pressure exchange chamber

Abstract

A pressure exchange chamber comprising a pressure exchange chamber tube (12) extending around a perimeter, a drive fluid input valve (44) and a drive fluid output valve (46), both valves enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube, and a slurry input valve (34) and a slurry output valve (36), both valves enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube. Also disclosed is a hydraulic ore hoisting system (HOHS) for the sea comprising a plurality of such pressure exchange chambers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a pressure exchange chamber. Specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to a pressure exchange chamber for use in the mining and mineral processing industries, particularly for hydraulic ore hoisting systems (HOHS) located on or near the seabed or lakebed. Background Technology

[0002] In the mineral processing industry, one problem involves transporting ore from underground or seabed locations to the surface. A novel system for this transport is described in PCT application number PCT / IB2019 / 055957, filed in the name of Weir Minerals Netherlands BV, and this system is referred to as HOHS. Other types of HOHS are also available.

[0003] The HOHS described in PCT / IB2019 / 055957 requires a pressure exchange chamber system illustrated in Figure 1. The pressure exchange chamber system 1 comprises multiple pressure exchange chambers 2, 3, and 4 extending a considerable distance, such as tens of meters, between the drive fluid (or water) inlet 5 and the slurry outlet 6. Each pressure exchange chamber includes a set of water valves 7 at the drive fluid inlet 5 and a set of slurry valves 8 at the slurry outlet 6. Pressure exchange chambers 2, 3, and 4 are illustrated in a linear arrangement in Figure 1. However, when deployed in a deep-sea environment, the pressure exchange chamber system 1 (and therefore pressure exchange chambers 2, 3, and 4) is expected to be lowered through a moon pool (an opening on the ship's hull) and raised back from the seabed via the moon pool. The size of the moon pool determines the maximum size of the pressure exchange chamber system 1. Therefore, it is difficult to design a pressure exchange system that can be deployed via a moon pool but still has a sufficiently long chamber length (typically exceeding 60 m, sometimes exceeding 100 m or 150 m) for the HOHS to function effectively.

[0004] Furthermore, for flow assurance and system reliability in HOHS, the pressure exchange chamber is ideally a linear pump chamber located in a horizontal plane, with no height difference between the water inlet and the slurry outlet. Pressure exchange chambers with multiple bends increase the risk of breakage of polymetallic nodules transported in the slurry. Any gradient or height difference along the pressure exchange chamber increases the risk of blockage within the chamber.

[0005] One of the objectives of the embodiments of the present invention is to eliminate or mitigate the above-mentioned or other disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide useful alternatives to the prior art or improved operation thereof.

[0006] Unless otherwise stated, the aspects detailed below are independent of each other; however, unless technically impractical, a feature of one aspect may be combined with any other aspect to create a new aspect. No claim corresponding to one aspect shall be construed as including any element or feature of the other aspects unless expressly stated in the claims.

[0007] References to any existing publications (or information derived from existing publications) or any known matters in this specification are not, and should not be construed as, an admission or acceptance or, in any way, an implication that existing publications (or information derived from existing publications) or known matters constitute part of the general knowledge in the field covered by this specification. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce some concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed embodiments below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0009] According to a first aspect, a pressure exchange chamber is provided, comprising (i) a pressure exchange chamber tube extending around a periphery; (ii) an actuating fluid inlet valve and an actuating fluid outlet valve, both valves being enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube; and (iii) a slurry inlet valve and a slurry outlet valve, both valves being enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube.

[0010] The pressure exchange chamber can extend completely around the periphery, thus completely enclosing the drive fluid valves and slurry valves; alternatively, the pressure exchange chamber can extend most of the periphery, thus substantially enclosing those valves (leaving only a relatively small gap).

[0011] The drive fluid valve and slurry valve can be located approximately centrally within the pressure exchange chamber pipe. The slurry inlet valve can be centrally positioned, and the drive fluid valve can be located on opposite sides of the slurry inlet valve.

[0012] The slurry valve can be positioned between the first set of drive fluid valves and the second set of drive fluid valves.

[0013] The pressure exchange chamber tubing can be positioned substantially evenly around the drive fluid valves and / or slurry valves, thus providing a roughly centered center of gravity for the pressure exchange system. This roughly centered center of gravity facilitates the deployment of the pressure exchange chamber via the moon pool of a surface vessel or from another type of floating system. The hook attachments connecting the riser extending from the pressure exchange chamber, with their roughly centered center of gravity, minimize tilting of the pressure exchange chamber during operation and deployment. This ensures that the pressure exchange chamber operates in a balanced state.

[0014] The pressure exchange chamber may also include a drive fluid riser connector and a slurry inlet pipe, both of which are enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber pipe.

[0015] The pressure exchange chamber may also include a drive fluid outlet pipe and a slurry outlet pipe, both of which are enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber pipe and optionally connected to a portion of the valve.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the invention, a pressure exchange chamber system is provided, comprising: a central frame; and a plurality of pressure exchange chambers according to the first aspect, wherein pressure exchange chamber tubes are arranged in a stacked plane around the central frame, and each of a plurality of sets of drive fluid input valves and drive fluid output valves, as well as slurry input valves and output valves, is associated with a corresponding pressure exchange chamber tube; and the plurality of sets of drive fluid valves and slurry valves are supported by the central frame.

[0017] The pressure exchange chamber tubes are preferably arranged in a generally horizontal plane and stacked vertically aligned with each other. By arranging the tubes in a generally horizontal plane, with the bends in the tubes in a horizontal plane, and preferably having the same diameter, the risk of blockage is reduced.

[0018] The pressure exchange chamber system optionally includes a drive fluid inlet pipe and a slurry inlet pipe. The drive fluid inlet pipe may include or be connected to a marine pipe (or riser) extending from the sea surface to the pressure exchange chamber system. The slurry inlet pipe may be connected to a slurry feed pump.

[0019] The pressure exchange chamber system optionally includes a drive fluid outlet pipe and a slurry outlet pipe. The slurry outlet pipe may include or be connected to a marine riser extending from the pressure exchange chamber system to the sea surface.

[0020] The drive fluid inlet and outlet pipes, as well as the slurry inlet and outlet pipes, can be located within the central frame, close to the center of gravity of the pressure exchange chamber system; this facilitates the deployment of the pressure exchange chamber system through the moon pool of a surface vessel (such as a ship). The pressure exchange chamber system also facilitates the recovery of the system through a moon pool of the same size.

[0021] Each drive fluid inlet valve and drive fluid outlet valve (within the same PEC) may have an associated compression valve and a pressure reducing valve, and these compression valves and pressure reducing valves may be positioned in line with and at approximately the same height as the associated drive fluid inlet valve and drive fluid outlet valve.

[0022] Each drive fluid input valve and drive fluid output valve (within the same PEC) may be located at a vertical position (height) similar to that of the corresponding slurry output valve, and may also be located at a vertical position (height) similar to that of the corresponding slurry input valve. Alternatively, each drive fluid input valve and drive fluid output valve (within the same PEC) may be vertically offset from the corresponding slurry output valve and the corresponding slurry input valve.

[0023] A set of drive fluid valves (for one PEC) can be located in a similar vertical position to another set of drive fluid valves (for another PEC).

[0024] A set of drive fluid valves (for one PEC) can be vertically offset from another set of drive fluid valves (for another PEC). Similarly, a set of slurry valves can be vertically offset from another set of slurry valves.

[0025] The pressure exchange chamber system optionally includes a drive fluid inlet manifold, a drive fluid outlet manifold, a slurry inlet manifold, and a slurry outlet manifold.

[0026] The drive fluid input manifold may include a vertical extension pipe and multiple pipe segments extending downward from the vertical extension pipe, each downward extension pipe segment being connected at its lower end to a corresponding drive fluid input valve.

[0027] The slurry inlet valve can be centrally positioned, and the drive fluid valves can be located on opposite sides of the slurry inlet valve, thereby minimizing the length of the common slurry inlet manifold.

[0028] The drive fluid output manifold may include a vertical extension pipe and multiple pipe segments extending upward from the vertical extension pipe, each upward extension pipe segment being connected at its upper end to a corresponding drive fluid output valve.

[0029] The slurry inlet manifold may include a vertical extension and multiple upward-extending pipe sections, each connected at its upper end to a corresponding slurry inlet valve. By arranging the pipe sections in an upward direction toward the slurry inlet valve, when the slurry inlet flow stops, any slurry in the pipe section flows downward (due to gravity) and away from the slurry inlet valve. This reduces the risk of clogging the slurry inlet valve.

[0030] The slurry outlet manifold may include a vertical extension pipe and multiple pipe segments extending downward from the vertical extension pipe, each downward extension pipe segment being connected at its lower end to a corresponding slurry outlet valve.

[0031] Each pressure exchange chamber tube may be defined as having a generally rectangular (or in some embodiments, a generally square) shape, with bends at the corners to reduce particle size breakage, tube wear, and blockage.

[0032] Each pressure exchange chamber tube may comprise a thermoplastic composite tube (TCP). Optionally, each pressure exchange chamber tube may comprise a metal (such as steel) tube. Advantages of TCP include lighter weight than steel, corrosion resistance, and improved flexibility in creating bends in the TCP compared to metal.

[0033] Optionally, each TCP includes a circular cross-section.

[0034] Each pressure exchange chamber tube may be coated with a wear-resistant coating on its inner surface.

[0035] Each pressure exchange chamber tube can be relatively long, for example, 40m, 50m, 60m, 70m, 80m, 90m or 100m, 125m or 160m.

[0036] The external dimensions of the pressure exchange chamber system can be approximately 10m × 20m (length × width) in terms of floor space.

[0037] The pressure exchange chamber system may also include one or more hydraulic power units and slurry feed pumps (for redundancy, one or both of multiple hydraulic power units and slurry feed pumps may be provided), a control cabinet, a pressure relief system, a flow sensor, a buoyancy device, and thrust positioning equipment for moving the pressure exchange chamber system. The power units and pumps may be marine-graded to enable operation on or near the seabed.

[0038] The central frame may include a peripheral frame surrounding a core. The core is used to mount valves. The peripheral frame may be primarily positioned in a horizontal plane. The peripheral frame may include multiple upright grilles spaced apart around the peripheral frame, each grille defining multiple spaces. Each grille space can be used to support one or more pressure exchange chambers. The peripheral frame may extend cantilevered from the core.

[0039] According to a third aspect, a hydraulic ore hoisting system is provided, including a pressure exchange chamber as described in the second aspect.

[0040] It should now be understood that a pressure exchange system can be provided that can be easily deployed on a moon pool on a surface vessel at sea or on a lake, with improved balance and geometry.

[0041] One advantage of rectangular PEC systems is that their outline or shape is essentially the same as the typical shape of the moon pool on a mining vessel. This means that the handling and transport of the PEC system onto and around the deck of the mining vessel and into the moon pool can generally be performed using known underwater equipment handling systems (such as transport aircraft, guidance systems, carriers, etc.).

[0042] According to a fourth aspect, a pressure exchange chamber is provided, comprising: (i) a pressure exchange chamber tube extending in a generally horizontal plane and defining a housing; (ii) an actuating fluid inlet valve and an actuating fluid outlet valve; and (iii) a slurry inlet valve and a slurry outlet valve; wherein the actuating fluid valve and the slurry valve are positioned close to each other.

[0043] The drive fluid valve and slurry valve may both be located inside the pressure exchange tube housing. Alternatively, the drive fluid valve and slurry valve may both be located outside the pressure exchange tube housing.

[0044] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a pressure exchange chamber system is provided, comprising: a plurality of pressure exchange chambers according to a fourth aspect, wherein pressure exchange chamber tubes are arranged in a vertically spaced stacked plane, and each of a plurality of sets of drive fluid input valves and drive fluid output valves, as well as slurry input valves and slurry output valves, is associated with a corresponding pressure exchange chamber tube.

[0045] Pressure exchange chamber tubes can be arranged in two or more stacked planes that are horizontally separated from each other and vertically spaced.

[0046] The slurry inlet valve and the slurry outlet valve may be enclosed by a set of vertically spaced stacked planes; and the drive fluid inlet valve and the drive fluid outlet valve may be enclosed by another set of vertically spaced stacked planes.

[0047] Alternatively, the slurry inlet valve and slurry outlet valve, as well as the drive fluid inlet valve and drive fluid outlet valve, may be located between two adjacent vertically spaced stacked planes. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 is a simplified schematic diagram of a prior art pressure exchange chamber system.

[0049] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the above and other aspects will become apparent from the following specific description given by way of example only, in which:

[0050] Figure 2 This is a simplified sectional perspective view of a pressure exchange chamber system installed in a frame with auxiliary units according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A simplified schematic plan view of the components (drive fluid valve, compression valve, pressure reducing valve, and slurry valve) of the pressure exchange chamber system;

[0052] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A simplified schematic plan view of the valves shown, including their interconnections;

[0053] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A simplified perspective view of the valve;

[0054] Figure 6 It is used for Figures 3 to 5 A perspective view of the slurry inlet manifold of the slurry valve;

[0055] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A plan view of a component (a pressure exchange chamber tube within a pressure exchange chamber tube) of a pressure exchange chamber system;

[0056] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the pressure exchange chamber tubing;

[0057] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the pressure exchange chamber of the pressure exchange chamber system;

[0058] Figure 10A yes Figure 5 A perspective view of the valve, in which a (highest) pressure exchange chamber is connected;

[0059] Figure 10B yes Figure 5 A perspective view of the valve, in which a pipe is connected to another (second highest) pressure exchange chamber;

[0060] Figure 10C yes Figure 5 A perspective view of the valve, in which another (second lowest) pressure exchange chamber is connected;

[0061] Figure 10D yes Figure 5 A perspective view of the valve, in which another (lowest) pressure exchange chamber is connected;

[0062] Figure 11 This is a simplified perspective view of another embodiment of the pressure exchange chamber;

[0063] Figure 12 This is a simplified perspective view of another embodiment of the pressure exchange chamber;

[0064] Figure 13 This is a simplified perspective view of another embodiment of the pressure exchange chamber. Detailed Implementation Plan

[0065] First refer to Figure 2 This figure is a simplified partial cross-sectional perspective view of a pressure exchange chamber (“PEC”) system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The PEC system 10 includes multiple pressure exchange chambers (“PECs”) 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d. In this embodiment, four PECs 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d are provided. Typically, only three of these PECs (e.g., 12a, 12b, and 12c) are used, with a fourth PEC (e.g., 12d) reserved as a backup in case one of the three PECs (12a, 12b, and 12c) fails. This provides redundancy for continuous operation, which is important because in-situ repair of the PEC system 10 on the seabed can be difficult. The PEC is designed for use in deep-sea environments and can be attached to the underside of risers, umbilical cables, or cables, etc.

[0066] Each PEC 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d includes PEC tubes 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d that extend around the periphery in a generally rectangular helical shape (a helix having substantially straight sides and bends at the ends of the straight sides). In some embodiments, the rectangular helical shape may include a square helical shape. The PEC tubes 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d are arranged around a central frame 16 in vertically spaced stacked planes (each plane being generally horizontal). In this embodiment, the central frame 16 comprises welded steel beams, but different materials and couplings may be used in other embodiments.

[0067] The central frame 16 includes a cuboid central core 18 having lateral support wings 20 (only one shown) extending therefrom, and a cantilevered frame extension (also referred to as the peripheral frame) 22 extending from the lateral support wings 20. The frame extension 22 supports a plurality of upright grids 24 spaced apart around the peripheral frame 22, each grid 24 defining a spatial array. Corresponding spaces in the upright grids 24 are aligned such that PEC pipes (e.g., 14a) can be routed through the aligned spaces in the upright grids 24. Each grid space supports one or more PEC pipes 14; typically, two PEC pipes (e.g., 14a and 14b) are routed through each grid space.

[0068] Each PEC pipe 14 comprises a thermoplastic composite pipe (TCP) and extends approximately 160m and has a footprint of approximately 30m × 20m (length x width) for its external dimensions.

[0069] The PEC system 10 also includes a hydraulic power unit 26 and a slurry feed pump 28 (for feeding slurry into the PEC pipe 14). Both the hydraulic power unit 26 and the feed pump 28 are coupled to the central frame 16 and are designed for operation in deep-sea environments (i.e., they are marine-grade). In this embodiment, two hydraulic power units 26 and two slurry feed pumps 28 are provided in case of failure of either during use, but these additional units are not illustrated in the figures.

[0070] Each PEC 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d also includes associated valves, which will now be referenced. Figures 3 to 6 These valves are described in detail. They are arranged in a flow-stopping valve assembly 30, the central portion 32 of which contains slurry valves (four slurry inlet valves 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d and four slurry outlet valves 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d; one per PEC) located within the central core 18 of the cuboid.

[0071] The flow-stop valve device 30 includes two side portions 40, 42. These side portions 40, 42 are mounted on opposing lateral support wings 20.

[0072] The first side portion 40 includes: two drive fluid (or water) input valves 44a and 44b; two drive fluid (or water) output valves 46a and 46b; two compression valves 48a and 48b; and two pressure reducing valves 50a and 50b.

[0073] Similarly, the second side portion 42 includes: two drive fluid (or water) input valves 44c and 44d; two drive fluid (or water) output valves 46c and 46d; two compression valves 48c and 48d; and two pressure reducing valves 50c and 50d.

[0074] The valve in the second side portion 42 is typically located at a higher level (i.e., above) than the valve in the first side portion 40. Figure 5 (best view in the middle), and arranged in a mirror image of the valve in the first side portion 40.

[0075] The flow interruption valve device 30 is used to control the pressure and fluid flow through the PEC pipe 14 (i.e., initially allowing the slurry feed pump 28 to fill the PEC pipe 14, and then allowing the PD pump to discharge the slurry from the PEC pipe).

[0076] like Figure 4 Ideally, the inputs and outputs of each PEC 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d are arranged in quadrants of the shut-off valve assembly 30. The input and output of the first PEC 12a are in the upper left quadrant; the input and output of the second PEC 12b are in the lower left quadrant; the input and output of the third PEC 12c are in the lower right quadrant; and the input and output of the fourth PEC 12d are in the upper right quadrant.

[0077] A single slurry output pipe connector 60 is located in the central portion 32 and extends upward to meet and connect to a riser (not shown) that lifts the slurry pumped from the PEC system 10 to a dewatering system on, for example, the deck of a ship at sea. Similarly, a single drive fluid riser connector 62 is located in the central portion 32 and extends upward to meet and connect to a drive fluid riser (not shown) that connects to a pump (not shown) at sea. The single drive fluid riser connector 62 can be connected to a riser-type pipe extending to sea.

[0078] A first drive fluid output pipe 64 is provided for a first PEC valve and a second PEC valve (i.e., in the first quadrant and the second quadrant) and extends downward from the first PEC valve and the second PEC valve. Similarly, a second drive fluid output pipe 66 is provided for a third PEC valve and a fourth PEC valve (i.e., in the third quadrant and the fourth quadrant) and extends downward from the third PEC valve and the fourth PEC valve. These drive fluid output pipes 64, 66 in Figure 5The best view is achieved in the middle. In other embodiments, they can be combined into a single drive fluid output pipe.

[0079] Single slurry inlet pipe 68 (in) Figure 5 (Best View) is located in the central section 32 and is via the slurry inlet manifold 70 (in Figure 6 (Best viewed from the center) is connected to four slurry inlet valves 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d. A single slurry inlet pipe 68 is connected to a slurry feed pump 28, which fills the PEC pipe 14 with slurry.

[0080] The slurry inlet manifold 70 includes a slurry inlet connection 72 (connected to the slurry inlet pipe 68) and a plurality of angled pipe segments 74a, 74b, 74c, 74d extending upward and outward from it. Each upwardly angled pipe segment 74a, 74b, 74c, 74d is connected at its upper end to a corresponding slurry inlet valve 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d. By arranging the pipe segments 74a, 74b, 74c, 74d in an upward (and outward) direction toward the slurry inlet valves 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, when the slurry inlet flow stops, any slurry in the pipe segment 74 flows downward (due to gravity) and away from the associated slurry inlet valve 34. This reduces the risk of clogging or damage to the slurry inlet valves 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d when they are closed.

[0081] The operation of various valves in the flow interruption valve device 30 (e.g., opening and closing) is controlled by the underwater hydraulic power unit 26.

[0082] The pulsation damper 80 is also provided on the single drive fluid inlet pipe 62 (in Figure 4 and Figure 5 (Best seen). This can be implemented using a common drive fluid manifold that feeds four PEC 12s.

[0083] Now for reference Figure 7 and Figure 8The diagram shows two views of one of the PEC pipes 14a. One end of the PEC pipe 14a is the slurry end 82, which is connected to the slurry pipe 84a. The slurry pipe 84a is connected to both the slurry inlet valve 34a (which opens when the PEC pipe 14a is filled with slurry) and the slurry outlet valve 36a (which opens when slurry is discharged from the PEC pipe 14a and reaches the riser along the slurry outlet pipe connector 60). The other end of the PEC pipe 14a is the drive fluid end 86, which is connected to the drive fluid pipe 88a. The drive fluid pipe 88a is connected to both the drive fluid inlet valve 44a (which opens when slurry is discharged from the PEC pipe 14a and reaches the riser along the slurry outlet pipe connector 60) and the drive fluid outlet valve 46a (which opens when the PEC pipe 14a is filled with slurry). Arrow 90 indicates the direction of slurry inflow into PEC pipe 14a; while arrow 92 indicates the direction of slurry outflow from PEC pipe 14a and towards slurry outlet pipe 60. PEC pipe 14a is raised (inclined) at the drive fluid end 86 and then extends in a rectangular spiral in the horizontal plane. The inclined section at the drive fluid end 86 reduces the risk of blockage because it is primarily the drive fluid (which does not contain nodules or large particles) that passes through this section, rather than the slurry.

[0084] Figure 9 It shows vertically stacked and surrounding the shut-off valve assembly 30. Figure 2 The diagram shows a perspective view of the four PEC pipes 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d. The PEC pipes 14 are arranged substantially evenly around the shut-off valve assembly 30, thereby ensuring that the center of gravity of the PEC system 10 is close to its geometric center. This facilitates the deployment of the PEC system 10 through the moon pool of a surface vessel (not shown). It also ensures that the PEC system 10 remains in a generally horizontal position during operation (minimizing any tilting).

[0085] PEC system 10 includes multiple (four in this embodiment) PECs 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d arranged in a stacked plane that is vertically offset from each other. This is in Figures 10A to 10D As is best seen in the middle, these images are similar to Figure 9 The diagrams are perspective views, but for further clarity, each diagram shows only one of the PEC pipes 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d individually.

[0086] Each PEC tube 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d is positioned in a generally horizontal plane. These planes are typically, but not entirely, horizontal, as each chamber tube 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d is slightly raised from the respective drive fluid end 86a, 86b, 86c, 86d to the height of the respective slurry end 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d to provide space for tube 14 to continue enclosing the shut-off valve assembly 30 in a generally rectangular helical shape (a helix with substantially straight sides and bends at the ends of the straight sides). In this embodiment, each PEC tube 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d is raised to the level of the respective drive fluid end 86a, 86b, 86c, 86d before the first bend in the PEC tubes 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d.

[0087] It should now be understood that the PEC system 10 has the following advantages: (i) a center of gravity close to the center of the PEC system 10, (ii) a relatively small footprint while allowing the PEC pipes 14 to be very long, and (iii) a relatively small number of bends in each PEC pipe 14.

[0088] It should be understood that other PEC system configurations are also possible within the scope of the claims. For example, Figure 11 Another device of PEC 112 is shown (simplified by removing the compression valve and pressure reducing valve for clarity), in which the shut-off valve device 130 is different, but the PEC pipes 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d are the same as or very similar to the pipes of PEC system 10.

[0089] Figure 12 A third PEC system 212 is shown, in which the shut-off valve device 230 is different, and the PEC pipes 214a, 214b, 214c, and 214d are also different from those of PEC system 10. The shut-off valve device 230 is separate, with the slurry inlet valve 234 and slurry outlet valve 236 acting as shut-off valves 230a located within and enclosed by the two PEC pipes 214a and 214b; and the drive fluid inlet valve 244 and drive fluid outlet valve 246 acting as shut-off valves 230b located within and enclosed by the other two PEC pipes 214c and 214d. PEC system 212 has the advantage that each pipe 214a, 214b, 214c, and 214d can extend in the same plane without any height variation (i.e., there is no height difference along the PEC pipe 214).

[0090] Figure 13 A fourth PEC system 312 is shown, in which a shut-off valve device 330 is centrally positioned between two sets of PEC pipes. The first set includes two PEC pipes 314a and 314b; and the second set includes two PEC pipes 314c and 314d.

[0091] In use, the PEC system 10 is located near the seabed or lakebed (e.g., tens of meters above the seabed or lakebed), which is significantly lower than the final delivery point of the slurry to be delivered (e.g., at sea level). The PEC system 10 can be freely suspended (via riser) on a ship (or other vessel) at sea level. In this embodiment, the slurry comprises ore particles (also known as polymetallic nodules) ranging in size from 10 to 200 mm located in a liquid-bearing device to create a slurry that entrains and suspends the ore particles.

[0092] In this embodiment, each PEC pipe 14 comprises a thermoplastic composite pipe (TCP); although in other embodiments, the pipe may be made of different materials or composite materials, and the inner surface of the PEC pipe 14 may include an abrasion-resistant or low-friction coating. Advantages of using TCP for the PEC pipe 14 include lighter weight than steel or another metal, corrosion and abrasion resistance, and improved flexibility in creating bends in the TCP compared to metals.

[0093] In this embodiment, each PEC pipe 14 is approximately 160m long, but different pipe lengths may be used in other embodiments.

[0094] It should now be understood that existing hydraulic ore hoisting systems can be upgraded by replacing the PEC system with the PEC system 10.

[0095] It should now be understood that a PEC system can be provided that can be easily deployed on a moon pool on a surface vessel at sea or on a lake, with improved balance and geometry.

[0096] Another advantage of the PEC system 10 is its compactness and symmetry, which facilitates easy handling and transport to and around mining vessels (e.g., ocean-going vessels) and through the vessel's moon pool.

[0097] Another advantage of PEC system 10 is that all valves of a PEC pipe (e.g., 14a) are located in one quadrant of the shut-off valve assembly 30, which minimizes the total height of PEC system 10.

[0098] The common slurry inlet manifold allows for a reduction in the height of PEC 12, which decreases the volume of sediment solids from the slurry.

[0099] Another advantage of the vertically stacked PEC tubing 14 is that it minimizes hydrodynamic drag (the resistance to the movement of an object in water) when deploying and retrieving the PEC system 10 into and from the sea. During operation (towing), the underwater PEC system 10 is essentially shaped like a disk, resulting in low drag (hydrodynamic drag) as it "passes" through the seawater. The relatively open structure (perforated) of the PEC system 10 design also minimizes drag and provides space for assembly, maintenance, and general accessibility. This includes allowing remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) access to several critical maintenance areas of the PEC system 10.

[0100] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “incorporated,” and “having” are used herein to describe an open list, not a closed list, of one or more elements or steps. When these terms are used, the elements or steps listed do not exclude other elements or steps that may be added to the list.

[0101] Unless the context otherwise indicates, the term "a / an" is used herein to mean at least one of the elements, integers, steps, features, operations or components mentioned thereafter, but does not exclude additional elements, integers, steps, features, operations or components.

[0102] In some cases, the presence of extended words and phrases such as “one or more,” “at least,” “but not limited to,” or other similar phrases does not imply, and should not be interpreted as, indicating a desire or need for a narrower situation without the use of such extended phrases.

[0103] Attached icon number

[0104] Pressure exchange chamber system 10,

[0105] Pressure exchange chambers 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 112, 212, 312

[0106] Pressure exchange chamber tubes 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d; 214a, 214b, 214c, 214d; 314a, 314b, 314c, 314d

[0107] Central Frame 16

[0108] Central Core 18

[0109] Lateral support wing 20

[0110] Frame extension (peripheral frame) 22

[0111] Vertical grille 24

[0112] Hydraulic power unit 26

[0113] 28 Slurry feed pump

[0114] Flow interruption valve devices 30, 130, 230, 330

[0115] (Central part 32 of the shut-off valve device)

[0116] Slurry inlet valves 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d

[0117] Slurry output valves 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d

[0118] (Side sections 40, 42 of the shut-off valve device)

[0119] Drive fluid (or water) input valves 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d

[0120] Drive fluid (or water) output valves 46a, 46b, 46c, 46d

[0121] Compression valves 48a, 48b, 48c, 48d

[0122] Pressure reducing valves 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d

[0123] 60 Slurry output pipe connector

[0124] Drive fluid riser connector 62

[0125] First driving fluid output pipe 64

[0126] Second driving fluid output pipe 66

[0127] 68 slurry inlet pipe

[0128] Slurry inlet manifold 70

[0129] 72 Slurry input connecting pipe

[0130] Angled pipe sections 74a, 74b, 74c, and 74d

[0131] Pulsation damper 80

[0132] PEC tube 82 slurry end

[0133] Slurry pipes 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d

[0134] PEC tube 86 drive fluid end

[0135] Driven fluid pipes 88a, 88b, 88c, 88d

[0136] Slurry flows into arrow 90

[0137] Slurry outflow arrow 92

Claims

1. A pressure exchange chamber for use in a hydraulic ore hoisting system for use on or near a seabed or lakebed, comprising: (i) a pressure exchange chamber tube; (ii) a drive fluid input valve and a drive fluid output valve; and (iii) a slurry input valve and a slurry output valve, wherein (a) the pressure exchange chamber tube extends around a perimeter, (b) the drive fluid input valve and the drive fluid output valve are enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube, and (c) the slurry input valve and the slurry output valve are enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube.

2. The pressure exchange chamber of claim 1, wherein the drive fluid input valve, the drive fluid output valve, the slurry input valve, and the slurry output valve are positioned substantially centrally and are surrounded by the pressure exchange chamber tube.

3. The pressure exchange chamber of claim 1, wherein the pressure exchange chamber tube is disposed substantially uniformly around the drive fluid input valve and the drive fluid output valve, and / or the pressure exchange chamber tube is disposed substantially uniformly around the slurry input valve and the slurry output valve.

4. The pressure exchange chamber of claim 1, wherein the pressure exchange chamber further comprises a drive fluid input tube and a slurry input tube, the drive fluid input tube and the slurry input tube being enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube.

5. The pressure exchange chamber of claim 1, wherein the pressure exchange chamber tube is arranged in a substantially horizontal plane.

6. The pressure exchange chamber of claim 1, wherein the pressure exchange chamber further comprises a drive fluid output tube and a slurry output tube, the drive fluid output tube and the slurry output tube being enclosed by the pressure exchange chamber tube.

7. The pressure exchange chamber of claim 1, wherein the pressure exchange chamber tube comprises a thermoplastic composite tube. a central frame; 8. A pressure exchange chamber system comprising: and a plurality of pressure exchange chambers according to any preceding claim, wherein the pressure exchange chamber tubes are arranged in a stacking plane around the central frame, and each of the plurality of sets of drive fluid input valves and drive fluid output valves and slurry input valves and slurry output valves is associated with a respective pressure exchange chamber tube; and the plurality of sets of drive fluid input valves and drive fluid output valves and slurry input valves and slurry output valves are supported by the central frame.

9. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 8, wherein the pressure exchange chamber tubes are arranged in a substantially horizontal plane and are vertically stacked in alignment with one another.

10. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 8, further comprising a drive fluid input tube and a slurry input tube.

11. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 10, further comprising a drive fluid output tube and a slurry output tube.

12. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 11, wherein the drive fluid input tube and the drive fluid output tube and the slurry input tube and the slurry output tube are located within the central frame, proximate to a center of gravity of the pressure exchange chamber system. ​ 13. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 12, wherein each drive fluid input valve and drive fluid output valve has an associated compression valve and decompression valve, and the compression valve and the decompression valve are positioned in line with and at approximately the same height as the associated drive fluid input valve and drive fluid output valve.

14. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 8, further comprising a slurry input manifold including an upwardly extending tube and a plurality of tube segments extending upwardly and outwardly from the upwardly extending tube, each tube segment being coupled at an upper end to a respective slurry input valve.

15. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 8, wherein each pressure exchange chamber tube defines a generally rectangular shape having a bend at each of four corner portions.

16. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 8, wherein each pressure exchange chamber tube comprises a thermoplastic composite tube.

17. The pressure exchange chamber system of claim 16, wherein each thermoplastic composite tube comprises a circular cross-section.

18. A hydraulic ore hoisting system comprising the pressure exchange chamber system of any one of claims 8 to 17.

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