METHOD FOR CONTINUOUS THERMAL SEPARATION OF A MULTICOMPONENT SUBSTANCE

Abstract

METHOD FOR CONTINUOUS THERMAL SEPARATION OF A MULTICOMPONENT SUBSTANCE. The invention relates to a method for the continuous thermal separation of a substance that is fed into a treatment chamber within a vessel. In addition to the vessel, the apparatus comprises a heating device with an external heat source and a rotary mechanism with an external rotary drive. The heating device and the rotary drive operate mutually so that a resulting operating temperature Top is obtained within a volume Vp near an inner surface of the vessel that is equal to or greater than an evaporation temperature Te of at least one liquid that constitutes part of the substance.

Description

1 / 53 “METHOD FOR CONTINUOUS THERMAL SEPARATION OF A MULTICOMPONENT SUBSTANCE” Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates primarily to a method for continuous thermal separation of a multicomponent substance flowing into a treatment chamber.

[0002] The present invention relates, in particular, to a method that allows the use of waste heat as a major indirect energy contributor for the thermal separation of waste and by-products. The separation involves the removal of fluids from the substance by heating. Background and prior technique

[0003] Various substances containing both solid and evaporable liquids can be thermally separated by heating the substances to temperatures higher than the evaporation temperatures of the liquids.

[0004] As a result of heating, liquids change phase from the liquid phase to the gas phase, while solids become dry. Apparatus for such thermal separation processes are well known in the art and are commonly referred to as “Thermal Desorption Units” (TDUs) or dryers. During heat treatment, liquids are typically condensed back into the liquid phase as a subsequent or additional treatment step.

[0005] TDUs are used to treat a large number of different substances, such as waste. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 6 / 82 2 / 53 and products derived from food production, municipal waste collection, residues from refining or drilling processes, and various other substances containing one or more liquids capable of evaporation.

[0006] The predominant thermal separation techniques commercially available on the market today can be divided into two categories: - Thermal separation by indirect heating Thermal separation based on friction

[0007] Most existing TDU technologies are based on indirect heating. An external heat source heats the outer walls of the container, and the heat is transferred through the inner surface of the container to the substance being heated.

[0008] An external heat source can, in principle, be anything capable of heating the substance to a temperature required to evaporate relevant liquids in the substance within the container. The heat sources most often used are: steam, hot oil, flames, heated gas or exhaust, and electricity (cables, elements, induction, etc.).

[0009] An example of an apparatus for drying substances using the indirect method is disclosed in patent publication GB1575576A. The publication relates, in particular, to the treatment of a mixture of well drilling cuttings and drilling fluids to remove volatile materials from the drilling cuttings, and comprises a heater for heating the cuttings in a heating chamber to vaporize their volatile materials. Heating the cuttings can Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 7 / 82 3 / 53 involve external electrical resistance elements or be effected by means of a heat transfer fluid, which in turn is heated by an electrically powered auxiliary heat exchanger.

[0010] Other relevant publications disclosing indirect solutions of the prior art relevant to waste separation are US 5,375,343 A, which discloses an evaporator for drying rejects, and US 3,808,701 A, which discloses an apparatus for drying flowing materials.

[0011] The evaporator, in US 5,375,343, includes a hollow, externally driven cylindrical rotor fitted with vanes that extend essentially through the length of the evaporator. The apparatus provides for gradual heating along the evaporator. In addition, the apparatus of US 3,808,701 comprises a horizontally arranged cylindrical duct and a rotor that rotates internally within the duct. The rotor supports propeller-like elements operatively associated with the inner wall of the duct, which serve to clean, circulate, grind, and scrape the flowing material.

[0012] All existing indirect (continuous) methods have an internal transport mechanism, where the mass is gradually heated over time (and distance). The temperature rises to approximately 100 degrees Celsius, but after that, it takes some time (and distance) for all the energy required for water evaporation to be transferred to the residues. If the substance also contains liquids with higher evaporation temperatures, such as oil, most of that liquid will not evaporate before subsequent additional heating of the Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 8 / 82 4 / 53 substance. In such situations, the internal transport mechanism is usually 10 to 20 meters long and it can take up to 20 minutes for all the liquids in the waste to evaporate.

[0013] The main challenge in existing indirect methods is the transfer of heat from the inner surface of the vessel to the substance being heated. From the outset, this substance or substances are “wet solids”. Water and possibly other liquids, such as oil, are integrated parts and are not “free”. This substance will be influenced by gravity and will be located in or near a lower area (i.e., bottom) of the vessel / container. As the solids are heated, they will become dry and, as a consequence, the rate of heat transfer will soon be reduced. Although the rate of heat transfer from steel to a substance containing liquid is initially higher, the heat transfer will gradually reach a level that is equal to or similar to the heat transfer between the inner walls of the vessel and the dry solids in the substance.It is commonly observed that achieving an average heat transfer in indirect solutions better than approximately 75 W / m²K for typical drilling residue compositions, i.e., oil, water, and mineral solids, is difficult. This challenge is related to the fact that the solids constitute an insulating layer on the heated surfaces, thus reducing the efficiency of heat transfer. For solids containing proteins, this is a particular challenge, since such solids have properties highly influenced by heat and which lead to... Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 9 / 82 5 / 53 to the unwanted degradation of potentially valuable solids.

[0014] Friction-based thermal separation, on the other hand, is based on a very different principle from indirect thermal separation, namely, the transfer of kinetic energy derived from a rotary drive into thermal energy (heat) by friction. In these friction-based processes, no internal surface of the chamber containing the substance is heated from the outside. Instead, and in clear contrast to indirect solutions, the entire heat transfer surface, i.e., the consolidated surface of all dry particles in the waste, lies entirely within a process chamber. This consolidated surface area is very large when compared to the corresponding heat transfer surfaces of indirect solutions, thus making an internal transport mechanism irrelevant.

[0015] Friction-based solutions are completely dependent on rotational energy and therefore do not use excess heat sources or other external indirect heat sources.

[0016] Furthermore, energy losses in a friction-based solution are typically significant. A loss of approximately 2 / 3 is typical when, for example, a diesel engine is used to create the necessary rotational energy and / or electrical energy is generated from a diesel generator.

[0017] The following patent publications disclose relevant examples of known friction-based dryers.

[0018] US patent 4869810 (A) discloses a Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 10 / 82 6 / 53 method of separating oil from water and other evaporable liquids from drilling mud, bleaching earth, oil tank tailings, oil shale or similar, the mud being evaporated at a lower temperature than with conventional evaporation due to the fact that the capillary forces binding the separated fractions in the mud pores are destroyed in a friction evaporator.

[0019] Patent WO02092187 (A1) discloses a method for separating oil, water and other components that can be evaporated from an oil-containing material by evaporation. Evaporation is achieved at a temperature lower than the atmospheric boiling point of the component, due to the use of the gas phase established by the evaporation of a second component. Also included are means for drying the fluid-containing material comprising a processing chamber and a rotor mounted in said processing chamber. The rotor comprises a number of fixed rotor arms that cannot oscillate, the inner surface of the processing chamber being smooth.

[0020] The operation of all known friction-based dryers depends on the extensive use of rotational energy. Therefore, the use of alternative energy sources, such as surplus energy, is limited.

[0021] A common disadvantage of any of the known thermal techniques (both indirect methods and friction-based methods) is the consumption of large amounts of energy, which leads to high costs. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 11 / 82 7 / 53 operation and / or high investment costs.

[0022] For this reason, cheaper and less efficient solutions are often chosen, such as landfill or incineration. These cheaper solutions are often problematic due to the environmental risk and the waste of potentially valuable resources.

[0023] In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the invention to provide a method that solves or at least mitigates one or more of the aforementioned problems related to the use of prior art solutions.

[0024] One objective supported by the invention is to provide a method that can utilize a more compact device.

[0025] Another objective of the invention is to provide a method that provides a more efficient separation of a multicomponent substance fed into the apparatus.

[0026] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide a method that provides a more effective mixing of a multicomponent substance fed into the apparatus.

[0027] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide a method that results in more favorable energy consumption during drying, using the residual heat source. Exploiting unused (spilled) residual / excess heat can significantly reduce operating costs.

[0028] In addition, or alternatively, the invention aims to provide a method that allows the effective use of other surplus energy sources, which include components separated in the process with calorific value, such as oil or dry biomass. Examples of Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 12 / 82 8 / 53 such wastes are waste oils, waste solvents, waste-derived fuel, carpet and textile waste, plastic or mixed waste, automotive shredder waste and meat / bone meal (MBM).

[0029] Excess heat and / or calorific components of waste can be used for on-site thermal separation, for example, on an oil drilling platform.

[0030] In addition, excess heat and / or calorific components of waste can replace other energy contributors, partially or totally.

[0031] Some existing solutions are able to utilize excess heat as the primary energy source for thermal separation. However, these solutions have a limited heat transfer capacity and will necessarily require large heated surfaces and long internal transport mechanisms. Consequently, they will be large with high energy loss, and the comparatively larger heated surfaces require protection / insulation, both to prevent heat loss and to reduce risks. Summary of the invention

[0032] The present invention is presented and characterized in the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe other features of the invention.

[0033] In one aspect, the invention relates to a method for thermal separation, preferably continuous, of a substance flowing into a treatment chamber by means of an apparatus of Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 13 / 82 9 / 53 separation.

[0034] The separation apparatus comprises a vessel having a vessel wall with an inner surface that encloses a treatment chamber of length lc, a height H and a width W, wherein the vessel comprises at least one substance inlet, at least one first outlet for non-evaporable components and at least one second outlet for evaporable components, respectively, a heating device disposed outside the treatment chamber, for example, on an external surface and / or inside the vessel wall, and a rotating mechanism comprising a rotating shaft disposed inside the treatment chamber directed along the length lc of the treatment chamber (hereinafter referred to as the L direction).The rotary mechanism further comprises a mixing device of radial diameter dmd and axial length lmd fixed to the rotary shaft so that it extends a significant distance perpendicular to the L direction, preferably at least 80% of the linear distance between a central axis Ctc of the treatment chamber and the inner wall, more preferably at least 90%. An outermost radial part of the mixing device, for example, up to 20% of the radial extension of the mixing device, or up to 10% of the radial extension, may comprise sets of radially separated mixing protrusions, where the sets are axially displaced relative to each other. The mixing protrusions allow for the intensive mixing of at least part of the substance, preferably all of the evaporated substance, on the inner surface. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 14 / 82 10 / 53

[0035] The central axis Ctc is defined as the axis oriented along the L direction and positioned at the midpoint of the average width of the treatment chamber and average height H.

[0036] In one embodiment, the mixing protrusions may be in the form of rods that project radially from an outermost limit of the remaining part of the mixing device and distributed with spacings along at least 80% of the length of the rotating shaft.

[0037] In another embodiment, the protrusions extend continuously through the length of the mixing device parallel to the rotating axis.

[0038] The method comprises the following steps (in any sequence): A. Heat the inner surface by using the heating device to transfer thermal energy from the heating device, through the inner surface, by direct contact to a minimum peripheral volume Vp of the treatment chamber confined between the mixing device (which includes the mixing protrusions) and the inner surface, where, if present, thermal energy is transferred to a vapor cloud created therein (see step D below). B. Rotate the rotary mechanism by using a rotary drive operatively fixed to the rotary shaft at a peripheral rotational speed vp measured at an outer limit. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 15 / 82 11 / 53 radial of the mixing device (i.e., the outer radial limit of the mixing protrusions) that exceeds a minimum peripheral rotation speed vp.min of meters per second, C. feeding the substance into the treatment chamber through at least one substance inlet using a feeding device, preferably an automatic feeding device, wherein the substance comprises two or more components, at least one of which is capable of evaporation at an evaporation temperature Te (e.g., below 200°C) and D. Adjust at least one of the heating device's input power and the substance flow to the treatment chamber, that is, through at least one of the substance inlets. - an input power from the rotary drive and - an outflow of an unevaporated portion of the released substance from at least one initial outlet, such that a total thermal energy transferred to at least part of the minimum peripheral volume Vp results in an operating temperature Top that exceeds the evaporation temperature Te during operation, and where the amount of thermal energy transferred to part of the volume Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 16 / 82 12 / 53 minimum peripheral Vp by the heating device constitutes more than 60% of the total thermal energy transferred, preferably at least 65%, more preferably at least 70%, for example 75%.

[0039] The total thermal energy transferred combined with intense mixing creates a vapor cloud comprising a mixture of evaporated parts, i.e., components in a fluid state (gas or liquid), and non-evaporated parts, such as dry solids.

[0040] The result is almost instantaneous heating and evaporation within the minimum peripheral volume Vp, that is, in or near the inner surface.

[0041] An outermost radial part of the mixing device preferably comprises a plurality of radially separated mixing protrusions.

[0042] Furthermore, the plurality of radially separated mixing protrusions can be divided into one or more sets distributed axially along the rotating axis, through the axial length lmd of the mixing device. The number of mixing protrusions in each set is configured as the number of axially closest mixing protrusions in a complete circle around the rotating axis when viewed along the direction of the rotating axis in an axial position directly in front of the set in question.

[0043] In addition, the minimum peripheral rotational speed vp.min of the rotating mechanism is further defined as Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 17 / 82 13 / 53 Vp.min — C (dmd / #mp), Where C is a constant equal to or greater than 12π, #mp is the number of radially separated mixing protrusions in each set, and dmd [m] is the radial diameter of the mixing device (i.e., including the mixing protrusions).

[0044] Radially separated mixing bosses can, for example, be aligned with a plurality of axial planes with mutual radial displacements and where all axial planes intersect the central axis Ctc.

[0045] If the mixing protrusions in each assembly are in the form of radial rods, and these rods are not substantially displaced axially from one another, maximum mixing of the unevaporated and evaporated parts of the substance on the inner surface occurs in and near a radial plane within the treatment chamber. In such a configuration, the mixing device comprises a plurality of such radial mixing protrusion discs. If the mixing protrusions are in the form of axial rods that constitute the outermost radial part of the mixing device, only a single assembly can be present.

[0046] In a preferred configuration, the mixing bosses of each set are configured in alignment with the five radially separated axial planes, that is, directly behind each other when viewed along the central axis Ctc. In a specific configuration with a total of 100 bosses of Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 18 / 82 14 / 53 mixing along the entire length of the LMD mixing device and a number of 10 mixing protrusions in each set (#mp = 10), there will be 9 more sets aligned in radial planes of axial displacement.

[0047] In another example of the invention, each or some mixing protrusions within each assembly can be axially displaced. Thus, instead of maximum mixing occurring in distinct radial planes along an axial length lmd of the mixing device, maximum mixing occurs in one or more sweep areas around the circumference of the inner surface.

[0048] In one version of the last example, the mixing protrusions are continuously displaced axially along the entire axial length lmddo mixing device.

[0049] In a specific embodiment, the input power of the rotary drive and / or the input power of the heating device is controlled by the output flow released from at least the first output.

[0050] Defining the minimum peripheral volume Vp should be interpreted as the volume between the inner walls of the vessel and outside the outer limits of the mixing device (in all spatial directions). Thus, the empty spaces between radially separated mixing protrusions do not form part of the minimum peripheral volume Vp. For example, if the vessel is a container where both its internal length lc and its internal diameter dc are 1 meter, and the mixer fixed to the rotating shaft has a diameter dmd that extends on average 0.95 meters. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 19 / 82 15 / 53 radially and extending on average for a length lmd to 0.90 meters axially, the minimum peripheral volume Vp will be: Vp = Vcylinder - Vmixing device = (1 / 4)π( dc2lc — dmd2lmd) ~ 0.15m3, where dc = 1 meter, lc = 1 meter, dmd = 0.95 meter and lmd = 0.90 meters.

[0051] Thus, in this example, Vp constitutes approximately 20% of the total internal volume of the vessel.

[0052] By maintaining a peripheral rotation speed vp equal to or greater than a minimum peripheral rotation speed vp.min as defined above, it is ensured that all or most of the internal surfaces are utilized during heat transfer, since the effect of gravity is avoided, or largely avoided. In addition, the internal surfaces are kept clean, or nearly clean, thus maintaining higher heat transfer than in existing indirect solutions.

[0053] For example, a mixing device with a diameter of 1.1 meters and sets of eight mixing protrusions arranged on its outermost radial part (where the mixing protrusions in each set are mutually aligned in common axial planes), the minimum peripheral rotation speed vp.min of the mixing device using the above relationship (vp.min = C (dmd / #mp), becomes about 5 meters per second (m / s).

[0054] On the inner surface, the peripheral rotational speed vp generates a centripetal force Fc on the substance. The basic formula for this centripetal force Fc is: Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 20 / 82 16 / 53 Fc = 2mvp2 / dmd, where m [kg] is the mass affected at the outermost end of the mixing protrusions, vp [m / s] is the peripheral rotation speed, and dmd[m] is the diameter of the mixing device.

[0055] Furthermore, the gravitational force Fg that predominates at the same position is Fg = mg, where g [m / s2] is the gravitational constant = 9.8 em[kg] is the affected mass mentioned above.

[0056] The ratio between the centripetal force Fc and the gravitational force Fg is therefore, Fc / Fg = (2vp2) / (dmdg) ~ 0.2( 2Vp2 / dmd)

[0057] Since the centripetal force Fc is proportional to the square of the peripheral rotation speed vp, a speed of 5 m / s or greater and a mixing device diameter dmd of about 1.1 meters gives an Fc / Fg ratio of about 5, that is, significantly greater than 1.

[0058] Thus, in order to avoid the undesirable effect of gravitational forces during separation, the peripheral rotation speed vp can (with such a configuration) be as low as 5 m / s.

[0059] Furthermore, a mixing device with sets of eight mixing protrusions for each sweep area / radial plane (#mp = 8) and a mixing device diameter of 2 meters (dmd = 2), results in a minimum peripheral rotation speed Vp.min of 9.4 Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 21 / 82 17 / 53 m / s. A similar result is obtained with #mp = 13 and dmd = 3.25 m. Thus, the minimum speed required to avoid significant gravitational influence during operation can be diversified by varying the diameter of the mixing device (dmd) or by varying the number of mixing protrusions (#mp) or a combination thereof.

[0060] Note that the term “radial” herein means the direction perpendicular to the L direction.

[0061] In an advantageous operation, the peripheral rotation speed vp of the rotating mechanism is regulated so that some or all of the evaporated or vaporized components / parts of the substance within the minimum peripheral volume Vp (in the form of a vapor cloud) acquire a turbulent flow characteristic, that is, a motion pattern characterized by an internal state of chaotic changes in pressure and flow velocity (in contrast to laminar flow).

[0062] The presence of such turbulent flow characteristics can be detected by measuring the temperature difference ΔT between the vessel wall and the vapor cloud. When a significant drop in ΔT is measured and / or a minimum ΔT is found, for example, at about 50 K, the amount of fluid flow directed towards the inner wall becomes high, which indicates a turbulent velocity pattern.

[0063] To generate a high degree of turbulence within the minimum peripheral volume Vp, the peripheral rotational speed vp of the rotating mechanism can be set to a speed that exceeds a speed Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 22 / 82 18 / 53 minimum peripheral rotation vp.min of Vp.min = C (dmd / #mp) , COm C á 4 5π that is, at least 3.75 times the speed criteria mentioned above to avoid significant influence of gravitational effects during operation.

[0064] Using the same exemplary configuration as above, that is, a mixing device with sets of eight mixing protrusions arranged on its outermost radial part and a mixing device with a diameter dmd of 1.1 meters, the minimum peripheral rotation speed Vp.min of the mixing device is, in this advantageous operation, about 19.4 m / s.

[0065] In order to guarantee an additionally high degree of turbulence and heat transfer efficiency, a more advantageous operation has a minimum peripheral rotation speed vp.min of Vp.min = C ( dmd / #mp) , where C ≠ 60π, or better yet C ≠ 80π.

[0066] With the exemplary configurations above, vp.min would be approximately 25.9 m / s or approximately 34.5 m / s, respectively. The increase in peripheral rotation speed vp, which causes increased turbulence, results in a desired increase in heat transfer efficiency.

[0067] Using sets of 24 mixing protrusions (#mp = 24) and a mixing device with a diameter dmd of 1.1 m, the same intense mixing (which creates turbulent flow characteristics) can be obtained with velocities greater than 11.5 m / s. However, as the higher velocity contributes not only to a Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 23 / 82 19 / 53 An increase in the number of sweeps in a mixing volume, but also for more violent collisions of substances ('puff effect'), the efficiency of heat transfer will be reduced compared to the same number of passes but with a higher peripheral speed.

[0068] Note that these examples assume sets of mixing protrusions aligned in common axial planes along the length of the mixing device lmd.

[0069] Other possible minimum peripheral rotation speeds Vp.min for this specific configuration may be greater than 20 m / s, greater than 25 m / s, or greater than 30 m / s. A specific example of a peripheral rotation speed Vp, which ensures intense mixing of the turbulent flow characteristics for this configuration, may be 40 m / s.

[0070] The turbulent flow characteristic will be achieved with a lower peripheral rotation speed if the solids in the substance have a low specific gravity (SG) (e.g., from biomass) compared to a substance that has a higher SG (e.g., solids in drilling waste).

[0071] Furthermore, if the sets of mixing bumps deviate significantly from the axial alignments (i.e., crossing common axial planes), the relationship mentioned above can be corrected by an adjustment factor fmp: Vp.min = fmp C (dmd / #mp) where the adjustment factor fmp is a phenomenological factor that Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 24 / 82 20 / 53 depends on the degree of deviation from axial alignment along the length of the mixing device. A low degree of axial alignment results in a high fmp. For example, with C = 80π, dmd = 1.1, vp.min = 34.5 m / s and #mp = 100 uniformly distributed radially and axially along the length of the mixing device lmd and with a nearly random radial distribution, fmp = 12.5.

[0072] In an exemplary configuration of the separation apparatus, the rotating shaft of the rotary mechanism is arranged in alignment with the central axis of the Ctc chamber.

[0073] In another exemplary configuration, the rotating axis extends through the midpoint of at least one end wall of the vessel.

[0074] In yet another exemplary configuration, the treatment chamber has a cylindrical shape with a radial diameter dc (or mean radial diameter dc, if not constant), and where the ratio between the length lc and the radial diameter dc (L / dc) is equal to or less than 4.0, more preferably equal to or less than 2.5, additionally preferably equal to or less than 2.0, additionally preferably equal to or less than 1.5, for example 1.

[0075] In addition, or as an alternative to the exemplary configuration above, the mixing device may be arranged and designed so that it does not contribute to a net transport of the substance along the L direction from the inlet to the outlets. For example, the shape of the stirring media and / or elongated objects may be such that no or a negligible amount of the substance is pushed along the L direction. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 25 / 82 21 / 53

[0076] In yet another exemplary configuration, the mixing device comprises a plurality of rotating discs fixed with axial offsets to the rotating axis, with a preferred radially symmetrical orientation around the rotational axis, and a plurality of elongated objects interconnecting the plurality of rotating discs. At least one of the plurality of rotating discs may exhibit at least one passage opening to allow evaporated portions of the substance to flow during operation. At least one of these passage openings may be radially symmetrical around the axis of rotation. Furthermore, at least one passage opening may be disposed in the radial half of each rotating disc located nearest to the rotating axis. In this specific configuration, a maximum peripheral volume may be defined as the volume between the inner wall of the vessel and the outer limits of the rotating discs.

[0077] In yet another exemplary configuration, the rotating disc located closest to the terminal end of the vessel with the substance inlet (i.e., at the opposite end from the second outlet 5) is compact, i.e., without any passage openings, while the remaining discs exhibit such openings. This ensures that the unevaporated parts, such as the dry matter inside the treatment chamber, which are present on the inner surface due to centrifugal force, are not guided to the mixing device, i.e., sections of the chamber where the gas or a component gaseous element should constitute the most dominant fraction of the substance. Thus, if the rotating disc at the terminal end is not closed, there is a Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 26 / 82 22 / 53 possibility that the unevaporated parts may be guided through the disc openings and into the flow of evaporated parts of the substance near the rotating shaft. Such flow of unevaporated parts increases the risk of unwanted release of unevaporated parts from the second outlet.

[0078] In yet another exemplary configuration, the vessel may further comprise a plurality of internal ribs arranged on at least part of the inner surface, which increases the surface area of ​​the treatment chamber as well as the generation of turbulence of the substance within the minimum peripheral volume Vp. Each of the internal ribs projects radially into the treatment chamber. The plurality of ribs is preferably distributed with displacements around the circumference of the inner surface, in particular on the inner wall oriented along the L direction. However, each of the plurality of ribs may also be arranged along the circumference of the inner surface perpendicular to the L direction and distributed with displacements along the L direction.

[0079] In yet another exemplary configuration, the heating device comprises an enclosure disposed around the vessel such that a void is created between an outer surface of the vessel wall and an inner surface of the enclosure. The enclosure comprises a heat inlet to feed the heated fluid into the void for the purpose of transferring heat to the treatment chamber through the vessel wall and a heat outlet to release the cooled fluid. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 27 / 82 23 / 53 starting from the empty space. At least part of the empty space may also comprise a plurality of protruding elements, such as fins, which increase the surface area of ​​the outer wall, causing heat to be transferred more efficiently to the vessel wall. The protruding elements / fins are fixed to the outer surface of the vessel wall and possibly also to the inner surfaces of the casing. Furthermore, the fins may extend in the L direction.

[0080] The heated fluid passing through the empty space via the heat inlet and heat outlet may be at least either steam, or hot steam, or molten material, heated liquid, or engine, turbine, or incinerator exhaust.

[0081] Alternatively, or additionally, the heating device may comprise at least one heating element, for example, at least one electric heating element, disposed within the vessel wall, for example, in the form of heating rods inserted into channels extending along the L direction. These heating rods may be distributed with offsets around the circumference of the vessel.

[0082] Alternatively, or additionally, the heating device may comprise an electric heating system, a microwave heating system and / or an induction heating system arranged around the outer surface of the container.

[0083] The separation apparatus may additionally comprise a feeding device for feeding the flow of the substance into the chamber. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 28 / 82 24 / 53 treatment in a Si flow, a scrubber to remove fine solids from evaporated portions of the substance released from the second outlet during operation, and a solids discharge system for releasing and collecting non-evaporated portions released from the first outlet during operation.

[0084] The flow Si can be measured as a mass flow rate in kg / h if calculated as an average over an appropriate period, for example 1 min or 10 min or 30 min or 1 hour or 3 hours.

[0085] With reference to step D, the input power to the heating device and / or the input power to the rotary drive can be set at constant levels, and where the flow Si is adjusted so that the operating temperature Top within at least part of the minimum peripheral volume Vp is achieved and maintained.

[0086] Alternatively, the flow Si can be set at a constant rate, while the input power to the heating device and / or the input power to the rotary drive are adjusted so that the operating temperature Top within at least part of the minimum peripheral volume Vp is achieved and maintained.

[0087] In yet another exemplary configuration, the separation apparatus further comprises a temperature sensor arranged so that a temperature within and / or in the treatment chamber can be measured directly or indirectly and a control system communicating with the temperature sensor, the power supply device, the heating device and / or the rotary drive. The said temperature can, by Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 29 / 82 25 / 53 For example, the temperature may be measured somewhere on the inner surface of the treatment chamber and / or at the second outlet and / or at the first outlet and / or inside the vessel wall and / or on the outer surface of the vessel wall. The temperature measured inside or in the treatment chamber will be defined here as the temperature of the substance.

[0088] The control system is configured to automatically adjust at least one of the following: flow Si, input power to the heating device, and input power to the rotary drive motor based on the temperature of the substance measured by the temperature sensor. Temperature measurements can be taken at time intervals or continuously, or a combination of these. The location of such measurements can be anywhere within, in, or adjacent to the treatment chamber, for example, at or near the first outlet and / or at or near the substance inlet.

[0089] For example, step D may include the following partial steps: - measure the temperature of the substance using the temperature sensor, - transmit the substance's temperature to the control system, which then recalculates a new flow rate Sn based on the substance's temperature and - Adjust the Si flow to the new Sn flow by transmitting a signal to the power supply device.

[0090] These partial steps are typically performed while maintaining the input power of the device. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 30 / 82 26 / 53 heating and rotary drive input power at constant or nearly constant operating parameters.

[0091] In cases where thermal energy is derived from a surplus source, the present invention may allow the replacement or reduction of other energy inputs, such as electrical energy, and thus significantly reduce the cost and / or total energy consumption as a whole and / or cause a substantial reduction in equivalent CO2 emissions.

[0092] In another aspect, the invention relates to a separation apparatus suitable for the continuous thermal separation of a substance that is fed into a treatment chamber. The substance comprises two or more components where at least one of the components is capable of evaporation at an evaporation temperature Te.

[0093] The separation apparatus comprises a vessel comprising a vessel wall with an inner surface enclosing the treatment chamber with a length lc and a height H and an outer surface. Note that the length lc and height H are defined as the average length lc and average height H through the extension of the chamber perpendicular and along the direction of the chamber length, respectively.

[0094] The vessel further comprises a substance inlet for feeding the substance into the treatment chamber, a first outlet for releasing unevaporated parts of the substance, such as solid particles, from the treatment chamber, a second outlet Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 31 / 82 27 / 53 to release evaporated portions of the substance as gas and / or vapor from the treatment chamber, and a rotating mechanism.

[0095] The rotary mechanism includes a rotating shaft disposed, at least partially, within the treatment chamber along the length lc of the treatment chamber (hereinafter abbreviated as direction L) and a mixing device fixed to, and extending perpendicularly from, the rotating shaft. Said rotating shaft is preferably disposed in alignment with a central axis Ctc (midpoint of height H and width W) of the treatment chamber along direction L. Furthermore, said rotating shaft preferably extends through a central point of at least one of the terminal ends of the vessel along direction L, where at least one end of the rotating shaft is located outside the outer surface of the vessel.

[0096] The separation apparatus further comprises a rotary drive operatively connected to, or near, one end of the rotating shaft and a heating device disposed outside the treatment chamber and the inner surface, for example, on the outer surface and / or inside the vessel wall. The heating device is configured to transfer thermal energy through the inner surface to a minimum peripheral volume Vp inside the treatment chamber.

[0097] Defining the minimum peripheral volume Vp is identical to the definition of the first aspect.

[0098] The rotary drive can be at least one of an electric motor, a combustion engine and Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 32 / 82 28 / 53 a turbine.

[0099] The mixing device comprises a plurality of rotating discs fixed with axial displacements to the rotating axis, with a preferred radially symmetrical orientation around the rotating axis, and a plurality of elongated objects that interconnect with the plurality of rotating discs.

[0100] The heating device and rotary drive are configured so that, when the heating device and rotary drive are operated at their respective input operating powers Phd and Prm, a resulting operating temperature Top is obtained within at least part of the minimum peripheral volume Vp, preferably the entire minimum peripheral volume Vp that is equal to or greater than the evaporation temperature Te.

[0101] With this specific configuration, the separation apparatus allows the evaporation of the components capable of evaporating in Te into a vapor cloud with a heat transfer rate significantly higher than the average heat transfer rate of the substance initially fed into the treatment chamber.

[0102] Furthermore, it can be foreseen that the rotating shaft can also be connected to more than one rotary drive unit, for example, two electric motors, an electric motor and a combustion engine, etc.

[0103] The mixing device may further comprise a plurality of radially protruding elements distributed with displacements along the L direction. The term "radially protruding elements" is defined here as elements, preferably Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 33 / 82 29 / 53 elongated elements, such as rods, that are oriented with a significant radial component. The radial component preferably constitutes more than 50% of the total length of the element, for example 100%.

[0104] A plurality of radially protruding elements, such as rods, can be connected to a plurality of elongated objects, more preferably connected in a replaceable manner, for example, using threads.

[0105] Furthermore, the plurality of radially salient elements can be arranged radially symmetrically around the rotating axis.

[0106] At least one of the plurality of radially protruding elements may comprise a means or structure for agitation at or near the end nearest to the inner surface, which is designed to increase the mixing rate of the substance. The means of agitation may, for example, take the form of sharp edges, discs, hammer shape, airfoil, etc. At least the last two exemplary forms must be oriented with the head or leading edge pointed in the direction of rotation of the rotating mechanism.

[0107] In a preferred example, the rotary drive is configured to generate a peripheral rotational speed exceeding 5 meters per second, more preferably equal to or greater than 20 meters per second. The peripheral rotational speed is measured at an outer radial limit, preferably the outermost, of the mixing device. Thus, if the mixing device comprises radially protruding elements, the limit Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 34 / 82 30 / 53 outermost radial can be the agitation medium. Alternatively, or additionally, such a limit can be the elongated objects of the mixing device.

[0108] At a peripheral rotation speed of 20 meters per second or higher, a turbulent flow feature is created for at least part of the substance within the minimum peripheral volume Vp. If the objective is to create a turbulent flow feature, the main objective of the mixing device will not be to transform kinetic energy into frictional heat, but to achieve and maintain a turbulent vapor cloud within the treatment chamber and (at the same time) ensure heat transfer from the vapor cloud to the incoming substance by agitating the substance within the treatment chamber so that the solids contained in the incoming substance are continuously suspended in the generated vapor cloud.

[0109] The heating device can be configured to provide at least 60% of the total thermal energy required to reach and maintain the operating temperature Top within at least part of the minimum peripheral volume Vp, more preferably at least 65%, additionally preferably at least 70%, for example 75%. The remaining part of the total thermal energy is thus generated by the rotational movement of the rotating mechanism.

[0110] In an exemplary configuration of the separation apparatus, the treatment chamber has a cylindrical shape with a radial diameter dc (or mean radial diameter dc if not constant), and where the ratio between the Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 35 / 82 31 / 53 length lc and less than 4.0, less than 2.5, less than 2.0, less than 1.5, the radial diameter additionally additionally additionally for example 1. dc (lc / dc) is equal or preference equaled or preference equaled or preference equaled This configuration is considered advantageous due to its reduced cost and greater compactness, and since the separation apparatus allows for instantaneous, or near-instantaneous, heating and evaporation within the minimum peripheral volume Vp (and therefore also evaporation), there is no need to exceed a certain chamber length to complete the separation process.

[0111] In addition to or as an alternative to the exemplary configuration above, the mixing device may be arranged and designed so that it does not contribute to a net transport of the substance along the L direction from the inlet to the outlets. For example, the shape of the stirring media and / or elongated objects may be such that no or a negligible amount of the substance is pushed along the L direction.

[0112] In another exemplary configuration, at least one of the plurality of rotating discs has at least one passage opening to allow evaporated portions of the substance to flow during operation. At least one of these passage openings may be radially symmetrical around the axis of rotation. Furthermore, at least one passage opening may be disposed in the radial half of each rotating disc located nearest to the axis of rotation.

[0113] In a specific configuration, the disk Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 36 / 82 The rotating disc 32 / 53, located closest to the terminal end of the container with the substance inlet, is compact, i.e., without any passage openings, while the remaining discs exhibit such openings. This ensures that no or an insignificant amount of the unevaporated parts of the substance can flow out of the container at the second outlet.

[0114] The vessel may additionally comprise a plurality of internal ribs arranged on at least part of the inner surface, which increases the surface area of ​​the treatment chamber as well as the generation of turbulence of the substance within the minimum peripheral volume Vp. Each of the internal ribs projects radially into the treatment chamber. The plurality of ribs is preferably distributed with displacements around the circumference of the inner surface, in particular on the inner wall oriented along the L direction.

[0115] In yet another exemplary configuration, the heating device further comprises an enclosure arranged around the vessel such that an empty space is created between an outer surface of the vessel wall and an inner surface of the enclosure. The enclosure comprises a heat inlet and a heat outlet for feeding the heated fluid into the empty space and releasing the heated fluid from the empty space, respectively. At least part of the empty space may also comprise a plurality of external fins extending in the direction perpendicular to the L direction, which increases the surface area of ​​the outer wall, causing Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 37 / 82 33 / 53 so that heat is transferred more efficiently to the vessel wall. The external ribs can be fixed to the outer surface of the vessel wall and / or to the inner surfaces of the casing.

[0116] The heated fluid passing through the empty space by means of heat input and heat output may be at least one of the following: steam, hot steam, molten materials, heated liquid, excess exhaust from a generator and excess exhaust from an engine, turbine and / or incinerator.

[0117] Alternatively, or additionally, the heating device may comprise at least one heating element, for example, at least one electric heating element, disposed within the vessel wall, for example, in the form of heating rods inserted into heating channels extending along the L direction. These heating rods may be distributed with offsets around the circumference of the vessel.

[0118] Alternatively, or additionally, the heating device may comprise an electric heating element, a microwave heater and / or an induction heater arranged around the outer surface of the container.

[0119] The separation apparatus may further comprise a feeding device for feeding the substance flow into the treatment chamber in a Si flow, a scrubber for scrubbing evaporated portions of the substance released from the second outlet during operation, and a solids discharge tank. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 38 / 82 34 / 53 for collecting non-evaporated particles released from the first outlet during operation.

[0120] The flow Si can be measured as a flow rate in kg / h if calculated as an average over an appropriate period, for example 1 min or 10 min or 30 min or 1 hour or 3 hours.

[0121] In cases where thermal energy is derived from a surplus source, the present invention can make it possible to replace other energy inputs and thus significantly reduce the operating cost of energy and / or cause a substantial reduction in equivalent CO2 emissions.

[0122] The conceptual idea of ​​the invention is to create sufficient heat transfer from an external heat source to the substance to be evaporated within a closed vessel, so that evaporation occurs instantaneously or nearly instantaneously. This is in stark contrast to the traditional indirect method, where evaporation occurs more gradually.

[0123] Such instantaneous, or near-instantaneous, evaporation is achieved by the separation apparatus of the invention, since the heat from the external heat source is not transferred primarily to the solids in the substance (e.g., residues), but rather to a 'vapor cloud' containing evaporated liquids and (already) dry solid particles. If the substance injected into the vessel contains water, the 'vapor cloud' typically contains a large amount of vapor.

[0124] Heat is subsequently transferred from this heated vapor cloud to the incoming substance. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 39 / 82 35 / 53 under mixing by the mixing device. In order to guarantee high heat transfer, this mixing must be advantageously very intense and to the point where the components that form the vapor clouds experience turbulent flow characteristics, i.e., high internal velocities with rapid accelerations / changes of direction.

[0125] As mentioned above, intense mixing / turbulence is achieved by inserting a rotating mechanism into the treatment chamber. One purpose of the rotating mechanism is to ensure ideal mixing and, together with the aforementioned heating system, to create a vapor cloud to guarantee ideal heat exchange from the vessel wall to the various components of the vapor cloud. Thus, instantaneous, or near-instantaneous, evaporation of the evaporable components within the substance is achieved.

[0126] Therefore, in at least one preferred embodiment, the vessel contains, at all times during operation, a vapor cloud with ideal heat transfer capacity, both from the inner walls and to the incoming substance.

[0127] Although solid state particles are forced to the periphery of the vessel (i.e., within the aforementioned minimum peripheral volume Vp) due to centrifugal forces, the continuous evaporation of evaporable components, such as water, creates intense internal forces in all internal directions, which ensures a high percentage of liquids evaporated also in Vp. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 40 / 82 36 / 53

[0128] By creating and maintaining intense mixing / turbulence against the inner walls of the vessel, the internal surfaces are kept clean. This cleaning process further assists in achieving ideal and continuous heat transfer capabilities during operation. Due to the mixing, solid-state particles will not be able to build up a layer on the internal surfaces, as these surfaces are continuously washed by the vapor cloud containing evaporated liquids and solid-state particles. The intense mixing also neutralizes the forces of gravity, further ensuring that all internal surfaces can be used for heat transfer.

[0129] Due to instantaneous evaporation and intense mixing / turbulence, the separation apparatus can operate continuously without an internal transport mechanism that gradually heats the substance.

[0130] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the vessel can be arranged in a substantially horizontal position. However, those skilled in the art will know that the vessel could also be arranged in a substantially vertical position, or in any position between the substantially horizontal and substantially vertical positions.

[0131] The combination of the heating device and the rotating mechanism establishes a thermal desorption unit that will ensure significantly more efficient heat transfer than known indirect thermal solutions. The mixing device Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 41 / 82 37 / 53 will, through its rotation, disperse and agitate the substance, which provides a "vapor cloud effect" inside the treatment chamber.

[0132] The intense mixing of the “steam cloud” inside the treatment chamber will result in mainly the steam and other evaporated liquids, but also the solids and particles of the waste, being brought into contact with the internal surfaces of the treatment chamber for a very short period of time, after which the steam and particles are moved out of contact with the internal surface and replaced by other and new steam and particles, continuously.

[0133] In at least one embodiment of the invention, heat transfer from the internal surfaces of the treatment chamber occurs as follows: The mixing device creates intense mixing (preferably turbulent) of the substance components present in the treatment chamber, resulting in a vapor cloud (in addition to the heating device). The vapor cloud may comprise vapor (e.g., water vapor and vapor from other vaporized liquids, such as oil) and solids / particles. This intense mixing against the internal surfaces provides high heat transfer from the internal surfaces to the vapor cloud. - The heat (thermal energy) exchanged from the internal surfaces of the treatment chamber. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 42 / 82 38 / 53 will be immediately, or almost immediately, distributed throughout the vapor cloud due to intense mixing.

[0134] As mentioned above, intense mixing, in combination with the solids and particles in the steam cloud, will keep the heating surfaces clean at all times, which increases heat transfer from the internal surfaces of the treatment chamber to the steam cloud. Intense agitation of the steam cloud will ensure that all, or almost all, of the substance present within the treatment chamber contains dry solids and steam with nearly the same composition (i.e., ratio between the different components) and temperature.

[0135] Furthermore, the inner surface, at least along the L direction, is heated and in contact with the vapor cloud. This prevents only the bottom area of ​​the container from being active in transferring heat to the substance, as is the case in other known indirect methods. A larger effective heating surface is therefore obtained, compared with solutions of the prior art, since heat will be transferred to the vapor cloud and since the vapor cloud, due to mixing, will be in contact with the entire heating surface of the treatment chamber.

[0136] The treatment chamber can be set to atmospheric pressure. Alternatively, the pressure in the treatment chamber can be below atmospheric pressure, for example, at a pressure equal to or less than 0.3 bar. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 43 / 82 39 / 53 Brief description of the drawings

[0137] The following drawings are attached to facilitate understanding of the invention. The drawings show embodiments of the invention, which will now be described only as examples, where:

[0138] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a separation apparatus according to the invention.

[0139] Figure 2 is a schematic side view of a separation assembly according to the invention.

[0140] Figure 3 is a side view cutaway perspective of a first embodiment of a separation apparatus according to the invention.

[0141] Figure 4 is a side view cutaway of the separation apparatus of figure 3, in which the internal ribs are arranged on the inner surface of the vessel.

[0142] Figure 5 is a front perspective view section of the separation apparatus of figure 3, in which the cutting plane is additionally located in the apparatus vessel.

[0143] Figure 6 is a side view cutaway perspective of a peripheral part of the separation apparatus shown in Figure 3, in which a radially protruding element is shown in more detail in a separate drawing.

[0144] Figure 7 is a side perspective view of the separation apparatus of figure 3-5.

[0145] Figure 8 is a side view section Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 44 / 82 40 / 53 in perspective of a second embodiment of a separation apparatus according to the invention, in which an elongated object that generates turbulence is shown in more detail in a separate drawing.

[0146] Figure 9 is a side perspective view section of the separation apparatus of figure 8, in which the internal ribs are arranged on the inner surface of the vessel.

[0147] Figure 10 is a side perspective view of a rotary mechanism of a separation apparatus according to the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0148] The embodiments of the invention will be discussed in more detail hereafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the drawings are not intended to limit the invention to the object described in the drawings.

[0149] It should be noted that certain features of the invention, which, for clarity, are described in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, several features of the invention, which, for brevity, have been described in the context of a single embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. In particular, it should be noted that the features described in relation to a specific embodiment can be interchangeable with the features described in relation to other embodiments.

[0150] With specific reference to figure 1 which shows a first embodiment of the invention, the apparatus Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 45 / 82 A 41 / 53 separation device 100 is configured to effect the continuous thermal separation of a substance 12 flowing into a treatment chamber 2 within a cylindrical vessel 1 having an inner surface 1a and an outer surface 1b. The vessel includes a cylindrical wall of length lc and two circular end walls of diameter dc (or alternatively oval or rectangular or square with height H and width W) disposed at each end of the cylindrical wall.

[0151] Substance 12, fed into substance inlet 3 using a feeding device (Figure 2), is composed of multiple components (An, where n>l), where one or more of these components 12b (Aem, where m^m) are susceptible to evaporation at distinct evaporation temperatures (Tei, where i=l...m). Therefore, a part 12a of substance 12 (An-m) can be considered non-susceptible to evaporation within a configured operating temperature (Top ^ Tei) within treatment chamber 2. The non-susceptible and susceptible to evaporation parts 12a, 12b are released from vessel 1 through a first and second outlet 4, 5, respectively. During operation, a vapor cloud 12c is formed comprising a mixture of non-susceptible parts 12a and susceptible parts 12b. The aforementioned vapor cloud 12c includes both fluids (gas and / or liquids) and solids / particles.

[0152] Vessel 1 contains a rotating mechanism 7 having a rotating shaft 7a aligned with a longitudinal central axis Ctc of vessel 1. The shaft 7a extends along the length lc of vessel 1 and through at least one of Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 46 / 82 42 / 53 end walls, preferably both.

[0153] The rotary mechanism 7 further includes a mixing device 7b-d fixed to the rotary shaft 7a within the treatment chamber 2. The mixing device 7b-d comprises at least one, preferably at least two, rotary pulleys or discs 7b, rigidly fixed perpendicularly to the shaft 7a and a plurality of mixing protrusions / elements 7d fixed to the outer radial end of the discs 7b. In the case of a plurality of discs 7b, they are arranged with spacings / offsets along the longitudinal direction of the shaft 7a (i.e., along the C-axis). In Figure 1, a total of seven spaced discs 7b are shown, where all discs, except the leftmost disc, exhibit openings 7b1 close to the shaft 7a, which thereby allow the evaporated components 12b to flow through it.The main purpose of the single closed disc 7b, positioned closer to the end wall that displays the substance inlets 3 (see figure 7), is to prevent solids from the vapor cloud 12c from entering the volume between the rotating shaft 7a and the protruding elements 7d, which prevents the solids from mixing with the evaporated parts 12b and being released through the second outlet 5.

[0154] To further prevent solids from escaping from the second outlet 5, a narrow slit consisting of two circumferentially extending plates 23 was attached to the disc 7b closest to the second outlet 5 and the adjacent inner wall 1a, respectively. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 47 / 82 43 / 53

[0155] The mixing device 7b-d further comprises a plurality of bars 7c fixed at or near the outer edges 7b of the discs 7b2, wherein each of the bars 7c has a length and orientation directed along (parallel to) the central axis Ctc of the vessel 1, which allows the interconnection of two or more of the discs 7b, and preferably interconnections of all the discs 7b.

[0156] For the first embodiment represented in figures 1-6, the mixing device 7b-d also comprises a plurality of rods 7d interchangeably connected to each rod 7c so that they project radially towards the inner surface 1a of the cylindrical wall of vessel 1, i.e., perpendicular to the central axis Ctc of vessel 1. The main purpose of the rods 7d is to create an intense mixing of the vapor cloud 12c to increase heat transfer from the inner wall 1a.

[0157] With the specific configuration shown in Figure 1, experiments show that intense mixing of the vapor cloud 12c was achieved with a peripheral velocity vp of 34.5 m / s measured at the ends of the rods 7d closest to the inner walls of the vessel. During the experiments, a mixing device 7a-d was used with sets of eight rods 7d (#mp = 8) distributed with spacing along the entire length lmd of the mixing device. The eight rods 7d of each set are additionally distributed with spacing along the entire circumference of the mixing device 7b-d. The mixing device 7b-d having a diameter dmd of 1.1 meters and the inner diameter of the Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 48 / 82 44 / 53 DC toilet bowl, 1.2 meters long.

[0158] A peripheral speed of 34.5 m / s with this specific configuration corresponds to a revolution speed ωτ of 600 revolutions per minute (rpm). With eight rods 7d along the circumference of the mixing device, this corresponds to 4800 sweeps per minute (spm) in a specific area of ​​the inner wall of the vessel 11a.

[0159] If it is decided to keep the number of sweeps constant, it can be deduced that the minimum peripheral rotation speed Vp.min at the outer radial limit of the mixing rods / protrusions can be formulated as follows: Vp.min = 8 0π (dmd / #mp), where dmd is the diameter of the mixing device and #mp is the number of mixing protrusions.

[0160] Other experiments show that a vapor cloud with turbulent characteristics can be achieved with a significantly lower number of spm than 4800, at least down to 2700 spm. This corresponds to a minimum peripheral rotation speed Vp.min of Vp.min = 4 5π (dmd / #mp).

[0161] With specific reference to figure 6, the shape of the end 7d1 of each rod 7d located closest to the inner surface 1a can be varied to optimize said mixing of the vapor cloud in a minimum peripheral volume Vp delimited by the radial extension of the rotating mechanism 7 and the inner surface 1a. As shown in the detailed drawings within the oval structure. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 49 / 82 45 / 53 of Figure 6, the termination of rod 7d can be flat, or nearly flat, relative to the inner surface 1a. However, the ends 7d1 can be of any shape as long as they contribute to the mixing of the vapor cloud 12c present in the minimum peripheral volume Vp. The detailed drawing within the oval structure in Figure 1 shows several examples of possible shapes for the ends 7d1. Note that the exemplary rods 7d within the oval structure of Figure 1 are all rotated 90° counterclockwise relative to the rods 7d shown within vessel 1.

[0162] To ensure the rotation of the rotary mechanism 7 and, thus, also of the mixing device 7b-d, an end section 7a1 of the shaft 7a is connected to a rotary drive 10. As shown in Figure 2, the latter is powered by an internal and / or external rotary motor 10a. In the exemplary configuration shown in Figure 2, the rotary drive 10 comprises a rotary motor 10a, a drive belt 10b and two drive pulleys 10c arranged around the end section 7a1 and a rotary shaft of the rotary motor 10a, respectively.

[0163] The first outlet 4 is dedicated to the release of solid particles (non-evaporated parts) 12a, while the second outlet 5 is dedicated to the release of evaporated parts 12b. In order to prevent the release of vapor outside the treatment chamber 2 through the first outlet 4, a rotary valve 22 (figure 1) is attached to the first outlet 4, thus discharging the non-evaporated parts 12a from the first outlet 4.

[0164] After being released from the first outlet 4 through the rotary valve 22, the part Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pages 50 / 82 46 / 53 non-evaporated 12a can be collected by a dedicated solids discharge vessel 40 located below or partially below vessel 1 (figure 2).

[0165] In order to monitor the temperature inside the vessel 1, one or more temperature sensors 19 in various locations can be placed inside or near the treatment chamber 2, for example, outside or inside the vessel wall and / or inside the first outlet 4. The last position is shown in figure 1.

[0166] Steam 12b can be fed into a condensation system 30. The latter can be carried out in three stages: - Vapor 12b flows into a gas scrubber, so that the vapor 12b is cleaned of small amounts of solid particles. A small amount of a first liquid, such as oil, may also be condensed inside the gas scrubber. - Clean steam 12b flows further into a liquid condenser, for example, an oil condenser, for condensation of the first liquid from the steam 12b. Finally, clean steam with or without a reduced amount of the first liquid (e.g., lighter oil) flows into a steam condenser that condenses at least a second type of liquid, such as water, and, if applicable, the reduced amount of the first liquid.

[0167] In figure 1, the first output 4 and the Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pages 51 / 82 47 / 53 second outlet 5 are seen arranged adjacent to the end wall distal to the rotary drive 10, wherein their openings outward from the vessel 1 are directed along the central axis Ctc and inclined downwards relative to the central axis Ctc, respectively. However, the first and second outlets 4,5 can be configured in either direction, provided they allow the release of unevaporated and evaporated parts 12a, 12b during operation. Figures 3-5 and 7 of the first embodiment and Figures 8-9 of the second embodiment show an alternative configuration of the first outlet 4 which has a vertical opening outward from the treatment chamber 2 at the base of the vessel 1.

[0168] The total radial diameter dmd of the rotary mechanism 7 / mixing device 7b-d, that is, twice the total radial length from the central shaft Ctc to the radial limit 7 of the rotary mechanism, is preferably greater than 90% of the diameter dc of the treatment chamber 2. For example, if the internal diameter dc of the cylindrical vessel 1 is 2 meters, the average distance between the end 7d1 of each plurality of rods 7d and the internal surface 1a should preferably be less than 10 cm, for example 3 or 4 cm.

[0169] In all exemplary configurations of Figures 1 and 3-9, a heating device 6 is represented as an assembly comprising both: a plurality of resistive heating elements in the form of 6” poles / rods arranged within the vessel wall along (i.e., parallel to) the central axis Ctc, as well as a hot fluid system arranged around the cylindrical wall comprising an enclosure 13 that forms Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pages 52 / 82 48 / 53 a void 14 between an inner surface of the casing 13 and the outer surface 1b of the vessel 1. The casing 13 further comprises a heat inlet 13a for feeding heated fluid 6' into the void 14 and a heat outlet 13b for releasing the heated fluid 6' out of the void 14.

[0170] However, note that the heating device 6 may comprise any type and any number of heating mechanisms capable of heating the inner wall 1a of the vessel 1. For example, in alternative embodiments the heating device 6 may consist of only one or more resistive heating elements inside and / or outside the vessel wall or consist only of said hot fluid system. The heating device 6 may alternatively or additionally comprise a microwave heater system and / or an induction heater system disposed on or near the outer surface 1b of the vessel 1 and / or inside the treatment chamber 2.

[0171] Figure 7 shows a separation apparatus 100 where one of the end walls of vessel 1 exhibits two substance inlets 3, an opening for the rotating shaft 7a and an inspection / service hatch 18. However, it should be understood that this end wall may comprise any number of substance inlets 3 and any number of hatches 18. For the specific configuration shown in Figure 7, only one of the two substance inlets 3 is used during operation. The other may be closed, for example, with the same material as the remaining part of vessel 1 or with glass. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pp. 53 / 82 49 / 53 transparent. Alternatively, substance 12 can be fed through both inlets 3 during operation.

[0172] The black arrows 6' pointing to the heat inlet 13a and outward to the heat outlet 13b, respectively, symbolize the flow of hot fluid.

[0173] Figures 8 and 9 show a second embodiment of the separation apparatus 100. Compared with the first embodiment, the plurality of rods 7d is omitted. The rotary mechanism 7 thus comprises the rotary shaft 7a and the mixing device 7c-d, where the latter is assembled by a plurality of discs 7b and interconnecting rods 7c. The desired mixing of the substance 12 within the minimum peripheral volume Vp is consequently largely ensured by the longitudinally directed rods 7c.

[0174] To allow for maximized mixing, preferably to the extent that the vapor cloud 12c experiences a turbulent flow characteristic within Vp, the shape of the bars 7c can be optimized, for example, through repeated tests in which various shapes of the bars 7c are inserted and operated, and where heat transfer is measured during each operation. Figures 8-9 show an exemplary configuration of the bars 7c in which the displayed longitudinal cross-sectional area has a triangular shape. The sharp edges 7c1 of the triangular bar 7c can induce more turbulence in the minimum peripheral volume and intense mixing of the vapor cloud 12c.

[0175] The separation apparatus 100 described above allows the effective removal of liquids and / or gases. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pages 54 / 82 50 / 53 starting from a substance 12 by thermal separation, using, for example, waste heat 6' as the main indirect energy for separating residues and by-products. Due to the combined external heating of vessel 1 and the intense mixing of the components of the substance / vapor cloud 12c, the separation apparatus 100 can operate continuously without the presence of an internal liquid transport mechanism that causes a gradual heating of the substance 12 (as required in currently known indirect separation methods).

[0176] By using the apparatus 100 described above, heat is not transferred primarily to the solids in the waste, as is the case with indirect separation methods. Instead, heat is transferred to the vapor cloud 12c with a much higher heat transfer coefficient. This vapor cloud 12c is composed mainly (by volume) of evaporated liquids / gases and also of hot non-evaporated particles. If water is present in the incoming substance 12, the 'evaporated' vapor cloud 12c will necessarily contain vapor.

[0177] During operation, the following process steps occur: - The heating device 6 and the rotating mechanism 7 cause the incoming substance 12 to transform into a vapor cloud 12c. - The thermal energy of the heating device 6 is transferred from the inner surface 1a of the vessel 1 to the generated steam cloud 12c. Thermal energy is subsequently Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pages 55 / 82 51 / 53 transferred from this heated vapor cloud 12c to the incoming substance 12 by intense mixing / turbulence from the rotating mechanism 7.

[0178] The heat transfer from steel to a dry solid, typically found in indirect heating separators of the prior art, is about 75 W / m2K. In comparison, the heat transfer from steel to steam (which will be a typical major ingredient of the 12c steam cloud during thermal waste separation) is significantly higher, typically about 6000 W / m2K.

[0179] Thus, when substance 12 is heated by means of the heating steps mentioned above, the apparatus of the invention achieves a heat transfer capacity significantly higher than 75 W / m2K (but below 6000 W / m2K).

[0180] The final heat transfer will depend, among other things, on the water content. For example, a heat transfer coefficient between 1000 and 1200 W / m2K was verified when thermal separation tests were carried out on a substance containing approximately 15% water, 15% oil and 70% non-evaporable substance (by weight). The latter is a typical composition for residual cuttings from drilling operations.

[0181] As mentioned above, the intense mixing / turbulence mechanism will ensure optimal mixing and heat exchange of the vapor cloud 12c to the continuously fed substance 12 through the inlet of Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pages 56 / 82 52 / 53 substance 3 and the various components in this substance, which causes an almost instantaneous evaporation of liquids, particularly within substance 12. Vessel 1 will thus contain - at all times - a vapor cloud 12c with optimal heat transfer capabilities, both from the inner surface 1a and to the incoming substance 12.

[0182] Although the particles in any vapor cloud created are necessarily forced to the periphery of the treatment chamber by centrifugal forces, the continuous evaporation of liquids (such as water) will create intense internal forces in all internal directions, thus ensuring a high percentage of vapor (steam power) at the periphery.

[0183] Tests with the separation apparatus of the invention were carried out during the treatment of a waste substance containing 70% mineral solids, 15% water and 15% oil by weight (gravel from drilling operations). The tests demonstrated a heat transfer rate between approximately 1000 W / m2K and 1200 W / m2K. Additional high heat transfer rates are expected for substances containing more water.

[0184] In the preceding description, various aspects of the method and apparatus according to the invention were described with reference to the illustrative embodiment. For explanatory purposes, specific numbers, systems, and configurations were established in order to provide a complete understanding of the apparatus and its operation. However, this description is not intended to be interpreted Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 57 / 82 53 / 53 in a limiting sense. Various modifications and variations of the illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the method and apparatus, which are evident to those skilled in the art pertaining to the disclosed object in question, are considered within the scope of the present invention. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pages 58 / 82

Claims

1 / 9 CLAIMS 1. Method for thermal separation of a substance (12) flowing into a treatment chamber (2) by means of a separation apparatus (100), wherein the separation apparatus (100) comprises a vessel (1) having a vessel wall with an inner surface (1a) enclosing a treatment chamber (2) of a length lc, a height H and a width W, the vessel (1) comprising at least one substance inlet (3) and at least one first outlet (4) and at least one second outlet (5) for non-evaporable and evaporable parts (12a, 12b), respectively,a heating device (6) disposed outside the treatment chamber (2) and a rotating mechanism (7) comprising a rotating shaft (7a) disposed within the treatment chamber (2) directed along the length lc of the treatment chamber (2) and a mixing device (7b-d) of radial diameter dmd and axial length lmd fixed to the rotating shaft (7a) and extending perpendicularly to the rotating shaft (7a), wherein an outermost radial part of the mixing device (7b-d) comprises a plurality of radially separated mixing protrusions (7c, 7d), wherein the method is characterized by comprising the following steps: A. heating the inner surface (1a) by using the heating device (6) to transfer thermal energy to a minimum peripheral volume (Vp) of the treatment chamber (2) confined between the Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page. 59 / 82 2 / 9 mixing device (7b-d) and the inner surface (1a),B. Rotate the rotary mechanism (7) by using a rotary drive (10) operatively fixed to the rotary shaft (7a) at a peripheral rotation speed (vp) measured at a radial outer limit of the mixing device (7b-d) that exceeds a minimum peripheral rotation speed of 5 meters per second, C. Feed the substance (12) into the treatment chamber (2) through at least one substance inlet (3) using a feeding device (20), wherein the substance (12) comprises two or more components, wherein at least one of the components is liable to evaporation at an evaporation temperature (Te), D. Adjust at least one of - a power input of the heating device (6), - the flow of the substance (12) fed into at least one of the at least one substance inlet (3),- an input power from the rotary drive (10) and - an output flow of a non-evaporated portion (12a) of the substance (12) released from at least one first outlet (4), such that a total thermal energy transferred to at least part of the minimum peripheral volume (Vp) results in an operating temperature (Top) that exceeds the evaporation temperature (Te) during operation, the amount of thermal energy transferred to the portion of the minimum peripheral volume (Vp) of the heating device Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page 60 / 82 3 / 9 (6) constitutes more than 60% of the total thermal energy transferred, wherein the total thermal energy transferred, combined with the rotation of the rotary mechanism (7), creates a vapor cloud comprising a mixture of the non-evaporable and evaporable portions (12a, 12b),wherein the peripheral rotation speed (vp) of the rotating mechanism (7) is regulated so that some or all of the evaporated part (12b) of the substance (12) present within the minimum peripheral volume (Vp) in the form of a vapor cloud acquires a turbulent flow characteristic, the turbulent flow characteristic being detected by measuring a drop in a temperature difference ΔT between the vessel wall and the vapor cloud and / or a minimum difference of such temperature ΔT, wherein the total thermal energy transferred and the turbulent flow characteristic result in almost instantaneous heating and evaporation within the minimum peripheral volume (Vp).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the separated substance (12) comprises components with calorific value that includes oil or dry biomass.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that substance (12) is a used oil, residual solvent, waste-derived fuel, carpet and textile waste, plastic, automotive shredder waste and meat / bone meal (MBM).

4. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that an outermost radial part of the mixing device (7b-d) comprises a plurality of radially separated mixing protrusions (7c, 7d).

5. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the plurality of radially separated mixing protrusions (7c,7d) is divided into one or more sets distributed axially along the rotating axis (7a), along the axial length (lmd) of the mixing device (7b-d), the number of mixing protrusions (7c,7d) in each set being defined as the number of mixing protrusions (7c,7d) in a complete circle around the rotating axis (7a) when viewed along the direction of the rotating axis (7a) and wherein the minimum peripheral rotation speed (vp.min) of the rotating mechanism (7) is further defined as Vp.min = C (dmd / #mp), where C is a constant equal to, or greater than 12π, #mp is the number of radially separated mixing protrusions (7c,d) in each set and dmd [m] is the radial diameter of the mixing device (7b-d).

6. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a ratio between the radial diameter (dmd) of the mixing device (7b-d) and a radial diameter (dc) of the treatment chamber (2) is between 0.8 and 1.

0. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, p. 62 / 82 5 / 9 7. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plurality of radially separated mixing protrusions (7c, 7d) is divided into one or more sets distributed axially along the rotating axis (7a), through the axial length (lmd) of the mixing device (7b-d), the number of mixing protrusions (7c, 7d) in each set being defined as the number of mixing protrusions (7c, 7d) in a complete circle around the rotating axis (7a) when viewed along the direction of the rotating axis (7a), and wherein the minimum peripheral rotation speed (vp.min) of the rotating mechanism (7) is further defined as Vp.min = C (dmd / #mp), where C is a constant equal to, or greater than, 45π, #mp is the number of radially separated mixing protrusions (7c, d) in each set and dmd [m] is the radial diameter of the mixing device. (7b-d).

8. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotating shaft (7a) is arranged in alignment with a central axis (Ctc) of the treatment chamber (2).

9. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the heating device (6) further comprises an enclosure (13) disposed around the vessel (1) such that a void (14) is created between an outer surface (1b) of the vessel wall and an inner surface of the enclosure (13), the enclosure (13) comprising an inlet of the enclosure (13a) that allows the feeding of heating media (6') into the void space (14).

10. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a part of an external surface (1b) of the vessel wall is provided with a plurality of external fins (16).

11. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the heating device (6) is disposed at least partially within the wall of the vessel.

12. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, when the flow (Si) is set at a constant rate, the input power to the heating device (6) and the input power to the rotary drive (10) are mutually adjusted, so that the operating temperature (Top) within at least part of the minimum peripheral volume (Vp) is achieved.

13. Method, according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, when the input power to the rotary drive (10) and the input power to the heating device (6) are set at constant levels, the flow (Si) is adjusted so that the operating temperature (Top) within at least part of the minimum peripheral volume (Vp) is achieved.

14. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separation apparatus (100) further comprises a temperature sensor (19) arranged so that a temperature within or in the treatment chamber (2) can be monitored and a control system in signal communication with the temperature sensor (19), the feeding device (20), the rotary drive (10) and the heating device (6), the control system being configured to automatically adjust at least one of the flow (Si), the input power of the rotary drive (10) and the input power of the heating device (6) based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (19).

15. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separation apparatus (100) further comprises a temperature sensor (19) arranged so that the temperature inside or in the treatment chamber (2) can be monitored and in that the separation apparatus further comprises a control system in signal communication with the temperature sensor (19) and the feeding device (20), the control system being configured to automatically adjust the flow (Si) from the feeding device (20) based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (19) and in that step D involves measuring the temperature inside or in the chamber of Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, page. 65 / 82 8 / 9 treatment (2), transmit the temperature to the control system which calculates a new flow (Sn) as a function of the temperature, and adjust the flow (Si) to the new flow (Sn) by transmitting a signal to the feeding device (20).

16. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mixing device (7b-c) comprises - a plurality of rotating discs (7b) fixed with axial displacements to the rotating axis (7a) and - a plurality of axially oriented elongated objects (7c) that interconnect the plurality of rotating discs (7b).

17. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that each of the plurality of rotating discs (7b) exhibits at least one passage opening (7b1) to allow the evaporated part (12b) to flow during operation.

18. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mixing device (7b-c) comprises a plurality of radially protruding elements (7d) distributed with displacements along the length of the rotating shaft (7a).

19. Method according to claim 18, characterized in that the mixing device (7b-c) comprises a plurality of rotating discs (7b) fixed with axial displacements to the rotating axis (7a) and a plurality of axially oriented elongated objects (7c) that interconnect to the plurality of rotating discs (7b), wherein the plurality of radially protruding elements (7d) are substitutably connected to the plurality of axially oriented elongated objects (7c).

20. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vessel (1) is a cylinder with an internal axial length lc and an internal radial diameter dc, wherein the ratio between the internal axial length dc and the internal radial diameter dc is equal to or less than 4.

0. Petition 870240056610, dated 04 / 07 / 2024, pp. 67 / 82

Images