Split resin bed, low pressure drop and replaceable cartridge deionization filter

Abstract

Filtration systems for filtering fluids are described herein. The filter system comprises a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge includes a central tube, a first resin bed assembly, a second resin bed assembly, and a bed separator. The central tube includes a first inlet. The first resin bed assembly is disposed at the first inlet. The first resin bed assembly comprises a resin bed and a first outer cover. And the resin bed is arranged in the first outer cover. The first outer cover defines a first outlet. The bed separator is disposed between the first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly.

Description

Cross-references to related patent applications

[0001] This PCT application claims priority to Indian Provisional Application No. US Application No. 202241036733 filed on June 27, 2022, and the same is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. field

[0002] The present invention generally relates to chemical filtration systems for chemically filtering a fluid, such as a coolant or other fluid. background

[0003] In a fuel cell system or similar system, ions from different sources accumulate in the coolant fluid. When ions accumulate in the coolant fluid, the ions change (e.g., increase the conductivity of the fluid, which may be harmful to a powered fuel cell system or similar system). For example, high fluid conductivity may reduce the performance of the fuel cell system and, if not controlled, may cause the fuel cell system to fail due to a short circuit. Deionization ("DI") filters based on ion exchange resins are used to remove ions from the coolant fluid. More specifically, DI filters are used to adjust the conductivity of the coolant fluid by chemically neutralizing free ions. In some DI filter systems, performance parameters such as exchange capacity, efficiency, and pressure drop are negatively correlated. For example, a DI filter system may have good exchange capacity, but may cause large pressure changes across the DI filter. In addition, tunneling formation and resin migration are other phenomena that may cause uneven flow distribution and / or insufficient utilization of resin, thereby reducing the exchange capacity and efficiency of the DI filter system. In addition, in some DI filter systems, the resin may not be fully utilized. Low resin utilization may result in unused resin being replaced when the filter cartridge is changed. Overview

[0004] One embodiment relates to a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge includes a center tube, a first resin bed assembly, a second resin bed assembly, and a bed separator. The center tube includes a first inlet. The first resin bed assembly is disposed at the first inlet. The first resin bed assembly includes a resin bed and a first cover. The resin bed is disposed within the first cover. The first cover defines a first outlet. The bed separator is disposed between the first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly.

[0005] Another embodiment relates to a filtration system. The filtration system includes a filter body and a filter cartridge. The filter body includes a first port and a second port. The filter cartridge includes a center tube, a first resin bed assembly, a second resin bed assembly, and a bed separator. The center tube includes a first inlet. The first resin bed assembly is disposed at the first inlet. The first resin bed assembly includes a resin bed and a first outer cover. The resin bed is disposed within the first outer cover. The first outer cover defines a first outlet. The bed separator is disposed between the first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly.

[0006] Another embodiment relates to a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge includes a center tube, a first resin bed assembly, a second resin bed assembly, a third resin bed assembly, a first bed separator, a second bed separator, and a cover. The center tube includes a first inlet, a second inlet, and a third inlet. The first resin bed assembly is disposed at the first inlet. The second resin bed assembly is disposed at the second inlet. The third resin bed assembly is disposed at the third inlet. The first bed separator is disposed between the first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly. The second bed separator is disposed between the second resin bed assembly and the third resin bed assembly. The cover is disposed at the third resin bed assembly so that the third resin bed assembly is located between the cover and the second bed separator.

[0007] These and other features and their organization and manner of operation will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements have like reference numerals throughout the several figures described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a side cross-sectional view showing a filtering system according to an example embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the filter system shown in a disassembled state.

[0010] Figure 2B is Figure 1 A perspective view of a filter cartridge assembly shown in a disassembled state for use in a filtration system of FIG.

[0011] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a coolant system according to an example embodiment. Detailed Description

[0012] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a filtration system. More specifically, various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a fluid deionization (DI) system. The DI filtration system includes an improved, replaceable deionization cartridge. The DI filter element includes an ion exchange resin for removing organic, inorganic, metallic and non-metallic ions from a coolant of a fuel cell system or similar system that requires a low conductivity solution. The cartridge design includes a plurality of resin beds, wherein each height and flow area can be adjusted to meet the required pressure change at both ends of the resin bed. The resin bed is arranged in such a way that the flow is divided within the filter cartridge assembly, producing parallel flow paths, thereby reducing the total pressure drop at both ends of the cartridge for the same amount of resin compared to a conventional axial flow cylindrical DI filter. The resin bed and fluid flow are synchronized, minimizing cave formation and resin bypass, and mitigating the effect of resin migration on exchange capacity. More specifically, the resin housing port is positioned so that the direction of the fluid flowing through the resin housing is aligned to minimize cave formation, bypass, and mitigate the effect of resin migration on exchange capacity. As used herein, "cavitation" refers to the formation of "cavities" or passages in a resin bed. "Bypass" refers to when fluid bypasses at least a portion of a resin bed, thereby reducing the utilization of the resin bed. "Resin migration" refers to when the resin bed moves or compresses (e.g., due to fluid pressure), thereby reducing the utilization of the resin bed.

[0013] Various embodiments disclosed herein provide an improved DI filter system for deionizing a fluid (such as a coolant). Neutralizing ions in a fluid can improve the life of the fluid and downstream devices (such as a fuel cell). More specifically, various embodiments described herein relate to an improved resin-based DI filtration system that can advantageously (i) reduce pressure changes in a fluid passing through a DI filter and / or (ii) increase the utilization of the resin. Increasing the utilization of the resin capacity before discarding or regenerating the resin can reduce the operating cost of the DI filtration system. Therefore, various embodiments disclosed herein can provide an improved filter system that increases or maximizes the capacity and utilization of the ion exchange resin and increases the benefits of low pressure drop compared to various conventional ion filter systems. Various embodiments disclosed herein also provide an improved DI filter cartridge that allows for easier cartridge replacement. More specifically, a replaceable cartridge can be easily removed and replaced with a new cartridge without removing the inlet tube / pipe and the outlet tube / pipe.

[0014] The embodiments shown and described in further detail herein relate to an inside-to-out flow design for a filtration system. It should be understood that the embodiments described herein can be used in other filtration system arrangements. For example, the embodiments described herein can be used in an outside-to-in flow design and / or in any other type of filtration system. In addition, a filtration system can include more or fewer components than those shown in the figures. Therefore, references to various components located inside, downstream, outside, upstream, etc. are relative to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, and it should be understood that other embodiments (such as an outside-to-in flow design for a filtration system) can have the same or similar components provided in different arrangements.

[0015] Reference now Figure 1 , shows a side cross-sectional view of a filter system 100 according to an example embodiment. The filter system 100 is configured to receive an ionized fluid (e.g., coolant, etc.), filter the fluid through a deionization process, and provide the deionized fluid to a downstream device, such as a fuel cell stack. As shown, the filter system 100 includes a filter head 102, a filter housing 130, and a cartridge assembly 150. It should be understood that the filter system 100 may include more than Figure 1 More or fewer components than shown.

[0016] The filter head 102 includes a filter head body 103. The filter head body 103 defines a filter head sealing surface 104. The filter head 102 also includes one or more filter head threads 108 that enable the filter head 102 to be coupled to a filter housing 130. Figure 1 As shown, the filter head threads 108 are inwardly facing threads (eg, internal threads). It should be understood that in other embodiments, the filter head 102 may have threads similar to those of FIG. Figure 1 Different designs or configurations shown.

[0017] The filter housing 130 includes a filter body or housing 131 defining an interior volume 132. The housing 131 includes one or more housing threads 138 and a housing sealing surface 139. The housing threads 138 enable the filter housing 130 to be coupled to the filter head 102. Figure 1As shown, the housing threads 138 are outwardly facing threads (e.g., external threads) received by the filter head threads 108 of the filter head 102. The housing sealing surface 139 can define a channel extending around the outer circumference of the housing 131. The channel receives the sealing member 106 therein. When the filter housing 130 is coupled to the filter head 102 (e.g., by the housing threads 138 engaging the filter head threads 108), the sealing member 106 is disposed between the filter head sealing surface 104 and the housing sealing surface 139, so that the sealing member 106 contacts the filter head sealing surface 104 and the housing sealing surface 139, thereby forming a radial seal therebetween.

[0018] The filter housing 130 also includes an inlet port 134 and an outlet port 136. The inlet port 134 is in fluid receiving communication with an upstream device, such as a fluid pump. The inlet port 134 is in fluid providing communication with the axial fluid conduit 110. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet port 134 is disposed at the bottom of the housing 131 and is axially aligned with the axial fluid conduit 110. The outlet port 136 is in fluid receiving communication with the cartridge assembly 150. The inlet port 134 is in fluid providing communication with a downstream device, such as a fuel cell stack. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet port 136 is disposed on one side of the housing 131 and extends radially outward.

[0019] The filter housing 130 also includes a mounting slot 140. The mounting slot is positioned outside the housing 131. The mounting slot 140 receives a mounting fixture (not shown) therein so that the filter housing 130 is coupled to the mounting fixture. In other embodiments, the filter housing 130 may include other mounting features corresponding to different mounting designs.

[0020] The cartridge assembly 150 is configured to deionize a fluid (e.g., by removing ions). In some embodiments, the cartridge assembly 150 is removably coupled to the filter housing 130 so that the cartridge assembly 150 can be removed and / or replaced. When the filtration system 100 is in an assembled state, the cartridge assembly 150 is at least partially contained within the filter head 102 and / or the filter housing 130.

[0021] A gap is defined between the cartridge assembly 150 and the filter housing 130. More specifically, the gap is defined by a radially outer surface of the cartridge assembly 150 and a radially inner surface of the filter housing 130. The gap defines an outlet passage 118. The outlet passage 118 is in fluid receiving communication with the cartridge assembly 150 and in fluid providing communication with the outlet port 136.

[0022] The cartridge assembly 150 includes a plurality of resin bed assemblies 152, a top cover 154, a plurality of bed separators 156, and a center tube 160. The center tube 160 is a hollow tube extending axially from the inlet 134 toward the filter head 102. The center tube 160 defines an axial conduit 110. The center tube 160 includes a plurality of inlet ports 161. As described in more detail herein, each inlet port 161 is in fluid receiving communication with the axial conduit 110 and in fluid providing communication with at least one of the resin bed assemblies 152. In some embodiments, a wire screen is positioned above the inlet port 161 so that the fluid flowing through the inlet port 161 flows through the wire screen. The wire screen has an opening that is at least 50% smaller than the minimum resin bead size of the resin bed assembly 152.

[0023] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 , the plurality of resin bed assemblies 152 include a first resin bed assembly 210, a second resin bed assembly 220, and a third resin bed assembly 230. It should be understood that the filtration system 100 may include more than one resin bed assembly. Figure 1More or less resin bed assemblies are shown. The first resin bed assembly 210 includes a first resin bed 214. The first resin bed 214 is in fluid receiving communication with a first set of inlet ports 162 of the plurality of inlet ports 161. The first set of inlet ports 162 are positioned at a first axial end of the first resin bed 214. A first inlet screen 163 (e.g., a wire screen) may be positioned at the first set of inlet ports 162 such that fluid flowing through the first set of inlet ports 162 flows through the first inlet screen 163. The first resin bed 214 is packed within an outer cover shown as a first outer cover 212. The first outer cover 212 extends around the periphery of the first resin bed 214 such that the first resin bed 214 is radially located within the first outer cover 212. The first outer cover 212 at least partially defines a radially outer surface of the cartridge assembly 150. The first outer cover 212 includes a first outlet port 216 that is in fluid receiving communication with the first resin bed 214 and in fluid providing communication with the outlet passage 118. The first outlet port 216 (which may include a plurality of first outlet ports 216 in various embodiments) is positioned at the second axial end of the first resin bed 214, separated by a distance relative to the first set of inlet ports 162. The offset distance is equal to the height of the first resin bed 214. In some embodiments, the first outlet wire screen 218 is positioned above the first outlet port 216 so that fluid flowing through the first outlet port 216 flows through the first outlet wire screen 218. The first outlet wire screen 218 has openings that are at least 50% smaller than the smallest resin bead size of the first resin bed 214.

[0024] The second resin bed assembly 220 includes a second resin bed 224. The second resin bed 224 is in fluid receiving communication with a second set of inlet ports 164 of the plurality of inlet ports 161. The second set of inlet ports 164 are positioned at a first axial end of the second resin bed 224. A second inlet screen 165 can be positioned at the second set of inlet ports 164 so that fluid flowing through the second set of inlet ports 164 flows through the second inlet screen 165. The second resin bed 224 is filled within an outer cover shown as a second outer cover 222. The second outer cover 222 extends around the periphery of the second resin bed 224 so that the second resin bed 224 is radially located within the second outer cover 222. The second outer cover 222 at least partially defines a radially outer surface of the cartridge assembly 150. The second outer cover 222 includes a second outlet port 226 that is in fluid receiving communication with the second resin bed 224 and in fluid providing communication with the outlet passage 118. The second outlet port 226 (which may include a plurality of second outlet ports 226 in various embodiments) is positioned at a second axial end of the second resin bed 224, spaced a distance apart relative to the second set of inlet ports 164. The offset distance is equal to the height of the second resin bed 224. In some embodiments, the second outlet wire screen 228 is positioned above the second outlet port 226 such that fluid flowing through the second outlet port 226 flows through the second outlet wire screen 228. The second outlet wire screen 228 has openings that are at least 50% smaller than the smallest resin bead size of the second resin bed 224.

[0025] The third resin bed assembly 230 includes a third resin bed 234. The third resin bed 234 is in fluid receiving communication with a third group of inlet ports 166 of the plurality of inlet ports 161. The third group of inlet ports 166 is positioned at a first axial end of the third resin bed 234. A third inlet screen 167 may be positioned at the third group of inlet ports 166 such that fluid flowing through the third group of inlet ports 166 flows through the third inlet screen 167. The third resin bed 234 is filled within an outer cover shown as a third outer cover 232. The third outer cover 232 extends around the periphery of the third resin bed 234 such that the third resin bed 234 is radially located within the third outer cover 232. The third outer cover 232 at least partially defines a radially outer surface of the cartridge assembly 150. The third outer cover 232 includes a third outlet port 236 that is in fluid receiving communication with the third resin bed 234 and in fluid providing communication with the outlet passage 118. The third outlet port 236 (which may include a plurality of third outlet ports 236 in various embodiments) is positioned at the second axial end of the third resin bed 234, separated by a distance relative to the third set of inlet ports 166. The offset distance is equal to the height of the third resin bed 234. In some embodiments, the third outlet wire screen 238 is positioned above the second outlet port 236 so that fluid flowing through the third outlet port 236 flows through the third outlet wire screen 238. The third outlet wire screen 238 has openings that are at least 50% smaller than the smallest resin bead size of the third resin bed 234.

[0026] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234 are substantially equal in size. Figure 1 In the embodiment of FIG. 5 , each of the first set of inlet ports 162 , the second set of inlet ports 164 , and the third set of inlet ports 166 are spaced apart at equal intervals that match the size of the first resin bed 214 , the second resin bed 224 , and the third resin bed 234 .

[0027] In some embodiments, the first outer cover 212 includes a curved portion 168 that extends radially inward toward the center tube 160. The curved portion 168 is curved so that when fluid flowing through the first resin bed 214 contacts the curved portion 168, the fluid is directed away from the first set of inlet ports 162 and axially toward the first outlet port 216. The flow direction caused by the curved portion 168 enables the first resin bed 214 to be more fully utilized.

[0028] A plurality of bed separators 156 separate the resin bed assemblies 152 from one another. Figure 1As shown, the first bed separator 170 separates the first resin bed 214 from the second resin bed 224. Specifically, the first bed separator 170 is positioned between the first outlet port 216 and the second set of inlet ports 164, so that the first resin bed 214 is filled between the curved portion 168 and the first bed separator 170. More specifically, the first resin bed 214 is positioned between the curved portion 168 and the first bed separator 170 in the axial direction.

[0029] The first bed separator 170 has projections at the center and outer edge of the first bed separator 170, which are shown as first projections 172 and second projections 174. The first projection 172 is positioned at the center portion of the first bed separator 170 and extends toward the first resin bed 214 in the first axial direction. The first projection 172 is curved so that when the fluid flowing through the first resin bed 214 contacts the first projection 172, the fluid is directed to flow to the first outlet port 216. The flow direction caused by the first projection 172 enables the first resin bed 214 to be more fully utilized. The second projection 174 is positioned at the outer edge of the first bed separator 170 and extends toward the second resin bed 224 in the second axial direction. The second projection 174 is curved so that when the fluid flowing through the second resin bed 224 contacts the second projection 174, the fluid is directed to flow away from the second set of inlet ports 164 and axially toward the second outlet port 226. The flow direction caused by the second protrusions 174 enables the second resin bed 224 to be more fully utilized.

[0030] The second bed separator 180 separates the second resin bed 224 from the third resin bed 234. Specifically, the second bed separator 180 is positioned between the second outlet port 226 and the third group of inlet ports 166, so that the second resin bed 224 is filled between the first bed separator 170 and the second bed separator 180. More specifically, the second resin bed 224 is positioned between the first bed separator 170 and the second bed separator 180 in the axial direction.

[0031] The second bed separator 180 has protrusions at the center and outer edge of the second bed separator 180, which are shown as a first protrusion 182 and a second protrusion 184. The first protrusion 182 is positioned at the central portion of the second bed separator 180 and extends toward the second resin bed 224 in the first axial direction. The first protrusion 182 is curved so that when the fluid flowing through the second resin bed 224 contacts the first protrusion 182, the fluid is guided to flow to the second outlet port 226. The flow direction caused by the first protrusion 182 enables the second resin bed 224 to be more fully utilized. The second protrusion 184 is positioned at the outer edge of the second bed separator 180 and extends toward the third resin bed 234 in the second axial direction. The second protrusion 184 is curved so that when the fluid flowing through the third resin bed 234 contacts the second protrusion 184, the fluid is guided to flow away from the third set of inlet ports 166 and axially toward the third outlet port 236. The flow direction caused by the second protrusions 184 enables the third resin bed 234 to be more fully utilized.

[0032] The top cover 154 is placed between the third outlet port 236 and the filter head 102 so that the third resin bed 234 is filled between the second bed separator 180 and the top cover 154. More specifically, the third resin bed 234 is axially positioned between the second bed separator 180 and the top cover 154. The top cover 154 seals the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234 within the cartridge assembly 150. In some embodiments, the top cover 154 includes a protrusion at the center of the top cover 154, which is shown as a first protrusion 155. The first protrusion 155 extends toward the third resin bed 234 in a first axial direction. The first protrusion 155 is curved so that when the fluid flowing through the third resin bed 234 contacts the first protrusion 155, the fluid is guided to flow to the third outlet port 236. The flow direction caused by the first protrusion 155 enables the third resin bed 234 to be more fully utilized.

[0033] In some embodiments, the bed separator 156 includes axial supports extending in a first axial direction away from the bed separator 156. For example, the first bed separator 170 includes a set of first supports 176 extending in a first axial direction toward the second resin bed 224. The set of first supports 176 maintains a distance between the first resin bed 214 and the second resin bed 224. The second bed separator 180 includes a set of second supports 186 extending in a first axial direction toward the third resin bed 234. The set of second supports 186 maintains a distance between the second resin bed 224 and the third resin bed 234.

[0034] In an example operating scenario, fluid enters the filtration system 100 at the inlet 134. The fluid then flows into the axial conduit 110 and is distributed to the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234 through the center tube 160. In some embodiments, the fluid is equally distributed to each of the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234. The first fluid flow path 112 is defined by the first resin bed 214. The fluid flowing along the first fluid flow path 112 enters the first resin bed 214 radially at the first set of inlets 162, is guided by the curved portion 168 to flow through the first resin bed 214 axially, and then is guided by the first protrusion 172 of the first bed separator 170 to flow through the first resin bed 214 radially toward the first outlet port 216, and radially exits the first resin bed 214 through the first outlet port 216. The second fluid flow path 114 is defined by the second resin bed 224. The fluid flowing along the second fluid flow path 114 enters the second resin bed 224 radially at the second set of inlets 164, is guided by the second protrusions 174 of the first bed separator 170 to flow through the second resin bed 224 in the axial direction, is then guided by the first protrusions 182 of the second bed separator 180 to flow through the second resin bed 224 radially toward the second outlet 226, and radially exits the second resin bed 224 through the second outlet 226. The third fluid flow path 116 is defined by the third resin bed 234. The fluid flowing along the third fluid flow path 116 enters the third resin bed 234 radially at the third set of inlets 166, is guided by the second protrusions 184 of the second bed separator 180 to flow through the third resin bed 234 in the axial direction, is then guided by the first protrusions 155 of the top cover 154 to flow through the third resin bed 234 radially toward the third outlet 236, and radially exits the third resin bed 234 through the third outlet 236. In each of the first flow path 112 , the second flow path 114 , and the third flow path 116 , fluid may flow from the outlet passage 118 , through the outlet 136 , and out of the filtration system 100 .

[0035] As described above, due to the positioning of the first set of inlet ports 162 relative to the first outlet port 216, the second set of inlet ports 164 relative to the second outlet port 226, and the third set of inlet ports 166 relative to the third outlet port 236, each of the first flow path 112 through the first resin bed 214, the second flow path 114 through the second resin bed 224, and the third flow path 116 through the third resin bed 234 is not purely axial, but a combination of axial and radial. The radial and axial pressure at the first set of inlet ports 162 pushes the first resin bed 214 toward the first outlet port 216, tightly packing the first resin bed 214, thereby reducing any bypass within the first resin bed 214 and increasing the overall utilization of the first resin bed 214. The radial and axial pressure at the second set of inlet ports 164 pushes the second resin bed 224 toward the second outlet port 226, tightly packing the second resin bed 224, thereby reducing any bypass within the second resin bed 224 and increasing the overall utilization of the second resin bed 224. The radial and axial pressures at the third set of inlet ports 166 push the third resin bed 234 toward the third outlet ports 236 , densely packing the third resin bed 234 , thereby reducing any bypassing within the third resin bed 234 and increasing overall utilization of the third resin bed 234 .

[0036] The first inlet port 162 is disposed at a first axial end of the first resin bed 214. The first outlet port 216 is disposed at a second axial end of the first resin bed 214. The first inlet port 162 is spaced apart from the first outlet port 216 by the axial length of the first resin bed 214. The second inlet port 164 is disposed at a first axial end of the second resin bed 224. The second outlet port 226 is disposed at a second axial end of the second resin bed 224. The second inlet port 164 is spaced apart from the second outlet port 226 by the axial length of the second resin bed 224. The third inlet port 166 is disposed at a first axial end of the third resin bed 234. The third outlet port 236 is disposed at a second axial end of the third resin bed 234. The third inlet port 166 is spaced apart from the third outlet port 236 by the axial length of the third resin bed 234. Figure 1 As shown, each of the first flow path 112 through the first resin bed 214, the second flow path 114 through the second resin bed 224, and the third flow path 116 through the third resin bed 234 extends in an axially upward direction (e.g., against gravity). The axial arrangement of the inlet and outlet ports of the resin beds advantageously reduces pressure variations across the filtration system 100 and further mitigates cavitation.

[0037] In some embodiments, the filtration system 100 includes a bypass valve 144 at the inlet 134. The bypass valve 144 advantageously reduces high pressure pulses caused by overfilling in the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234, thereby increasing pressure drop and reducing resin utilization. Resin overfilling occurs when upstream fluid pressure compresses the resin bed, thereby increasing the packing density (or reducing porosity) of the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234. Increasing the packing density increases the resistance to fluid flow, thereby reducing the flow through the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234. In some embodiments, the bypass valve 144 may include at least one of an orifice opening, a spring loaded valve, an umbrella valve, and / or a duckbill valve. In any of these embodiments, the bypass valve 144 can allow fluid to bypass the filter cartridge 150 (e.g., the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234) so ​​that the pressure at the inlet 134 is below a maximum threshold (e.g., less than 5 bar, less than 2 bar, etc.) to avoid resin overfilling. In some embodiments, the fluid bypassing the filter cartridge 150 (e.g., the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234) flows along the fourth flow path 148. The fluid flowing along the fourth flow path first flows through the bypass valve 144, then flows through the gap between the cartridge assembly 150 and the housing 131, and then enters the outlet channel 118.

[0038] The outer surface of the barrel assembly 150 includes a V-shaped groove 190. Figure 1 As shown, the groove 190 is a recessed groove that receives a corresponding protruding V-shaped groove 192 of the housing 131. When the groove 190 engages the protruding groove 192 of the housing 131, the groove 190 and the protruding groove 192 form a seal between the cartridge assembly 150 and the housing 131. The gap between the cartridge assembly 150 and the housing 131 forms a tortuous path. The tortuous path allows the fluid to bypass the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234 (for example, the fluid flows through the bypass valve 144). The sealing of the cartridge assembly 150 and the housing 131 by the groove 190 and the protruding groove 192 reduces the flow rate of the fluid bypassing the first resin bed 214, the second resin bed 224, and the third resin bed 234.

[0039] Reference now Figure 2A , shows a perspective view of the filter system 100 in an exploded state. As described above, the filter system includes the filter head 102, the cartridge assembly 150, and the filter housing 130. The filter housing 130 includes an inlet port 134, an outlet port 136, and housing threads 138.

[0040] Figure 2B A perspective view of the cartridge assembly 150 is shown in an exploded state. As shown, the cartridge assembly 150 includes a plurality of resin bed assemblies 152, a top cover 154, a plurality of bed separators 156, and a center tube 160.

[0041] Figure 3 1 shows a schematic diagram of a coolant system 300 according to an example embodiment. The coolant system 300 includes a coolant pump 302, a filter system 100, and a fuel cell stack 304. Figure 3 As shown, fluid in the coolant system 300 may flow from the coolant pump 302 into the filtration system 100 and into the fuel cell stack 304. The fluid may return to the coolant pump 302 after flowing through the fuel cell stack 304.

[0042] As described above, when fluid flows into the filtration system 100, the fluid enters the filtration system 100 at the inlet 134. The fluid may then flow through at least one of the resin bed assemblies 152, or the fluid may bypass the resin bed assemblies 152 and flow through the bypass valve 144. After flowing through the resin bed assemblies 152 or bypassing the resin bed assemblies 152 and flowing through the bypass valve 144, the fluid exits the filtration system 100 at the outlet 136.

[0043] It should be noted that the term "exemplary," as used herein to describe various embodiments, is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representatives, and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily particular or excellent examples).

[0044] As used herein, the term "substantially" and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and acceptable usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of the present disclosure belongs. The term "substantially" as used herein refers to ±10% of a referenced measurement, position, or dimension. It should be understood by those skilled in the art who review the present disclosure that these terms are intended to allow description of certain features described and claimed without limiting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that non-substantial or insignificant modifications or changes to the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention described in the appended claims.

[0045] As used herein, the terms "coupled," "attached," and the like refer to the connection of two members directly to one another. Such connection may be fixed (eg, permanent) or movable (eg, removable or releasable).

[0046] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., "top," "bottom," "above," "below," etc.) are only used to describe the orientation of the various elements in the drawings. It should be noted that according to other exemplary embodiments, the orientation of the various elements may be different, and such variations are considered to be encompassed in the present disclosure.

[0047] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in the present disclosure, those skilled in the art who consult the present disclosure will readily recognize that many modifications (e.g., changes in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportion of various elements, various parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, an element shown as being integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts or elements, the position of the element may be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or quantity of discrete elements or positions may be altered or changed. According to alternative embodiments, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be changed or reordered. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the concepts presented herein.

[0048] Although this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of any invention or content that may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that are peculiar to a particular embodiment of a particular invention. Certain features described in the context of a separate embodiment in this specification may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments. In addition, although features may be described above as working in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, in some cases, one or more features from the claimed combination may be deleted from the combination, and the claimed combination may involve a sub-combination or a variant of a sub-combination.

Claims

1. A filter cartridge, include: a central tube, the central tube comprising a first inlet; a first resin bed assembly disposed at the first inlet, the first resin bed assembly comprising a resin bed and a first outer cover, the resin bed being disposed within the first outer cover, and the first outer cover defining a first outlet; a second resin bed assembly; and A bed separator is disposed between the first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly.

2. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, in, The bed separator comprises: a first protrusion extending toward the first resin bed assembly and directing fluid flowing through the resin bed to the first outlet; and A second protrusion extends toward the second resin bed assembly.

3. The filter cartridge according to claim 2, in, The first protrusion is positioned at a central portion of the bed separator, wherein the first protrusion is curved so that when the fluid flowing through the resin bed contacts the first protrusion, the fluid is guided to flow to the first outlet.

4. The filter cartridge according to claim 2, in, The second protrusion is positioned at an outer edge of the bed separator, wherein the second protrusion is curved so that when the fluid flowing through the second resin bed assembly contacts the second protrusion, the fluid is directed to flow away from the second inlet of the second resin bed assembly and axially toward the second outlet of the second resin bed assembly.

5. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, in, The first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly define a split resin bed design.

6. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, in: The first inlet is disposed at a first axial end of the resin bed; and The first outlet is disposed at a second axial end of the resin bed opposite the first axial end such that fluid flowing through the first resin bed assembly flows in a first flow direction from the first inlet to the first outlet.

7. The filter cartridge according to claim 6, in, The first outlet is separated from the first inlet by a distance, wherein the distance is equal to the height of the resin bed. 8 . The filter cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising a first inlet screen disposed at the first inlet such that fluid flowing through the first inlet flows through the first inlet screen.

9. The filter cartridge of claim 8, further comprising a first outlet screen positioned above the first outlet such that the fluid flowing through the first outlet flows through the first outlet screen. in, The first outlet screen has openings that are at least 50% smaller than the bead size of the resin bed.

10. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, in, The first outer cover includes a curved portion extending radially inwardly toward the center tube, wherein the curved portion is curved so that when fluid flowing through the resin bed contacts the curved portion, the fluid is directed to flow away from the first inlet and axially toward the first outlet.

11. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, in, The bed separator includes an axial support extending away from the bed separator toward the second resin bed assembly.

12. A filtration system, include: a filter body comprising a first port and a second port; and A filter cartridge, the filter cartridge is arranged in the filter body, and the filter cartridge comprises: a central tube, the central tube comprising a first inlet; a first resin bed assembly disposed at the first inlet, the first resin bed assembly comprising a resin bed and a first outer cover, the resin bed being disposed within the first outer cover, and the first outer cover defining a first outlet; a second resin bed assembly; and A bed separator is disposed between the first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly.

13. The filtration system according to claim 12, in, The filter cartridge is removably coupled to the filter body. 14 . The filtration system of claim 12 , further comprising a bypass valve disposed at the first port, the bypass valve selectively enabling fluid to bypass the filter cartridge via a gap between the filter cartridge and the filter body.

15. The filtration system according to claim 12, in, The bed separator comprises: a first protrusion extending toward the first resin bed assembly and directing fluid flowing through the resin bed to the first outlet; and A second protrusion extends toward the second resin bed assembly.

16. The filtration system according to claim 12, in, The bed separator includes an axial support extending away from the bed separator toward the second resin bed assembly.

17. The filtration system according to claim 12, in: The first inlet is disposed at a first axial end of the resin bed; and The first outlet is disposed at a second axial end of the first resin bed opposite the first axial end such that fluid flowing through the first resin bed assembly flows in a first flow direction from the first inlet to the first outlet.

18. The filtration system according to claim 12, in, The first outer cover includes a curved portion extending radially inwardly toward the center tube, wherein the curved portion is curved so that when fluid flowing through the resin bed contacts the curved portion, the fluid is directed to flow away from the first inlet and axially toward the first outlet.

19. A filter cartridge, include: a central tube, the central tube comprising a first inlet, a second inlet, and a third inlet; a first resin bed assembly, the first resin bed assembly being disposed at the first inlet; a second resin bed assembly, the second resin bed assembly being disposed at the second inlet; a third resin bed assembly, the third resin bed assembly being disposed at the third inlet; a first bed separator disposed between the first resin bed assembly and the second resin bed assembly; a second bed separator disposed between the second resin bed assembly and the third resin bed assembly; and A cover is disposed at the third resin bed assembly such that the third resin bed assembly is located between the cover and the second bed separator.

20. The filter cartridge according to claim 19, in, The first bed separator comprises: a first protrusion extending toward the first resin bed assembly; and A second protrusion extends toward the second resin bed assembly.

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