Sealing device for gas adsorption runner of air treatment system and gas adsorption runner arrangement structure for air treatment system

Abstract

A sealing device for a gas adsorption runner of an air treatment system is configured to be disposed between a runner medium of the runner and a runner box at least partially surrounding the runner. The sealing device includes: a sealing frame configured to be attached to the runner box; a contact portion having a contact surface configured to be arranged in contact with a runner medium; and a resilient portion disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion such that the contact surface is adapted to be biased against a surface of the runner media. The contact surface is formed of a metal material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sealing device for a gas sorption wheel for an air treatment system and to a gas sorption wheel arrangement for an air treatment system comprising such a sealing device as defined in the preambles of the independent claims. Background Art

[0002] Various types of air handling systems are commonly used to provide treated air to a confined space. Such air handling systems typically include some type of gas adsorption device with a gas adsorption element. One such air handling system involves dehumidifying the air using a gas adsorption wheel (typically a desiccant wheel, also known as a desiccant wheel). The wheel rotates, thereby delivering the desiccant in the wheel to the air handling system's process and regeneration air streams. Regeneration can also be referred to as reactivation.

[0003] A desiccant wheel typically consists of a wheel medium containing finely divided desiccant impregnated into a semi-ceramic structure that can resemble corrugated cardboard rolled into a wheel. The wheel slowly rotates between process and regeneration air streams. The process air flows through the grooves formed by the corrugations, and the desiccant wheel adsorbs or absorbs moisture. Then, as the wheel rotates into the regeneration air stream, the desiccant is heated by the hot regeneration air and releases its moisture into the regeneration air.

[0004] After regeneration, the desiccant is rotated back into the process air stream where the process is repeated.

[0005] The runner is usually arranged in a rotatable manner in a runner box. In order to avoid mixing of the air flows and unwanted air leaks, a seal is used between the runner box and the runner. Such seals are usually based on silicone. However, silicone-based seals are not able to withstand the sometimes very high temperatures of the regeneration air flow in some applications, resulting in degradation of the seal and a short technical life. Even high-grade silicones are not sufficient for the temperatures in the regeneration section in some applications, where the temperature may exceed 200 degrees Celsius. Even if silicones can withstand high temperatures for a short time, frequent replacement of the seals will be required, which is both expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, the temperature limitation of silicones is a significant disadvantage in known sealing devices. Some synthetic rubber products, such as the fluoropolymer elastomers known under the brand name Viton, can withstand high temperatures, but are very expensive to use.

[0006] Furthermore, manufacturing variations in the rotor and cartridge components mean that the space between the rotor face and the sealing surface is not always perfectly consistent. Consequently, using a fixed-size sealing material can lead to drive motor system failures in the field, which can result in expensive repairs and modifications. Summary of the Invention

[0007] It is an object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified drawbacks and disadvantages in the prior art and to solve at least the above-mentioned problems.

[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a seal that can withstand temperatures exceeding 200 degrees Celsius and a rotor arrangement including such a seal. This seal will extend the service life of the seal between the rotor media and the rotor cartridge and reduce warranty and repair costs. Furthermore, the present disclosure aims to reduce rework required during normal seal installation and reduce the amount of silicone required.

[0009] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a sealing arrangement that has tolerances for manufacturing variations, thereby reducing problems caused by components that deviate from desired specifications.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a sealing device for a gas adsorption wheel of an air handling system is provided, the sealing device being configured to be arranged between a wheel medium of the wheel and a wheel box at least partially surrounding the wheel, the sealing device comprising: a sealing frame configured to be attached to the wheel box; a contact portion having a contact surface configured to be arranged to contact the wheel medium; and an elastic portion arranged between the sealing frame and the contact portion so that the contact surface is biased to abut against the surface of the wheel medium; wherein the contact surface comprises a metal material.

[0011] Using a contact surface comprising a metal material in the sealing device is advantageous because the metal material can withstand the high temperatures that may occur in the rotor, for example, in the regeneration section or the purge section. Depending on the intended use of the sealing device, particularly with respect to the expected temperatures in the intended application, different metal materials are contemplated. In some embodiments, the metal material of the contact portion comprises a ferrous metal material, preferably steel. Ferrous metal materials such as steel exhibit particularly suitable properties for sealing devices in terms of heat resistance.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises a metal material. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises a ferrous metal material. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises a steel material. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises metal. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises steel.

[0013] The gas adsorption wheel may suitably be a desiccant wheel, such as an adsorption wheel or an absorption wheel. The air handling system may suitably be a dehumidification system. In addition to dehumidification, the air handling system may be a system for removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. The desiccant used in the wheel may be a zeolite hydrophobic material such as zeolite.

[0014] The sealing device is particularly well-suited for high-temperature regeneration applications, as its contact surfaces comprise metallic materials. Such a sealing device can be provided for the regeneration sector of a gas adsorption wheel, while the processing sector can be provided with conventional silicone seals. Thus, the sealing device and sealing arrangement according to the present disclosure provide a cost-effective and flexible solution for high-temperature applications.

[0015] A seal according to the present disclosure having a resilient portion that biases the contact surface against the wheel media is suitable and beneficial for use in all wheel applications even if high temperature resistance is not required because it allows for relaxed manufacturing tolerances and requires a reduced amount of silicone sealing material.

[0016] The resilient portion can be configured so as to act as a barrier between the sealing frame and the contact portion of the sealing device, thereby forming part of the airtight seal between the wheel cartridge and the wheel medium. In other words, the resilient portion can cover the space between the sealing frame and the contact portion so that no gas can pass through the sealing device. However, the airtight seal between the sealing frame and the contact portion can be achieved by other means, such as by arranging a suitably shaped airtight component that is not part of the resilient portion between the sealing frame and the contact portion. The space between the sealing frame and the contact portion can also be eliminated by extending the contact portion and / or the sealing frame so that they abut each other.

[0017] The resilient portion may include at least one biasing element attached to the contact portion on one side and to the sealing frame on the other side. Furthermore, the resilient portion may include multiple biasing elements. In such an example, the biasing elements may be distributed along the sealing device to achieve a uniform seal against the rotor surface. In one example, the biasing elements are evenly distributed along the sealing device so that the spacing between the two biasing elements is the same along the sealing device. In other examples, the biasing elements are unevenly distributed along the sealing device. For example, considering the geometry of the sealing device and / or the rotor, using uneven spacing may be beneficial. In all embodiments of the sealing device, regardless of the position or number of biasing elements used, the biasing element ensures that a force is applied to push the contact portion toward the rotor medium to ensure a tight seal against the rotor. The biasing element may be a spring, such as a coil spring. Other suitable biasing elements, such as silicone in the form of a sponge and / or a silicone tube that can be expanded with air, may also be used to ensure that the force pushing the contact portion toward the rotor medium is applied to the contact portion and ensure the airtight seal provided by the sealing device disclosed herein.

[0018] In one example of the present disclosure, the resilient portion further comprises at least one retaining element and at least one retaining fastener securing the at least one biasing element to the contact portion. Depending on the configuration of the sealing device, more than one retaining element may be used. Additionally, depending on the configuration of the sealing device and / or the retaining element, more than one retaining fastener may be used. Thus, the resilient portion may also comprise a plurality of retaining elements and at least one retaining fastener securing the at least one biasing element to the contact portion. In other examples, the resilient portion further comprises at least one retaining element and a plurality of retaining fasteners securing the at least one biasing element to the contact portion.

[0019] Additionally, in some examples, the resilient portion further includes a plurality of retaining elements and a plurality of retaining fasteners that secure the at least one biasing element to the contact portion.

[0020] The retaining element can be an elongated strip and / or the retaining fastener can be a rivet. In some examples, multiple retaining elements are used in the sealing device, for example by connecting multiple elongated strips in an airtight manner. In other examples, the retaining element is a suitable type of gasket, such as a flat metal gasket or disk.

[0021] In other examples, the fastener is any other type of mechanical fastener, such as a screw, nut, bolt, or anchor. Additionally, the fastener may comprise interlocking sheet metal pieces that are mechanically held together to form the fastener.

[0022] According to some examples, the contact portion includes a recess for receiving the distal end of at least one retaining fastener when the distal end of the at least one retaining fastener extends through the contact portion. If a rivet is used as the retaining fastener, the distal end of the fastener is the head of the rivet. If other retaining fasteners are used, the distal end corresponds to any portion that protrudes through the contact portion. It is beneficial to arrange the recess on the contact portion because the recess eliminates contact between any protruding distal end of the retaining fastener and the wheel medium. Contact between a protrusion, such as the distal end of a retaining fastener, and the wheel medium may damage the wheel medium and thereby negatively affect the performance of the sealing device.

[0023] According to some examples, the elastic portion includes at least one flexible sheet arranged between the sealing frame and the contact portion. Thus, the at least one flexible sheet serves as an airtight barrier between the sealing frame and the contact portion of the sealing device. The flexible sheet can be an elongated sheet made of a flexible material. In the expanded state, the flexible sheet can be a roughly rectangular sheet having two longitudinal edges and two lateral edges, wherein the longitudinal edges are longer than the lateral edges. A flexible sheet can be arranged so that it at least partially surrounds the at least one biasing element and thereby protects the biasing element from adverse external influences, such as heat and humidity from the airflow passing through the runner, or exposure to the external environment outside the runner. In addition, a flexible sheet can be arranged on each side of the biasing element so that the biasing element is protected from exposure to the airflow passing through the runner and the external environment. In addition, a flexible sheet can be arranged so that it covers both sides of the at least one biasing element, for example by attaching a central portion to the sealing frame and attaching each edge to the contact portion on each side of the biasing element.

[0024] By arranging a flexible sheet between the sealing frame and the contact portion, the durability and airtightness of the sealing device are enhanced. At least one flexible sheet may include fibers or threads formed from a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 150 degrees Celsius. According to some embodiments, at least one flexible sheet may include fibers or threads formed from a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 200 degrees Celsius. Advantageously, the flexible sheet may include fibers or threads formed from a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 220 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, at least one flexible sheet includes fibers or threads formed from a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 250 degrees Celsius. This heat resistance is beneficial because the temperatures in the regeneration or purge sections of some gas adsorption wheels can reach very high temperatures, even exceeding 200 degrees Celsius in some applications. Currently, in some applications, the temperatures in the regeneration or purge sections can reach approximately 220 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it is beneficial to equip the sealing device of the present disclosure with components that can withstand temperatures exceeding 220 degrees Celsius.

[0025] The flexible sheet can be a woven stainless steel sheet. In another example, the flexible sheet can be an aramid sheet, preferably a poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) sheet also known as Kevlar. In yet another example, the flexible sheet is a heat-resistant rubber sheet. The material selected for the flexible sheet should advantageously be both heat-resistant and flexible. Furthermore, to improve the durability of the sealing device, it is advantageous to use a material that is resistant to corrosion in the air handling system environment. The aforementioned materials, i.e., the woven stainless steel sheet and the aramid sheet (such as the poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) sheet), both have such beneficial properties and are therefore suitable for use in the sealing device according to the present disclosure.

[0026] Furthermore, at least one flexible sheet can be configured to be positioned between the retaining element and the contact portion along at least one edge of the flexible sheet. This effectively maintains the flexible sheet in position, enhancing the durability and airtightness of the seal by minimizing the risk of gaps forming between the contact portion and the sealing frame. In some examples, the retaining element can be a high-density composite material fabricated as a feature of the flexible sheet.

[0027] The shape of the sealing device may substantially correspond to the circumference of a circular sector. In some examples, the shape of the sealing device corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the regeneration section of the gas adsorption wheel.

[0028] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a gas adsorption wheel arrangement structure for an air treatment system including a gas adsorption wheel is also provided. The gas adsorption wheel includes: a wheel medium; a wheel box that at least partially surrounds the wheel medium; and a sealing device according to any of the examples described herein, which is arranged between the wheel medium and the wheel box. In this gas adsorption wheel arrangement structure, a sealing device can be arranged on each side of the wheel medium. In other words, a sealing device can be arranged on each outward-facing surface of the wheel medium, that is, one sealing device is arranged on the treatment side and one sealing device is arranged on the regeneration side.

[0029] Advantageously, the sealing device is arranged to seal the regeneration section of the gas adsorption wheel. The regeneration section, also known as the reactivation section, refers to the section of the gas adsorption wheel through which the regeneration gas flow passes. The process section, through which the process gas flow passes, can also be equipped with the sealing device of the present disclosure. However, due to the flexible configuration of the sealing device, a gas adsorption wheel can be equipped with the sealing device of the present disclosure on a portion of the wheel surface, while using conventional seals on other portions of the surface. Because temperature requirements in the process section may not necessarily be as high as in the regeneration section, it may be appropriate to use the sealing device of the present disclosure in the regeneration section and conventional seals in the process section. In another example, the sealing device of the present disclosure can be used in both the regeneration and purge sections of the gas adsorption wheel, while using conventional sealing devices to seal the process section. However, because the sealing device also provides an airtight seal and tolerances for manufacturing variations, it is advantageous to use it when components of the gas adsorption wheel and the wheel cassette deviate from desired specifications, even when heat resistance is not required.

[0030] It will be appreciated that all features and advantages described with respect to the sealing device also apply to the gas adsorption wheel arrangement.

[0031] The present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of the present disclosure by way of illustration only. It will be understood by those skilled in the art from the guidance in the detailed description that changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosure disclosed herein is not limited to the specific component parts of the described device or the steps of the described method, because such devices and methods can change. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are only used to describe the purpose of specific embodiments and are not intended to be restrictive. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the articles "one", "a", "the" and "said" are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. In addition, the words "comprise", "comprises", "comprising", "containing" and similar terms do not exclude other elements or steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The above objects as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be more fully understood by referring to the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of example embodiments of the present disclosure when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 Schematically illustrates a gas adsorption wheel having a regeneration section and a treatment section;

[0035] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a wheel box at least partially enclosing a gas adsorption wheel;

[0036] Figures 3A to 3C schematically illustrates a sealing device according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figures 4A to 4C schematically illustrates a sealing device according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Each schematically illustrates a gas adsorption wheel arrangement according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Each schematically illustrates a gas adsorption wheel arrangement according to an example of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in other forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. The disclosed embodiments are provided to fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0041] Figure 1 A gas adsorption wheel 10 of an air treatment system 100 is schematically illustrated with a wheel media 11. Such gas adsorption wheels are well known in the art and typically include at least one regeneration section 13 and a treatment section 14. In addition, the wheel may include a purge section (not shown). Figure 1 A divider such as the divider 15 shown in FIG separates the regeneration section 13 from the treatment section 14. Although Figure 1 Only one regeneration section is shown in FIG, but the disclosure herein is also compatible with rotors having several and / or separate regeneration sections. In addition, the disclosure herein is compatible with rotors having separate purge zones and / or other partitions of the rotor. Figure 1 The wheel 10 in the embodiment is identical on both sides, so that the surfaces 11 ′ and 11 ″ of the wheel medium 11 have the same configuration. Figure 1 Arrows P and R in illustratively represent the flow of process air through the process section 14 and the flow of regeneration air through the regeneration section 13 , respectively.

[0042] Figure 2 The reel box 12 is schematically illustrated, at least partially enclosing the reel 10. Figure 2 The case shown in FIG has a body 121 and a central opening 122 divided by a plurality of rods 123. Such rods may also be referred to as spokes, ribs, spindles, or any other term related to the elongated elements that extend through the opening in the reel case 12. In the center of the central opening 122, a hub 124 is shown.

[0043] Such as Figure 2 Reel cartridges such as the reel cartridge 12 shown in FIG. 1 are known in the art, and the disclosure herein can be adapted to fit reel cartridges of any known type and configuration. Figure 2 The cassette 12 in FIG. 1 is shown from one side and may appear the same or different on the opposite side depending on the purpose of the reel cassette 12 .

[0044] Figures 3A to 3C A sealing device 1 according to an example of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. Figure 3A The lines VA-VA, VB-VB, VIA-VIA and VIB-VIB in FIG. Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B 、 Figure 6A and Figure 6B The location of the cross section shown in .

[0045] exist Figure 3A In FIG, the position of the sealing device 1 is schematically shown in a wheel box 12, which at least partially encloses the wheel 10. Figure 3A In FIG, the reel box 12 is shown in a front view. Figure 3A In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the rotor 10 has a regeneration section 13 which is essentially in the shape of a circular sector, and the sealing device 1 is arranged along the circumference of the regeneration section 13 .

[0046] like Figure 3B As shown in the figure, the regeneration section 13 is defined by the rods 123' and 123", by the wheel box body 121 along the circumference of the central opening 122, and by the circumferential rods 124' around the hub 124. The sealing device 1 is arranged between the components of the wheel box 12, namely the body 121 and the rods 123', 123" and 124' and the wheel medium 11. Therefore, the sealing device 1 seals the space between the wheel box 12 and the wheel medium 11.

[0047] Figure 3C Shown with Figure 3A and Figure 3B Schematic front view of the sealing device 1 in the position and shape shown in FIG. Figure 3C , possible positions for retaining fasteners 43 are shown along the sealing device 1 .

[0048] exist Figures 3A to 3C In the embodiment shown, the shape of the sealing device 1 substantially corresponds to the circumference of a circular sector. Thus, in the example shown, the shape of the sealing device 1 corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the regeneration section 13 of the gas adsorption wheel 10, which is also substantially a circular sector. However, it is entirely within the inventive concept of the present disclosure to provide sealing devices having other shapes and shaped to correspond to other possible sectors of the wheel. As an example, the sealing device can be used to seal the purge sector of the wheel. In such an example, the shape of the sealing device appropriately corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the purge section.

[0049] Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 4C A sealing device 1 according to an example of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. Figure 4A and Figure 4B is a cross-sectional side view of the sealing device 1, and Figure 4B Shown Figure 4A A detail of the sealing device 1 is shown in FIG, which emphasizes the contact portion 3 and the elastic portion 4. Figure 4C 1 is a top view of the sealing device 1 as seen from the rotor medium surfaces 11 ′, 11 ″.

[0050] exist Figure 4A In the embodiment, the sealing device 1 comprises: a sealing frame 2 configured to be attached to the wheel cartridge 12; a contact portion 3 having a contact surface 31 configured to be arranged to contact the wheel medium 11 (see Figure 4B); and an elastic portion 4, which is arranged between the sealing frame 2 and the contact portion 3, so that the contact surface 31 is biased to abut against the surface 11', 11". of the runner medium 11. In other words, the elastic portion 4 pushes the contact portion 3 against the surface 11', 11". of the runner medium 11, thereby ensuring an airtight seal between the sealing device 1 and the runner medium 11. The sealing device 1 is arranged in an airtight manner against the runner box 12 via the base of the elastic portion 4 attached to the sealing frame 2. Thereby, an airtight seal is achieved between the runner box 12 and the runner medium 11.

[0051] Contact surface 31 comprises a metallic material. Using a metallic material, i.e., a material comprising metal, in contact surface 13 ensures a durable seal that can withstand high temperatures, particularly in regeneration section 13. Advantageously, the metallic material of contact surface 31 is a ferrous metal material, preferably steel. Other possible materials for contact surface 31 include plastic or composite materials.

[0052] The sealing frame 2 is arranged to be attached to the reel box 12. The sealing frame 2 can be attached to the reel box 12 in any suitable manner using any suitable fastening means such as screws, structural adhesives or tape. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the sealing frame 2 must be attached to the reel box 12 in a manner that maintains the airtight properties of the sealing arrangement. The sealing frame 2 may include a spring rail (not shown). Such a spring rail may be used for retrofitting or enabling the sealing arrangement to be manufactured as a subassembly.

[0053] exist Figure 4B In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the elastic portion 4 includes at least one biasing element 41 attached to the contact portion 3 on one side and to the sealing frame 2 on the other side. Any suitable element capable of exerting a biasing force that pushes the contact portion 3 toward the rotating medium can be used as the biasing element 41. Figure 4B In the example of , the biasing element is a spring in the form of a coil spring. Other suitable biasing members include silicone in the form of a sponge and / or a silicone tube that can be expanded with air.

[0054] In the example embodiment, the resilient portion 4 further comprises at least one retaining element 42 and at least one retaining fastener 43 that secures the at least one biasing element 41 to the contact portion 3. Any suitable means for retaining and securing the biasing element may be used. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In FIG, the retaining element 42 is an elongated strip and the retaining fastener 43 is a rivet. Other suitable fasteners suitable for use as the retaining fastener 43 include various types of mechanical fasteners, such as screws or interlocking sheet metal features.

[0055] exist Figure 4BIn the example of FIG, the contact portion 3 includes a recess 32 for receiving the distal end of the at least one retaining fastener 43 (the head of a rivet in this example) when the distal end of the at least one retaining fastener 43 extends through the contact portion 3. Contact between the retaining fastener 43 and the wheel media 11 may damage the wheel media and / or negatively impact the performance of the sealing device. Therefore, the recess 32 is beneficial because it eliminates contact between the retaining fastener 43 and the wheel media 11 while allowing for a secure attachment between the contact portion 3, the resilient portion 4, and the sealing frame 2.

[0056] exist Figures 4A to 4C In the embodiment of the present invention, the elastic part 4 includes at least one flexible sheet 44 arranged between the sealing frame 2 and the contact part 3. The at least one flexible sheet 44 serves as an airtight barrier between the sealing frame 2 and the contact part 3 of the sealing device 1. In the example shown, the flexible sheet 44 is an elongated sheet having a generally rectangular shape in the unfolded state, having two longitudinal edges and two lateral edges, wherein the longitudinal edges are longer than the lateral edges. Such a flexible sheet 44 should ideally include fibers or threads forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at a temperature of at least up to 150 degrees Celsius. According to some embodiments, the flexible sheet 44 includes fibers or threads forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at a temperature of at least up to 200 degrees Celsius. Advantageously, the flexible sheet includes fibers or threads forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at a temperature of at least 220 degrees Celsius or even more than 220 degrees Celsius. For example, it is beneficial that the flexible sheet is chemically stable at a temperature of up to 250 degrees Celsius. Preferred materials for the flexible sheet 44 that are known to meet the requirements required in the sealing device according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure are:

[0057] ·Woven stainless steel sheets;

[0058] Aramid sheets, preferably poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) sheets commonly known by the brand name Kevlar; or

[0059] Heat-resistant rubber sheet.

[0060] The flexible sheet 44 may also be a formed thin stainless steel sheet or an extruded tube material.However, any material that meets the requirements of the sealing device 1, in particular those related to temperature and flexibility, may be advantageously used.

[0061] like Figures 4A to 4CAs shown in , at least one flexible sheet 44 can be arranged such that it at least partially surrounds at least one biasing element 41, thereby protecting the biasing element 43 from adverse external influences. For example, heat and / or humidity may negatively impact the durability of the biasing element 41. The surrounding environment of the biasing element 41 may be different on the side of the biasing element 41 facing the hub 124 of the runner 10 and on the side of the biasing element 41 facing away from the hub 124. Therefore, in some applications, it may be particularly beneficial to use flexible sheets 44 in certain portions of the runner 10, while other sealing materials or methods may be used in other areas. However, in some applications, it may be desirable to arrange one flexible sheet 44 according to the present disclosure on each side of the biasing element 41 to protect the biasing element 41 from exposure to airflow through the runner and the external environment, such as Figures 4A to 4C This is the case in the example shown in .

[0062] Figure 4A An example is shown in which a single elongated flexible sheet 44 is attached to the sealing frame 2 at its center. Each longitudinal side edge of the flexible sheet 44 has been folded in the direction toward the runner and attached to the contact portion 3, such that the flexible sheet 44 covers both sides of at least one biasing element 43. Thus, the area between the contact portion 3 and the sealing frame 2 is covered on both sides of the biasing element 41 by a single flexible sheet 44. Although not shown in the figure, two separate flexible sheets 44 may be arranged between the sealing frame 2 and the contact portion 3. In this example, one longitudinal edge of the flexible sheet 44 is attached to the sealing frame 2, while the other longitudinal edge is attached to the contact portion 3.

[0063] exist Figures 4A to 4C In the example shown in , the flexible sheet 44 is arranged between the retaining element 42 and the contact portion 3 along both edges of the flexible sheet 44 on the lower surface of the contact surface 31 as discussed above.

[0064] exist Figures 4A to 4C In the example shown in , the contact surface 31 is designed as one piece, and the flexible sheet 44 is therefore sandwiched between the lower surface of the contact surface 31 (i.e., the side facing away from the rotating medium 11) and the upper side of the retaining element 42 (i.e., the side facing the direction of the rotating medium 11).

[0065] Although not shown in the figures, a high density composite material manufactured as a feature of the flexible sheet can be used as a retention fastener.

[0066] As a top view of a section of the sealing device 1 Figure 4CThe edge of the elongated flexible sheet 44 is shown positioned between the edge of the retaining element 42, which is in the shape of an elongated strip, and the edge of the contact surface 31, which is also in the shape of an elongated surface. A plurality of retaining fasteners 43 are shown evenly distributed longitudinally along a section of the sealing device 1, thereby holding the evenly distributed biasing elements in place within the sealing device.

[0067] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Each schematically illustrates a gas adsorption wheel arrangement 101 for an air treatment system 100 according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 3A Schematic cross-sectional view of the gas adsorption wheel arrangement structure 101 taken along lines VA-VA and VB-VB in FIG. Figure 5A and Figure 5B The gas adsorption wheel arrangement structure 101 shown in the figure includes: a gas adsorption wheel 10, which includes a wheel medium 11; a wheel box 12, which at least partially surrounds the wheel medium 11; and a sealing device 1 according to the contents disclosed in this article, which is arranged between the wheel medium 11 and the wheel box 12.

[0068] exist Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the wheel box 12 at least partially encloses the wheel 10 on both sides and a sealing device 1 is arranged on each side of the wheel medium 11. In other words, a sealing device 1 is arranged on each outwardly facing surface 11', 11" of the wheel medium 11, i.e. one sealing device 1 is arranged on the surface 11" of the wheel 11 facing the process air flow P and one sealing device 1 is arranged on the surface 11' of the wheel 11 facing the regeneration air flow R. Thus, one sealing device 1 is arranged on the process side of the wheel 11 and one sealing device 1 is arranged on the regeneration side of the wheel 11.

[0069] exist Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the embodiment, the wheel cartridge 12 is identical on both sides of the wheel medium 11 and a sealing device 1 is arranged on each side between the wheel medium 11 and the wheel cartridge 12 so that one sealing device 1 is biased against each of the two opposing surfaces 11 ′ and 11 ″ of the wheel medium 11. Figure 5A and Figure 5BIn FIG. 1 , the sealing device 1 is arranged to seal the regeneration section 13 of the gas adsorption wheel 10, through which the regeneration gas flow passes as indicated by the arrow R. As previously mentioned, the sealing device 1 is also particularly suitable for sealing the purge section of the wheel 10. The process section 14, through which the process gas flow passes as indicated by the arrow P, can also be equipped with the sealing device 1 of the present disclosure. However, since the temperature requirements in the process section 14 may not necessarily be as high as in the regeneration section 13, conventional seals 5 can also be used in the process section 14, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B Nevertheless, because the sealing device also provides the benefit of an airtight seal as well as tolerances for manufacturing variations, the use of the sealing device is advantageous when components of the gas adsorption wheel and components of the wheel cassette deviate from desired specifications, even when heat resistance properties are not required.

[0070] As mentioned above, Figure 5A The cross section is along Figure 3A The line VA-VA shown in FIG is intercepted. Therefore, Figure 5A A gas adsorption wheel arrangement 101 is shown, comprising a sealing device 1 arranged along a rod 123 ′ of a wheel cassette 12 . Figure 5A Also shown is a hub 124 against which the sealing device 1 seals.

[0071] As mentioned above, Figure 5B The cross section is along Figure 3A The line VB-VB shown in FIG is intercepted. Therefore, Figure 5B A gas adsorption wheel arrangement 101 is shown comprising a sealing device 1 arranged along a stem 123 ″ and a body 121 of a wheel cassette 12 .

[0072] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The lines VIA-VIA and VIB-VIB in the Figure 6A and Figure 6B The cross section shown in .

[0073] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Each schematically illustrates a gas adsorption wheel arrangement 101 according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 6A 3, Figure 5A and Figure 5B Schematic cross section taken along line VIA-VIA in FIG. Figure 6B 3, Figure 5A and Figure 5B Schematic cross section taken along line VIB-VIB in FIG.

[0074] Figure 6A A gas adsorption wheel arrangement 101 is shown comprising sealing means 1 arranged along rods 123″ on each side of a wheel box 12, which seals a regeneration section 13 of the wheel 10 through which a regeneration gas flow R passes as indicated by arrow R. Figure 6A Also shown is a hub 124 against which the sealing device 1 seals the regeneration section 13 on the upper side of the rotor 10 as seen in the figure. The process section 14 through which the process gas flow as indicated by arrow P passes can be sealed using the sealing device 1 or a conventional seal 5.

[0075] Figure 6B A gas adsorption wheel arrangement 101 is shown comprising a sealing device 1 arranged on each side of the wheel box 12 along a stem 123' and a body 121 of the wheel box 12. Figure 6B In the example shown in FIG, a sealing device 1 or a conventional seal 5 can be used to seal the space between the respective surfaces 11′, 11″ of the wheel medium 11 and the body 121 of the wheel box 12 in the processing section 14 of the wheel 10, and the processing air flow passes through the processing section 14 as indicated by the arrow P.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed disclosure based on a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sealing device for a gas adsorption wheel of an air handling system, the sealing device being configured to be arranged between a wheel medium of the wheel and a wheel box at least partially surrounding the wheel, the sealing device comprising: a sealing frame configured to be attached to the reel cartridge; a contact portion having a contact surface configured to be arranged in contact with the wheel medium; as well as a resilient portion disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion such that the contact surface is adapted to be biased against a surface of the wheel medium, Wherein, the contact surface comprises a metal material.

2. The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein: The metal material comprises a ferrous metal material, preferably steel.

3. The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein: The resilient portion includes at least one biasing element attached to the contact portion on one side and to the seal frame on another side.

4. The sealing device according to claim 3, wherein: The resilient portion further includes at least one retaining element and at least one retaining fastener securing the at least one biasing element to the contact portion.

5. The sealing device according to claim 4, wherein: The retaining element comprises an elongated strip and / or the retaining fastener is a rivet.

6. The sealing device according to claim 4, wherein: The contact portion includes a recess for receiving the distal end of the at least one retention fastener as the distal end of the at least one retention fastener extends through the contact portion.

7. The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein: The elastic portion includes at least one flexible sheet disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion.

8. The sealing device according to claim 7, wherein: At least one of said flexible sheets comprises fibres or threads forming a flexible textile which is chemically stable at temperatures at least up to 150 degrees Celsius, preferably at least up to 200 degrees Celsius.

9. The sealing device according to claim 7, wherein: The flexible sheet comprises one of: a woven stainless steel sheet; an aramid sheet, preferably a poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) sheet; or a heat-resistant rubber sheet.

10. The sealing device according to claim 7, wherein: At least one of the flexible sheets is configured to be arranged between the retaining element and the contact portion along at least one edge of the flexible sheet.

11. The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein: The shape of the sealing device substantially corresponds to the circumference of a circular sector.

12. The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein: The shape of the sealing device corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the regeneration section of the gas adsorption wheel.

13. A gas adsorption rotor arrangement structure for an air handling system, the gas adsorption rotor arrangement structure comprising: A gas adsorption rotor, the gas adsorption rotor comprising a rotor medium; a wheel cartridge at least partially surrounding the wheel media; as well as The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein the sealing device is arranged between the wheel medium and the wheel box.

14. The gas adsorption wheel arrangement structure according to claim 13, wherein: A sealing device is arranged on each side of the rotating medium.

15. The gas adsorption wheel arrangement structure according to claim 13, wherein: The sealing device is arranged to seal the regeneration section of the gas adsorption wheel.

Images