric drive axis, the contents of an individual cellular rotor are emptied into a chute, which forms part of the conduit line. The conduit line has high-speed air blown through it, which captures and introduces the RDFs into the pipeline.

[006] One problem with blow-off valves encountered in the art is that the materials passing through the valves can be extremely abrasive, therefore resulting in excessive wear. One of the areas most subject to wear is the area surrounding the valve outlet. This area is where the valve is connected to the outlet cone, which is then connected to the pneumatic tubing. The reason for this area having a high wear rate is that there is a large rotational velocity component of the material being driven, and a comparatively smaller velocity component of the material in the direction of the airflow, which is parallel to the direction of the tubing. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 8 / 90 3 / 24 This results in the material leaving the cellular rotor with a velocity vector that is not parallel to the geometric axis of the pneumatic tubing, therefore causing excessive wear on one side of the outlet flange. Particles hitting the area at a high impact angle results in a sandblasting effect.

[007] This sandblasting effect is generally more pronounced on one side of the trough, or on the valve outlet alone. The troughs installed on the valves are generally symmetrical, and the sides of the troughs are generally equidistant on the valve centerline at any particular location along the longitudinal geometric axis of the trough.

[008] It is an objective of at least one aspect of the present invention to avoid or mitigate at least one or more of the aforementioned problems.

[009] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved rotary blow-off valve with an increased service life, which does not wear out as much or as quickly as similar valves in the art.

[0010] It is a further objective of the present invention to provide a suitable trough for a rotary blow-off valve, which is shaped so as to produce an aerodynamic effect that reduces the amount of erosion at the outlet and in the trough of the valve.

[0011] For the reasons above, there remains a need to address or mitigate at least one or more of the aforementioned problems. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[0012] According to a first aspect of Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 9 / 90 4 / 24 of the present invention, a rotary valve is provided comprising:

[0013] a housing that has a housing inlet for receiving material and a housing outlet for releasing the material to a chute, the chute being located adjacent to the housing outlet;

[0014] a drive shaft that has a longitudinal geometric axis, the longitudinal geometric axis that defines a drive geometric axis through the rotary valve;

[0015] a rotor assembly located within the housing, wherein the rotor assembly is rotatable about the geometric drive axis and comprises at least one rotor chamber operably connected to the drive shaft;

[0016] wherein the trough comprises a first end adjacent to a gas inlet and a second end that defines a gas outlet, wherein a geometric axis of the trough extends from the center of the gas inlet to the gas outlet, and wherein the geometric axis of the trough is substantially parallel to the geometric axis of the drive;

[0017] wherein the trough comprises at least one surface for directing gas from the gas inlet to the gas outlet, with at least one surface extending from the first end of the trough to the second end of the trough; and wherein, in use, at least one surface is configured to direct material to the gas outlet;

[0018] wherein at least one surface comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion extend from the first Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 10 / 90 5 / 24 end of the channel to the second end of the channel, wherein the first portion and the second portion are arranged substantially opposite each other around the geometric axis of the channel; and

[0019] wherein, at the first end of the channel, there is a first distance defined as the distance from the first portion to the geometric axis of the channel, and a second distance defined as the distance from the second portion to the geometric axis of the channel, wherein the first distance is less than the second distance; and, at the second end of the channel, the first portion and the second portion are substantially equidistant from the geometric axis of the channel, defined by a third distance.

[0020] The present invention therefore relates to a rotary valve comprising a trough that reduces erosion at the trough outlet while providing a constant (or substantially constant) and reliable flow rate of material.

[0021] According to another aspect of the present invention, a rotary valve is provided comprising:

[0022] a housing that has a housing inlet for receiving material and a housing outlet for releasing the material to a chute, the chute being located adjacent to the housing outlet; a drive shaft that has a longitudinal geometric axis, and the longitudinal geometric axis defines a drive geometric axis through the rotary valve;

[0023] a rotor assembly located within the housing, wherein the rotor assembly is rotatable about the geometric drive axis and comprises at least one rotor chamber operably connected to the shaft of Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 11 / 90 6 / 24 drive;

[0024] wherein the trough comprises a first end adjacent to a gas inlet and a second end that defines a gas outlet, wherein a geometric axis of the trough extends from the center of the gas inlet to the gas outlet, and wherein the geometric axis of the trough is substantially parallel to the geometric axis of the drive;

[0025] wherein the trough comprises at least one surface for directing gas from the gas inlet to the gas outlet, for at least one surface extending from the first end of the trough to the second end of the trough; and wherein, in use, at least one surface is configured to direct material to the gas outlet; and

[0026] wherein at least one surface comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion extend from the first end of the channel to the second end of the channel, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are arranged substantially opposite each other around the geometric axis of the channel.

[0027] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a rotary valve is provided comprising:

[0028] a housing that has a housing inlet for receiving material and a housing outlet for releasing the material to a chute, the chute being located adjacent to the housing outlet; a drive shaft that has a longitudinal geometric axis, and the longitudinal geometric axis defines a drive geometric axis through the rotary valve; Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 12 / 90 7 / 24

[0029] a rotor assembly located within the housing, wherein the rotor assembly is rotatable about the geometric drive axis and comprises at least one rotor chamber operably connected to the drive shaft; and

[0030] wherein the trough comprises a first end adjacent to a gas inlet and a second end that defines a gas outlet, wherein a geometric axis of the trough extends from the center of the gas inlet to the gas outlet, and wherein the geometric axis of the trough is substantially parallel to the geometric axis of the drive.

[0031] The material to be conveyed by the dosing device can be any type of material. In particular embodiments, the material being conveyed can be domestic and / or industrial waste being sent for incineration. Alternatively, the bulk material being transferred can be any type of solid fuel (e.g. wood chips) or any other solid material including powder and / or powder-like material.

[0032] When in use, at least one rotor chamber is configured to receive material from the housing inlet and configured to release the material to the housing outlet. In general, there are a plurality of rotor chambers that are arranged in a circular pattern around the drive shaft. However, the rotor chambers may be oriented in any suitable manner.

[0033] There may be a dosing device above the rotary valve which, in use, supplies the material to be conveyed in the pneumatic tubing. The material may be fed through the housing inlet and into one of the chambers. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 13 / 90 8 / 24 rotor.

[0034] The drive shaft can be configured to rotate around the geometric drive axis, moving the rotor chamber from an upright to an inverted position. The material can then be released into the chute through the housing outlet. As the material enters the chute, it can be blown from the gas outlet from the gas inlet. The material can then be conveyed to a pneumatic pipe, where it can be transported to a furnace and / or another part of the apparatus.

[0035] The angle between the first portion and the geometric axis of the channel can be selected from any of the following: between about 5 degrees and about 35 degrees; between about 5 degrees and about 20 degrees; or between about 10 degrees and 20 degrees. The angle may be dictated by the length of the channel, the size of the gas inlet, and the size of the gas outlet.

[0036] The angle between the second portion and the geometric axis of the flume can be selected from any of the following: between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees; or between about 0 degrees and about 5 degrees. The angle can be dictated by the length of the flume, the size of the gas inlet, and the size of the gas outlet.

[0037] The chute may additionally comprise a third portion, wherein the third portion is located between the first and second portions. The third portion may act as the chute floor, and the first and second portions may act as the chute walls. When in use, the material may be discharged from the rotor chambers, the material may fall into the chute, and its rotational velocity component may Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 14 / 90 9 / 24 must be reduced before colliding with the walls created by the first and second portions.

[0038] The trough may additionally comprise a fourth portion and a fifth portion, wherein the fourth portion may be located between the first and third portions, and the fifth portion may be located between the third and second portions. The fourth and fifth portions may act as bridging portions between the trough walls and the trough floor. These portions may enhance airflow between the gas inlet and gas outlet. There may be more than five portions to also reduce sharp angles should portions meet. The trough may comprise any suitable number of portions between the first and second portions.

[0039] In use, the first portion of at least one surface can use the Coanda effect to direct gas from the gas inlet to the gas outlet, thus creating a gas barrier near the first portion, thereby reducing wear on the gas outlet. The Coanda effect is the tendency of a fluid jet to remain fixed to a surface, and is frequently used in aircraft design. In this descriptive report, the effect is used advantageously to provide a gas barrier near the first portion of the chute. This barrier significantly reduces the tangential velocity of the material, thereby reducing wear on the chute surface or chute outlet.

[0040] The first portion can be positioned away from the gas inlet at approximately any of the following distances: from approximately 5 mm to approximately 100 mm; from approximately 5 mm to approximately 50 mm; or from approximately 20 mm to approximately 50 mm. The second portion can also vary in distance from the gas inlet. If Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 15 / 90 10 / 24 If the second portion needs to be varied, the variations should take into account the distances from the first portion, in order to maintain the desired Coanda effect.

[0041] The proximity of the first portion attracts the gas flow from the gas inlet and retains a high-speed gas layer close to the first portion. When the rotor chamber material is introduced into the chute, it first comes into contact with the first portion of the chute (due to the rotation of the rotor assembly). Without wishing to be limited by theory, the high-speed gas flow near the first portion drags the material from the housing outlet and rapidly changes the rotational speed of the material to longitudinal speed (in the direction of the chute's geometric axis). This change in speed direction prevents the material from colliding with a high-speed rotational component at the gas outlet, thus reducing wear on the valve.

[0042] The effects mentioned above are produced by the particular geometry of the channel. The geometry may be asymmetrical when the channel is viewed from above. The first and second portions may not be equidistant from the geometric axis of the channel.

[0043] The distance to the first portion from the geometric axis of the channel may vary at different locations along the length of the geometric axis of the channel. The distance to the second portion from the geometric axis of the channel may vary at different locations along the length of the geometric axis of the channel.

[0044] The gas inlet may be substantially circular. The gas inlet may also be any other shape suitable for conducting gas flow. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 16 / 90 11 / 24

[0045] The width of the first portion at the first end of the channel may be greater than the width of the first portion at the second end of the channel. Width here is defined as the height or length of the first portion along a geometric y-axis. Varying the width and length of the first portion along the length of the channel may increase the effectiveness of the Coanda effect.

[0046] The distance between the first end and the second end of the trough may be greater than the distance between the first portion and the second portion of at least one surface of the trough. This is generally the case, which is why most rotary valves have chambers that are generally cubic in shape, with their longer edge parallel to the geometric axis of the drive and the geometric axis of the trough. For example, the length of the trough may be 1 meter, while the width of the trough would be 0.25 meters. The trough may be any shape that is suitable for attaching to the outlet of the rotary valve housing.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present invention, a channel for a rotary valve is provided, wherein the channel comprises:

[0048] a first end adjacent to a gas inlet and a second end defining a gas outlet, wherein a geometric axis of the trough extends from the center of the gas inlet to the gas outlet, and wherein the geometric axis of the trough extends substantially normal to the gas inlet;

[0049] wherein the trough comprises at least one surface for directing gas from the gas inlet to the gas outlet, for at least one surface extending from the first end of the trough to the second end of the trough; Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 17 / 90 12 / 24

[0050] wherein at least one surface comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion extend from the first end of the channel to the second end of the channel, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are arranged substantially opposite each other around the geometric axis of the channel;

[0051] wherein, at the first end of the channel, there is a first distance defined as the distance from the first portion to the geometric axis of the channel, and a second distance defined as the distance from the second portion to the geometric axis of the channel, wherein the first distance is less than the second distance; and, at the second end of the channel, the first portion and the second portion are substantially equidistant from the geometric axis of the channel, defined by a third distance;

[0052] wherein, in use, the chute is connected to an outlet of a rotary valve and is configured to receive material from the outlet of the rotary valve and to convey the material from the valve outlet to the chute outlet.

[0053] According to yet another additional aspect of the present invention, a channel for a rotary valve is provided, wherein the channel comprises:

[0054] a first end adjacent to a gas inlet and a second end defining a gas outlet, wherein a geometric axis of the trough extends from the center of the gas inlet to the gas outlet, and wherein the geometric axis of the trough extends substantially normal to the gas inlet;

[0055] wherein the channel comprises at least one surface for directing gas from the gas inlet to the gas outlet. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 18 / 90 13 / 24 gas, for at least one surface extending from the first end of the channel to the second end of the channel;

[0056] wherein at least one surface comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion extend from the first end of the channel to the second end of the channel, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are arranged substantially opposite each other around the geometric axis of the channel;

[0057] wherein, at the first end of the channel, there is a first distance defined as the distance from the first portion to the geometric axis of the channel, and a second distance defined as the distance from the second portion to the geometric axis of the channel, wherein the first distance is less than the second distance; and, at the second end of the channel, the first portion and the second portion are substantially equidistant from the geometric axis of the channel, defined by a third distance.

[0058] All the alternatives listed above relating to the first aspect of the invention may also apply to the second aspect of the invention.

[0059] The gas inlet can be configured to receive pressurized gas, and the gas outlet can be configured to receive both pressurized gas and material.

[0060] The angle between the first portion and the geometric axis of the channel can be selected from any of the following: between about 5 degrees and about 35 degrees; between about 5 degrees and about 25 degrees; or between about 5 degrees and about 20 degrees. The angle may be dictated by the length of the channel, the size of the gas inlet, and the Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 19 / 90 14 / 24 gas outlet size.

[0061] The angle between the second portion and the geometric axis of the flume can be selected from any of the following: between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees; or between about 0 degrees and about 5 degrees. The angle can be dictated by the length of the flume, the size of the gas inlet, and the size of the gas outlet.

[0062] The chute may additionally comprise a third portion, wherein the third portion is located between the first and second portions. The third portion may act as the chute floor, and the first and second portions may act as the chute walls. When material empties from the rotor chambers, the material falls into the chute and its rotational velocity component may be reduced before colliding with the walls created by the first and second portions.

[0063] The channel may additionally comprise a fourth portion and a fifth portion, wherein the fourth portion may be located between the first and third portions, and the fifth portion may be located between the third and second portions. The fourth and fifth portions may act as bridging portions between the channel walls and the channel floor. These portions may enhance airflow between the gas inlet and the gas outlet. There may be more than five portions to also reduce sharp angles should portions meet.

[0064] In use, the first portion of at least one surface can use the Coanda effect to direct gas from the gas inlet to the gas outlet, thus creating a gas barrier near the first portion, thereby reducing wear at the gas outlet. The first portion can be Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 20 / 90 15 / 24 positioned away from the gas inlet at approximately any of the following distances: from approximately 5 mm to approximately 100 mm; from approximately 5 mm to approximately 50 mm; or from approximately 20 mm to approximately 50 mm.

[0065] Without wishing to be limited by theory, the proximity of the first portion attracts the gas flow from the gas inlet and retains a layer of high-velocity gas close to the first portion. When the rotor chamber material is introduced into the chute, it first encounters the first portion (due to the rotation of the rotor assembly). This high-velocity gas flow near the first portion drags the material from the housing outlet and rapidly changes the material's rotational speed to longitudinal speed (in the direction of the chute's geometric axis). This change in speed direction prevents the material from colliding with a high-speed rotational component at the gas outlet, thus reducing wear on the valve.

[0066] The gas inlet may be substantially circular. The gas inlet may also be any other shape suitable for conducting gas flow.

[0067] The width of the first portion at the first end of the channel may be greater than the width of the first portion at the second end of the channel. Width here is defined as the height or length of the first portion along the geometric y-axis. Varying the width and length of the first portion along the length of the channel may increase the effectiveness of the Coanda effect.

[0068] The distance between the first end and the second end of the channel may be greater than the distance between the first portion and the second portion of at least one surface of the channel. This is generally the case because Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 21 / 90 16 / 24 which most rotary valves have chambers that are generally cubic in shape, with their longer edge parallel to the geometric axis of the drive and the geometric axis of the trough. The trough can be any shape that is suitable for fitting into the outlet of the rotary valve housing.

[0069] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for reducing erosion in a rotary valve, wherein the method comprises:

[0070] provide a rotary valve as described in this document;

[0071] Connect the rotary valve to a pneumatic pipe;

[0072] Pass the material through the rotary valve and into the chute;

[0073] provide pressurized gas flow from gas inlet to gas outlet, along the geometric axis of the trough, to drag and remove material from the trough, wherein the gas flows adjacent to the first portion of at least one surface, which utilizes the Coanda effect to create a gas barrier near the first portion, thereby reducing wear at the gas outlet; and

[0074] to convey the material from the chute to a pneumatic pipe with pressurized gas.

[0075] According to another aspect of the present invention, a channel is provided for a rotary valve, to reduce erosion in the rotary valve, according to the previous aspects of the present invention.

[0076] The channel may be asymmetrical along the longitudinal plane of gas conduction, since the channel varies in diameter / width along the length of the plane. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 22 / 90 17 / 24 longitudinal.

[0077] The rotary valve may have a high-speed gas inlet, and one side of the trough may be closer to the high-speed gas inlet than the other side.

[0078] This asymmetry can provide a high-speed barrier protection gas, which reduces erosion in the channel or valve.

[0079] Additional optional features disclosed in relation to each aspect of the invention correspond to the additional optional features of each other aspect of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0080] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following Figures in which:

[0081] Figure 1 shows an eroded outlet of a trough of a rotary blow-off valve according to the prior art;

[0082] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view (xy plane) through the center of a rotary valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0083] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view (yz plane) of the rotary valve in Figure 2, focusing on the gas inlet;

[0084] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view (yz plane) of the rotary valve in Figure 2, focusing on the gas outlet;

[0085] Figure 5 shows a perspective view (along the xy plane) of the rotary valve channel in Figure 2, viewed from the gas outlet end to the end of Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 23 / 90 18 / 24 gas inlet; and

[0086] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view (xz plane) of the rotary valve in Figure 2, which depicts a plan view of the channel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] A description of the Figures is given below.

[0088] Figure 1 shows an eroded gas outlet 024 from a trough 008 of a rotary blow-off valve 0100 according to the prior art. As can be seen from the highlighted area 001, the flange of the valve 0100 has been heavily eroded. This is the result of particulate material colliding with the gas outlet 024.

[0089] Viewed from the angle in Figure 1, rotor chamber 016 rotates in a counter-clockwise direction. The material contained within rotor chamber 016 is expelled into chute 008 with considerable tangential velocity due to the rotation of the chambers. This tangential velocity, as seen in Figure 1, will move from left to right in the image. The material is then met with a high-velocity gas flow, which comes from the gas inlet and exits through the gas outlet (this is explained in detail in Figure 2). The distribution of the gas flow in the chute does not reduce the tangential component of the material velocity sufficiently, resulting in wear and erosion. As can be seen, it is the edge of gas outlet 024 on the right side of the image that experiences wear and erosion.

[0090] It is an object of the present invention to remove this erosion problem 001 experienced at the gas outlet 024. Figures 2 to 6 show a range of representations of an embodiment according to the present invention. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 24 / 90 19 / 24

[0091] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view (xy plane) through the center of a rotary valve 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The valve 100 has been sectioned for clarity. The valve 100 can be a component in a pneumatic conduction system for introducing materials into a pneumatic pipeline. The valve 100 introduces material into the pipeline while delivering the material safely and efficiently.

[0092] The valve 100 comprises a housing 102, which has a housing inlet 104 for receiving material and a housing outlet 106 for releasing the material to a chute 108. The valve 100 further comprises a drive shaft 110 which has a longitudinal geometric axis defining a drive geometric axis 112. The drive geometric axis 112 extends through the rotary valve 100 (along the x-axis in the figure). The valve 100 is normally made of a metal alloy, with different materials suitable for each component. The chute 108 may be lined with material that is impact-resistant, thereby reducing erosion and increasing the longevity of the valve 100. Increasing the life of the chute 108 will prevent downtime for maintenance and allow the pneumatic drive system to continue operating. This can save the plant owner a significant amount of money.

[0093] The valve further comprises a rotor assembly 114 located within the housing 102. The rotor assembly 114 is rotatable about the geometric drive shaft 112 and has at least one rotor chamber 116 operably connected to the drive shaft. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 25 / 90 20 / 24 110. At least one rotor chamber 116 may be directly connected to the drive shaft or it may be connected by means of other components. The drive shaft 110 is connected to a mechanical motor or drive mechanism.

[0094] The trough 108 has a first end 118 that is adjacent to a gas inlet 120 and a second end 122 that defines a gas outlet 124. A geometric axis of the trough 126 extends from the center of the gas inlet 120 to the gas outlet 124 and is substantially parallel to the geometric axis of the drive 112 (geometric axis x in the Figure). When in use, high-velocity gas moves from the pneumatic tubing 010 through the gas inlet 120, along the trough 108, through the gas outlet 124 and to the outlet cone 012. This gas drags the material coming from the rotor chambers 116 and conveys the material to the pneumatic system.

[0095] The trough 108 comprises at least one surface 128 that directs material from the rotor chambers 116 to the gas outlet 124, and gas from the gas inlet 120 to the gas outlet 124. The surface (or surfaces) 128 extend from the first end 118 to the second end 122 of the trough 108, thus properly directing the material and gas to the gas outlet 124.

[0096] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view (yz plane) of the rotary valve in Figure 2, focusing on the gas inlet 120. The view is from the second end 122 of the channel 108, directed towards the gas inlet 120. The cross-sectional slice was taken in the yz plane and is close to the gas inlet 120. Figure 4 is a similar view; however, the image is focused on the gas outlet 124, and the cross-sectional slice was produced at the valve outlet flange 100. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 26 / 90 21 / 24 where the outlet cone 012 is attached. The geometric axis of the channel 126 is shown as a centerline and the interior of two rotating chambers 116 can be seen.

[0097] The trough 108 as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 has at least one surface 128 comprising five portions. It should be readily foreseen by a person skilled in the art that there can be only two portions of a surface 128, thus having only a first portion 130 and a second portion 132. Alternatively, there may be more than one surface 128. Both Figures 3 and 4 show a first portion 130 and a second portion 132 that act as the side walls of the trough. The third portion 134 acts as a floor to the trough, and the fourth portion 136 and fifth portion 138 act as intermediate portions that join the floor to the walls. A person skilled in the art will find that there can be more than five portions in the trough 108, used to direct the flow of gas and material to the gas outlet 124.

[0098] In use, the drive shaft 110 rotates the rotor assembly 114, which rotates the rotor chambers 116. From the views in Figures 3 and 4, the rotor chambers 116 pass from left to right, rotating in a counterclockwise direction. When the blade 140 of the rotor chamber 116 passes through the chute 108, the contents of the rotor chamber 140 begin to fall onto the first portion 130 of at least one surface 128. If the rotor assembly 114 were rotated in a clockwise direction, then the first portion 130 would be on the opposite side from what is shown in Figures 3 and 4. This should ensure that the material interacts first with the first portion 130 of the chute, and not the second portion 132. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 27 / 90 22 / 24

[0099] As can be seen in Figure 3, the first portion 130 of at least one surface 128 is significantly closer to the geometric axis of the channel 126 than the second portion 132. This is depicted as a first distance (aa) and a second distance (bb) respectively. In Figure 4, at the second end 122 of the channel 108, the distance between the first portion 130 and the geometric axis of the channel 126 is equal to the distance between the second portion 132 and the geometric axis of the channel 126. This is depicted as a third distance (cc). It should be readily verified that the portions may not be precisely equidistant from the geometric axis of the channel 126 at the second end 122 for the channel to still perform its function effectively. The length of the third distance (cc) is generally dictated by the size of the outlet cone 012, the size of which is dictated by the pneumatic drive system.The third distance (cc) can be greater than both the first distance (aa) and the second distance (bb).

[00100] The first portion 130 of the surface 128 is close to the gas inlet 120 so as to attract the gas flow (the Coanda effect) and to force it to follow the first portion 130 to the gas outlet 124. This creates a barrier of high-speed gas flowing alongside the first portion 130, which is where the highest volume of material from the rotor chambers is located. 116 passes through. This is also the area of ​​the chute 108 that first encounters the material from the rotor chambers 116. Therefore, this effect increases the longitudinal velocity component (substantially parallel with the geometric axis of the chute 126), thus reducing the volume of particles / material impacting the gas outlet side 124, reducing, Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 28 / 90 23 / 24 therefore, wear on the valve.

[00101] The material of at least one surface 128 may be different from the material that rotary valve 100 predominantly uses. Surface material 128 may be more wear-resistant and / or have a wear-resistant coating applied. Each portion of the surface may be made of the same material, or alternatively, the portions may comprise different materials.

[00102] The geometry and model of the channel as shown in the Figures should not be taken as limiting. The geometry may appear different from what is shown, while maintaining the requirements of claim 1, wherein, at the first end 118 of the channel 108, the first portion 130 is closer to the geometric axis of the channel 126 than the second portion 132.

[00103] Figure 3 also shows an additional secondary gas inlet (above and to the right of the main gas inlet 120). Therefore, the invention should not be limited to a single gas inlet, since the rotary valve may comprise more than one gas inlet (for improved pneumatic conduction, reduced wear, enhanced cleaning of rotor chambers, etc.).

[00104] Figure 5 shows a view similar to Figure 4; however, the viewpoint moved upwards along the geometric y-axis to generate a different perspective. The gas inlet 120 can be seen more clearly, along with the five portions of at least one surface 128. The third portion 134 in this embodiment performs the function of base / floor of the channel 108. As shown, the width (geometric z-axis) of the third portion 134 increases from the first end 118 to Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 29 / 90 24 / 24 second end 122. In alternative embodiments, the width of the third portion 134 may decrease from the first end 118 to the second end 122. The shapes of the individual portions shown in the figures should not be interpreted as being limiting. The widths and configuration of the portions may be dictated by the number of portions and the length of the channel 108.

[00105] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view (xz plane) of rotary valve 100 in Figure 2, depicting a plan view of the trough 108. The geometric axis of the trough 126 is shown, along with the distances (aa, bb, cc) between the first portions 130 and the second portions 132 to the geometric axis of the trough 126. The angle α between the first portion 130 and the geometric axis of the trough 126, and the angle β between the second portion 132 and the geometric axis of the trough 126 are also defined. The outlet cone 012 can be seen attached to the second end 122 of the trough 108.

[00106] Although several exemplary embodiments have been disclosed, it should be understood that variations, modifications and combinations of the valve and methods disclosed herein may be carried out without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Petition 870220062238, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 30 / 90

Claims

1 / 8 CLAIMS 1. ROTARY VALVE (100), characterized by comprising: a trough (108) comprising a gas inlet (120) and a gas outlet (124); a housing (102) having a housing inlet (104) for receiving material and a housing outlet (106) for releasing the material to the trough (108), wherein the trough (108) is located adjacent to the housing outlet (106); a drive shaft (110) having a longitudinal geometric axis, and the longitudinal geometric axis defines a drive geometric axis (112) through the rotary valve; a rotor assembly (114) located within the housing (102), wherein the rotor assembly (114) is rotatable about the geometric drive axis (112) and comprises at least one rotor chamber (116) operably connected to the drive shaft (110);wherein the trough (108) comprises a first end (118) adjacent to the gas inlet (120) and a second end (122) defining the gas outlet (124), wherein a geometric axis of the trough (126) extends from the center of the gas inlet (120) to the gas outlet (124), and wherein the geometric axis of the trough (126) is substantially parallel to the geometric axis of the drive (112); wherein the trough (108) comprises at least one surface (128) for directing gas from the gas inlet (120) to the gas outlet (124), at least one surface (128) extends from the first end (118) of the trough (108) to the second end (122) of the trough (108); and wherein, in use, the Petition 870260025274, of 03 / 18 / 2026, page. 7 / 27 2 / 8 minus one surface (128) is configured to direct material to the gas outlet (124);wherein at least one surface (128) comprises a first portion (130) and a second portion (132), wherein the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) extend from the first end (118) of the channel (108) to the second end (122) of the channel (108), and wherein the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) are arranged substantially opposite each other around the geometric axis of the channel (126); wherein, at the first end (118) of the channel (108), there is a first distance (aa) defined as the distance from the first portion (130) to the geometric axis of the channel (108), and a second distance (bb) defined as the distance from the second portion (132) to the geometric axis of the channel (108), wherein the first distance (aa) is less than the second distance (bb); and, at the second end (122) of the channel (108), the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) are substantially equidistant from the geometric axis of the channel (108), defined by a third distance (cc).; 2. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to claim 1, characterized, in use, by at least one rotor chamber (116) being configured to receive material from the housing inlet (104) and configured to release the material to the housing outlet (106).

3. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the gas inlet (120) is configured to receive pressurized gas and the gas outlet (124) is configured to receive pressurized gas and material. Petition 870260025274, dated 03 / 18 / 2026, page 8 / 27 3 / 8 4. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the angle (α) between the first portion (130) and the geometric axis of the trough (126) is between about 5 degrees and about 35 degrees, between about 5 degrees and about 20 degrees or between about 10 degrees and 20 degrees.

5. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the angle (β) between the second portion (132) and the geometric axis of the trough (126) is between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees, or between about 0 degrees and about 5 degrees.

6. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the trough (108) further comprising a third portion (134), wherein the third portion (134) is located between the first portion (130) and the second portion (132).

7. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to claim 6, characterized by the trough (108) further comprising a fourth portion (136) and a fifth portion (138), wherein the fourth portion (136) is located between the first portion (130) and the third portion (134), and the fifth portion (138) is located between the third portion (134) and the second portion (132).

8. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized, in use, by the first portion (130) of at least one surface (128) using the Coanda effect to direct gas from the gas inlet (120) to the gas outlet (124), thereby creating a gas barrier near the first portion (130), thereby reducing wear at the gas outlet (124). Petition 870260025274, dated 03 / 18 / 2026, page 9 / 27 4 / 8 9. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the gas inlet (120) is substantially circular.

10. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the width of the first portion (130) at the first end (118) of the trough (108) is greater than the width of the first portion (130) at the second end (122) of the trough (108).

11. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the distance between the first end (118) and the second end (122) of the trough (108) is greater than the distance between the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) of at least one surface of the trough (108).

12. ROTARY VALVE (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the material to be conveyed is any waste-derived fuel.

13. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, wherein the trough (108) is characterized by comprising: a gas inlet (120) and a gas outlet (124): a first end (118) adjacent to the gas inlet (120) and a second end (122) defining the gas outlet (124), wherein a geometric axis of the trough (126) extends from the center of the gas inlet (120) to the gas outlet (124), and wherein the geometric axis of the trough (126) extends substantially normal to the gas inlet (120); wherein the trough (108) comprises at least one surface (128) for directing gas from the gas inlet (120) to the gas outlet (124), wherein at least one surface (128) extends from the first end (118) of the trough (108) Petition 870260025274, dated 03 / 18 / 2026, page 10 / 27 5 / 8 to the second end (122) of the trough (108);wherein at least one surface (128) comprises a first portion (130) and a second portion (132), wherein the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) extend from the first end (118) of the channel (108) to the second end (122) of the channel (108), and wherein the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) are arranged substantially opposite each other around the geometric axis of the channel (126); wherein, at the first end (118) of the channel (108), there is a first distance (aa) defined as the distance from the first portion (130) to the geometric axis of the channel (108) and a second distance (bb) defined as the distance from the second portion (132) to the geometric axis of the channel (108), wherein the first distance (aa) is less than the second distance (bb); and, at the second end (122) of the channel (108), the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) are substantially equidistant from the geometric axis of the channel (108), defined by a third distance (cc);wherein, in use, the chute (108) is connected to an outlet of a rotary valve (100) and is configured to receive material from the outlet of the rotary valve (100) and to convey the material from the valve outlet to the chute outlet (108).

14. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to claim 13, characterized in that the gas inlet (120) is configured to receive pressurized gas and the gas outlet (124) is configured to receive pressurized gas and the material.

15. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to claim 13 or 14, characterized by the angle (α) between the first portion (130) and the geometric axis of the trough (126) being between about 5 degrees and about 35 degrees, between about 5 degrees and about 20 degrees, or between about 10 degrees and 20 degrees.

16. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that the angle (β) between the second portion (132) and the geometric axis of the trough (126) is between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees, or between about 0 degrees and about 5 degrees.

17. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the trough (108) is characterized by further comprising a third portion (134), wherein the third portion (134) is located between the first portion (130) and the second portion (132).

18. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to claim 17, wherein the trough (108) is characterized by further comprising a fourth portion (136) and a fifth portion (138), wherein the fourth portion (136) is located between the first portion (130) and the third portion (134), and the fifth portion (138) is located between the third portion (134) and the second portion (132).

19. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to any one of claims 13 to 18, characterized in that, in use, the first portion (130) of at least one surface (128) uses the Coanda effect to direct the gas from the gas inlet (120), thereby creating a gas barrier close to the first portion (130), thereby reducing wear on the gas outlet (124).

20. CHANNEL (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, of Petition 870260025274, of 03 / 18 / 2026, page 12 / 27 7 / 8 according to any of claims 13 to 19, characterized in that the gas inlet (120) is substantially circular.

21. CHANNEL (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to any one of claims 13 to 20, characterized in that the width of the first portion (130) at the first end (118) of the channel (108) is greater than the width of the first portion (130) at the second end (122) of the channel (108).

22. A CHANNEL (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to any one of claims 13 to 21, characterized in that the distance between the first end (118) and the second end (122) of the channel (108) is greater than the distance between the first portion (130) and the second portion (132) of at least one surface of the channel (108).

23. TROUGH (108) FOR A ROTARY VALVE, according to any one of claims 13 to 22, characterized in that the material to be conveyed is any waste-derived fuel.

24. METHOD FOR REDUCING EROSION IN A ROTARY VALVE, wherein the method is characterized by comprising: providing a rotary valve (100), as defined in any of claims 1 to 12; connecting the rotary valve (100) to a pneumatic pipe; passing the material through the rotary valve (100) and to the trough (108); providing pressurized gas flow from the gas inlet (120) to the gas outlet (124), along the geometric axis of the trough (126), to drag and remove the material from the trough, wherein the gas flows adjacent to the first portion (130) of at least one surface (128), utilizing the Coanda effect to create a barrier of Petition 870260025274, dated 03 / 18 / 2026, p. 13 / 27 8 / 8 gas close to the first portion (130), thereby reducing wear on the gas outlet (124); and conduct the material from the trough (108) to a pneumatic pipe with pressurized gas. Petition 870260025274, dated 03 / 18 / 2026, p. 14 / 27

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