Multi-ion rod cooperative scale inhibition equipment in industrial circulating water

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of industrial circulating water treatment, and provides a multi-ion rod cooperative scale inhibition device in industrial circulating water. The multi-ion rod cooperative scale inhibition device in industrial circulating water comprises a central electrode for generating a high-voltage electric field after being electrified, at least one layer of nested net sleeves coaxially arranged outside the central electrode, and an insulating support assembly arranged between the central electrode and the nested net sleeves for insulating and separating the central electrode from the nested net sleeves and fixing them. The multi-ion rod cooperative scale inhibition device in industrial circulating water is not only reasonable in design, but also simple to operate, can effectively achieve the multi-ion rod cooperative scale inhibition effect in industrial circulating water, has low energy consumption in the whole process, and is easy to discharge, remove and prevent scale, and is suitable for industry promotion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of industrial circulating water treatment technology, specifically to a multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water. Background Technology

[0002] During long-term continuous operation, industrial circulating water systems are prone to scale formation due to temperature and pressure fluctuations caused by dissolved calcium and magnesium ions. This scale easily crystallizes and precipitates, forming dense scale that adheres firmly to the inner walls of core equipment such as heat exchangers, pipes, and valves. The continuous accumulation of scale not only significantly reduces equipment heat exchange efficiency, increases circulating water flow resistance, and raises energy consumption, but can also lead to pipe blockage and equipment corrosion, seriously threatening the safe, stable, and efficient operation of industrial circulating water systems.

[0003] To address this issue, existing technologies employ ion rod-type water treatment devices, which use a high-voltage electric field generated by a central electrode to polarize scale-forming ions in the water, interfering with their crystallization to achieve scale inhibition. However, traditional ion rods have a core defect: the electrodes are easily encapsulated by scale.

[0004] During long-term operation, scale-forming substances treated by the high-voltage electric field will gradually deposit and firmly coat the exposed surface of the central electrode. Once the central electrode is completely covered by scale, the strength of the high-voltage electric field it generates will be significantly reduced, or even completely ineffective, leading to a sharp decline or even loss of scale inhibition effect. To address this deficiency, some existing technologies attempt to add auxiliary protective structures such as mesh sleeves around the electrode. However, the lack of effective isolation and support design between the mesh sleeve and the central electrode can easily result in the mesh sleeve being too close to the electrode or too closely spaced, which can actually accelerate the process of scale coating on the electrode or cause the electric field to be shielded. In addition, when the mesh sleeve in the existing technology becomes clogged, it must be disassembled and removed manually after the machine is stopped, making the operation and maintenance process cumbersome and affecting the normal production schedule.

[0005] Therefore, we propose an industrial circulating water scale inhibitor that can fundamentally solve the problem of scale buildup on the central electrode, and is simple in structure and easy to maintain. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water, thereby solving the problem of scale buildup on the central electrode.

[0007] The present invention provides a multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water, comprising: a central electrode for generating a high-voltage electric field after being energized; at least one nested mesh sleeve coaxially disposed outside the central electrode; and an insulating support assembly disposed between the central electrode and the nested mesh sleeve for insulating, isolating and fixing the central electrode and the nested mesh sleeve.

[0008] Furthermore, the nested mesh sleeve has at least three layers, including an inner mesh sleeve, a middle mesh sleeve, and an outer mesh sleeve. The inner mesh sleeve has the smallest pore size, used to adsorb calcium and magnesium microcrystalline scale; the middle mesh sleeve has a larger pore size than the inner mesh sleeve, used to capture slime and large particles of scale; and the outer mesh sleeve has a larger pore size than the middle mesh sleeve, used to intercept silt and suspended solids. In practical applications, the particle sizes of impurities in the industrial circulating water vary: coarse silt (50-500 micrometers), slime (10-50 micrometers), and microcrystalline scale (1-10 micrometers). A single pore size is insufficient. This invention employs a three-layer nested mesh sleeve with a coarse outer layer and a dense inner layer, with gaps between the layers. Water flows sequentially through the outer, middle, and inner layers: the outer layer intercepts coarse impurities; the middle layer captures slime and large particles of scale; and the inner layer, with the smallest pore size, closest to the electrode, and strongest electric field, preferentially adsorbs microcrystalline scale, preventing the electrode from being encased. Meanwhile, the inner fine mesh perforated structure streamlines the electric field, transforming the uneven electric field caused by the traditional single electrode into a uniform electric field across the entire cross-section, effectively eliminating treatment dead zones. The three-layer mesh sleeve provides graded scale capture, with balanced load on each layer, achieving a scale capture rate of over 90%; impurities are distributed in layers, greatly extending the cleaning cycle; the inner layer preferentially absorbs scale, extending electrode life; and the scale inhibition efficiency is significantly improved compared to traditional methods.

[0009] Furthermore, the insulating support assembly includes a front-end fixing ring group and a rear-end hybrid support structure; the front-end fixing ring group is disposed at the front end of the device and includes a first fixing ring between the central electrode and the inner mesh sleeve, a second fixing ring between the inner mesh sleeve and the middle mesh sleeve, and a third fixing ring between the middle mesh sleeve and the outer mesh sleeve. Each fixing ring is made of insulating engineering plastic and is used to rigidly connect the various components at the front end of the device into one unit; the rear-end hybrid support structure includes a fourth fixing ring between the central electrode and the inner mesh sleeve, and multiple elastic support plates disposed between the inner mesh sleeve and the middle mesh sleeve, and between the middle mesh sleeve and the outer mesh sleeve; the fourth fixing ring is made of insulating engineering plastic, and the elastic support plates are made of stainless steel.

[0010] Furthermore, the elastic support plate has an asymmetrical arc-shaped structure, with a convex surface facing the forward water flow direction and a concave surface facing the reverse water flow direction. When the water flow direction is forward, the water impacts the convex surface, causing the elastic support plate to adhere tightly to the adjacent mesh sleeve, fixing the outer and middle mesh sleeves in a set position. When the water flow direction is reverse, the water impacts the concave surface, causing the elastic support plate to spring outward, releasing the fixation of the outer and middle mesh sleeves, allowing them to vibrate relative to each other under the impact of the reverse water flow. In practical applications, the asymmetrical arc-shaped structure of the elastic support plate in this application, with its convex surface facing the forward water flow and its concave surface facing the reverse water flow, cleverly utilizes fluid mechanics principles to achieve diametrically opposite functions under different water flow directions. During use, when the forward water flow impacts the convex surface, the elastic support plate is pressed tightly against the pipe wall, forming a rigid fixation, locking the device in the center of the pipe, ensuring the mesh sleeves are stationary and the electric field is stable. When the reverse water flow impacts the concave surface, the elastic support plate springs outward, releasing its fixation. This causes the mesh sleeve to vibrate under the impact of the reverse water flow, shaking off attached scale, sludge, and other impurities, which are then discharged with the water flow. This vibration requires no motors, sensors, or control systems; it automatically and precisely switches between two states—"rigid fixation in the forward direction and flexible release in the reverse direction"—simply by changing the water flow direction. This adaptive design works perfectly with the inherent backwashing process of the circulating water system, achieving zero-energy self-cleaning while avoiding the complexity and high cost of traditional self-cleaning devices that require additional power sources and control units. Furthermore, the elastic support plate, with its extremely simple structure, becomes a key component ensuring the long-term maintenance-free operation of the device.

[0011] Furthermore, the first, second, third, and fourth fixed rings are all provided with flow holes evenly distributed along the circumference of the ring for water flow. In practical applications, the evenly distributed flow holes on each fixed ring are a key design feature for the low-resistance and high-efficiency operation of this device. Traditional fixed rings are solid structures that obstruct water flow, creating eddies and dead zones, increasing pressure loss, and causing uneven water flow distribution. This invention provides evenly distributed flow holes on each fixed ring, allowing water to flow smoothly and fundamentally eliminating obstruction. The technical effects of this design are threefold: first, the water flow is evenly distributed across the entire mesh cross-section, avoiding local stagnation and ensuring that each layer of the mesh fully performs its graded scale-collecting function; second, it eliminates eddy current disturbances, making the electric field distribution more stable and preventing flow field interference from polarizing into scale ions; and third, it significantly reduces overall pressure loss, adapting to high-flow-rate systems with slow pressure loss growth over long-term operation. Compared with solid fixed rings, this design achieves a comprehensive effect of "zero obstruction, uniform flow field, and low pressure loss" without sacrificing the support and positioning function.

[0012] Furthermore, the elastic support plates are evenly distributed circumferentially along the tail end of the insulating support assembly, with a quantity of 6 to 8 plates. In practical applications, during forward water flow, each elastic support plate experiences balanced force, firmly locking the device in the center of the pipe and ensuring a uniform and stable electric field. During reverse water flow, each elastic support plate springs open simultaneously, and the entire mesh sleeve loses its constraint, generating random multi-degree-of-freedom vibrations under turbulent impact, effectively removing the attached scale layer. As a further preferred option, a phase difference design can be used to enhance the descaling effect. Specifically, the thickness or arc height of adjacent elastic support plates is set to different values, for example, the thickness alternates between 0.5mm and 0.6mm, or the arc height alternates between 5mm and 6mm. This differentiated design causes the elastic support plates to have different spring-opening response speeds under reverse water flow—thinner or smaller arc height elastic support plates spring open faster, while thicker or larger arc height elastic support plates spring open slower, thus forming asynchronous spring-opening and rebound, causing different parts of the mesh sleeve to move in different directions at different times, generating multi-degree-of-freedom, wide-frequency irregular vibrations. This asynchronous vibration subjectes the scale layer to alternating stress in multiple directions, making it more prone to microcracks and peeling off. It has a better descaling effect than synchronous vibration and does not affect the stable support performance during forward water flow.

[0013] Furthermore, the device is an integrated axial cylindrical structure, directly connected in series in the main circulating water pipeline, and does not have a separate drain outlet. In practical applications, this installation method is highly efficient and convenient for sewage discharge, greatly facilitating practical use.

[0014] Furthermore, the central electrode is a cylindrical metal electrode, and the nested mesh sleeve is made of stainless steel. In practical applications, this design makes great use of existing components, avoids design complexity, facilitates production and application, and reduces research and development difficulty.

[0015] Furthermore, the first, second, third, and fourth fixing rings are all made of insulating engineering plastics, while the elastic support plate is made of stainless steel. In actual design, the insulating engineering plastic is polyoxymethylene or rigid polyvinyl chloride. This material is readily available and can be used in industrial circulating water for extended periods. Meanwhile, the aforementioned elastic support plate is made of stainless steel, which possesses excellent elastic modulus and fatigue resistance, allowing it to withstand long-term, repeated deformation recovery cycles, ensuring the continued effectiveness of its function of pressing against the wall during forward water flow and releasing during reverse water flow. Additionally, industrial circulating water environments contain various salts, dissolved oxygen, and chemical agents; stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, allowing for long-term immersion operation without rusting or performance degradation. Moreover, stainless steel is easily processed into the required asymmetrical arc structure through stamping or bending processes, with controllable dimensional accuracy, making it suitable for mass production.

[0016] Secondly, an industrial circulating water system includes multiple devices that operate collaboratively to achieve scale inhibition treatment of the circulating water. In practical applications, the combined use of multiple ion rods and scale inhibition devices can be effectively applied to industrial circulating water systems, greatly extending the system's service life through efficient scale removal.

[0017] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the beneficial effects of the multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device in industrial circulating water provided by the present invention are as follows: (1) Firstly, it fundamentally solves the industry problem of the central electrode being covered by scale. By insulating and isolating the central electrode from the nested mesh sleeve through the insulating support component, the mesh sleeve acts as a sacrificial scale-collecting medium to preferentially adsorb scale, keeping the central electrode clean at all times, ensuring a stable and undiminished electric field, and significantly extending the electrode life.

[0018] (2) Secondly, it achieves synergistic effect of graded scale capture and electric field homogenization. The three-layer nested mesh with coarse outer layer and dense inner layer is adopted. The outer layer intercepts mud and sand, the middle layer captures slime and large particles of scale, and the inner layer adsorbs microcrystalline scale, with a comprehensive scale capture rate of over 90%. The fine mesh hollow structure of the inner layer organizes the divergent electric field into a uniform electric field across the entire cross section, eliminates treatment dead corners, and improves scale inhibition efficiency by 30% to 50%.

[0019] (3) Moreover, it achieves zero-energy hydraulic trigger self-cleaning. The elastic support plate adopts an asymmetrical arc structure, with the convex surface facing the forward flow and the concave surface facing the reverse flow. It can automatically achieve "forward rigid fixation and reverse vibration descaling" simply by switching the water flow direction. No motor or sensor is required. It works perfectly with the system's backwashing process, and is low in cost and maintenance-free.

[0020] (4) Furthermore, the phase difference design is preferred to enhance the descaling effect. The thickness or arc height of adjacent elastic support plates are different, so that each claw opens and rebounds asynchronously during backwashing, generating wide-frequency irregular vibration. The scale layer is subjected to multi-directional stress, making it easier to peel off and remove. The descaling effect is better than that of synchronous vibration.

[0021] (5) At the same time, the fixed rings are evenly distributed with flow holes to achieve low resistance flow uniformity. The evenly distributed flow holes on each fixed ring eliminate eddies and dead zones, ensure uniform water flow, significantly reduce pressure loss, adapt to large flow systems, and achieve "zero obstruction, uniform flow field, and low pressure loss".

[0022] (6) Finally, the integrated structure is easy to install and the material selection is reliable. The device is an integrated axial cylindrical structure that can be directly connected to the pipeline without the need for a separate drain outlet. The insulating fixing ring is made of polyoxymethylene or rigid PVC, and the elastic support plate is made of stainless steel, which is corrosion-resistant, fatigue-resistant, and suitable for mass production. Multiple devices can be connected in series or in parallel to operate in coordination, achieving scale inhibition without dead corners in the whole system and extending the service life of the equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. In all the drawings, the elements or parts are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a front view installation diagram of a multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device in industrial circulating water on the inner wall of a pipe, provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The enlarged structural diagram at point A is shown below; Figure 3 for Figure 1 The enlarged structural diagram at point B is shown below; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the present invention under positive liquid flow impact; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the present invention under impact in the direction of liquid flow; Figure 6 This is a front view schematic diagram of the flow hole in the insulating support assembly of the present invention; Figure label: The components include: a central electrode 100, a nested mesh sleeve 200, an inner mesh sleeve 210, a middle mesh sleeve 220, an outer mesh sleeve 230, an insulating support assembly 300, a first fixing ring 310, a flow hole 301, a second fixing ring 320, a third fixing ring 330, a fourth fixing ring 340, an elastic support piece 400, a convex surface 410, a concave surface 420, and an inner wall of the pipe 500. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The embodiments of the technical solution of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical solution of the present invention and are therefore intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0026] The basic implementation examples are as follows: Figures 1 to 6 As shown: Example 1 Please see Figures 1 to 5 This embodiment provides a multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water. The device is an integrated axial cylindrical structure that can be directly connected in series in the main pipeline of industrial circulating water, located between the outlet of the circulating water pump and the downstream heat exchange equipment.

[0027] The device mainly includes: a central electrode 100, a nested mesh sleeve 200, and an insulating support assembly 300.

[0028] The central electrode 100 is a cylindrical high-voltage metal electrode, preferably made of 304 stainless steel in this embodiment, with a diameter of approximately 10 mm and a length of approximately 250 mm, and is centrally located. When energized, the central electrode 100 generates a high-voltage electric field that directly acts on the circulating water flowing over its surface. Alternatively, the central electrode 100 can also be made of 316L stainless steel or titanium alloy to suit industrial circulating water environments with high chloride ion concentrations; its diameter can be adjusted from 8 mm to 20 mm depending on the pipe diameter, and its length matches the overall length of the device.

[0029] The nested mesh sleeve 200 is made of stainless steel and is coaxially positioned outside the central electrode 100. In this embodiment, the nested mesh sleeve 200 has a single-layer structure with a mesh aperture of 2mm, used to initially intercept larger particulate impurities in the water and assist in adsorbing some scale. The single-layer mesh sleeve structure is simple and inexpensive, suitable for circulating water systems with good water quality and few suspended solids, such as central air conditioning cooling water systems; as an extension, the nested mesh sleeve 200 can also adopt a double-layer or triple-layer structure, as shown in Embodiment 2.

[0030] An insulating support assembly 300 is disposed between the central electrode 100 and the nested mesh sleeve 200 to insulate and fix the two. In this embodiment, the insulating support assembly 300 consists of two annular insulating pads, respectively fitted onto the front and rear ends of the central electrode 100, with their outer walls engaging with the inner wall of the nested mesh sleeve 200. The insulating pads are made of insulating engineering plastic—polyoxymethylene—which has excellent insulation properties, mechanical strength, and hydrolysis resistance. Alternatively, rigid polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, or nylon 66 can also be used. The number of insulating support assemblies 300 can be increased to 3-4 depending on the length of the device, evenly distributed along the axial direction to ensure the coaxiality of the central electrode 100 and the nested mesh sleeve 200.

[0031] The working principle of this embodiment is as follows: When water flows through the device in the forward direction, the central electrode 100 is energized to generate a high-voltage electric field, which polarizes the scale-forming ions in the water and prevents them from crystallizing and precipitating; at the same time, some microcrystalline scale is adsorbed onto the surface of the nested mesh sleeve 200. Due to the isolation of the insulating support component 300, the central electrode 100 is not covered by scale and maintains a stable electric field over a long period of time.

[0032] Example 2 This embodiment is an optimization based on Embodiment 1, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the nested mesh sleeve 200 has a three-layer structure, consisting of an inner mesh sleeve 210, a middle mesh sleeve 220, and an outer mesh sleeve 230 from the inside out. The three mesh sleeves maintain a uniform gap of 3m in this embodiment and do not adhere to or contact each other.

[0033] Outer mesh 230: The mesh size is the largest, typically 5mm, and it is used to intercept coarse silt, rust, suspended solids and other particles with a diameter of 50-500 micrometers in water.

[0034] Middle layer mesh sleeve 220: The mesh size is moderate, typically 3mm, and it is used to capture slime, biofilm and large particles of scale with a particle size of 10-50 microns.

[0035] The inner mesh sleeve 210 has the smallest mesh opening, typically 1mm, and is closest to the central electrode 100, placing it in the region of highest electric field strength. It is used to adsorb calcium and magnesium microcrystalline scale particles with a diameter of 1-10 micrometers. In actual operation, water flows sequentially through the outer, middle, and inner mesh sleeves, achieving graded scale removal: the outer layer intercepts large impurities, avoiding the middle and inner mesh openings; the middle layer captures slime and large scale particles, reducing the load on the inner layer; the inner layer preferentially adsorbs microcrystalline scale under the strong electric field, keeping the central electrode 100 clean at all times. Simultaneously, the perforated metal structure of the inner mesh sleeve 210 helps to regulate the divergent electric field generated by the central electrode 100, transforming the non-uniform electric field—where the field strength near the electrode is too high and near the pipe wall is too low—into a uniform electric field covering the entire water flow cross-section, eliminating the treatment dead zones of traditional ion bars.

[0036] As an alternative, the pore size of the three-layer mesh can be adjusted according to the actual water quality: for systems with high sediment content, the outer layer pore size can be increased to 8mm; for systems with severe sludge buildup, the middle layer pore size can be reduced to 2mm; for high-hardness water, the inner layer pore size can be reduced to 0.5mm to improve microcrystalline adsorption efficiency. The interlayer gap of the three-layer mesh can also be selected within the range of 2-5mm. Too small a gap can easily lead to clogging, while too large a gap will weaken the electric field homogenization effect.

[0037] As an extension, this invention is not limited to a three-layer structure. For industrial scenarios with particularly complex water quality, such as the circulating water of a continuous casting machine in a steel plant, four or five nested mesh sleeves can be set up, with the pore size decreasing step by step from the outside to the inside, to achieve more refined graded filtration and scale removal.

[0038] Example 3: This embodiment further defines the specific structure of the insulating support assembly 300. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the insulation support assembly 300 includes a front-end fixing ring group and a rear-end hybrid support structure.

[0039] The front-end fixing ring assembly is located at the front end of the equipment, on the water-facing side, and includes: First fixing ring 310: Located between the central electrode 100 and the inner mesh sleeve 210, the inner wall is fixedly connected to the central electrode 100, which can be tight fit or adhesive, and the outer wall is snapped into the inner mesh sleeve 210.

[0040] The second fixing ring 320 is located between the inner mesh sleeve 210 and the middle mesh sleeve 220. The inner wall is engaged with the inner mesh sleeve 210, and the outer wall is engaged with the middle mesh sleeve 220.

[0041] The third fixing ring 330 is located between the middle mesh sleeve 220 and the outer mesh sleeve 230. The inner wall is engaged with the middle mesh sleeve 220, and the outer wall is engaged with the outer mesh sleeve 230.

[0042] The three fixing rings mentioned above are all made of insulating engineering plastic, which rigidly connects the components at the front end of the equipment into a whole, ensuring the coaxiality between the central electrode 100 and each layer of mesh sleeve, and preventing the components from shifting or sticking due to water flow impact.

[0043] The tail-end hybrid support structure is located at the tail end of the equipment, on the backwater side, and includes: The fourth fixing ring 340 is located between the central electrode 100 and the inner mesh sleeve 210. It has the same structure as the first fixing ring 310 and is made of insulating engineering plastic. It rigidly connects the central electrode 100 and the inner mesh sleeve 210 at the tail end.

[0044] Multiple elastic support pieces 400 are disposed between the inner mesh sleeve 210 and the middle mesh sleeve 220, and between the middle mesh sleeve 220 and the outer mesh sleeve 230. In this embodiment, the elastic support pieces 400 are evenly distributed circumferentially, with a quantity of 8 pieces, and are made of 304 stainless steel by stamping. For details on the specific structure and function of the elastic support pieces 400, please refer to Embodiment 4.

[0045] As an alternative, the number of elastic support plates 400 can be selected between 6 and 8: 6 plates are suitable for small pipe diameters (DN50 and below), and 8 plates are suitable for large pipe diameters (DN80 and above). The elastic support plates 400 can also be made of spring steel, such as 65Mn, and subjected to surface galvanizing or epoxy coating for corrosion protection to reduce costs.

[0046] As an extension, for seawater cooling circulating water systems, which are characterized by high chlorine and strong corrosion, the elastic support plate 400 can be made of titanium alloy or Hastelloy alloy to resist chloride ion stress corrosion.

[0047] Example 4: This embodiment describes in detail the structure and working principle of the elastic support sheet 400. For example... Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the elastic support plate 400 has an asymmetrical arc-shaped structure, with a convex surface 410 on the side facing the forward water flow direction and a concave surface 420 on the side facing the reverse water flow direction.

[0048] Forward water flow: When the circulating water system is operating normally, the water flow direction is forward. The forward water flow impacts the convex surface 410 of the elastic support plate 400. Due to the guiding effect of the convex surface 410, the water flow pressure is converted into a radial force pointing towards the adjacent mesh sleeve or pipe wall, causing the elastic support plate 400 to adhere tightly to the adjacent mesh sleeve; for the elastic claws between the inner and middle layers, it may adhere tightly to the inner wall of the pipe; for the elastic claws between the middle and outer layers, when the gap between the outer mesh sleeve and the pipe wall is small, it can adhere tightly to the inner wall of the pipe. Thus, the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220 are fixed in the set position, and the entire device forms a rigid body, ensuring a stable electric field, stationary mesh sleeves, and no impact on the scale inhibition effect.

[0049] Reverse flow state: When the circulating water system starts regular backwashing, the water flow direction reverses. The reverse water flow impacts the concave surface 420 of the elastic support plate 400. The concave surface 420 absorbs water and is subjected to force. The water pressure is converted into a radial force away from the adjacent mesh sleeve or pipe wall, causing the elastic support plate 400 to spring outward, releasing the fixation of the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220. At this time, the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220 lose their rigid constraint and generate low-frequency micro-vibrations under the turbulent impact of the reverse water flow. This shakes off scale, sludge, silt and other impurities attached to the surface of the mesh sleeves, which are discharged from the system drain outlet with the reverse water flow.

[0050] The core advantage of this embodiment lies in the fact that it requires no motors, sensors, or control systems; it can automatically and precisely switch between two states—"forward rigid fixation" and "reverse vibration descaling"—simply by changing the water flow direction. This adaptive design works perfectly with the inherent backwashing process of the circulating water system, achieving zero-energy self-cleaning.

[0051] As an alternative, the radius of curvature of the elastic support plate 400 can be adjusted according to the water flow velocity: for high flow rate systems >2m / s, the radius of curvature of the convex surface 410 should be increased, such as R15mm, to reduce flow resistance; for low flow rate systems <1m / s, the radius of curvature of the convex surface 410 can be reduced, such as R8mm, to enhance the clamping force. The depth of the concave surface 420 can also be selected in the range of 3-8mm. The greater the depth, the greater the spring-off force during backwashing, but the forward water flow resistance also increases slightly.

[0052] Example 5: Based on Example 4, this example provides a further optimized phase difference design to enhance the descaling effect during backflushing.

[0053] Specifically, the thickness or arc height of adjacent elastic support plates 400 are set to different values. For example: Alternating thickness: The elastic support pieces numbered 1, 3, 5, and 7 have a thickness of 0.5 mm, while the elastic support pieces numbered 2, 4, 6, and 8 have a thickness of 0.6 mm.

[0054] Alternating arc heights: The arc heights of adjacent elastic support plates are set to alternate between 5mm and 6mm.

[0055] Due to differences in thickness or arc height, the elastic support plates exhibit varying spring-opening response speeds under reverse water flow—thinner or lower-arc plates spring open faster, while thicker or higher-arc plates spring open slower. Consequently, the elastic support plates do not spring open or rebound simultaneously, but rather exhibit asynchronous spring-opening and rebound with a phase difference.

[0056] This asynchronous motion causes different parts of the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220 to move in different directions at different times, generating multi-degree-of-freedom, wide-frequency irregular vibrations, rather than the single-frequency oscillations of synchronous vibration. This irregular vibration subjects the scale layer adhering to the mesh sleeve surface to alternating stresses in multiple directions, making it more prone to micro-cracks that gradually expand, peel, and detach. Experiments show that the descaling efficiency of the phase difference design is approximately 20%–30% higher than that of synchronous vibration, without affecting the stable support performance during forward water flow.

[0057] As an alternative, the phase difference can also be achieved by changing the width of the elastic support plate 400 or the elastic modulus of the material. As an extended solution, for applications with extremely high descaling requirements (such as nuclear power plant circulating water systems), a three-layer differentiated design can be adopted: the thickness, arc height, and width are all different, to achieve a more complex vibration spectrum.

[0058] Example 6: This embodiment further defines the structure of each fixing ring, specifically the first to fourth fixing rings. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, each fixing ring is provided with flow holes 301 evenly distributed along the circumference of the ring. In this embodiment, the flow holes 301 are circular holes with a diameter of 5 mm, and there are 8 of them, which are distributed at equal angles along the circumference of the ring.

[0059] Traditional fixed rings are solid circular structures that obstruct water flow, creating eddies and dead zones behind them. This not only increases pressure loss but also causes water flow stagnation in some areas of the mesh, affecting scale removal efficiency. This invention features evenly distributed flow holes 301 on each fixed ring, allowing water to flow smoothly through them and fundamentally eliminating the obstruction effect.

[0060] The design has at least three technical advantages: (1) The water flow is evenly distributed to the entire cross section of the mesh sleeve to avoid local stagnation and ensure that the surface of each layer of mesh sleeve can effectively contact the water flow, so as to give full play to the graded scale collection function; (2) Eliminate eddy current disturbances to make the electric field distribution more stable and uniform, and avoid the interference of flow field disturbances on the electric field polarization to form scale ions; (3) Significantly reduces overall pressure loss. The measured initial pressure loss is <5kPa, which makes the device suitable for large-flow industrial circulating water systems. Moreover, the pressure loss increases slowly after long-term operation, and is <20kPa at full load.

[0061] As an alternative, the shape of the flow orifice 301 is not limited to a circle; it can also be an oblong, fan-shaped, or polygonal orifice. The orifice diameter can be selected within the range of 3–10 mm, and the number of orifices can be adjusted between 6 and 12 depending on the outer diameter of the fixing ring. For large-diameter systems, DN200 and above, the flow orifice 301 can be designed as an oblong orifice evenly distributed along the circumference to increase the flow area.

[0062] As an extension, the flow hole 301 of the fixed ring can also be designed as an inclined hole, forming an angle of 15°-30° with the axial direction, so that a slight vortex is generated when the water flows through, further enhancing the scouring effect on the surface of the mesh sleeve and reducing scale adhesion.

[0063] Example 7 This embodiment describes the overall structure and installation method of the equipment. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the equipment is an integrated axial cylindrical structure. All components, including the central electrode 100, nested mesh sleeve 200, insulating support assembly 300, and elastic support plate 400, are pre-assembled into a single module. The equipment is directly connected in series in the main circulating water pipeline, and is connected to the pipeline through flanges at both ends. There is no need to set up a separate drain outlet, nor is it necessary to modify the original pipeline.

[0064] During installation, ensure the water flow direction aligns with the positive direction indicated on the equipment; typically, a flow direction arrow is engraved on the equipment casing. The front end of the equipment faces the inlet direction, and the rear end, with the elastic support plate, faces the outlet direction. For horizontal pipelines, the equipment can be installed horizontally; for vertical pipelines, the equipment can also be installed vertically, with the elastic support plate 400 providing sufficient radial support even with positive water flow.

[0065] As an alternative, for pipelines where flange connections are not feasible, such as plastic pipes, clamp-type quick-connect fittings can be used. For small-diameter systems, below DN50, the equipment can be directly inserted into the pipeline and fixed by the friction between the elastic support plate 400 and the pipe wall, without the need for flanges.

[0066] As an extension solution, for ultra-large circulating water systems, such as main pipelines of power plants with a diameter of DN1000 or larger, multiple units of this equipment can be installed in parallel within the pipeline, with a certain distance between each unit, to form a multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition array, achieving full-section coverage without dead angles.

[0067] Example 8 This embodiment summarizes the material selection and alternative solutions for each component.

[0068] Insulating retaining rings, first to fourth retaining rings: The preferred material is polyoxymethylene (POM), which has high mechanical strength, good dimensional stability, excellent insulation properties, and hydrolysis resistance, making it suitable for industrial circulating water with a water temperature ≤80℃. Alternative materials include: Rigid polyvinyl chloride: Lower cost, but poorer temperature resistance, ≤60℃; Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): Excellent temperature resistance (≤200℃), strongest corrosion resistance, but higher price and more difficult to process; Nylon 66: It has good toughness, but its dimensional stability is slightly worse after absorbing moisture.

[0069] Elastic support sheet: The preferred material is 304 stainless steel, which has good elasticity, fatigue resistance, and corrosion resistance, suitable for most industrial circulating water; pH 6-9, chloride ion ≤200ppm. Alternative materials include: 316L stainless steel: suitable for high-chlorine environments, chloride ion ≤1000ppm, with superior pitting corrosion resistance; Titanium alloy TC4: Suitable for seawater or highly corrosive media, but expensive; Phosphor bronze: Suitable for magnetically sensitive systems, such as precision instrument cooling; it has good elasticity but slightly lower strength.

[0070] Nested mesh sleeve: 304 stainless steel woven mesh or perforated mesh is preferred, selected according to the required aperture size. Alternative materials include 316L stainless steel, pure nickel, or Hastelloy.

[0071] Center electrode: Preferably a solid 304 stainless steel rod with a polished surface to reduce scale buildup. Alternative materials include 316L stainless steel, titanium alloy, or platinum-plated titanium, which enhance conductivity and corrosion resistance.

[0072] Example 9 This embodiment provides an industrial circulating water system, such as Figure 1 As shown, the system includes multiple multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition devices as described above. These devices can be installed in series or in parallel in the main pipeline, depending on the pipe diameter, flow rate, and water quality.

[0073] Series installation: Suitable for systems with poor water quality and a high tendency to scale. Water flows through multiple devices in sequence, achieving multi-stage electric field treatment and multi-stage scale removal, with the scale inhibition effect increasing progressively.

[0074] Parallel installation: Suitable for high-flow-rate systems, such as condenser circulating water in power plants. Multiple devices are arranged in parallel at different locations on the main pipeline or in branch pipelines to achieve uniform electric field coverage throughout the entire pipeline without dead zones.

[0075] During normal system operation, all devices are powered on and in forward water flow mode, working together to efficiently inhibit scale buildup in the circulating water. When the system performs routine backwashing, typically 1-2 times per day for 5-10 minutes each time, the water flow direction is reversed, and each device automatically switches to backwashing mode. The reverse water flow completes the self-cleaning of the mesh sleeves, and the detached scale is discharged from the system with the backwash water. The entire process requires no manual intervention, achieving automated synergy between scale inhibition and cleaning.

[0076] As an extension, this system can also be linked with online water quality monitoring instruments, such as conductivity, hardness, and turbidity sensors, to automatically adjust the voltage of the central electrode or the backwashing frequency according to changes in water quality, thus achieving intelligent operation.

[0077] In actual work process: Based on the above embodiments, the complete working process of the multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water of the present invention is as follows: Step 1: Installation and Initial Setup Connect the entire unit axially in series with the main circulating water pipeline, using flanges or clamps to ensure the front end of the unit faces the inlet and the rear end faces the outlet. Flow direction arrows are engraved on the unit's casing; verify their accuracy during installation. The unit does not require a separate drain outlet; the existing backwash drain outlet of the circulating water system can be used.

[0078] Step 2: Normal operating status When the circulating water system is operating normally, the water flow direction is positive. The positive water flow first passes through the evenly distributed flow holes 301 on the front fixed ring assembly and is evenly distributed to the entire mesh sleeve cross section, and then flows through the outer mesh sleeve 230, the middle mesh sleeve 220 and the inner mesh sleeve 210 in sequence.

[0079] The water flow impacts the convex surface 410 of the elastic support plate 400, causing each elastic support plate 400 to adhere tightly to the adjacent mesh sleeve or the inner wall 500 of the pipe, thus fixing the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220 in the set position. At the same time, the central electrode 100 is energized to generate a high-voltage electric field, which, after being processed by the hollow structure of the inner mesh sleeve 210, forms a uniform electric field covering the entire cross-section.

[0080] Under the influence of the electric field, scale-forming ions in the water are polarized, making it difficult for them to crystallize and precipitate. Simultaneously, the already precipitated microcrystalline scale preferentially adsorbs onto the surface of the inner mesh sleeve 210, where the electric field strength is highest. Sludge and large scale particles are captured in the middle mesh sleeve 220, while coarse silt is intercepted in the outer mesh sleeve 230. Due to the isolation provided by the insulating support component 300 and the preferential scale capture by the mesh sleeve, the central electrode 100 remains clean, and the electric field remains stable and does not decay.

[0081] Step 3: Backwash until clean, reverse the water flow, and then disconnect the power.

[0082] When the circulating water system starts backwashing according to the conventional process, it is usually done 1-2 times a day. The water flow direction is reversed, and it flows from the tail end to the front end. The reverse water flow first impacts the concave surface 420 of the elastic support plate 400, causing each elastic support plate 400 to spring outward, releasing the fixed constraint on the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220.

[0083] After the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220 lose their rigid support, they generate low-frequency micro-vibrations under the turbulent impact of the reverse water flow. If a phase difference optimization design is adopted, and the thickness or arc height of adjacent elastic support plates are different, the elastic support plates will asynchronously open and rebound, causing different parts of the mesh sleeve to move in different directions at different times, generating broadband, irregular, and complex vibrations. The above vibrations shake off and peel off impurities such as scale, sludge, and silt adhering to the surface of the mesh sleeve.

[0084] After being removed, the impurities flow with the reverse water flow to the front of the equipment and eventually flow into the drain outlet of the circulating water system, eliminating the need to set up a separate drain outlet for this equipment.

[0085] Step 4: Reset and Loop After backwashing, the forward water flow resumes, and the convex surface 410 of the elastic support plate 400 is impacted by the forward water flow again. Each elastic support plate re-adheres tightly against the adjacent mesh sleeve or pipe wall, fixing the outer mesh sleeve 230 and the middle mesh sleeve 220 back to their set positions. The equipment automatically resets to normal operation without manual intervention.

[0086] The switching between forward and reverse water flow relies entirely on the inherent backwashing process of the circulating water system, requiring no additional valves or control systems. During normal system operation, the equipment continuously inhibits and removes scale, and automatically cleans the mesh during backwashing, repeating the cycle continuously to achieve long-term maintenance-free operation.

[0087] In summary, the multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water is not only reasonably designed and simple to operate, but also effectively achieves the synergistic scale inhibition effect of multi-ion rods in industrial circulating water. Furthermore, the overall process consumes little energy, and the discharge, descaling, and scale prevention are easy, making it suitable for industry promotion.

[0088] Numerous specific details are set forth in this specification. However, it will be understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.

[0089] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of the present invention.

Claims

1. A multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water, characterized in that, include: The center electrode is used to generate a high-voltage electric field after energization. At least one nested mesh sleeve is coaxially disposed outside the central electrode; and An insulating support assembly is disposed between the central electrode and the nested mesh sleeve, for insulating and fixing the central electrode and the nested mesh sleeve.

2. The multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 1, characterized in that, The nested mesh has at least three layers, including an inner mesh, a middle mesh, and an outer mesh; The inner mesh sleeve has the smallest pore size and is used to adsorb calcium and magnesium microcrystalline scale; the middle mesh sleeve has a larger pore size than the inner mesh sleeve and is used to capture slime and large particles of scale; the outer mesh sleeve has a larger pore size than the middle mesh sleeve and is used to intercept silt and suspended solids.

3. The multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insulating support assembly includes a front-end fixing ring group and a rear-end hybrid support structure; The front-end fixing ring assembly is located at the front end of the device and includes a first fixing ring between the central electrode and the inner mesh sleeve, a second fixing ring between the inner mesh sleeve and the middle mesh sleeve, and a third fixing ring between the middle mesh sleeve and the outer mesh sleeve. Each fixing ring is made of insulating engineering plastic and is used to rigidly connect the various components at the front end of the device into one unit. The tail-end hybrid support structure includes a fourth fixing ring between the central electrode and the inner mesh sleeve, and multiple elastic support pieces disposed between the inner mesh sleeve and the middle mesh sleeve, and between the middle mesh sleeve and the outer mesh sleeve; the fourth fixing ring is made of insulating engineering plastic, and the elastic support pieces are made of stainless steel.

4. The multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic support sheet has an asymmetrical arc-shaped structure, with a convex surface on the side facing the forward water flow direction and a concave surface on the side facing the reverse water flow direction. Specifically, when the water flow direction is forward, the water flow impacts the convex surface, causing the elastic support piece to adhere tightly to the adjacent mesh sleeve, thus fixing the outer and middle mesh sleeves in a set position; when the water flow direction is reverse, the water flow impacts the concave surface, causing the elastic support piece to spring outward, releasing the fixation of the outer and middle mesh sleeves, so that the outer and middle mesh sleeves generate relative vibration under the impact of the reverse water flow.

5. The multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first, second, third, and fourth fixed rings are all provided with flow holes evenly distributed along the circumference of the ring for water to flow through.

6. The multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic support pieces are evenly distributed circumferentially along the tail end of the insulating support assembly, and the number of pieces is 6 to 8.

7. The multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device is an integrated axial cylindrical structure that is directly connected in series in the main circulating water pipeline and does not have a separate drain outlet.

8. The multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central electrode is a cylindrical metal electrode, and the nested mesh sleeve is made of stainless steel.

9. A multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition device for industrial circulating water according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first, second, third, and fourth fixing rings are all made of insulating engineering plastic, and the elastic support sheet is made of stainless steel.

10. An industrial circulating water system, characterized in that, It includes multiple multi-ion rod synergistic scale inhibition devices for industrial circulating water as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the multiple devices operate in concert to achieve scale inhibition treatment of circulating water.

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