Static mixer insert and static mixer comprising the insert

Abstract

A static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing having a continuous interior surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas, an inlet to the fluid flow path, and an outlet to the fluid flow path, and an insert extending longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet. The insert is elastically expandable to exert an outwardly directed pressure against the continuous interior surface of the housing. In one embodiment, the insert is hollow and interspersed throughout the insert are deflectors, each of which projects inwardly into the fluid flow path. In another embodiment, the insert includes a helical deflector extending inwardly from the continuous interior surface into the fluid flow path and extending in a helical manner about a longitudinal axis of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to static mixers. Background Technology

[0002] A static mixer is a precision-designed device with no moving parts used for the continuous mixing of fluids. While the fluid is typically a liquid, static mixers can also be used to mix gas streams, gases and liquids, and immiscible liquids. The energy used for mixing is generated by the pressure loss as the fluid flows through the static mixer. There are two main types of static mixer designs: board-type and housed-elements design. Housed-elements design is particularly important.

[0003] Static mixers for encapsulated components comprise mixer elements within a tube or housing made of metal or plastic. The mixer element includes a non-moving baffle, also made of metal or plastic, that continuously mixes the fluid components delivered through the housing. These mixer elements are sophisticatedly designed, very expensive, and are either welded into place to the housing or mechanically secured in place using separate positioning devices such as fasteners, brackets, or collars. Therefore, known designs of static mixers for encapsulated components are costly, require specialized skills to manufacture and assemble, and are not easy to maintain. Given these and other drawbacks, continuous improvement is clearly needed in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to the present invention, a static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing and a hollow insert. The housing includes: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas; an inlet to the fluid flow path; and an outlet to the fluid flow path. The hollow insert extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet. The hollow insert is elastically expandable to exert an outward pressure on the continuous inner surface, and deflectors are distributed throughout the hollow insert. Each deflector projects inwardly into the fluid flow path. More specifically, each deflector projects upward at an angle toward the inlet. The hollow insert is integrally formed with the deflectors. Each deflector bends inwardly into the fluid flow path from an opening for the deflector through the hollow insert. In one particular embodiment, the deflectors are coextensive. In another embodiment, at least one orifice is present through each deflector.

[0005] According to the present invention, a static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing and a hollow insert. The housing includes: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas; an inlet for the fluid flow path; and an outlet for the fluid flow path. The hollow insert extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet, the hollow insert being longitudinally separated and elastically expandable to exert an outward pressure on the continuous inner surface, and deflectors are distributed throughout the hollow insert. Each deflector projects inwardly into the fluid flow path. More specifically, each deflector projects upward at an angle toward the inlet. The hollow insert is integrally formed with the deflectors. Each deflector bends inwardly into the fluid flow path from an opening for the deflector through the hollow insert. In one particular embodiment, the deflectors are equally extended. In another embodiment, at least one hole is present through each deflector.

[0006] According to the present invention, a static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing and a hollow insert. The housing includes: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas; an inlet for the fluid flow path; and an outlet for the fluid flow path. The hollow insert extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet, and has an inlet end leading to the inlet, a outlet end leading to the outlet, a length from the inlet end to the outlet end, and deflectors dispersed throughout the hollow insert. The hollow insert is longitudinally separated from the inlet end to the outlet end and is elastically expandable to apply outward pressure to the continuous inner surface. Each deflector projects inwardly into the fluid flow path. In one particular embodiment, each deflector projects upward at an angle toward the inlet. The hollow insert is integrally formed with the deflectors. Each deflector bends inwardly into the fluid flow path from an opening for the deflector through the hollow insert. In one particular embodiment, the deflectors are equally extended. In another embodiment, at least one hole is present through each deflector.

[0007] According to the present invention, a static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing comprising: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas; an inlet for the fluid flow path; and an outlet for the fluid flow path. An annular sidewall extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet, and includes an outer surface, an inner surface, and deflectors dispersed throughout the annular sidewall, each deflector projecting inwardly from the inner surface into the fluid flow path. More specifically, each deflector projects upwardly at an angle toward the inlet. The annular sidewall is integrally formed with the deflectors. Each deflector bends inwardly from an opening for the deflector through the annular sidewall into the fluid flow path. In one particular embodiment, the deflectors are equally extended. In another embodiment, at least one orifice is present through each deflector.

[0008] According to the present invention, a static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing and a helical member. The housing is arranged about a longitudinal axis and includes: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas; an inlet for the fluid flow path; and an outlet for the fluid flow path. The helical member extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path and extends helically about the longitudinal axis between the inlet and the outlet. The helical member is elastically expandable to exert an outward pressure on the continuous inner surface, and deflectors are distributed throughout the helical member, each deflector projecting inward into the fluid flow path. In one particular embodiment, each deflector projects upward at an angle toward the inlet. The helical member and the deflectors are integrally formed. Each deflector bends inward from an opening for the deflector through the helical member into the fluid flow path. In one particular embodiment, the deflectors are equally extended. The deflectors are helically spaced equidistantly between corresponding ends of the helical member.

[0009] According to the present invention, a static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing and a helical deflector. The housing is arranged about a longitudinal axis and includes: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas; an inlet to the fluid flow path; and an outlet to the fluid flow path. The helical deflector extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and outlet, extending inwardly from the continuous inner surface into the fluid flow path, and the helical deflector extends helically about the longitudinal axis. The helical deflector is elastically expandable to apply an outward pressure to the continuous inner surface. In a preferred embodiment, the openings extend through the deflector and are helically spaced at equal intervals.

[0010] According to the present invention, a static mixer for a liquid or gas includes a housing and an insert. The housing is arranged about a longitudinal axis and includes: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for the liquid or gas; an inlet for the fluid flow path; and an outlet for the fluid flow path. The insert includes a helical member extending longitudinally through the fluid flow path and extending helically about the longitudinal axis between the inlet and the outlet. The helical member is elastically expandable to apply an outward pressure to the continuous inner surface. The helical member has a helical deflector extending longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet, extending inwardly from the helical member into the fluid flow path, and extending helically about the longitudinal axis. The insert includes an inlet end leading to the inlet and a outlet end leading to the outlet. The helical member and the helical deflector extend concurrently from the inlet end to the outlet end. In a preferred embodiment, the openings extend through the deflector and are helically spaced at equal intervals. Attached Figure Description

[0011] From the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the specific objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art, wherein: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the static mixer insert according to the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side elevation view of an embodiment; Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken from line 3-3; Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of the circled area; Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 The cross-sectional view taken from line 5-5; Figure 6 It is formed Figure 1 Front elevation view of the material sheet of the static mixer insert; Figure 7 It corresponds to Figure 6 The view shows the deflector cut into the sheet; Figure 8 It corresponds to Figure 7 The view shows each deflector bending outward from the sheet through an opening for the deflector to form a static mixer insert segment, which is formed during roll forming. Figure 1 Static mixer insert; Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The side elevation view of the embodiment is the same as the opposite side elevation view; Figure 10 yes Figure 8 End elevation view of an embodiment; Figure 11 yes Figure 8 Perspective view of an embodiment; Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 A cross-sectional view taken from line 12-12; Figures 13 to 15 It is shown that according to the present invention Figure 8 The static mixer insert is inserted into the housing to form Figure 15 A series of steps in the static mixer; Figure 16 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from line 16-16; Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Top plan view of an embodiment; Figure 18 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 19 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 18 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 20 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 21 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 20 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 22 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 23 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 22 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 24 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 25 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 24 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 26 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 27 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 26 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 28 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 29 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 28 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 30 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 31 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 30 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 32 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 33 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 32 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 34 It includes the shell and Figure 33 The static mixer insert assembly is shown in a side elevation view of the static mixer, and for illustrative purposes, a portion of the housing is cut open; Figure 35 It is similar to Figure 3 The view shows yet another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment; Figure 36 It is similar to Figure 8 The view shows the view by Figure 35 The static mixer insert formed by the embodiment; Figure 37 This is a perspective view of a spiral static mixer insert constructed and arranged according to the present invention; Figure 38 yes Figure 37 Side elevation view of an embodiment; Figure 39 It is along Figure 38 A cross-sectional view taken from line 39-39; Figures 40 to 42 The invention illustrates the insertion of the helical static mixer insert, first shown, into the housing to form... Figure 42 A series of steps in the static mixer; Figure 43 yes Figure 42 The side elevation view of the embodiment is shown, and for illustrative purposes, a portion of the housing is cut open; Figure 44 It is along Figure 42 A cross-sectional view taken from line 44-44; Figure 45 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a spiral static mixer insert constructed and arranged according to the present invention; Figure 46 yes Figure 45 Side elevation view of an embodiment; Figure 47 It is along Figure 46 A cross-sectional view taken from line 47-47; Figure 48 It is Figures 45 to 47 A vertical cross-sectional view of the static mixer formed by the embodiment; Figure 49 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a spiral static mixer insert constructed and arranged according to the present invention; Figure 50 yes Figure 49 Side elevation view of an embodiment; Figure 51 It is along Figure 50 A cross-sectional view taken from line 51-51; Figure 52 It is Figures 49 to 51 A vertical cross-sectional view of the static mixer formed by the embodiment; Figure 53 This is a vertical cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the static mixer according to the present invention; Figure 54 This is a vertical cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the static mixer according to the present invention; Figures 55 to 59 The construction according to yet another embodiment of the invention is shown. Figure 54 A series of steps in the static mixer; and Figure 60 yes Figure 59 The side elevation view of the static mixer, with a portion of the static mixer cut open for illustrative purposes. Detailed Implementation

[0012] A static mixer insert and a static mixer formed using the static mixer insert are disclosed.

[0013] Now turn to the accompanying drawings, where similar reference numerals indicate corresponding elements; first, focus your attention on… Figures 1 to 3The illustration shows a static mixer insert 100 configured to be inserted into a housing to form a static mixer for mixing a fluid stream applied through the housing, whether it be a gas stream, a fluid stream, or a fluid and gas stream. The insert 100 is an elongated hollow tubular form comprising an elongated annular sidewall 101 having an outer surface 102, an inner surface 103, and opposing annular end edges 104, 105. The inner surface 103 defines a volume 106 for the passage of the fluid stream, extending from an opening 107 surrounded by end edges 104 at the inlet end (generally denoted as 100A) of the insert 100 to an opening 108 surrounded by end edges 105 at the outlet end (generally denoted as 100B) of the insert. Opening 107 is used to draw in a fluid stream at the inlet end 100A of the insert 100, and opening 108 is used to discharge a mixed fluid stream at the outlet end 100B of the insert 100. Openings 107 and 108 are axially aligned at both ends of the insert 100 and each leads to a volume 106 extending longitudinally between them. An end gap 110 longitudinally separates the annular sidewall 101 from the end edge 104 to the end edge 105 along the length of the annular sidewall 101 to define spaced, parallel side edges 111 and 112 extending longitudinally from the end edge 104 to the end edge 105. The annular sidewall 101 and thus the insert 100 in… Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 Arranged around axis 120, axis 120 is in Figure 3 The annular sidewall 101 extends centrally through the volume 106 from opening 107 to opening 108. In this example, the annular sidewall 101 is generally cylindrical and tensionable, and is made of plastic, malleable metal (such as ductile iron or steel), cellulose composition, or other similar or related materials or combinations thereof.

[0014] exist Figure 3In the insert 100, an array of fluid deflectors 124 distributed throughout the insert 100 is included. The deflectors 124 are non-moving fluid mixing elements of the insert 100 and are arranged in a predetermined pattern along the length of the insert 100 between the inlet end 100A and the outlet end 100B. The deflectors 124 are arranged longitudinally between the inlet end 100A and the outlet end 100B and circumferentially between the side edges 111 and 112. Each deflector 124 is flat and extends from a base or inner end 125 connected to an annular sidewall 101 to an outer end or free end 126. Each deflector 124 protrudes inward from the inner surface 103 into the volume 106, and extends upward from the base 125 toward the opening 107 at the inlet end 100A to the free end 126, which protrudes at an angle relative to the inner surface 103. The free end 126 is located just inside the axis 120 around which the annular sidewall 101 is arranged, or in other cases does not reach the axis 120. The annular sidewall 101 is integrally formed with the deflector 124, and each deflector 124 is made of the same material as the annular sidewall 101, wherein the base 125 of each deflector 124 is integrally formed with the annular sidewall 101. In this exemplary embodiment, each deflector 124 is cut into the annular sidewall 101, and each deflector 124 bends inward from the inner surface 103 into the volume 106 at its base 125, and bends out from an opening 127 for the deflector or, in other cases, from its cut-in, which extends from the outer surface 102 through the annular sidewall 101 to the inner surface 103. The deflectors 124 in this embodiment are equally extended, and each deflector 124 and its corresponding opening 127 are generally triangular in shape, with each deflector 124 tapering outward from its base 125 at the inner surface 103 to its pointed free end 126.

[0015] The insert 100 has a length from the end edge 104 at the inlet end 100A to the end edge 105 at the outlet end 100B, and has a standard or general length suitable for cutting to the correct length, or a pre-selected length corresponding to a specific application. (Refer to...) Figures 6 to 12 The relevant parts, insert 100 appropriately from Figure 6 It is made of a flat, elongated sheet of material 130, having the characteristics of... Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 12The surfaces 102 and 103, end edges 104 and 105, and side edges 111 and 112 extending from end edge 104 to end edge 105 are shown. End edges 104 and 105 are parallel to each other, like side edges 111 and 112, and perpendicular to side edges 111 and 112. Sheet 130 is flat and rectangular, wherein end edges 104 and 105 are of equal length and significantly shorter than side edges 111 and 112, like side edges 111 and 112. The deflector 124 is cut to various sizes using a die-cutting machine, punching machine, laser or plasma cutter, waterjet cutter, or other suitable technique. Figure 7 In the sheet 130. Each deflector 124 formed in the sheet 130 extends from its base 125, which is integral with the sheet 130, toward its end edge 105 to its corresponding free end 126. Each deflector 124 has an opening formed through the sheet 130 at its base 125 from its inner surface 103. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The curved arrow A in the middle curves outward in the direction of so as to point at an angle or otherwise protrude upward relative to the surface 103 from the base 125 toward the free end 126 toward the end edge 104, in order to form Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The static mixer insert segment 135 is used. Each deflector 124 is bent by hand or using a suitable bending tool. The insert 100 is simply formed by roll forming the segment 135, i.e., by rolling the sheet 130 inward toward the inner surface 103 to close the side edges 111 and 112 on either side of the resulting end gap 110, to form Figure 1 The resulting hollow tubular insert 100 encloses the deflector 124 within a formed volume 106, which extends longitudinally between openings 107 and 108 at the formed inlet end 100A and outlet end 100B, respectively. The segment 135 is roll-formed manually or using suitable roll forming equipment. The deflectors 124 are bent to their angular orientation as described above, such that when the segment 135 is roll-formed into the insert 100, the free end 126 does not reach the axis 120. This prevents the deflectors 124 from becoming entangled, contacting, or otherwise interfering with each other in the formed insert 100, thus preventing bending or displacement.

[0016] The non-moving deflectors 124 of segment 135 are distributed in a predetermined number and pattern suitable for mixing fluid components throughout the sheet 130 between end edges 104 and 105 and side edges 111 and 112. For example, the array of deflectors 124 of segment 135 comprises nine deflectors 124 arranged in three parallel rows of three equally spaced deflectors 124. These rows are parallel to end edges 104 and 105, perpendicular to side edges 111 and 112, and vertically equidistant between end edges 104 and 105. This arrangement and number of deflectors 124, and their previously described triangular shape, are merely illustrative. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the deflectors 124 of insert 100 can have any shape, size, variation in size, arrangement, and number without departing from this disclosure.

[0017] Insert 100 is used for insertion into Figure 13 and Figure 14 The shell 150 is formed Figure 15 The static mixer 170 has no moving parts and is used for the flow of fluid through which it is mixed. (Direction) Figure 16 The housing 150 is an elongated hollow form of plastic, metal, or other impermeable material or combination of materials, including a continuous sidewall 151 having an outer surface 152, an inner surface 153, an upper edge 154, and a lower edge 155. A nozzle 156 having an outlet 157 is attached to the lower edge 155 and cooperates with the inner surface 153 to form a volume 160. The nozzle 156 is frustoconical and may have other standard or selected nozzle forms in alternative embodiments. The upper edge 154 surrounds an inlet 161 of the volume 160. The inlet 161 (opening) and the outlet 157 (the relatively smaller opening of the nozzle 156) are axially aligned at both ends of the housing 150 and each leads to the volume 160 extending longitudinally therebetween. The volume 160 defines a fluid flow path P extending longitudinally from the inlet 161 through the housing 150 to the outlet 157, and is for fluid to pass through from the inlet 161 to the outlet 157. A continuous sidewall 151 is arranged around axis 165, extending centrally through volume 160 from inlet 161 to outlet 157. In this example, the continuous sidewall 151 is cylindrical, corresponding to the cylindrical shape of insert 100. The portion of the continuous sidewall 151 near inlet 161 is an enlarged collar, forming a circumferentially widened region of volume 160, and thus a circumferentially widened region of the fluid flow path P, as shown below. Figure 16 As shown. The housing 150 preferably has an integral structure and is a single unit.

[0018] The housing 150 and the insert 100 are aligned by the insert 100 with the volume 160, and the discharge end 100B of the insert 100 is simultaneously connected to... Figure 13The inlet 161 of the middle housing 150 is registered, thereby assembling it into the form according to the invention. Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 The static mixer 170 in the middle. Simply by first inserting the outlet end 100B of the insert 100 along... Figure 13 and Figure 14 The direction of arrow B in the diagram allows the insert 100 to slide into the volume 160 via inlet 161 and through the fluid flow path P defined by volume 160, forcing the insert 100 into the volume 160 until it reaches the desired position. Figure 16 As shown, the discharge end 100B of the insert 100 is in direct contact with the nozzle 156, preventing the insert 100 from advancing into the nozzle 156. The inherent elastic expansion characteristics of the insert 100 allow it to automatically and elastically yield to the housing 150 upon insertion into the housing, as is the case with every insert disclosed in this specification. Once the insert 100 is slidably mounted into the volume 160 of the housing 150 through the inlet 161, the length of the insert 100 from the inlet end 100A to the discharge end 100B is sufficient such that the insert 100 extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path P defined by the volume 160, from the discharge end 100B near and leading to the nozzle 156 and its outlet 157 to the inlet end 100A near and leading to the inlet 167. A portion of the inlet end 100A of the insert 100 extends to Figure 16The widened region of volume 160 inside the inlet 161 is defined by a collar 167. The insert 100 and housing 150, and their respective volumes 106 and 160, are coaxial about coincident axes 120 and 165. The fluid flow path P passes simultaneously through the housing 150 extending from the inlet 161 to the outlet 157 and the insert 100 extending from the opening 107 at the inlet end 100A to the outlet end 100B. In this example, deflectors 124, arranged circumferentially and longitudinally in the fluid flow path P, each protrude inward into the coaxial volumes 106 and 160, and thus enter the fluid flow path P away from the inner surface 153 of the housing 150 and away from the inner surface 103 of the annular sidewall 101 between the inlet end 100A and the outlet end 100B of the insert 100, without reaching the coincident axes 120 and 165. Because the annular sidewall 101 of the insert 100 is elastically expandable, it is tensioned when inserted into the fluid flow path P of the housing 150, so as to apply outward pressure or force through the outer surface 102 against the inner surface 153 of the continuous sidewall 151, thereby frictionally engaging the outer surface 102 of the insert 100 directly against the inner surface 153 of the housing 150. This frictionally secures the insert 100 in the volume 160 to the housing 150, and thereby secures the deflector 124 in the fluid flow path P, which extends through the insert 100 from the inlet end 100A leading to the inlet 161 of the housing 150 to the outlet end 100B leading to the outlet 157 of the nozzle 156.

[0019] Therefore, the annular sidewall 101 of the insert 100 is elastically expandable and has a tendency to expand, so as to produce an elastic frictional engagement where the outer surface 102 of the annular sidewall 101 directly abuts against the inner surface 153 of the housing 150. The annular sidewall 101 serves as an elastic expansion carrier or frame for the deflector 124. When inserted into the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, the annular sidewall 101 elastically conforms to the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, and the outer surface 102 directly abuts against the inner surface 153 of the housing 150 in a frictional engagement. When installed in the housing 150, the annular sidewall 101 is tensioned due to its inherent tendency to expand, thereby causing the outer surface 102 to directly frictionally engage with the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, thereby frictionally fixing the insert 100 in place according to the invention, thus avoiding the need for separate fasteners, welding, adhesives, end caps, etc. A unit tension or unit pressure (which is the amount of pressure exerted by the outer surface 102 of the insert 100 on the inner surface 153 of the housing 150) is sufficient to frictionally fix the outer surface 102 of the insert 100 to the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, thereby fixing the deflector 124 in place in the fluid flow path P according to the invention. The static mixer 170, an exemplary encapsulated static mixer, is assembled in accordance with standard technology to appropriately pump a fluid stream, whether gas, liquid, or a combination of both, through a fluid path P from inlet 161 to outlet 157. The stream enters the fluid path P through inlet 161, passes through inlet end 100A into insert 100, encounters deflectors 124, and is automatically and continuously mixed by them. These deflectors are appropriately positioned and oriented within the fluid flow path P. As the fluid stream flows through the fluid flow path P, it passes through insert 100 from inlet end 100A to outlet end 100B leading to outlet 157, enters nozzle 156 from outlet end 100B, and exits through nozzle 156, properly mixed with outlet 157. In an alternative embodiment, the side edges 111 and 112 can be fixed by means such as welding, adhesives, thermal bonding, etc., to secure the annular sidewall 101. In this embodiment, the insert 100 is sized such that when the insert 100 is inserted into the housing 150 as described herein, the outer surface 102 directly and sufficiently frictionally engages the inner surface 153 of the housing 150 to frictionally hold the insert 100 in place.

[0020] To remove the insert 100 from the housing 150 for repair, adjustment, cleaning, replacement, or other maintenance of any component, it is only necessary to reverse the described method of assembling the insert 100 with the housing 150 to form the static mixer 170. This is because a portion of the inlet end 100A of the insert 100 extends from the housing 150... Figure 16In the widened region of the volume 160 defined by the collar 167 inside the inlet 161, it can be picked up with hand pliers or other clamping tools and used to pull the insert 100 outward from the fluid flow path P through the inlet 161.

[0021] As described above, the static mixer insert segment and the deflector or fluid mixing element formed therefrom, according to the present invention, can be configured in any desired shape, size, arrangement, and quantity without departing from this disclosure. The shape and size can be the same or different. Example static mixer insert segments with varying deflector configurations and corresponding static mixer inserts are shown by way of example. Figures 18 to 36 In addition to the changing structure, in the subsequent Figures 18 to 36 The structure of each segment, the corresponding insert formed therefrom, and how they are each assembled with the housing to form a static mixer are the same as those of segment 135 and its corresponding insert 100 and their assembly with the housing 150. Therefore, the same reference numerals used for segment 135 and insert 100 are also used in the... Figures 18 to 36 Each segment and its corresponding insert, under appropriate conditions.

[0022] Turn now Figures 18 to 36 , Figure 18 An alternative embodiment of a static mixer insert segment 200 is shown, which has an array of forty-two small triangular deflectors 124 arranged in parallel rows and upright parallel columns, and is shown to be formed as Figure 19 Static mixer insert 201.

[0023] Figure 20 Another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment 210 is shown, which has ten triangular deflectors 124 that are longitudinally offset from each other and are larger than the deflectors 124 of segment 200. Figure 21 Segment 210, which forms the static mixer insert 211, is shown.

[0024] Figure 22 Another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment 220 is shown, which has thirty triangular deflectors 124 that are shorter and slightly larger than the deflectors 124 of segment 200 and smaller than the deflectors 124 of segment 210, and are arranged in three upright parallel rows. Figure 23 Segment 220 forming the static mixer insert 221 is shown.

[0025] Figure 24Another embodiment of a static mixer insert segment 230 is shown, which has six biased triangular deflectors 124, which are slightly larger than the deflectors 124 of segment 210. Figure 25 Segment 230 forming the static mixer insert 231 is shown.

[0026] Figure 26 Another embodiment of a static mixer insert segment 240 is shown, which has six deflectors 124, each of which is generally shaped like an isosceles trapezoid. Figure 27 Segment 240, which forms the static mixer insert 241, is shown.

[0027] Figure 28 Another embodiment of a static mixer insert segment 250 is shown, which has twelve deflectors 124, each of which is roughly similar in shape to those of segment 240, but smaller and shorter, and is arranged in six parallel rows of alternating biases. Figure 29 Segment 250 forming the static mixer insert 251 is shown.

[0028] Figure 30 Another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment 260 is shown, which is similar to segment 250, but the free end 126 of each deflector 124 is serrated. Figure 31 Segment 260, which forms the static mixer insert 261, is shown.

[0029] Figure 32 Another embodiment of the static mixer insert segment 270 is shown, which is similar to segment 220, but the side edges 111 and 112 are constructed with teeth 111A and 112A. Figure 33 Segment 270, which forms the static mixer insert 271, is shown. Figure 34 In this configuration, when the insert 271 is installed in the housing 150 to form a static mixer 272, teeth 111A and 112A mesh with each other. The meshing of teeth 111A and 112A mechanically prevents the side edges 111 and 112 from longitudinally displacing relative to each other within the static mixer 272.

[0030] Figure 35 Another embodiment of a static mixer insert segment 280 is shown, which has forty deflectors 124, and an opening or hole 124A through each deflector 124 enhances its fluid mixing properties by inducing more fluid turbulence in the fluid stream. Figure 36 Segment 250 forming the static mixer insert 281 is shown.

[0031] Now let's turn our attention to... Figures 37 to 39This illustrates another embodiment of a static mixer insert 300 constructed and arranged according to the present invention. The insert 300 is inserted into a housing to mix a fluid stream applied through the housing, whether it be a gas stream, a fluid stream, or a fluid and gas stream, similar to insert 100. The insert 300 includes a helical member 301 having an outer surface 302, an inner surface 303, an upper edge 304, and a lower edge 305, extending helically simultaneously between a proximal end 310 at the inlet end 300A of the helical member 301 and a distal end 311 at the outlet end 300B of the helical member 301. The helical member 301 is a circular helix, i.e., a helix with a constant radius. In this example, the helical member 301 is a vertically extending helical sidewall, wherein the inner surface 303 and the outer surface 302 are flat and parallel to each other. The inner surface 303 of the helical member 301 spirals around the volume 315 to allow a fluid stream to extend longitudinally through the insert 300 from the inlet end 300A leading to the volume 315 to the outlet end 300B opening from the volume 315. In other words, the helical member 301 spirals around the volume 315 and defines the volume 315 extending longitudinally through it via its inner surface 303.

[0032] Both the inlet end 300A and the outlet end 300B lead to the volume 315 and are axially aligned. A helical member 301 is arranged about an axis 318, extending centrally through the volume 315 from the inlet end 300A to the outlet end 300B. The helical member 301 is stretchable and is made of plastic, a malleable metal (such as ductile iron or steel), a cellulose composition, or other similar or analogous materials or combinations thereof.

[0033] Similar to the aforementioned insert, deflectors 124 are distributed throughout the insert 300. An array of deflectors 124 is arranged in a predetermined pattern along the length of the helical member 301 between the inlet end 300A and the outlet end 300B. In this embodiment, the deflectors 124 are spaced apart along the length of the helical member 301 between the proximal end 310 at the inlet end 300A and the distal end 311 at the outlet end 300B. Since the deflectors 124 follow the helical member 301, they are helically spaced. In this embodiment, the deflectors 124 are equally spaced, helically spaced at equal intervals between the inlet end 300A and the outlet end 300B, and each deflector is centered between the upper edge 304 and the lower edge 305. In an alternative embodiment, the spacing between adjacent deflectors 124 and the arrangement of the deflectors 124 between the inlet end 300A and the outlet end 300B can be varied.

[0034] Each deflector 124 is flat and extends from a base or inner end 125 connected to the helical member 301 to an outer end or free end 126. Each deflector 124 projects inward from an inner surface 303 into a volume 315 and projects at an angle from the base 125 to the free end 126 relative to the inner surface 303 toward the inlet end 300A, reaching the axis 318 around which the helical member 301 is arranged, or in other cases not reaching the axis 318. The helical member 301 is integrally formed with the deflectors 124, each deflector having the same material as the helical member 301, wherein the base 125 of each deflector 124 is integral with the helical member 301. Similar to insert 100, each deflector 124 of insert 300 is cut into helical member 301 and bends inward from inner surface 303 into volume 315 at its base 125, extending from opening 127 for the deflector or, in other cases, from its cut point, from outer surface 302 through helical member 301 to inner surface 303. In this embodiment, the deflectors 124 are equally extended, and each deflector is generally square in shape, but they can have any desired shape or relative size as needed. Insert 300 has a length from inlet end 300A to outlet end 300B and has a standard or general length suitable for cutting to the correct length, or a pre-selected length corresponding to a specific application.

[0035] Insert 300 is configured to be inserted into Figure 40 and Figure 41 In the previously described housing 150, to form Figure 42 and Figure 44 A static mixer 320 without moving parts is used for the passage and mixing of fluid streams therein. Figure 40 In this process, by aligning the insert 300 with the volume 160 and simultaneously aligning the discharge end 300B of the insert 300 with the inlet 161 of the housing 150, the housing 150 and the insert 300 are assembled to form a static mixer 320. The insert 300 is simply connected by, as shown in... Figure 41 The insert 300 is slightly twisted to compress it, thus slightly reducing its outer diameter and causing the discharge end 300B to first... Figure 40 and Figure 41 The fluid slides through inlet 161 in the direction of arrow C and is forced into volume 160 through the fluid flow path P defined by volume 160 until it is as... Figure 44The discharge end 300B of the insert 300 is in direct contact with the nozzle 156, preventing the insert 300 from advancing into the nozzle 156. The inherent elastic expansion characteristics of the insert 300 allow it to automatically and elastically yield to the housing 150 upon insertion into the housing. Once the insert 300 is slidably mounted into the volume 160 of the housing 150 through the inlet 161, the length of the insert 300 from the inlet end 300A to the discharge end 300B is sufficient such that the insert 300 extends longitudinally and helically through the fluid flow path P defined by the volume 160, from the discharge end 300B approaching and leading to the nozzle 156 and its outlet 157 to the inlet end 300A at the collar 167 approaching and leading to the inlet 161. A portion of the inlet end 300A of the insert 300 extends to Figure 44 The widened region of volume 160, defined by collar 167, is located inside inlet 161. Insert 300 and housing 150, and their respective volumes 315 and 160, are coaxial about coincident axes 318 and 165. Fluid flow path P extends simultaneously through housing 150 from inlet 161 to outlet 157 and insert 300 from inlet end 300A to outlet end 300B. Deflectors 124, arranged helically in fluid flow path P, each protrude inward into coaxial volumes 315 and 160, and thus enter fluid flow path P away from the inner surface 153 of housing 150 and away from the inner surface 303 of helical member 301 between inlet end 300A and outlet end 300B of insert 300, without reaching coincident axes 318 and 165 in this example. Since the helical member 301 of insert 300 is elastically expandable, when inserted... Figure 44 When the deflector 124 is in the fluid flow path P of the housing 150, it is tensioned and partially uncompressed to apply outward pressure or force through the outer surface 302 against the inner surface 153 of the continuous sidewall 151, thereby directly rubbing the outer surface 302 against the inner surface 153 of the housing 150. This frictionally secures the insert 300 in the volume 160 to the housing 150, thereby securing the deflector 124 in the fluid flow path P, which extends through the insert 300 from the inlet end 300A leading to the inlet 161 of the housing 150 to the outlet end 300B leading to the outlet 157 of the nozzle 156.

[0036] Therefore, the helical member 301 of the insert 300 is elastically expandable and has a tendency to expand, so as to produce an elastic frictional engagement where the outer surface 302 of the helical member 301 directly abuts against the inner surface 153 of the housing. The helical member 301 serves as another embodiment of the elastically expandable carrier or frame of the deflector 124 according to the invention. According to the invention, when inserted into the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, the helical member 301 elastically conforms to the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, and the outer surface 302 directly abuts against the inner surface 153 of the housing 150 in a frictional engagement. When installed in the housing 150, the helical member 301 is tensioned due to its inherent tendency to expand, thereby causing the outer surface 302 to directly frictionally engage with the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, thereby frictionally fixing the insert 300 in place according to the invention, thus avoiding the need for separate fasteners, welding, adhesives, end caps, etc. A unit tension or unit pressure (which is the amount of pressure exerted by the outer surface 302 of the insert 300 on the inner surface 153 of the housing 150) is sufficient to frictionally fix the outer surface 302 of the insert 300 to the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, thereby fixing the deflector 124 in place in the fluid flow path P according to the invention. The static mixer 320, which is an exemplary encapsulated static mixer, is assembled in accordance with standard technology to appropriately pump a fluid stream, whether gas stream, liquid stream, or a liquid and gas stream, through a fluid path P from inlet 161 to outlet 157. The fluid stream enters the fluid path P through inlet 161, enters the insert 300 through inlet end 300A, encounters deflectors 124, and is automatically and continuously mixed by the deflectors 124, which are appropriately positioned and oriented in the fluid flow path P. As the fluid stream flows through the fluid flow path P, it passes through the insert 300 from inlet end 300A to outlet end 300B leading to outlet 157, enters the nozzle 156 from outlet end 300B, and exits properly mixed from outlet end 300B through outlet 157.

[0037] To remove the insert 300 from the housing 150 for repair, adjustment, cleaning, replacement, or other maintenance of any component, it is only necessary to reverse the described method of assembling the insert 300 with the housing 150 to form the static mixer 320. This is because a portion of the inlet end 300A of the insert 300 extends from the housing 150... Figure 44 In the widened region of volume 160 defined by collar 167 inside inlet 161, it can be picked up with hand pliers or other clamping tools and used to pull insert 300 outward from fluid flow path P through inlet 161.

[0038] Figures 45 to 47Another embodiment of a static mixer insert 330 constructed and arranged according to the invention is shown. The insert 330 is configured to insert into a housing for mixing a fluid stream applied through the housing, whether it is a gas stream, a fluid stream, or a fluid and gas stream. The insert 330, consisting of a helical member 331 and a helical deflector 350, is tensionable and is made of plastic, a malleable metal (such as ductile iron or steel), or other similar or comparable materials suitable for use with the compression base according to the invention.

[0039] The helical member 331 has an outer surface 332, an inner surface 333, an upper edge 334, and a lower edge 335, all of which extend helically between a proximal end 340 at the inlet end 330A of the insert 300 and a distal end 341 at the outlet end 330B of the insert 300. In this example, the helical member 331 is a vertically extending helical sidewall, wherein the inner surface 333 and the outer surface 332 are flat and parallel to each other. The inner surface 333 of the helical member 301 helices around a volume 345 for allowing a fluid stream to extend longitudinally through the insert 330 from the inlet end 330A leading to the volume 345 to the outlet end 330B leading to the volume 345. In other words, the helical member 331 helices around and defines the volume 345 through which the inner surface 333 extends longitudinally. The inlet end 330A and the outlet end 330B are axially aligned, with both leading to the volume 345. The spiral member 331 is a circular spiral, i.e., a spiral with a constant radius, arranged around an axis 348 that extends centrally from the inlet end 330A to the outlet end 330B through the volume 345.

[0040] The helical deflector 350 has an upper surface 351, a lower surface 352, and an outer edge 353, all of which extend helically between a proximal end 340 at the inlet end 330A of the insert 300 and a distal end 341 at the outlet end 330B of the insert 300. The deflector 350 is a helical platform extending inward from the helical member 331 to the outer edge 353 into the volume 345, reaching or otherwise not reaching the axis 348, and extending longitudinally and helically through the volume 345 from the proximal end 340 at the inlet end 330A of the insert 330 to the distal end 341 at the outlet end 330B of the insert 330. The deflector 350 extends helically through the volume 345 about the axis 348 from the proximal end 340 at the inlet end 330A of the insert 330 to the distal end 341 at the outlet end 330B of the insert 330. The deflector 350 follows the helical member 331 in a helical manner and, in this example, extends inward from the upper edge 334 to the outer edge 353 into the volume 345, curving inward from the upper edge 334 in this particular example. The insert 330 is integrally formed with the deflector 350, wherein the deflector 350 is integrally formed with the helical member 331. Similar to the helical member 331, the deflector 350 is a circular helix, i.e., a helix with a constant radius, arranged around an axis 348 that extends centrally through the volume 345 from the inlet end 330A to the outlet end 330B.

[0041] The insert 330 is configured to be inserted into the previously described housing 150 to form Figure 48 A static mixer 360 without moving parts is used for the passage and mixing of fluid streams therein. The housing 150 and the insert 330 are assembled to form the static mixer 360 by aligning the insert 330 with the volume 160 and simultaneously aligning the discharge end 330B of the insert 330 with the inlet 161 of the housing 150. The insert 330 is forced into the volume 160 by first sliding its discharge end 330B through the inlet 161 and through the fluid flow path P defined by the volume 160, until... Figure 46The discharge end 330B of the insert 330 is in direct contact with the nozzle 156, preventing the insert 330 from advancing into the nozzle 156. The inherent elastic expansion characteristics of the insert 330 allow it to automatically and elastically yield to the housing 150 upon insertion into the housing. Once the insert 330 is slidably mounted into the volume 160 of the housing 150 through the inlet 161, the length of the insert 330 from the inlet end 330A to the discharge end 330B is sufficient such that the insert 330 extends longitudinally and helically through the fluid flow path P defined by the volume 160, from the discharge end 330B approaching and leading to the nozzle 156 and its outlet 157 to the inlet end 330A at the collar 167 approaching and leading to the inlet 161. A portion of the inlet end 330A of the insert 330 extends to Figure 46 The widened region of volume 160, defined by collar 167, is located inside inlet 161. Insert 330 and housing 150, along with their respective volumes 345 and 160, are coaxial about coincident axes 348 and 165. The fluid flow path P extends simultaneously through housing 150 from inlet 161 to outlet 157 and insert 330 from inlet end 330A to outlet end 330B. Deflector 350, arranged longitudinally and helically in the fluid flow path P, protrudes inward about coincident axes 348 and 165 into the coaxial volumes 345 and 160, and thus enters the fluid flow path P away from the inner surface 153 of housing 150 and away from the inner surface 333 of helical member 331 between inlet end 330A and outlet end 330B of insert 330, without reaching coincident axes 348 and 165 in this example. Because insert 330 is elastically expandable, when inserted... Figure 44 When the deflector 350 is in the fluid flow path P of the housing 150, it is tensioned to apply outward pressure or force through the outer surface 332 of the helical member 331 against the inner surface 153 of the continuous sidewall 151, thereby directly rubbing the outer surface 332 of the helical member 331 against the inner surface 153 of the housing 150. This frictionally secures the insert 330 in the volume 160 to the housing 150, thereby securing the deflector 350 in the fluid flow path P, which extends through the insert 330 from the inlet end 330A leading to the inlet 161 of the housing 150 to the outlet end 330B leading to the outlet 157 of the nozzle 156.

[0042] Therefore, the insert 330 is elastically expandable and has a tendency to expand, so as to produce an elastic frictional engagement where the outer surface 332 of the helical member 331 directly abuts against the inner surface 153 of the housing. Thus, the annular helical member 331 acts as an elastic expansion carrier, elastically conforming to and frictionally engaging the inner surface 153 of the housing 150 when inserted into it. When installed in the housing 150, the insert 300 is tensioned due to its inherent tendency to expand, thereby causing the outer surface 332 to frictionally engage with the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, thereby frictionally fixing the insert 330 in place according to the invention, thus avoiding the need for separate fasteners, welding, adhesives, end caps, etc. A unit tension or unit pressure (which is the amount of pressure exerted by the outer surface 332 of the insert 330 on the inner surface 153 of the housing 150) is sufficient to frictionally fix the outer surface 332 of the insert 330 to the inner surface 153 of the housing 150, thereby fixing the deflector 350 in place in the fluid flow path P according to the invention. The static mixer 360, which is an exemplary encapsulated static mixer, is assembled in accordance with standard technology to appropriately pump a fluid stream, whether gas stream, liquid stream, or a liquid and gas stream, through a fluid path P from inlet 161 to outlet 157. The fluid stream enters the fluid path P through inlet 161, enters the insert 330 through inlet end 330A, encounters deflectors 350, and is automatically, continuously, and helically mixed by the deflectors 350, wherein these deflectors are appropriately positioned and oriented in the fluid flow path P. As the fluid stream flows through the fluid flow path P, it passes through the insert 330 from inlet end 330A to outlet end 330B leading to outlet 157, enters the nozzle 156 from outlet end 330B, and exits properly mixed from outlet end 330B through outlet 157.

[0043] To remove the insert 330 from the housing 150 for repair, adjustment, cleaning, replacement, or other maintenance of any component, it is only necessary to reverse the described method of assembling the insert 330 with the housing 150 to form the static mixer 360. This is because a portion of the inlet end 330A of the insert 330 extends from the housing 150... Figure 48 In the widened region of the volume 160 defined by the collar 167 inside the inlet 161, it can be picked up by hand pliers or other clamping tools and used to pull the insert 330 outward from the fluid flow path P through the inlet 161.

[0044] Figures 49 to 51Another embodiment of a static mixer insert 370 constructed and arranged according to the present invention is shown. The insert 370 is configured to be inserted into a housing for mixing a fluid stream applied through the housing, whether it is a gas stream, a fluid stream, or a fluid and gas stream. The insert 370 is identical in all respects to the insert 330 and is assembled to the housing 150 in the same manner as the insertion 330 and the housing 150 to form a [structure / structure]. Figure 52 The static mixer 375 is located within the insert 330. Therefore, the preceding discussion of the insert 330 and its static mixer 360 applies in all respects to the insert 370 and its static mixer 375, and the same reference numerals are used. The difference between the insert 330 and the insert 370 is that, compared to the deflector 350 of the insert 330, the deflector 350 of the insert 370 has an opening 350A, which enhances the mixing properties of the deflector 350 by introducing more fluid turbulence into the fluid stream. The opening 350A extends through the deflector 350 of the insert 370 between the upper edge 334 of the helical member 331 and the outer edge 353 of the deflector 350. Following the deflector 350, the opening 350A is spaced along the length of the deflector 350 from the inlet end 330A to the outlet end 330B. Since the openings 350A follow the deflector 350 of the insert 370, they are spirally spaced along the length of the deflector 350 between the inlet end 330A and the outlet end 330B. The openings 350A are equally spaced in the insert 370, but in alternative embodiments the distance between adjacent openings 350A may vary.

[0045] Each of the aforementioned static mixer inserts includes a housing configured with one insert. In alternative embodiments, the static mixer constructed and arranged according to the invention may be configured with more than one insert stacked on top of each other, whether as follows: Figure 53 The two identical inserts shown in the static mixer 380 or such Figure 54 The two different inserts shown in the static mixer 390.

[0046] Brief Reference Figure 53 The static mixer 380 includes a housing 150A and two inserts 100' and 100"". The housing 150A is structurally identical to the housing 150, except that it is relatively longer to accommodate the two inserts 100' and 100"". Each insert 100' and 100" is identical to insert 100". Therefore, the reference numerals used for insert 100 and housing 150 are also used for insert 100' and 100" and housing 150A where appropriate.

[0047] In the static mixer 380, insert 100' extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path P from its discharge end 100B, which is close to and leads to nozzle 156 and its outlet 157, to its inlet end 100A, located at an intermediate position between outlet 157 and inlet 161. Insert 100" extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path P from its discharge end 100B, which is close to and leads to inlet end 100A, to its inlet end 100A, which is close to and leads to collar 167, located at inlet 161. According to standard technology, a fluid stream, whether gas, liquid, or a combination of both, is appropriately pumped from inlet 161 to outlet 157 through fluid path P, entering fluid channel P through inlet 161, passing through its inlet end 100A, and entering insert 100” from inlet 161. It encounters deflectors 124 of insert 100” and is automatically and continuously mixed by deflectors 124, wherein these deflectors 124 are appropriately positioned and oriented in fluid flow path P as the fluid stream flows through it, and from its inlet end 100A to the outlet end 100B leading to the inlet end 100A of insert 100”. The fluid passes through the insert 100” through its inlet end 100A and enters the insert 100' from the outlet end 100B. It encounters the deflectors 124 of the insert 100” and is automatically and continuously mixed by the deflectors 124, which are properly positioned and oriented in the fluid flow path P as the fluid stream flows through it. The fluid passes through the insert 100' from its inlet end 100A to the outlet end 100B leading to the nozzle 156 and outlet 157, enters the nozzle 156 from the outlet end 100B of the insert 100', and exits through the nozzle 156 outlet 157 after being properly mixed.

[0048] Brief Reference Figure 54 The static mixer 390 includes a housing 150B and two inserts 300' and 330'. The housing 150B is structurally identical to the housing 150, differing only in that it is relatively longer to accommodate the two inserts 300' and 330'. In this example, the inserts 300' and 330' are different from each other, wherein insert 300' is identical to insert 300, and insert 330' is identical to insert 330. Therefore, the reference numerals used for housing 150, insert 300', and insert 330' are also used for housing 150B, insert 300', and insert 330', respectively, where appropriate.

[0049] In the static mixer 390, the insert 300' extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path P from its discharge end 300B, which is close to and leads to the nozzle 156 and its outlet 157, to its inlet end 300A, located at an intermediate position between the outlet 157 and the inlet 161. The insert 330' extends longitudinally through the fluid flow path P from its discharge end 330B, which is close to and leads to the inlet end 330A of the insert 300', to its inlet end 330A, which is close to and leads to the collar 167 of the inlet 161. According to standard technology, a fluid stream, whether gas, liquid, or a combination of both, is pumped through the fluid path P from inlet 161 to outlet 157. The fluid stream enters the fluid passage P through inlet 161, passes through its inlet end 330A, and enters the insert 330'. It encounters deflectors 350 in the insert 330' and is automatically and continuously mixed by these deflectors 350, which are appropriately positioned and oriented in the fluid flow path P as the fluid stream flows through it, and passes through the insert 330' from its inlet end 330A to its outlet end 330B leading to the inlet end 300A of the insert 300'. Fluid enters insert 300' from its inlet end 300A through the outlet end 330B of insert 330, encounters deflectors 124 of insert 300' and is automatically and continuously mixed by deflectors 124, which are properly positioned and oriented in the fluid flow path P as the fluid stream flows through it, and passes through insert 300' from its inlet end 300A to the outlet end 300B leading to nozzle 156 and outlet 157, enters nozzle 156 from the outlet end 300B of insert 300, and exits properly mixed through nozzle 156 outlet 157.

[0050] It should be emphasized that the static mixer constructed and arranged according to the present invention can combine any combination of two or more inserts, and these inserts can be the same or different from each other, depending on specific needs.

[0051] Figures 55 to 59 According to another embodiment of the present invention, a construction using an insert 100, a nozzle body 400, and a heat shrink tubing 410 is shown. Figure 59 and Figure 60 The sequence of steps for the static mixer 420. (See attached reference.) Figure 57The nozzle body 400 includes an annular seat 401 surrounding an inlet opening 402 at an inlet end 403, and extending downward from this annular seat to an outlet 404 formed through an outlet end 405. The inlet opening 402 and the relatively small outlet 404 are axially aligned at both ends of the nozzle body 400. The nozzle body 400 is truncated conical and may have other standard or selected nozzle forms in alternative embodiments. The heat shrink tubing 410 is a standard structure typically made of polyolefin, which, when heated, shrinks radially to between one-half and one-sixth of its diameter, but not longitudinally. Figure 58 In the unshrinked tube 410, there is a proximal end 411, a distal end 412, and a length from the proximal end 411 to the distal end 412.

[0052] Simply by inserting the discharge end 100B into Figure 57 The nozzle body 400 is assembled into the annular seat 401. Figure 56 The insert 100 is attached to the discharge end 100B of the nozzle body 400, and the uncontracted tube 410 is fitted onto the outer surface 102 of the insert 100 and the nozzle body 400. The tube 410 is long enough from the proximal end 411 to the distal end 412 to extend from the proximal end 411 at the inlet end 100A of the insert 100 to the distal end 412 at the nozzle body 400 along the length of the insert 100 and the nozzle body 400. Figure 59 and Figure 60 In this process, by applying heat, the unshrinked tube 410 is tightly contracted around the outer surface 102 of the nozzle body 400 and the insert 100 to form a static mixer 420. Figure 60 This is a side elevation view of a static mixer 420, in which a portion of the contraction tube 410 is cut open, showing the insert 100 extending through the static mixer to the nozzle body 400. Figure 59 and Figure 60 In the process of contracting around the insert 100 and the nozzle body 400, the tube 410 tightly wraps around both, securing them together, and extends along the length of the insert 100 from the proximal end 411 at the inlet end 100A to the nozzle body 400 attached to the outlet end 100B on the outer surface 102 of the insert 100, thereby closing the opening 127 through the annular sidewall 101, across... Figure 60The nozzle body 400 extends from the discharge end 100B to the distal end 412 at an intermediate position between the inlet end 403 and the outlet end 405. A fluid stream, whether gas, liquid, or a combination of both, is pumped, through a static mixer 420 (which is an exemplary encapsulated static mixer) assembled in accordance with standard techniques, from the inlet end 100A to the outlet 404 via a fluid path P defined by the volume 106 of the insert 100 and the nozzle body 400. The fluid stream enters the fluid path P through the inlet end 100A, encounters deflectors, and is automatically and continuously mixed by these deflectors, which are appropriately positioned and oriented within the fluid flow path P as the fluid stream flows through it. Figure 57 As shown, from the inlet end 100A to the outlet end 100B leading to the inlet opening 402, as... Figure 57 The material enters the nozzle body 400 through the inlet opening 402 from the discharge end 100B and exits properly mixed through the outlet 404 of the nozzle body 400. To release the insert 100 and nozzle body 400 from the tube 410 for repair, adjustment, cleaning, replacement, or other maintenance of either component, simply cut off the tube 410. The insert 100 and nozzle body 400 can be easily reassembled into the static mixer by shrink-wrapping them in a new shrink-wrapped tube.

[0053] It should be emphasized that any insert disclosed herein, as well as any combination of two or more inserts, can be assembled with a nozzle by applying a shrink wrap tube to form a static mixer according to the invention, and the inserts of a static mixer comprising two or more inserts may be the same or different from each other.

[0054] While the disclosed various inserts and static mixer embodiments have generally cylindrical cross-sectional shapes, they can have other cross-sectional shapes, such as elliptical, triangular, square, etc. Furthermore, the material construction and arrangement of the inserts according to the invention can be formed by components or combinations of components designed to dissolve or otherwise mix into one or more fluid streams applied by a static mixer formed from such inserts. These one or more components can form the material of the insert, be coated onto the insert, impregnate the material of the insert, etc. The deflector of the insert constructed and arranged according to the invention can also be configured to impart turbulent mixing, laminar mixing, swirling mixing, etc., to the fluid stream as desired. It should be understood that the static mixer constructed according to the invention can be used for laboratory applications, mixing two-component adhesives and sealants, wastewater treatment and chemical processing, asphalt processing, crude oil desalting, polymerization reactions, liquid additive mixing, etc.

[0055] The invention has been described above with reference to illustrative embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that changes and modifications can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the invention. Various changes and modifications to the embodiments chosen herein for illustrative purposes will readily occur to those skilled in the art. These modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the invention without departing from its scope.

[0056] The invention has been fully described in clear and concise terminology to enable those skilled in the art to understand and practice it, and the claimed invention is set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. A static mixer for liquids or gases, comprising: A housing arranged about a longitudinal axis and comprising: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for a liquid or gas; an inlet to the fluid flow path; and an outlet to the fluid flow path; and A helical member extending longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet and extending helically about the longitudinal axis, the helical member comprising: an inlet end leading to the inlet; a outlet end leading to the outlet; an outer surface between the inlet end and the outlet end, the outer surface facing the continuous inner surface; an inner surface between the inlet end and the outlet end, the inner surface facing the fluid flow path; and deflectors, each deflector projecting inwardly from the inner surface of the helical member into the fluid flow path, the helical member being elastically expandable and tensioned outward toward the continuous inner surface, thereby applying outward pressure directly to the continuous inner surface through the outer surface, thus frictionally fixing the outer surface to the continuous inner surface, thereby fixing the helical member to the housing.

2. The static mixer according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the deflectors protrudes upwards at an angle toward the inlet.

3. The static mixer according to claim 1, wherein, The helical component is integrally formed with the deflector.

4. The static mixer according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the deflectors bends inward from the opening for the deflector that runs through the helical member into the fluid flow path.

5. The static mixer according to claim 1, wherein, The deflector is spirally spaced between the inlet end and the outlet end of the spiral member.

6. A static mixer for liquids or gases, comprising: A housing arranged about a longitudinal axis and comprising: a continuous inner surface defining a fluid flow path for a liquid or gas; an inlet to the fluid flow path; and an outlet to the fluid flow path; and An insert comprising a helical member extending longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet and extending helically about the longitudinal axis, the helical member comprising: an inlet end leading to the inlet; an outlet end leading to the outlet; an outer surface between the inlet end and the outlet end facing the continuous inner surface; an inner surface between the inlet end and the outlet end facing the fluid flow path; and a helical deflector extending longitudinally through the fluid flow path between the inlet end and the outlet end, extending inwardly from the inner surface of the helical member into the fluid flow path and extending helically about the longitudinal axis, the helical member being elastically expandable and tensioned outwardly toward the continuous inner surface, thereby applying outward pressure directly to the continuous inner surface through the outer surface, thereby fixing the outer surface to the continuous inner surface by friction, thereby fixing the helical member to the housing.

7. The static mixer according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the aforementioned spiral deflectors protrudes upwards at an angle toward the inlet.

8. The static mixer according to claim 6, wherein, The helical component is integrally formed with the helical deflector.

9. The static mixer according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the said helical deflectors bends inward from the opening for the helical deflector that runs through the helical member into the fluid flow path.

10. The static mixer of claim 6, further comprising an opening through the helical deflector.

11. The static mixer according to claim 10, wherein, The openings are spaced apart in a spiral manner.

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