Containing assemblies for fluid treatment devices, e.g. For pumps, and related devices, devices, systems, and methods

Abstract

The intermediate drive may provide accommodation for a fluid treatment apparatus, such as a pump. These intermediate drive devices may utilize one or more magnetic drive devices to provide a static barrier for the mechanical device. A fluid treatment assembly may include a fluid treatment device including a housing, a housing cavity, a fluid inlet, and a fluid outlet. The intermediate drive device may be positioned and configured to transfer energy from the motor to the fluid treatment apparatus while providing a secondary containment region that is spaced from a primary containment region provided by the fluid treatment apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to containment components and systems for mechanical equipment or fluid handling equipment (e.g., pumps), and more specifically, to intermediate drive mechanisms that provide containment (e.g., secondary containment) using one or more magnetic drive mechanisms to provide a static barrier for fluid handling equipment, such as that used for hazardous fluids, and to related components, systems, and methods. Background Technology

[0002] Magnetic-driven centrifugal pumps can be used to pump fluids such as corrosive and / or hazardous liquids and / or gases. A key feature of magnetic-driven pumps is a pump shaft isolated from the drive shaft by a housing. The drive shaft is arranged to rotate with a magnetic assembly that is magnetically coupled to another magnetic assembly. The magnetic assemblies work together to apply torque to the pump shaft or impeller to pump the fluid contained within the housing.

[0003] While many magnetically driven centrifugal pumps are generally reliable, the housing may leak or rupture under one or more of the following conditions: exposure to overheated environments, excessive hydraulic pressure, exposure to extreme instantaneous hydraulic pressure, prolonged contact with corrosive fluids, lack of proper pump maintenance, exposure to excessive particulate matter, and / or exceeding other operating limits of the pump. If the pumped fluid is corrosive, it may erode the internal structure of the housing, causing its integrity to gradually decrease over time. Excessive wear of the radial supports, if the pump is not properly maintained, can cause mechanical contact between the impeller and the housing that results in friction or scratching, thereby impairing the housing's fluid-holding capacity. Furthermore, if particulate matter in the pumped fluid accumulates or becomes stuck between the housing and the impeller, it can cause the housing to scratch, corrode, or become pitted, making it more susceptible to chemical corrosion by the pumped fluid.

[0004] Leaks of pumped fluid from improperly maintained, misused, or abused pumps can pose health and safety risks, for example, because the pumped fluid may be hazardous, corrosive, flammable, or toxic. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a pump assembly comprising: a pump having a pump housing, a housing cavity, a fluid inlet, and a fluid outlet, the pump defining a primary containment region; an intermediate drive mechanism positioned and configured to transfer energy from a motor to the pump, the intermediate drive mechanism defining a secondary containment region spaced apart from the primary containment region; a non-metallic first static barrier providing a static seal between the pump housing cavity and the secondary containment region; a non-metallic second static barrier providing a static seal between the secondary containment region and the surrounding environment; a first magnetic drive mechanism for providing magnetic coupling through the first static barrier; and a second magnetic drive mechanism for providing magnetic coupling through the second static barrier.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a fluid handling assembly comprising: a fluid handling device having a housing, a fluid inlet, and a fluid outlet, the housing defining a housing cavity, the fluid handling device defining a primary containment region; and an intermediate drive mechanism positioned and configured to transfer energy from a motor to the fluid handling device, the intermediate drive mechanism defining a secondary containment region spaced apart from the primary containment region, the intermediate drive mechanism comprising: a modular housing having a drive-end housing, an output housing, and a central housing; a coupling for the fluid handling device positioned at the output housing; a static barrier positioned at the drive-end housing providing a static seal between the secondary containment region and the surrounding environment; a magnetic drive mechanism for providing magnetic coupling with the motor through the static barrier positioned at the drive-end housing; and a drive shaft coupled between the magnetic drive mechanism and the coupling for the fluid handling device, the central housing for supporting and positioning the drive shaft within the central housing using one or more support members.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an intermediate drive device comprising: a drive device housing having a first end and a second end, the first end configured to be coupled to a fluid handling apparatus and the second end configured to be coupled to a motor; a static barrier coupled to the drive device housing and defining a receiving area within the drive device housing, the receiving area being sealed by one or more static seals isolating the receiving area from the surrounding environment when the drive device housing is coupled to the fluid handling apparatus; a rotor including a magnet positioned adjacent to the static barrier of the intermediate drive device for being driven by a motor; a drive coupling mechanically connected to the rotor, the drive coupling being configured to apply forces provided by the motor to the fluid handling apparatus via the intermediate drive device; a drive shaft coupled between the rotor and the drive coupling; and a cylindrical member positioned within the drive device housing for supporting and positioning the drive shaft within the drive device housing using one or more support members.

[0008] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an intermediate drive device comprising: a drive device housing having a first end configured to be coupled to a fluid handling apparatus and a second end configured to be coupled to a motor; a static barrier coupled to the drive device housing and defining a receiving area within the drive device housing, the receiving area being sealed by one or more static seals isolating the receiving area from the surrounding environment when the drive device housing is coupled to the fluid handling apparatus; and a drive assembly comprising: a rotor positioned at the first end of the drive assembly, the rotor including a magnet positioned adjacent to the static barrier of the intermediate drive device for being driven by a motor; and a drive coupling coupled to the rotor and positioned at the first end of the rotor assembly, the drive coupling being configured to apply forces provided by the motor to the fluid handling apparatus via the intermediate drive device; wherein the intermediate drive device supports the drive assembly using only a single support member, or the intermediate drive device supports the drive assembly without using a support member.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method of driving a fluid handling device using an intermediate drive device including a statically sealed secondary containment area, the method comprising: indirectly driving a first rotor of the intermediate drive device by means of a magnetic force applied through a first non-metallic static barrier coupled to a drive housing of the intermediate drive device and defining a secondary containment area sealed relative to the surrounding environment within the drive housing; transmitting a force applied to the first rotor to a second rotor; and indirectly driving the fluid handling device via the second rotor by means of a magnetic force applied through a second non-metallic static barrier.

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a pump assembly comprising: a pump having a pump housing, a housing cavity, a fluid inlet, and a fluid outlet; an intermediate drive mechanism positioned and configured to transfer energy from a motor to the pump, the intermediate drive mechanism including a secondary containment region; a primary nonmetallic static barrier providing a static seal between the pump housing cavity and the secondary containment region; a secondary nonmetallic static barrier providing a static seal between the secondary containment region and the surrounding environment; a first magnetic drive mechanism providing magnetic coupling through the primary static barrier; and a second magnetic drive mechanism providing magnetic coupling through the secondary static barrier.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an intermediate drive device comprising: a drive device housing having a first end configured for coupling to a pump and a second end configured for coupling to a motor; a non-metallic static barrier coupled to the drive device housing and defining a secondary receiving region within the drive device housing, wherein the drive device housing is completely sealed by a static seal that isolates the secondary receiving region from the surrounding environment when the drive device housing is coupled to the pump; a first rotor of a first magnetic drive device including a magnet positioned to adapt to an adjacent non-metallic static barrier of the pump; and a second rotor mechanically coupled to the first rotor including a magnet positioned adjacent to the non-metallic static barrier of the intermediate drive device.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method for providing a statically sealed secondary containment area for a mechanical device, the method comprising: providing an intermediate drive device including: a drive device housing having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to be coupled to the mechanical device and the second end is configured to be coupled to a motor; a non-metallic static barrier coupled to the drive device housing and defining a secondary containment area within the drive device housing, wherein the drive device housing is completely sealed by a static seal that isolates the secondary containment area from the surrounding environment when the drive device housing is coupled to the mechanical device; a first rotor of a first magnetic drive device including a magnet positioned to adapt to an adjacent non-metallic static barrier of the mechanical device; and a second rotor mechanically coupled to the first rotor including a magnet positioned adjacent to the non-metallic static barrier of the intermediate drive device; the method further comprising connecting the first end of the drive device housing to the mechanical device. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Although this specification sets forth claims specifically pointing to and explicitly asserting those considered embodiments of this disclosure, the various features and advantages of embodiments of this disclosure will be more readily understood by reading the following description of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a centrifugal pump assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the centrifugal pump assembly includes a magnetically driven centrifugal pump and a magnetically driven intermediate drive device that provides secondary housing for the centrifugal pump.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a magnetically driven intermediate drive device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the intermediate drive device provides a secondary housing with a sealed support.

[0015] Figure 3A partial cross-sectional view of a centrifugal pump assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the centrifugal pump assembly includes a magnetically driven centrifugal pump and a magnetically driven intermediate drive device, the intermediate drive support providing secondary housing with a single support.

[0016] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a centrifugal pump assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the centrifugal pump assembly includes a magnetically driven centrifugal pump and a magnetically driven intermediate drive unit, the intermediate drive unit providing secondary housing having an intermediate rotor assembly not supported by any support. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The illustrations presented herein are not actual views of any particular pump assembly, intermediate drive unit, or component thereof, but are merely idealized representations used to describe exemplary embodiments. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Elements common to all figures may use the same reference numerals.

[0018] The directional terms used herein, such as “first,” “second,” “upper,” and “lower,” are used primarily for clarity and convenience in understanding this disclosure and the accompanying drawings, and unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, do not imply or depend on any particular position or preference, orientation, or order.

[0019] The term “and / or” as used herein means and includes any one or more items listed herein, and all combinations thereof.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” or “approximately”, when referring to a given parameter, indicate and include the degree to which a given parameter, characteristic, or condition is met within a small degree of deviation, such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances, as would be understood by a person skilled in the art. For example, a substantially compliant parameter could be at least 90% compliant, at least 95% compliant, at least 99% compliant, or even 100% compliant.

[0021] The term "fluid" as used herein can mean and include any type and composition of fluid matter. Fluids can be in liquid, gaseous or a combination thereof, and in some cases may also contain certain solid materials (e.g., particles, debris, etc.).

[0022] As discussed above, leakage of pumped fluid from improperly maintained, misused, or abused pumps can pose health and safety risks, such as because the pumped fluid may be hazardous, corrosive, flammable, or toxic. Even if the probability of leakage from the containment shroud is relatively low, a secondary containment system is still required to contain the pumped fluid in the event of leakage or rupture of the containment shroud for any reason. Embodiments of this disclosure provide such containment relative to one or more sealing features at the fluid handling equipment (e.g., a pump defining a primary containment area).

[0023] Some embodiments of this disclosure include methods and apparatus for transferring mechanical energy (e.g., force) from an energy source (e.g., a motor) to an energy-consuming device (e.g., mechanical equipment or fluid handling equipment, such as a pump) via one or more magnetically driven couplings (e.g., one coupling, two couplings, three couplings, or more) in a rotational and / or linear motion manner. This intermediate drive device can be used to connect the wet end of the system (e.g., the pump) to the dry end of the system (e.g., the motor) (e.g., to transmit one or more forces therebetween), while providing additional sealing (e.g., secondary seals) for the primary seals (i.e., one or more seals on the pump) at the wet end of the pump. This configuration can provide additional isolation between the dry end (e.g., the motor and associated components and / or operator) and the wet end. For example, if the primary containment area breaks, the secondary containment can at least partially (e.g., completely isolate) the drive motor from exposure to the pumped fluid and / or gas.

[0024] Although embodiments of this disclosure can be used in a variety of applications, they are particularly useful in applications where hazardous environments (e.g., hazardous fluids containing liquids and / or gases) need to be separated from atmospheric environments and / or biological living environments and / or two separate, mutually exclusive biological living environments.

[0025] While some embodiments may employ two magnetically driven couplings to transmit rotational motion, this solution also discloses a method for transmitting linear motion. The first magnetically driven coupling, located at the energy-consuming device, may utilize a primary containment element (e.g., a housing comprising a non-metallic material) to isolate a hazardous atmosphere and allow magnetic coupling to transmit motion (e.g., to a driven component, such as a pump) through the sealed housing. The second magnetically driven coupling, located at the energy source, may similarly utilize a containment element (e.g., another housing comprising a non-metallic material) to define a secondary containment area between the primary containment area of ​​the hazardous environment and the isolated environment. The second magnetically driven coupling also transmits motion from the energy source through the sealed housing to the primary magnetic drive device. The two magnetic drive devices may be connected via an intermediate mechanical assembly located within the secondary containment area to allow the transfer of mechanical energy (e.g., force) from the energy source to the energy-consuming device.

[0026] In some embodiments, the intermediate drive may include a magnetic coupling located at the motor and simultaneously coupled (e.g., directly or indirectly) to a pump or other energy-consuming device (e.g., other fluid handling equipment, pressure exchangers, mixers, etc.). As described above, the intermediate drive may include an indirect magnetic coupling at either end. In another embodiment, the intermediate drive may employ indirect magnetic coupling at the motor end and direct coupling at the pump or other energy-consuming device end (e.g., direct coupling to the pump shaft, where primary sealing is achieved through one or more dynamic shaft seals).

[0027] In some embodiments, magnetic coupling can help center and / or self-align the drive shaft of the system.

[0028] In some embodiments, primary and secondary receiving elements can reduce or eliminate the need for dynamic seals (e.g., shaft seals) in the drive assembly components and can allow the use of static seals (e.g., static seals only) to at least partially isolate the intermediate drive from the surrounding environment. For example, the intermediate drive may not require a shaft seal on its input side (e.g., dry side) when used with a motor or other drive.

[0029] As discussed herein, a containment area can refer to a portion, region, and / or volume of a component, assembly, device, and / or system that is at least partially separated from an adjacent area and / or environment.

[0030] In some embodiments, the secondary containment area may be designed to have the same pressure and temperature parameters as the primary containment area, thus forming an intermediate, isolated secondary containment chamber. The secondary containment chamber can be monitored for leaks of hazardous atmosphere from the primary containment area. Therefore, the monitoring system can be designed to alert operators to any leaks occurring between the primary and secondary containment areas, enabling emergency action.

[0031] One exemplary use of embodiments of this disclosure is to drive a chemical centrifugal pump that can be used to pump a variety of hazardous chemicals. Embodiments can also be used to drive other energy-consuming equipment, such as agitators, reactors, propulsion systems, drive systems, compressors, and / or any system that requires isolation of a hazardous environment from its surroundings. Embodiments can also be used to drive linear actuators used in hazardous environments, such as valves and / or positive displacement pumps.

[0032] In some embodiments, energy transfer between the input and output of an intermediate drive unit (e.g., between two magnetic drives) can be achieved using one or more sealed intermediate supports or without any supports. This is advantageous because it eliminates the need for an auxiliary heat exchange system to control the internal temperature of the mechanism.

[0033] In some embodiments, the intermediate drive unit may include one or more modular features that allow it to operate in conjunction with a variety of upstream and / or downstream components, such as drive units, pumps, exchangers, mixers, etc. For example, the intermediate drive unit may include multiple housing components that can be replaced and / or removed to accommodate different components. Furthermore, depending on the desired application, the internal components of the intermediate drive unit may be replaced and / or removed.

[0034] In some embodiments, intermediate drive units can be used as improvements to existing systems. For example, intermediate drive units can be used as secondary containment upgrades that can be improved in the field. When implemented in improvements to fluid handling equipment such as pumps, the improvement may not require opening the wet zone of the pump casing or exposing the pumped fluid to the atmosphere.

[0035] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a centrifugal pump assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the centrifugal pump assembly includes a magnetically driven centrifugal pump 102 and a magnetically driven intermediate drive device 104 providing secondary housing for the centrifugal pump 102 coupled to a motor 108. As described above, in an additional embodiment, the pump 102 may be driven by other components, such as a shaft drive that is sealed in dynamic operation.

[0036] Centrifugal pump 102 may include a pump housing 116, an impeller 118 (e.g., containing a composite plastic material, such as a fiber-reinforced polymer), and a pump shaft 120. Pump housing 116 may include a housing cavity 122 having a fluid inlet 124 and a fluid outlet 126. Pump housing 116 may be composed of multiple parts that may be cast, injection molded, and / or otherwise shaped and joined together by fasteners and / or adhesives. Pump housing 116 may be made of a corrosion-resistant material (e.g., stainless steel, polymer, fiber-reinforced polymer, composite material, ceramic, and / or reinforced ceramic), one or more parts of the pump housing providing a barrier to a primary containment area 128 (e.g., a wet area), and / or the housing cavity may be lined with a corrosion-resistant material (e.g., a fluoropolymer coating, such as an ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) coating or other polymer coating).

[0037] One end of the pump shaft 120 can be coupled to a primary static barrier 130, which can be made of a non-metallic material and provides a static seal to the housing cavity 122 at one end of the pump housing 116. Such non-metallic materials for the primary static barrier (or other barriers discussed herein) can include, for example, reinforced polymers and / or reinforced ceramics (e.g., fiber-reinforced), composite materials, polymers, ceramics, combinations thereof, etc.

[0038] The annular portion of impeller 118 can be positioned on pump shaft 120, and radial support 134 can be positioned between the annular portion of impeller 118 and pump shaft 120 to facilitate rotation of impeller 118 about pump shaft 120. Pump shaft 120 can be connected to intermediate drive unit 104 by indirect or direct connection (e.g., by magnetic coupling or by direct mechanical connection to pump shaft 120). For example, the annular portion of impeller 118 may include one or more magnets 136 (e.g., encapsulated magnets) located near a first side of primary static barrier 130, these magnets being positioned and configured to interact with one or more corresponding magnets 140 (e.g., encapsulated magnets) of rotor 142 of first magnetic drive unit 144 of intermediate drive unit 104, the magnets 140 being located near an opposite second side of primary static barrier 130, the intermediate drive unit being connected to centrifugal pump 102.

[0039] In another embodiment, including direct coupling, drive shaft 152 may be directly coupled to pump shaft 120 (e.g., one or more of drive shaft 152 and / or pump shaft 120 may include dynamic seals).

[0040] The intermediate drive unit 104 may include a drive unit housing 150, a drive shaft 152, and a secondary static barrier 154. As described above, the secondary static barrier 154 may include a non-metallic material, which may include, for example, reinforced polymers and reinforced ceramics (e.g., fiber-reinforced), composite materials, polymers, ceramics, combinations thereof, etc.

[0041] The drive unit housing 150 may consist of multiple parts including an input housing 156, an output housing 158, and a central housing 160, which may be cast, injection molded, and / or otherwise shaped and joined together by fasteners and / or adhesives. At least, the output housing 158 and the central housing 160 of the drive unit housing 150, which provide a barrier to the secondary receiving area 162, may be formed of a corrosion-resistant material and / or may be lined with a corrosion-resistant material.

[0042] As described above, the various components of the drive housing 150 can be modular (e.g., replaceable, replaceable, removable) to accommodate a range of different input and / or output components. For example, one or more of the input housing 156, the output housing 158, and / or the central housing 160 can be replaced and / or removed to accommodate different sizes and / or different configurations of output components (e.g., pump 102) and / or input components (e.g., motor 108).

[0043] In some embodiments, the central housing 160 may include modular components (e.g., kit 161) that mate with a shaft 152 extending through the central housing 150. For example, the cylindrical member 161 may support and position one or more supports 168 that support the shaft 152. In embodiments using open supports, the cylindrical member 161 enables the supply of lubricating fluid to the supports 168 (e.g., through openings formed on the lateral or radial sides of the cylindrical member 161).

[0044] In embodiments where the number of supports is reduced or supports are omitted (e.g., the embodiments discussed below), the cylindrical member 161 and / or the entire central housing 150 can be removed. For example, as Figure 1 As shown, the central housing 160 may accommodate one or more radial supports 168 (e.g., along with the cylindrical member 161, when implemented) to support the middle portion of the drive shaft 152, since the drive shaft 152 extends between the input housing 156 and the output housing 158. In another embodiment, see, for example, reference hereinafter. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the embodiments discussed, the central housing 160 may be omitted when one or more supports are positioned at the interface between the input housing 156 and the output housing 158, or when there are no supports and drive shafts at all.

[0045] The drive shaft 152 may have an output end mechanically coupled to the rotor 142 of the first magnetic drive device 144 and an opposite input end mechanically coupled to the first rotor 164 of the second magnetic drive device 166. For example, the rotor 142 of the first magnetic drive device 144 and the first rotor 164 of the second magnetic drive device 166 may each include a connection portion adapted to a mechanical coupling (e.g., a bolt assembly, a flange connection, or a tapered connection).

[0046] One or more radial support members 168 may be positioned between the drive housing 150 and the drive shaft 152 to secure the drive shaft 152 and facilitate rotation of the drive shaft 152 relative to the drive housing 150. In some embodiments, one or more rotary shaft seals may also be located between the drive shaft 152 and the drive housing 150, which may provide a dynamic seal between regions of the drive housing 150, such as between the output housing 158 and the central housing 160, and between the central housing 160 and the input housing 156.

[0047] In some embodiments, each radial support 168 may be an open support, such as Figure 1As shown in the diagram. Therefore, the cavity of the central housing 160 can include fluid (e.g., an oil bath) to lubricate and cool each radial support 168. A rotary shaft seal prevents oil leakage from the central housing 160 into the input housing 156 and the output housing 158. In another embodiment, sealed radial supports, as referenced herein, can be utilized. Figure 2 and Figure 3 This will be discussed further.

[0048] In some embodiments, one or more of the housings 156, 158, 160 may hold a fluid (e.g., oil) to cool portions of the drive system.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the output housing 158 can be coupled to the pump housing 116, thereby providing a static seal between the housing cavity 122 of the centrifugal pump 102 and the secondary receiving area 162 of the intermediate drive unit. Similarly, a secondary static barrier 154, also formed of a non-metallic material, can be positioned within the drive unit to provide a static seal to the secondary receiving area 162 of the intermediate drive unit, for example, between the central housing 160 of the drive unit housing 150 and the output housing 158. Seals such as static elastomeric seals 172 and / or sealing adhesives can provide a static seal between components defining the volume of the secondary receiving area 162. Thus, the secondary receiving area 162 can be completely sealed by static seals without any dynamic seals separating the secondary receiving area 162 from the surrounding environment or from the primary receiving area 128.

[0050] The first rotor 164 of the second magnetic drive device 166 may include one or more magnets 174 (e.g., encapsulated magnets) located near a first side of the secondary static barrier 154. These magnets are positioned and configured to interact with one or more corresponding magnets 176 (e.g., encapsulated magnets) of the second rotor 178 of the second magnetic drive device 166, the magnets 176 being located near the opposite second side of the secondary static barrier 154.

[0051] The second rotor 178 may include a coupling 180 configured to connect the second rotor 178 to the output shaft 182 of the motor 108 (e.g., an electric motor). Additionally, the input housing 158 may include a coupling 184 (e.g., a mounting flange) configured to connect to the housing 186 of the motor 108.

[0052] Although the first magnetic drive device 144 and the second magnetic drive device 166 are shown as having nested annular portions, other embodiments of this disclosure may include alternative properties and arrangements. For example, embodiments may include one or more magnetic drive devices with rotors having opposing planes, wherein magnets interact across planar portions of a static barrier. Additionally, the arrangement of the magnetic drive devices may be reversed. For example, instead of the annular portion of the first rotor 164 being nested within the annular portion of the second rotor 178, the annular portion of the first rotor 164 may have a larger diameter than the annular portion of the second rotor 178, and the annular portion of the second rotor 178 may be nested within the annular portion of the first rotor 164, and the orientation of the second static barrier 154 may be flipped 180 degrees relative to the drive device housing 150.

[0053] The drive unit housing 150 may include one or more mounting brackets 188 and one or more lifting rings 190. The mounting brackets are configured to facilitate mounting the intermediate drive unit 104 onto the structure, and the lifting rings are configured to facilitate lifting the intermediate drive unit 104 for installation and / or removal. The drive unit housing 150 may additionally include one or more auxiliary connection ports 192, which can be used to connect sensors (e.g., sensors for detecting leaks from the primary receiving area 128 to the secondary receiving area 162) and / or other systems to the intermediate drive unit 104. The auxiliary connection ports 192 may be sealed with plugs when not in use.

[0054] During operation, motor 108 can transmit torque to motor output shaft 182 and cause output shaft 182 to rotate. When the second rotor 178 of the second magnetic drive device 166 is connected to output shaft 182, the second rotor 178 can also be caused to rotate by motor 108. The magnet 176 of the second rotor 178 can interact with the magnet 174 of the first rotor 164 through a magnetic field extending through the secondary static barrier 154, and when the second rotor 178 rotates, torque can be applied to the first rotor 164 through the magnetic field, which can cause the first rotor 164 to rotate.

[0055] Since the first rotor 164 of the second magnetic drive device 166 is mechanically connected to the rotor 142 of the first magnetic drive device 144 via the drive shaft 152, the rotation of the first rotor 164 of the second magnetic drive device 166 can cause the rotor 142 of the first magnetic drive device 144 to rotate. The magnet 140 of the rotor 142 can interact with the magnet 136 of the impeller 118 through a magnetic field extending through the primary static barrier 130, and when the rotor 142 rotates, torque can be applied to the impeller 118 through the magnetic field, which can cause the impeller 118 to rotate. The rotation of the impeller 118 can impart centrifugal force to the fluid within the housing cavity 122 of the centrifugal pump 102, which can cause the fluid to be drawn into the centrifugal pump 102 through the fluid inlet 124 and exit through the fluid outlet 126.

[0056] In some embodiments, since one or more of the primary static barrier 130 and the secondary static barrier 154 are made of non-metallic materials, the moving magnetic fields of the first magnetic drive device 144 and the second magnetic drive device 166 cannot induce eddy currents in the primary static barrier 130 or the secondary static barrier 154, which can improve efficiency and reduce heat generation and stress.

[0057] Furthermore, since the intermediate drive unit 104 includes a secondary containment area 162 that is completely statically sealed (e.g., completely statically sealed without any dynamic seals, where dynamic seals provide a barrier between the secondary containment area 162 and the surrounding environment or the primary containment area 128), leaks from the primary containment area 128 to the secondary containment area 162, for example due to equipment failure, can be safely contained within the secondary containment area 162. The presence of fluid from the primary containment area 128 within the secondary containment area 162 can be detected by sensors and alert the operator, allowing for remedial action. Therefore, a failure of the seal between the primary containment area 128 and the secondary containment area 162 can be repaired without fluid leaking from the primary containment area 128 into the surrounding environment.

[0058] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a magnetically driven intermediate drive device 200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the intermediate drive device including a secondary housing having a sealed support 210.

[0059] Intermediate drive unit 200 can be configured to be coupled to mechanical equipment, such as centrifugal pump 102 (see...). Figure 1 They are basically the same centrifugal pumps.

[0060] The intermediate drive unit 200 may include a drive unit housing 250, a drive shaft 252, and a static barrier 254, which may be formed of a non-metallic material. The housing of the intermediate drive unit 200 may consist of multiple parts including an output housing 258 and a central housing 260, which may be cast, injection molded, and / or otherwise shaped and joined together by fasteners and / or adhesives. The central housing 260 may be configured to be coupled to the input housing 156 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 1 The input housing is substantially the same. The output housing 258 and the central housing 260 of the drive housing 250 may provide a barrier to the secondary housing area 262 and may be formed of a corrosion-resistant material (e.g., stainless steel, polymer, reinforced polymer, composite material, ceramic and / or reinforced ceramic), and / or may be lined with a corrosion-resistant material.

[0061] The drive shaft 252 may have an output end mechanically connected to the rotor 242 of the first magnetic drive device and an opposite input end mechanically connected to the rotor 264 of the second magnetic drive device. One or more radial support members 210 may be positioned between the drive housing 250 and the drive shaft 252 to fix the drive shaft 252 and facilitate rotation of the drive shaft 252 relative to the drive housing 250.

[0062] Each support 210 can be a sealed support, thereby sealing the oil that lubricates the corresponding support 210 for the duration of its life within each support 210, eliminating the need for an oil bath and its subsystem.

[0063] When the output housing 258 is coupled to a mechanical device (such as a centrifugal pump), the primary static barrier of the mechanical device can provide a static seal between the mechanical device and the secondary receiving area 262 of the intermediate drive unit 200. Similarly, a secondary static barrier 254, which may be formed of a non-metallic material and coupled to the drive unit housing 250, can provide a static seal to the secondary receiving area 262 of the intermediate drive unit 200. Thus, the secondary receiving area 262 can be completely sealed by a static seal and without any dynamic seal separating the secondary receiving area 262 from the surrounding environment or from the primary receiving area.

[0064] Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view of a centrifugal pump assembly 300 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which has a magnetically driven centrifugal pump 302 and a magnetically driven intermediate drive 304, the intermediate drive providing secondary housing for the centrifugal pump 302 having a single support 310.

[0065] Intermediate drive unit 304 can be configured to be coupled to mechanical equipment, such as centrifugal pump 302, which can be connected to a reference. Figure 1The centrifugal pump 102 described is substantially the same. The centrifugal pump 302 may include a primary static barrier 330, which may be formed of a non-metallic material, providing a static seal for the primary containment area of ​​the centrifugal pump 302.

[0066] The intermediate drive unit 304 may include a drive unit housing 350, a drive shaft 352, and a secondary static barrier 354. The drive unit housing 350 may consist of multiple portions including an input housing 356, an output housing 358, and a central housing 360, which may be cast, injection molded, or otherwise formed and joined together by fasteners and / or adhesives. At least the output housing 358 and the central housing 360 of the drive unit housing 350 may be formed of a corrosion-resistant material (e.g., stainless steel, polymer, reinforced polymer, composite material, ceramic, and / or reinforced ceramic) and / or lined with a corrosion-resistant material, wherein the output housing and the central housing provide a barrier to the secondary receiving area 362.

[0067] The drive shaft 352 may have an output end and an opposite input end, the output end being mechanically connected to the rotor 342 of the first magnetic drive device 344, and the input end being mechanically connected to the first rotor 364 of the second magnetic drive device 366. The rotor 342 may include a magnet, which may be positioned close to a primary static barrier 330, the primary static barrier being positioned and configured to interact with the magnet of the impeller of the centrifugal pump 302.

[0068] The drive housing 350 and drive shaft 352 can be relatively short, for example, compared to a reference. Figure 1 With respect to the described drive housing 150 and drive shaft 152, a single radial support 310 can be positioned between the drive housing 350 and the drive shaft 352 to secure the drive shaft 352 and facilitate rotation of the drive shaft 352 relative to the drive housing 350. The support 310 can be a sealed support, such that grease used to lubricate the support 310 throughout its lifespan can be sealed within the support 310. In some embodiments, the support 310 can be supported and positioned by a portion of the central housing 360 of the drive housing 350 (e.g., a lateral or radially extending structure of the central housing 360).

[0069] The output housing 358 can be coupled to the centrifugal pump 302, thereby providing a static seal between the primary housing region of the centrifugal pump 302 and the secondary housing region of the intermediate drive unit 304. Similarly, a secondary static barrier 354, which may be formed of a non-metallic material, can be positioned within the drive unit housing 350, thereby providing a static seal to the secondary housing region 362 of the intermediate drive unit 304, such as a static seal between the central housing 360 of the drive unit housing 350 and the output housing 358. Seals such as a static elastomeric seal 372 and / or a sealing adhesive can provide a static seal between components defining the volume of the secondary housing region 362. Thus, the secondary housing region 362 can be completely sealed by static seals and without any dynamic seals that isolate the secondary housing region 362 from the surrounding environment or from the primary housing region of the centrifugal pump 302 (e.g., when partially isolated from the primary static barrier).

[0070] The first rotor 364 of the second magnetic drive device 366 may include magnets 374 located near a first side of the primary static barrier 354, these magnets being positioned and configured to interact with corresponding magnets 378 of the second rotor 376 of the second magnetic drive device 366, the magnets 374 being located near the opposite second side of the primary static barrier 354.

[0071] The second rotor 376 may include a coupling 380 configured to connect the second rotor 376 to the output shaft of a motor (e.g., an electric motor). Additionally, the output housing 358 may include a coupling 384 (e.g., a mounting flange) configured to connect to the housing of the motor.

[0072] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a centrifugal pump assembly 400 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which has a magnetically driven centrifugal pump 402 and a magnetically driven intermediate drive unit 404, the intermediate drive unit forming a secondary housing having an intermediate rotor or drive assembly 406 not supported by any support.

[0073] Intermediate drive unit 404 can be configured to be coupled to mechanical equipment, such as centrifugal pump 402, which can be connected to a reference Figure 1 The centrifugal pump 102 described is substantially the same. Centrifugal pump 402 may include a primary static barrier 430, which may be formed of a non-metallic material, providing a static seal to the primary containment area of ​​pump 402.

[0074] Similar to intermediate drive unit 304, intermediate drive unit 404 may include drive unit housing 450 and secondary static barrier 454. However, unlike using a drive shaft, the rotor 442 of the first magnetic drive unit 444 and the first rotor 464 of the second magnetic drive unit 466 can be directly mechanically coupled together to form intermediate rotor assembly 406 without a drive shaft. Therefore, intermediate drive unit 404 can be relatively compact and have relatively few moving parts.

[0075] The rotor 442 of the first magnetic drive 444 may include magnets 440 positioned to interact with the magnets of the rotor of the centrifugal pump 402 across a primary static barrier 430. Similarly, the first rotor 464 of the second magnetic drive 466 may include magnets 474 positioned to interact with the magnets 476 of the second rotor 478 of the second magnetic drive 466 across a secondary static barrier 454. The interaction between magnets 440 and the magnets of the centrifugal pump of the first magnetic drive 444, and the interaction between magnets 474 and magnets 476 of the second magnetic drive 466, can be positioned and configured to generate a magnetic field that suspends the intermediate rotor assembly 406 within the drive housing 459 (e.g., substantially centers or self-aligns the intermediate rotor assembly 406 about the axis of rotational and / or linear motion), thus eliminating the need for supports to hold the intermediate rotor assembly 406 within the intermediate drive 404.

[0076] Components of the intermediate drive unit 404, such as rotors 442 and 464 of the intermediate rotor assembly 406, can be injection molded. Injection molding facilitates the shaping of components around the magnet. Furthermore, injection molding of the components of the intermediate rotor assembly 406 allows for a lighter weight and precise balance, which is important because the intermediate rotor assembly 406 will be supported solely by the magnetic fields of the first magnetic drive unit 444 and the second magnetic drive unit 466.

[0077] The remaining components of the intermediate drive unit 404 can be referenced. Figure 3 The components of the intermediate drive unit 304 described are essentially the same.

[0078] Therefore, although embodiments of this disclosure may be described herein with reference to pumps (such as centrifugal pumps), it should be understood that other mechanical devices, such as agitators, reactors, propulsion systems, compressors, and transmission systems, may be used in conjunction with intermediate drive components with secondary containment according to other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0079] Furthermore, although embodiments of this disclosure may be described using a motor as an energy source, it should be understood that other energy sources, including rotary and linear energy sources, may also be used in other embodiments according to this disclosure.

[0080] Furthermore, although embodiments of this disclosure may be described with reference to the pumping and / or handling of hazardous fluids, embodiments of this disclosure can be used in many other application scenarios or fluid handling equipment / systems, such as marine propulsion systems (e.g., deep-sea manned spacecraft requiring leak detection and secondary leak sealing), outer space applications (e.g., scenarios where protecting astronauts from loss of cabin atmosphere conditions is critical), energy recovery pump applications, actuators, medical devices and / or consumer products (e.g., aquarium pumps, mixers, etc.).

[0081] Although this disclosure has been described herein with reference to specific illustrated embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize and understand that this disclosure is not limited thereto. In fact, many additions, deletions, and modifications can be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure as claimed below (including its legal equivalents). Furthermore, features of one embodiment may be combined with features of another embodiment, but such combinations shall still fall within the scope of this disclosure as contemplated by the inventors.

Claims

1. A pump assembly, the pump assembly comprising: The pump includes a pump housing, a housing cavity, a fluid inlet, and a fluid outlet, and the pump defines a primary containment region; An intermediate drive unit, positioned and configured to transfer energy from a motor to the pump, defines a secondary containment region separated from the primary containment region. A non-metallic first static barrier provides a static seal between the pump housing cavity and the secondary containment area; A non-metallic second static barrier provides a static seal between the secondary containment area and the surrounding environment; A first magnetic drive device, the first magnetic drive device being used to provide magnetic coupling through the first static barrier; as well as A second magnetic drive device is used to provide magnetic coupling through the second static barrier.

2. The pump assembly according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the first static barrier (non-metallic) and the second static barrier (non-metallic) comprises at least one of a polymer, a reinforced polymer, a composite, a ceramic, or a reinforced ceramic.

3. The pump assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The intermediate drive device includes a drive shaft having an output end and an opposite input end, the output end being mechanically connected to the rotor of the first magnetic drive device, and the input end being mechanically connected to the rotor of the second magnetic drive device.

4. The pump assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The drive shaft of the intermediate drive unit is supported by one or more radial support members.

5. The pump assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The intermediate drive unit includes a central housing, which includes a cylindrical component for supporting and positioning the one or more radial supports and the drive shaft.

6. The pump assembly according to claim 4, wherein, Each of the one or more radial support members is a sealed radial support member.

7. The pump assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The drive shaft of the intermediate drive unit is supported by a single radial support.

8. The pump assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, One or more internal surfaces of the pump include a polymer coating.

9. The pump assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The rotor of the first magnetic drive device is mechanically connected to the rotor of the second magnetic drive device, thereby forming an intermediate rotor assembly that is not supported by any support.

10. The pump assembly of claim 9, wherein, The intermediate rotor assembly is suspended by magnetism.

11. The pump assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The following portion of the housing of the intermediate drive unit is formed of a corrosion-resistant material: this portion provides a barrier to the secondary containment area.

12. A fluid processing assembly, the fluid processing assembly comprising: A fluid handling apparatus, the fluid handling apparatus comprising a housing defining a housing cavity, a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid handling apparatus defining a primary containment region; as well as An intermediate drive unit, positioned and configured to transfer energy from a motor to the fluid handling apparatus, defining a secondary containment region separated from the primary containment region, the intermediate drive unit comprising: A modular housing, comprising a drive end housing, an output end housing, and a central housing; The connecting member of the fluid processing equipment is positioned at the output end housing; A static barrier is positioned at the drive end housing and provides a static seal between the secondary containment area and the surrounding environment; A magnetic drive device for providing magnetic coupling with the motor through the static barrier, the magnetic drive device being positioned at the output housing; and A drive shaft is connected between the magnetic drive device and the coupling for the fluid handling equipment, and the central housing is used to support and position the drive shaft within the central housing using one or more support members.

13. The fluid processing assembly of claim 12, wherein, The connector for the fluid processing equipment includes: An additional static barrier provides an additional static seal between the housing cavity of the fluid handling device and the secondary containment area; and An additional magnetic drive device is provided to provide magnetic coupling across the static barrier.

14. The fluid handling assembly according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The coupling for the fluid processing equipment includes a direct coupling located between the intermediate drive unit and a portion of the fluid processing equipment.

15. An intermediate drive device, the intermediate drive device comprising: A drive unit housing having a first end and a second end, the first end being configured to be connected to a fluid handling device and the second end being configured to be connected to a motor; A static barrier, which is coupled to the drive housing and defines a receiving area within the drive housing, wherein, when the drive housing is coupled to a fluid handling device, the receiving area is sealed by one or more static seals that isolate the receiving area from the surrounding environment; A rotor, the rotor including a magnet, the magnet being positioned as a static barrier adjacent to the intermediate drive device for being driven by the motor; A drive coupling mechanically connected to the motor, the drive coupling being configured to apply the force provided by the motor to the fluid handling equipment via the intermediate drive device; A drive shaft is connected between the rotor and the drive coupling; as well as A cylindrical component, positioned within the drive housing, for supporting and positioning the drive shaft within the drive housing using one or more support members.

16. The intermediate drive device according to claim 15, wherein, The drive coupling includes an additional rotor of a separate magnetic drive, the additional rotor including a magnet positioned to engage with a magnetic drive adjacent to the fluid handling equipment.

17. An intermediate drive device, the intermediate drive device comprising: A drive unit housing having a first end and a second end, the first end being configured to be connected to a fluid handling device and the second end being configured to be connected to a motor; A static barrier, which is coupled to the drive housing and defines a receiving area within the drive housing, wherein, when the drive housing is coupled to a fluid handling device, the receiving area is sealed by one or more static seals that isolate the receiving area from the surrounding environment; as well as The driver component includes: A rotor, positioned at a first end of the drive assembly, the rotor including a magnet positioned adjacent to a static barrier of the intermediate drive device for being driven by the motor; and A drive coupling is coupled to the rotor and positioned at a first end of the rotor assembly. The drive coupling is configured to apply forces provided by the motor to the fluid handling device via the intermediate drive unit, wherein the intermediate drive unit supports the drive assembly using only a single support member, or supports the drive assembly without using a support member.

18. The intermediate drive device according to claim 17, the intermediate drive device further comprising a drive shaft connected between the motor and the drive coupling.

19. The intermediate drive device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The rotor is configured to levitate within the drive unit housing under magnetic influence.

20. A method for driving a fluid handling apparatus using an intermediate drive device, the intermediate drive device including a statically sealed secondary containment region, the method comprising: The first rotor of the intermediate drive device is indirectly driven by a magnetic force applied through a non-metallic first static barrier, which is connected to the drive device housing of the intermediate drive device and defines a secondary containment area sealed relative to the surrounding environment within the drive device housing. The force applied to the first rotor is transmitted to the second rotor; as well as The fluid handling device is indirectly driven via the second rotor by the magnetic force applied through the second static barrier, which is non-metallic.

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