Magnetic filter and method for purifying and treating liquids using permanent magnetic balls

Abstract

A filter for and a method of removal of magnetic particles and treating a liquid with a magnetic field in which a liquid flows through a filter containing permanent magnetic balls tightly packed together so that there is no straight flow path through the filter but only around these magnetic balls. Increased mixing and turbulence of flow coupled with strong intensity of a magnetic field across the direction of the flow promotes better attraction and retention of magnetic particles on the magnetic balls. The filter is particularly useful as a fuel or oil filter for an internal combustion engine. Other advantageous applications include water treatment filters. The filter is capable of removing magnetic particles for an extended period of time without clogging.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE DATA[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of the patent application No. 09 / 419,498 filed Oct. 18, 1999 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.[0002] 1. Field of the Invention[0003] The present invention relates generally to a magnetic filter and method for purifying various liquids containing magnetic particles, such as fuels, lubricants, water, hydraulic fluids, and cooling liquids among others. Specifically, the invention relates to filters employing internal magnetic elements in the shape of permanent magnetic balls to trap such magnetic particles and subject the passing by liquid to strong magnetic fields. The filter of the present invention can be used with particular success as a stand alone disposable fuel or oil filter or in combination with other filters for a device with limited energy resources such as an internal combustion engine, as well as in applications such as cooling devices for nuclear and other reactors, etc.[0004] 2. Descripti...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

In the second type of the filters, energizing the coil causes metallic inserts to propagate the magnetic field inside the body of the filter and attract metallic contaminants from passing liquid.

Another disadvantage of electromagnetic coils is the constant need to apply electrical power for the filter to operate, a major contributor to operating expenses and also a source of possible failures, especially in critical applications.

Even during momentary interruption of electrical power, the risk exists of sudden release of all trapped material into the flow of liquid with possible catastrophic consequences for the rest of the hydraulic system.

There is a need therefore to provide such systems with additional normally closed type valves designed to block the flow of liquid during unexpected power failures, creating added costs and maintenance concerns.

There is also a need for an expensive solenoid type coil to be a part of the filter design.

A further disa

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