Device for establishing a galvanic closed circuit with flowable medium and a vibrating metal conductor

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for generating a closed current circuit A in which charge carriers move at least through a metal conductor, a flowable medium and a metal conductor C, which is mechanically connected to an element generating mechanical vibrations and mechanically vibrates in a resonant manner. The device is characterized in that a current circuit B generating the aforementioned resonant mechanical vibrations is decoupled from the aforementioned current circuit A by means of a non-conducting coupling element on both sides of the vibration-generating element and from the component that transmits mechanical vibrations between the vibration-generating element and the metal conductor C in contact with the flowable medium.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] The invention relates to a device for establishing an electric current loop with a flowable medium and a vibrating metal conductor. BACKGROUND

[0003] Charge carriers are ions, electrons or elementary particles.

[0004] Current is the movement of charge carriers in a preferred direction through a conductor such as a wire, a metal sheet or a flowable medium. The direction of the current is always parallel to the direction of the electric field E.

[0005] An electrode is an electrically conductive component (made primarily of metal) that enables an exchange of electric charge between two media or that generates an electric field. A positive electrode is called an anode and a negative electrode is called a cathode.

[0006] Resonant vibration is a mechanical vibration of an assembly or assembly composite with a working frequency of 15 to 200 kHz, preferably 15 to 60 kHz (for example 20 kHz), and a mechanical power of more than 5 W, preferably 25 W to 20 000 W (for example 4000 W). During the vibration, the points of the assembly or assembly composite move in a regular manner around a rest position.

[0007] A flowable medium is, for example, a fluid, a gas, a liquid, a melt, a plasma, a supercritical gas, a liquid metal, a dispersion, an emulsion, a cell suspension, a paste, a dye, a polymer, a resin, an electrolyte, water, heavy water, a neutral, basic or acidic solution, a basic solution or an acid, waste water, a slurry, an ore solution and suspension, and a nanomaterial, or a mixture of the aforementioned. The flowable medium can have a different viscosity of 0 cP to 300 000 000 000 cP, preferably 0.1 cP to 1 000 000 cP (for example 200 cP), and can be thixotropic or rheopectic, Newtonian or non-Newtonian, shear thinning or shear thickening.

[0008] A piezoceramic or magnetostrictive exciter is used, for example, to generate a resonant vibration. Linear exciters and plate or bending plate resonators or tubular exciters are known. Resonant vibrations are primarily used for the treatment of liquids and other flowable media, such as foodstuffs, cosmetics, dyes, chemicals and nanomaterials. For this purpose, the resonant vibration is transmitted into the flowable medium, preferably into a liquid, an electrolyte, a basic or acidic solution or a molten salt, for example into an electrolyte, by means of a resonator with an amplitude of 0.05 pm to 350 pm, preferably 0.5 pm to 80 pm (for example 20 pm).

[0009] Lambda is the wavelength resulting from the frequency of the resonant vibration and the propagation speed of sound in the assembly or assembly composite or in the resonator.

[0010] The resonant vibration system can consist of one or more λ / 2 elements. A vibration system consisting of multiple λ / 2 elements can be made of one piece of material of the respective length or assembled, for example by screwing, from multiple components or component composites of length n*λ / 2 (n e N). The λ / 2 elements can have various material cross-sectional geometries, for example circular, elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cross-sectional geometry and area can vary along the longitudinal axis of the λ / 2 element. The cross-sectional area can be between 0.01 cm 2 and 300 cm 2 , preferably between 10 cm 2 and 100 cm 2 , for example 50 cm 2 .

[0011] The λ / 2 elements can be made primarily of a metallic or ceramic material or of glass, in particular of titanium, a titanium alloy, steel or a steel alloy, aluminum or an aluminum alloy, for example of grade 5 titanium. The λ / 2 elements can be made of one piece of material of the respective length or consist of multiple pieces of material connected to one another.

[0012] The vibration systems and the λ / 2 elements consisting of more than one piece of material can be combined in various ways to form composites. A typical form of a composite is a vibration system compressed with centrally positioned clamping elements.

[0013] A piezoceramic composite vibration system consists of one or more λ / 2 elements connected in longitudinal direction, at least one λ / 2 element in the form of a disk, ring, disk segment or ring segment, for example a piezoceramic ring, with one or more vibration excitation elements, preferably piezoceramic or magnetostrictive elements, for example piezoceramic elements. One such λ / 2 element is referred to as an active λ / 2 element. A λ / 2 element without a vibration excitation element is referred to as a passive λ / 2 element.

[0014] A passive λ / 2 element without a vibration excitation element can be mechanically connected to one or more of the aforementioned active λ / 2 elements in such a way that mechanical vibrations are completely or partially, preferably substantially completely, transmitted from the active λ / 2 element to the passive λ / 2 element with little power loss (< 10%).

[0015] In addition, a λ / 2 element without a vibration excitation element can be mechanically connected to the aforementioned passive λ / 2 elements in such a way that mechanical vibrations are completely or partially, preferably substantially completely, transmitted from one passive λ / 2 element to the connected passive λ / 2 element with little power loss (< 10%).

[0016] The connection of the active and passive λ / 2 elements to each other is usually by a threaded connection at or close to the maximum of the vibrational excursion (e.g. in the longitudinal direction of the direction of propagation of the vibrations).

[0017] Especially piezoceramic resonant vibration systems require an increased surface pressure at the coupling point between the two λ / 2 elements. This surface pressure can be between 0.1 N / mm 2 and 1000 N / mm 2 , preferably between 1 N / mm 2 and 10 N / mm 2 , e.g. 5 N / mm 2 . This surface pressure has a considerable influence on the efficiency, the maximum possible mechanical drive power and the resonance frequency. Therefore, the surface pressure can mainly be chosen during the propagation of the mechanical vibrations such that the efficiency is maximized and / or the losses are minimized.

[0018] The surface pressure between the active and passive λ / 2 elements or between the two λ / 2 elements is usually generated by at least one clamping element, e.g. by a centrally positioned fastening screw (e.g. a steel screw or a titanium threaded rod).

[0019] The application of resonant vibrations to electrodes is a novel technology in laboratory or experimental scale as well as in industrial production, which has advantages for many different processes in electrolysis, electroplating, electrocleaning, hydrogen production and electrocoagulation, particle synthesis or other electrochemical reactions.

[0020] Electrolysis is the exchange of atoms and ions by removing or adding electrons due to the application of an electric current. The products of electrolysis can have a different physical state than the electrolyte. During electrolysis, solids such as e.g. deposits or solid layers can appear on one electrode. Alternatively, electrolysis can produce a gas, e.g. hydrogen, chlorine or oxygen. Resonant vibrations of the electrodes can break up solid deposits from the electrode surface or rapidly generate larger gas bubbles from dissolved gas or microbubbles. The latter leads to a faster separation of the gaseous product from the electrolyte.

[0021] During electrolytic treatment, products accumulate near or on the electrode surface. Resonant vibrations, in particular resonant vibrations that generate cavitation in the flowable medium around the electrode, are a very effective means for increasing the mass transfer at the interface layer. This effect brings new electrolyte into contact with the electrode surface. The cavitation flow carries the products of the electrolysis, such as gas or solids, away from the electrode surface. As a result, the formation of an insulating layer that inhibits the electrolysis process is prevented.

[0022] Resonant vibration of the anode, cathode, or both electrodes, affects the decomposition potential or decomposition voltage. It is known that cavitation itself destroys molecules, creating free radicals or ozone. The combination of cavitation with electrolysis can affect the minimum voltage required for electrolysis between the anode and cathode of an electrolytic cell, or can affect the current flow between the anode and cathode of an electrolytic cell. The mechanical and chemical effects of cavitation can likewise improve the energy efficiency of electrolysis.

[0023] During electrolytic refining, solid deposits of metals such as, for example, copper, in the electrolyte can be converted into a suspension of solid particles. During electrolytic extraction, the electrolytic deposition of metals from their ores can be converted into solid deposits. Conventional electrolytic metals are lead, copper, gold, silver, zinc, aluminum, chromium, cobalt, manganese, and rare earths and alkali metals. During ore leaching, cavitation caused by mechanical vibration is also an effective means.

[0024] A liquid such as an aqueous cement slurry can be considered to be washed by the electric field of two electrodes. An aqueous solution can be disinfected or purified by electrolysis. When a NaCl solution is directed through or over electrodes with water, Cl2 or CIO2 is produced, which can oxidize contaminants and disinfect the water or aqueous solution. If sufficient natural chlorides are contained in the water, no addition is necessary.

[0025] Resonant vibration of the electrodes can make the interface layer between the electrodes and the water as thin as possible. This can increase mass transfer by orders of magnitude. The formation of small bubbles on a microscopic scale is significantly reduced due to polarization because of the resonant vibration and the possibilities caused by cavitation due to these vibrations. The use of resonant vibration electrodes in the electrolysis process significantly improves the electrolytic washing process.

[0026] Electrocoagulation is a wastewater treatment method for removing contaminants such as emulsified oil, total petroleum hydrocarbons, refractory organics, suspended solids, and heavy metals. Radioactive ions can also be removed to purify water. The use of resonant vibration electrodes during electrocoagulation, also known as acoustic electrocoagulation, has a positive effect on the chemical oxygen demand or turbidity removal rate. This combined electrocoagulation treatment method exhibits significantly improved performance during the removal of harmful substances from industrial wastewater. The combination of a free radical generation step, such as cavitation caused by resonant vibration in a flowable medium around the electrodes, with electrocoagulation shows synergistic effects and improvements throughout the purification process. The goal of using this hybrid system is to improve the overall treatment efficiency and overcome the disadvantages of conventional treatment methods. It has proven that the mixed electrocoagulation reactor inactivates E. coli in water.

[0027] Many chemical processes, for example, heterogeneous reactions or catalysis, benefit from agitation that utilizes resonant vibration and the resulting cavitation. The chemical effects of cavitation can improve reaction rates or improve conversion rates.

[0028] Resonant vibrating electrodes add new powerful tools to chemical reactions. The advantage of the chemical effects of resonant vibrations and cavitation is that they can be combined with electrolysis. Hydrogen, hydroxide, hypochlorite and many other ions or neutral materials can be generated directly on the electrodes in a cavitation field. Cavitation assisted electrolysis enables more economic and energy efficient hydrogen production. The products of electrolysis can be used as reagents or reaction partners for chemical reactions. Resonant vibrating electrodes can generate reactants or withdraw products of chemical reactions by cavitation to shift the final equilibrium of chemical reactions or to change the chemical reaction path.

[0029] Pulsed electric field (PEF) technology is a non-thermal treatment method for preserving food, for example, in which short current pulses are used for microbial inactivation, while the food quality is only minimally reduced. PEF is known as a non-thermal treatment method for microbial decontamination of food. The method comprises generating an electric field (5-50 kV / cm) by means of short high voltage pulses between two electrodes, which results in inactivation of microorganisms, for example, at a lower temperature than in the case of thermal treatment methods. A passive λ / 2 element used as an electrode can enable PEF to be combined with high-frequency vibrations or cavitation, for example, to increase the effectiveness of microbial inactivation or to achieve mechanical mixing by vibration-induced or cavitation-induced flow to prevent the formation of channels in PEF.

[0030] Liquid moved by resonant vibrations is known in the prior art, which is not located between non-resonant vibrating electrodes. The shadowing and propagation pattern of the vibration waves in the liquid results in poorer results compared to direct resonant electrode vibration. The electrodes, preferably anodes or cathodes, can be loaded with ultrasonic vibrations.

[0031] A pressure-tight seal can be achieved between the passive λ / 2 element used as an electrode and the reactor vessel. Thus, the electrolysis cell can be operated at a pressure different from the ambient pressure. This can be of interest if gas is generated during electrolysis, when operating at higher temperatures or when operating with highly volatile components, for example, using solvents or liquids with a low boiling point. The closed electrochemical reactor can be operated at a pressure higher or lower than the ambient pressure. The seal between the passive λ / 2 element used as an electrode and the reactor can be achieved in an electrically conductive or insulating manner. The latter makes it possible to use the reactor wall as a second electrode. The reactor can have an inlet and an outlet, preferably one inlet and one outlet in each case, for example, in order to be used as a continuous or discontinuous flow cell reactor for continuous or discontinuous processes.

[0032] If the passive λ / 2 element used as an electrode is located near a second non-agitated electrode or near the reactor wall, the ultrasound propagates through the liquid and the ultrasound also acts on other exposed surfaces. Passive λ / 2 elements used as electrodes and arranged concentrically in a tube or reactor, for example, can keep the tube or reactor inner wall free of contaminants or accumulated solids.

[0033] When using a passive λ / 2 element as electrode, the electrolyte temperature can be between -273 degrees Celsius and 3000 degrees Celsius, preferably between -50 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, for example between 5 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius.

[0034] If the viscosity of the electrolyte inhibits mass transfer, mixing due to resonant vibration of the electrode during electrolysis can be advantageous, as it improves the transfer of material to and from the electrode.

[0035] Pulsed current in a λ / 2 element used as electrode results in different products than when using direct current (DC). For example, pulsed current can increase the ratio of ozone to oxygen, which is produced at the anode during electrolysis of an acidic aqueous solution, for example dilute sulfuric acid. Pulsed current electrolysis of ethanol produces aldehydes, instead of mainly the acid solution. SUMMARY

[0036] The invention discloses a device for establishing a closed current circuit A according to claim 1. Another preferred embodiment of the invention can be derived from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0037] Establishment of a closed current circuit A according to the invention, in which charge carriers are moved at least through a metal conductor, a flowable medium and a resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C, which is mechanically connected to an element generating mechanical vibrations, is characterized in that a current circuit B generating the resonant mechanical vibrations is decoupled from the current circuit A by a non-conducting coupling element on both sides of the vibration-generating element, and from the means transferring vibrations between the vibration-generating element and the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C contacting the flowable medium.

[0038] The electrical insulation distance between the current circuit A and the current circuit B is greater than 0 mm, preferably between 0.01 mm and 50 mm, for example 2 mm. For example, for an electrolytic process of a flowable medium, the voltage applied by the at least one resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C mechanically connected to the mechanical vibration generating element can be greater than 0 Volt, for example between 0.1 Volt and 3000 Volt, for example 20 Volt. For example for an electrolytic process, the current intensity transmitted from the at least one resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C mechanically connected to the mechanical vibration generating element to the surrounding flowable medium can be greater than 0 Ampere, preferably between 0.5 and 100 Ampere, for example 20 Ampere. For example for an electrolytic process, the specific current intensity transmitted from the at least one resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C mechanically connected to the mechanical vibration generating element to the surrounding flowable medium can be greater than 0 Ampere per square centimetre of contact area between the vibrating metal conductor C and the surrounding flowable medium, preferably between 0.01 and 10 Ampere, for example 0.5 Ampere.

[0039] The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C mechanically connected to the mechanical vibration generating element can consist of an electrically conductive material, preferably of high-grade steel, titanium, titanium alloy, steel, nickel-chromium-molybdenum, aluminium or niobium, for example of a titanium alloy.

[0040] The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C mechanically connected to the mechanical vibration generating element can be grounded, for example connected to the ground or protective earthing point of an electrical socket (for example residual current device).

[0041] The voltage applied to the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C mechanically connected to the mechanical vibration generating element in an electrolytic process can be a direct current voltage (DC), a pulse-formed direct current voltage or an alternating current voltage (AC), preferably a direct current voltage (DC) or a pulse-formed direct current voltage, for example a direct current voltage (DC). The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C mechanically connected to the mechanical vibration generating element can be operated as an anode or cathode.

[0042] The specific power transmitted to the surrounding flowable medium, liquid or electrolyte by the resonant vibrations on the surface of the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C can be between 1 Watt and 100 Watt per square centimetre, preferably between 3 Watt and 30 Watt per square centimetre, for example 15 Watt per square centimetre.

[0043] According to the invention, a device for establishing a closed current circuit A is disclosed, in which charge carriers are moved at least through a metallic conductor, a flowable medium and a metallic conductor C of resonant mechanical vibrations, which is mechanically connected to an element generating mechanical vibrations, wherein the current circuit A is electrically insulated from a current circuit B generating the aforementioned resonant mechanical vibrations. This is achieved by means of non-conducting coupling elements on both sides of the vibration-generating element.

[0044] For the electrically insulated connection of the metallic conductor C of resonant mechanical vibrations, which is preferably used as an electrode in an electrolysis process, one insulator (non-conductor, insulating material, dielectric, non-conducting component) in each case, preferably one insulator in each case made of a hard material such as ceramic, glass, quartz, diamond or plastic (for example made of ceramic), is mechanically clamped between the components to be mechanically coupled and electrically insulated on both sides of the element generating mechanical vibrations.

[0045] The components and clamping elements for clamping are electrically insulated, for example by means of an insulating sleeve, such that the electrical resistance of the metallic conductor C of resonant mechanical vibrations to the element generating mechanical vibrations is greater than 10 ohms, preferably greater than 1000 ohms, for example greater than 100000 ohms.

[0046] The thickness of the insulator located between the components to be mechanically coupled and electrically insulated is between 0 mm and 150 mm, preferably between 0.01 mm and 50 mm, for example 2 mm.

[0047] The voltage source of the current circuit A can be operated with a constant, variable, pulsed or program-controlled voltage. A potentiostat can measure the voltage and / or the current and output it as a measurement value. The current of the current circuit A can be constant, variable, pulsed or program-controlled. A galvanostat can keep the current constant in the current circuit A and detect the resulting voltage applied to the flowable medium. The potentiostat can keep the voltage applied to the flowable medium between the electrodes constant and detect the resulting current. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0048] Figure 1 A device of the invention according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0049] Figure 2 A device of the invention according to another exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0050] Figure 3 A device of the invention according to another exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0051] Figure 4 A device of the invention according to another exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0052] Figure 5 An apparatus of the invention is shown according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0053] Figure 6 An apparatus of the invention is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of the drawings and exemplary embodiments.

[0055] Exemplary embodiments

[0056] Figure 1 The structure of an apparatus according to the invention is shown. The voltage source with two contacts 10 and 11 can be a direct current voltage source (DC), a pulsed direct current voltage source (PDC), an alternating current voltage source (AC) or a pulsed alternating current voltage source (PAC), preferably a direct current voltage source (DC) or a pulsed direct current voltage source (PDC), for example a direct current voltage source. The voltage source can be located inside or outside the housing 200, for example preferably outside the housing 200. The housing 200 can be electrically conductive or electrically insulating, for example electrically insulating. The contact 10 of the voltage source is connected via an electrical conductor, for example via a cable, to a fuse 80, for example a fuse. The fuse 80 can be located inside or outside the housing 200, for example inside the housing 200. Another electrical conductor connects this fuse 80 to a contact pad 92. An insulator 95.1, for example a ceramic disc or a glass disc, separates the contact pad 92 from a contact pad 93.1. An insulator 95.2, a ceramic disc or a glass disc, separates the assembly 91.2 from another contact pad 93.2. The contact pads 93.1, 93.2 and 94 are connected to a generator 20, for example an ultrasonic generator or a high frequency generator, and to an element 96 that generates mechanical vibrations, to form a current circuit B. The element 96 that generates mechanical vibrations can be, for example, a piezoceramic disc or a piezoceramic perforated disc, preferably a piezoceramic perforated disc.

[0057] The generator 20 is supplied with direct current or alternating current, for example 50 Hz or 60 Hz, and a voltage of, for example, 115 V + / - 20% or 230 V + / - 20%, by a current source 30. The generator 20 can be located inside or outside the housing 200, for example inside the housing 200.

[0058] The fuse 80 can have a surge protector 81, for example a thyristor or a protection circuit, which in turn is connected to a protective earthing point 13 or to an earthing contact.

[0059] A clamping element 98 (e.g. a clamping screw or threaded bolt, preferably a clamping screw) clamps the mechanically vibrating components 91.1 and 91.2 to the mechanically vibrating element 96. An insulating sleeve 97 for electrically insulating the clamping element 98 from the mechanically vibrating element 96 is mounted, which is made of a non-conductive material (e.g. a plastic sleeve) and surrounds the clamping element 98.

[0060] Another clamping element 99 connects the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 to the mechanically vibrating component 91.2.

[0061] The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 is made of titanium, for example, and is in contact with a flowable medium 115 (e.g. a liquid) which is located in a container 110. Another electrical conductor 70 (e.g. an electrode) is connected to a contact 11 of a voltage source.

[0062] The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 transmits the mechanical vibrations to the flowable medium 115, for example to generate cavitation.

[0063] The voltage transmitted via the contact element 92 to the adjacent component 91.1 is transmitted via the clamping element 98 to the component 91.2. It is in abutment with the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100, which is additionally connected by means of the clamping element 99. The clamping element 98 (e.g. a clamping screw or threaded bolt) is electrically conductive. The same applies to the components 91.1 and 91.2 and the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100.

[0064] Figure 2 A structure according to the invention is shown. The voltage source with the two contacts 10 and 11 can be a direct voltage source (DC), a pulsed direct voltage source (PDC), an alternating voltage source (AC) or a pulsed alternating voltage source (PAC), preferably a pulsed direct voltage source (PDC). The voltage source is located outside the housing 200. The housing 200 can be electrically conductive or insulated, for example electrically conductive. The contact 10 of the voltage source is connected via an electrical conductor (e.g. via a cable) to a fuse 80 (e.g. a fuse wire). The fuse 80 is located inside the housing 200. Another electrical conductor connects the fuse 80 to the contact disc 92. A ceramic insulator 95.2 separates the contact disc 92 from the contact disc 93.2. An insulator 95.1 (e.g. a ceramic disc or a glass disc) separates the component 91.1 from another contact disc 93.1. The contact discs 93.1, 93.2 and 94 are connected to an ultrasonic generator and to a mechanically vibrating element 96 (e.g. a piezoceramic perforated disc) to form an electrical current circuit B. The generator 20 is supplied with direct or alternating current (e.g. 50 Hz or 60 Hz alternating current) and a voltage of, for example, 115 V + / - 20% or 230 V + / - 20% by the current source 30. The generator 20 is located outside the housing 200.

[0065] A surge protector 81 (e.g. thyristor or protection circuit) connects the contact pad 92 to a protective earthing point 13 or earthing contact.

[0066] A clamping element 98 (e.g. a clamping screw or threaded bolt, preferably a threaded bolt) clamps the mechanical vibration components 91.1 and 91.2 to the mechanical vibration generating element 96. An insulating sleeve 97 for electrically insulating the clamping element 98 from the mechanical vibration generating element 96 is mounted, which is made of a non-conductive material (e.g. a ceramic sleeve) and surrounds the clamping element 98.

[0067] Another clamping element 99 connects the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 to the mechanical vibration component 91.2.

[0068] The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 is made of, for example, titanium and is in contact with a flowable medium 115 (e.g. a fluid) which is located in a container 110. Another electrical conductor 70 (e.g. an electrode) is connected to the contact 11 of the voltage source.

[0069] The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 transmits the mechanical vibrations to the flowable medium 115, for example to generate cavitation.

[0070] The components 91.2 and the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 are electrically conductive.

[0071] Figure 3 A structure according to the invention is shown. The voltage source with the two contacts 10 and 11 is located outside the housing 200. The housing 200 can be electrically conductive or insulated, for example electrically conductive. An insulator 210 (e.g. a component made of rubber, plastic or ceramic) insulates the electrically conductive housing 200 from the component 91.2 which is electrically connected to the current circuit A. The contact 10 of the voltage source is connected to the connector 15 via an electrical conductor (e.g. via an electrical cable). The connector can be mounted, for example, in the housing 200. Another electrical conductor connects the connector 15 to the fuse 80 (e.g. a fuse). The fuse 80 is located inside the housing 200. A further electrical conductor connects the fuse 80 to the contact pad 92. A ceramic insulator 95.2 separates the component 80 from the contact pad 93.2. Another ceramic insulator 95.1 separates the component 91.1 from the contact pad 93.1. The contact pads 93.1, 93.2 and 94 are connected to the ultrasonic generator and the mechanical vibration generating element 96 (e.g. a piezoceramic perforated disc) to form the current circuit B. The generator 20 is supplied with direct or alternating current (e.g. direct current) and a voltage of between 0 and 3000 V, preferably between 6 and 600 V, for example 24 V, by the current source 30. The generator 20 is located inside or outside the housing, preferably outside the housing 200.

[0072] A surge protector 81 (e.g. a thyristor) connects the contact disc 92 to a protective earthing point 13 or to an earthing contact.

[0073] Clamping elements 98 (e.g. clamping screws or threaded bolts, preferably threaded bolts) clamp the mechanically vibrating components 80, 91.1 and 91.2 and the resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 to the mechanically vibrating element 96. An insulating sleeve 97 for electrically insulating the clamping elements 98 from the mechanically vibrating element 96 is mounted, which insulating sleeve 97 is made of a non-conductive material (e.g. a plastic tube) and surrounds the clamping elements 98.

[0074] The resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 is made of, for example, high-grade steel and is in contact with a flowable medium 115 (e.g. an electrically conductive medium) which is located in a container 110. A further electrical conductor 70 (e.g. an electrode) is connected to a contact 11 of a voltage source.

[0075] The resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 transmits the mechanical vibrations to the flowable medium 115, for example to generate cavitation.

[0076] The components 91.2 and the resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 are electrically conductive.

[0077] Figure 4A structure according to the invention is shown. A contact 10 of a voltage source is connected via an electrical conductor, for example via a cable, to a fuse 80, for example a fuse wire. Another electrical conductor connects the fuse 80 to a contact pad 92. An insulator 95.1, for example a ceramic or glass disc, insulates the contact pad 92 from a contact pad 93.1. An insulator 95.2, for example a ceramic or glass disc, insulates a component 91.2 from a contact pad 93.2. The contact pads 93.1, 93.2 and 94 are connected to an ultrasonic generator and a mechanically vibrating element 96 to form an electrical current circuit B. The mechanically vibrating element 96 can be, for example, a piezoceramic disc or a piezoceramic perforated disc, preferably a piezoceramic perforated disc. A clamping screw 98 clamps the mechanically vibrating components 91.1, 91.2 and a resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 with the mechanically vibrating element 96. An insulating sleeve 97 for electrically insulating the clamping element 98 from the mechanically vibrating element 96 is installed, is made of a non-conductive material, for example a plastic sleeve, and surrounds the clamping element 98. The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 is made of, for example, 5-grade titanium and is in contact with a liquid 115, which is located in a container 110. A further electrical conductor 70, for example an electrode, is connected to a contact 11 of the voltage source. A component 60 is installed in such a way that it approaches a minimum value of the vertical displacement caused by the resonant vibration, connected to the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100. The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 transmits the mechanical vibrations to the flowable medium 115, for example to generate acoustic flow.

[0078] The voltage transmitted via the contact element 92 to the adjacent component 91.1 is transmitted via the clamping element 98 to the component 91.2. This is in abutment with the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100. The clamping element 98 is electrically conductive. The same applies to the components 91.1 and 91.2 and the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100.

[0079] Figure 5 A structure according to the invention is shown. A contact 10 of a voltage source is connected via a cable to a contact pad 92. A ceramic insulator 95.1 separates the component 91.1 from a contact pad 93.1. A ceramic insulator 95.2 separates the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 from a contact pad 93.4. The contact pads 93.1, 93.2, 93.3, 93.4 and 94 are connected to an ultrasonic generator and a mechanically vibrating element 96, for example a piezoceramic perforated disc, to form an electrical current circuit B. The generator 20 is powered by a current source 30. A surge protector 81, for example a thyristor, connects the contact pad 92 to a protective ground contact 13 or a ground contact.

[0080] A clamping element 98, for example a clamping screw or a threaded bolt, preferably a threaded bolt, clamps the mechanically vibrating components 91.1 and 91.2 and the resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 with the mechanically vibrating element 96. An insulating sleeve 97 for electrically insulating the clamping element 98 from the mechanically vibrating element 96 is mounted, which is made of a non-conductive material, for example a plastic tube, and surrounds the clamping element 98.

[0081] The resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 is for example made of steel and is in contact with a flowable medium 115, for example a supercritical gas, which flows into the pressure-tight container 110. The openings 112 and 111 serve as an outlet or an inlet of the container 110 in this case. A further electrical conductor 70, for example an electrode, is connected to the contact 11 of the voltage source.

[0082] The resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 transmits the mechanical vibrations to the flowable medium 115, for example to generate cavitation.

[0083] The voltage transmitted via the contact element 92 to the adjacent component 91.1 is transmitted via the clamping element 98 to the resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100. The clamping element 98 is electrically conductive. The same applies to the component 91.1 and the resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100.

[0084] Figure 6 A structure according to the application is shown. The voltage source with the two contacts 10 and 11 can be a direct voltage source (DC), a pulsed direct voltage source (PDC), an alternating voltage source (AC) or a pulsed alternating voltage source (PAC), for example a direct voltage source. The voltage source can be located inside or outside the housing 200, for example, preferably outside the housing 200. The housing 200 can be electrically conductive or insulated, for example electrically insulated. The contact 10 of the voltage source is connected via an electrical conductor, for example via a cable, to a fuse 80, for example a fuse. The fuse 80 can be located inside or outside the housing 200, for example inside the housing 200. A further electrical conductor connects the fuse 80 to the resonantly mechanically vibrating conductor C 100. An insulator 95.1, for example a ceramic perforated disc or a glass perforated disc, separates the electrically conductive component 91.1 from the contact disc 93.1. An insulator 95.2, for example a ceramic perforated disc or a glass perforated disc, separates the electrically conductive component 91.2 from the contact disc 93.2. The contact discs 93.1, 93.2 and 94 are connected to the generator 20, for example an ultrasonic or high-frequency generator, and to the mechanically vibrating element 96 to form a current circuit B. The mechanically vibrating element 96 can be for example a piezoceramic disc or a piezoceramic perforated disc, preferably a piezoceramic perforated disc.

[0085] The generator 20 is supplied with direct current or alternating current (e.g. 50 Hz alternating current) and a voltage of e.g. 230 V by a current source 30. The generator 20 can be located inside or outside the housing 200, e.g. inside the housing 200.

[0086] The component 91.1 can be connected to a surge protector 81, e.g. a thyristor or protection circuit, which in turn is connected to the protective earthing point 13 or the earthing point.

[0087] A clamping element 98, e.g. a clamping screw or threaded bolt, preferably a tightening screw, clamps the mechanically vibrating components 91.1 and 91.2 and the resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 to the mechanically vibrating element 96. An air gap 97 around the clamping element 98 is provided for electrically insulating the clamping element 98 from the mechanically vibrating element 96.

[0088] Another clamping element 99 connects the resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 to the mechanically vibrating component 91.2.

[0089] The resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 is e.g. made of metal and is in contact with a flowable medium 115, e.g. a liquid, which is located in a container 110. Another electrical conductor 70, e.g. an electrode, is connected to the voltage source’s point 11.

[0090] The resonantly mechanically vibrating metal conductor C 100 transmits e.g. mechanical vibrations to deaerate the flowable medium 115.

Claims

1. A device for establishing a closed current circuit A in which charge carriers move at least through a metallic conductor, a flowable medium and a resonant mechanically vibrating metallic conductor C (100) which is mechanically connected to an element (96) that generates mechanical vibrations, characterized in that, The current circuit B generating the resonant mechanical vibrations is decoupled from the current circuit A by a non-conductive coupling element (95.1, 95.2) and from the mechanical vibration component (91.1, 91.2) that transfers mechanical vibrations between the mechanical vibration generating element (96) and the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the resonant mechanical vibrations of the flowable medium, and the non-conductive coupling element (95.1, 95.2) is mechanically clamped between the mechanical vibration component (91.1, 91.2) on both sides of the mechanical vibration generating element (96).

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured so that the operating frequency of the resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium is in the range of 15 kHz to 200 kHz.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The non-conducting coupling element (95.1, 95.2) is clamped to the mechanical vibration-generating element (96) by a clamping element (98) with a surface pressure of between 0.1 N / mm 2 and 1000 N / mm 2 .

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein, The surface pressure is between 1 N / mm 2 and 10 N / mm 2 .

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium is clamped by clamping elements (98) with a surface pressure between 0.1 N / mm 2 and 1000 N / mm 2 to the mechanically vibrating parts (91.1, 91.2) and the mechanically vibrating generating element (96), which mechanically vibrating parts (91.1, 91.2) transfer mechanical vibrations between the mechanically vibrating generating element (96) and the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein, The surface pressure is between 1 N / mm 2 and 10 N / mm 2 .

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The flowable medium in the current circuit A is an electrolyte.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium consist of a metal material.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein, The resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) consist of a titanium alloy.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured so that: The current circuit A initiates or supports an electrolytic process in the flowable medium; or The current circuit A initiates or supports a pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment in the flowable medium; Or The current circuit A initiates or supports the electrolytic production of a gas in the flowable medium; Or the current circuit A initiates or supports electrolytic solidification in the flowable medium; Or The current circuit A initiates or supports an electrochemical precipitation reaction in the flowable medium; Or The resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium generate cavitation in the flowable medium.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, The resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium are used as an anode or cathode in an electrolytic process.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein, The resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium are used as an electrode in a pulsed electric field (PEF).

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, An electrically insulating pressure-resistant seal exists between the resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium and the reactor vessel.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured so that the electrolyte temperature is between -50 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The electrically insulating distance between the current circuit A and the current circuit B is between 0.01 mm and 50 mm.

16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured so that: In the current circuit A, the voltage between the resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium and another electrical conductor in contact with the flowable medium is between 0.1 volts and 5000 volts; or In the current circuit A, the voltage between the resonant mechanical vibrations of the metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium and another electrical conductor in contact with the flowable medium is between 1000 volts and 70000 volts per centimeter distance between the two conductors.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured so that: The current intensity transmitted to the flowable medium via the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium is between 0.5 ampere and 100 ampere; or The current intensity transmitted to the flowable medium via the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium is between 0.01 ampere and 10 ampere per square centimeter of contact area between the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C (100) in contact with the flowable medium and the flowable medium.

18. The device of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured such that: The current circuit A has a fuse to limit the maximum current intensity in the current circuit A; or The current circuit A has a fuse to limit the maximum voltage in the current circuit A; or The current circuit A has a fuse to limit the maximum power in the current circuit A; or The current circuit A has a first component or a first circuit which disconnects at least one of two current circuits if the two current circuits are no longer electrically insulated from each other; or The current circuit A has a second component or a second circuit which is connected to a ground contact or a protective earth contact, which disconnects at least one of two current circuits if the two current circuits are no longer electrically insulated from each other.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein, The first component or the first circuit is a thyristor, a protective circuit or a spark gap.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein, The second component or the second circuit is a thyristor or a spark gap.

21. The device of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured such that: A direct current voltage (DC) is applied to the current circuit A; or A pulsed direct current voltage (DC) is applied to the current circuit A; or An alternating current voltage (AC) is applied to the current circuit A.

22. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is configured such that, via the contact area between the resonant mechanically vibrating metal conductor C (100) and the flowable medium, the power mechanically transmitted to the surrounding flowable medium by vibration is between 3 W and 30 W per square centimeter of contact area.

23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The non-conductive coupling element (95.1, 95.2) is made of ceramic, glass, quartz, diamond or plastic.

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