A bowl centrifugal separation device and a material separation method

Abstract

The application discloses a bowl centrifugal separation device and a material separation method, and relates to the technical field of centrifugal separation equipment. The disc group comprises alternately arranged first discs and second discs. The first discs are provided with outer side overflow ports, and the second discs are provided with inner side overflow ports. The outer side overflow ports are located on the outer side of the inner side overflow ports in the radial direction, and form resistance flow cooperation in the corresponding radial area to limit the direct flow of the main flow material across the layers, so that the main flow across the layers of adjacent separation flow channels is alternately connected in the axial direction, and the material flows radially in the plurality of separation flow channels. The separated liquid phase and the solid phase-containing concentrate are respectively collected into the supernatant collection area and the precipitate collection area, and are continuously discharged through the static discharge pipe and the rotary sealing structure. The discharge pressure difference driving assembly drives the solid phase-containing concentrate to be transported from the rotating side to the static side. The application can prolong the effective separation path and improve the stability of continuous discharge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of centrifugal separation equipment technology, and in particular to a rotating bowl centrifugal separation device and a material separation method. Background Technology

[0002] In fields such as biopharmaceuticals, cell culture, food processing, chemical engineering, and wastewater treatment, it is often necessary to separate the solid and liquid phases in suspensions. Disc centrifuges typically use multiple layers of discs within a rotating component. The centrifugal force generated by high-speed rotation causes the material to undergo radial stratification within the gaps between the discs, thus achieving solid-liquid separation.

[0003] In some existing disc centrifuges, materials flow in a essentially single radial direction within the gaps between a single or limited number of discs. Limited by the radial dimensions of the equipment and the disc spacing, the effective separation path and residence time are finite. For materials with small solid particle sizes, small solid-liquid density differences, or requiring high clarification precision, the material may leave the separation zone before completing sufficient migration, affecting the liquid-phase clarification effect and the degree of solid-phase concentration.

[0004] On the other hand, the solid-phase concentrate formed during centrifugal separation is located in a high-speed rotating zone. If periodic shutdowns or intermittent discharge methods are used, the continuous processing efficiency will be affected; if the concentrate is discharged directly from the rotating zone to the stationary pipeline, the sealing, pressure difference, and two-phase isolation between the rotating components and the stationary pipeline must be taken into account, otherwise discharge fluctuations, leaks, or back mixing of the separated products may easily occur.

[0005] Therefore, how to improve the utilization of materials in multiple separation channels, extend the effective separation path, and ensure that the separated liquid phase and solid-containing concentrate can be stably discharged from the rotating area to the stationary pipeline within the limited size of the disc assembly is a challenge that needs to be further addressed in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the problems of limited effective separation paths, insufficient utilization of multiple separation channels, and insufficient stability of solid-phase concentrates discharged from the rotating zone to the stationary pipeline in existing centrifugal separation equipment, this application provides a rotary bowl centrifugal separation device and a material separation method.

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides a rotating bowl centrifugal separation device, including a rotating bowl, a feeding assembly, and a disc assembly.

[0008] The rotating bowl is rotatable about a central axis and has a receiving cavity; the disc group is disposed in the receiving cavity and rotates about the central axis with the rotating bowl, the disc group includes a plurality of discs arranged at intervals along the central axis, and a separation channel is formed between two adjacent discs.

[0009] The plurality of discs includes a first disc and a second disc alternately arranged along the central axis. The first disc has an outer flow port, and the second disc has an inner flow port. The outer flow port is located radially outside the inner flow port. The radially inner side of the first disc and the adjacent disc, as well as the radially outer side of the second disc and the adjacent disc, respectively form flow-blocking mechanisms to restrict the direct cross-layer passage of the mainstream material. Along the central axis, the connection points between adjacent separation channels for the cross-layer flow of the mainstream material are sequentially formed by the outer flow port and the inner flow port, so as to form a series separation flow path that allows the material to be separated to flow alternately radially outward and radially inward.

[0010] The feeding assembly has a feeding channel that communicates with the inlet of the series separation flow path; the receiving cavity is provided with a supernatant collection area located radially inside the disc group and communicating with the separation flow path, and a precipitate collection area located radially outside the disc group and communicating with the separation flow path.

[0011] By adopting the above technical solution, the corresponding flow-blocking cooperation of the first and second discs restricts the direct cross-layer flow of the mainstream material at non-predetermined positions. This ensures that the cross-layer position of the mainstream material between adjacent separation channels is sequentially defined by the outer and inner flow ports, allowing the mainstream material to pass through multiple adjacent separation channels along the central axis, forming a series of alternating radially outward and radially inward separation paths. With the overall equipment size remaining essentially unchanged, this approach increases the participation of multiple separation channels and extends the effective separation path of the mainstream material.

[0012] Preferably, the rotating bowl has a bowl body and a closed bottom connected to the lower end of the bowl body. The lower end of the disc group and the closed bottom are spaced apart along the central axis to form a feeding and distributing cavity. The outlet of the feeding channel is located in the feeding and distributing cavity. The radial outer side of the feeding and distributing cavity is connected to the inlet of the series separation flow path.

[0013] By adopting the above technical solution, the material to be separated enters the feeding distribution chamber through the feeding channel, and is distributed radially outward under the action of the rotating bowl, and then enters the series separation flow path of the disc group, which helps to reduce the local load difference caused by uneven circumferential feeding.

[0014] Preferably, each disc includes a conical disc body and an inner peripheral portion and an outer peripheral portion formed radially inner and radially outer of the conical disc body, respectively. The inner peripheral portion of the first disc forms a sealing flow-blocking fit with the adjacent disc, and the outer peripheral portion of the second disc forms a flow-blocking fit with the adjacent disc to restrict the direct passage of mainstream material across layers. Each separation channel has a liquid phase separation branch outlet on its radially inner side that communicates with the supernatant collection area, and a solid phase separation branch outlet on its radially outer side that communicates with the precipitate collection area. The liquid phase separation branch outlet and the solid phase separation branch outlet are respectively used to divert the liquid phase and solid phase concentrate that migrate to the corresponding radial side in the separation channel from the series separation channels to the corresponding collection area.

[0015] By adopting the above technical solution, the flow obstruction cooperation between the inner periphery of the first disc and the outer periphery of the second disc, together with the inner and outer flow ports, defines the cross-layer position of the mainstream material; the outlet of the liquid phase separation branch and the outlet of the solid phase separation branch are respectively set on different radial sides of the separation channel, which are used to divert the liquid phase and the solid phase concentrate that have migrated to the corresponding radial region under the action of centrifugal force to the corresponding collection area. The mainstream material that is not separated by the phase separation branch continues to enter the subsequent separation channel along the series separation channel, thereby taking into account both multi-stage series separation and the gradual outflow of separation products.

[0016] Preferably, a plurality of spacer positioning members are provided between two adjacent conical plates, spaced apart around the central axis. The two ends of each spacer positioning member abut against the two adjacent conical plates respectively, so as to limit the height of the corresponding separation channel along the central axis.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, the spacer positioning component maintains a relatively stable distance between adjacent discs, which is beneficial to maintaining the flow cross section and separation state of each separation channel.

[0018] Preferably, the outer flow port includes a plurality of outer through holes spaced apart around the central axis and penetrating the first disc. The outer through holes are provided with a smooth flow guiding structure for reducing the flow resistance during reversal. The smooth flow guiding structure includes an arc transition portion disposed between the hole wall of the outer through hole and the surface of the first disc, or is composed of a flow guiding hole segment whose cross-section gradually changes along the material flow direction.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solutions, the smooth flow guiding structure reduces the local flow resistance and severe disturbance of the mainstream material when it changes direction and crosses layers at the outer flow port, which helps to reduce energy loss.

[0020] Preferably, the inner flow port includes a plurality of inner through holes spaced apart around the central axis and penetrating the second disc, and the second disc is provided with a guide connected to the edge of the inner through holes and inclined toward the adjacent separation channel on the material inflow side.

[0021] By adopting the above technical solution, the guide component guides the material that has been diverted through the inner through hole, so that the material can enter the next separation channel more smoothly.

[0022] Preferably, the system further includes a supernatant discharge assembly, which includes a supernatant drain pipe that is stationary relative to the rotating bowl, and a supernatant rotary sealing assembly disposed between the supernatant drain pipe and the rotating bowl. The supernatant drain pipe is connected to the supernatant collection area. The supernatant rotary sealing assembly includes a first rotary seal that rotates with the rotating bowl and a first stationary seal that remains stationary with the supernatant drain pipe. The first rotary seal and the first stationary seal are rotary sealingly engaged.

[0023] By adopting the above technical solution, the liquid phase in the supernatant collection area can be transitioned to the stationary supernatant drain pipe through the rotating sealing interface, which facilitates connection with external stationary pipelines and continuous outflow.

[0024] Preferably, the system further includes a sediment discharge assembly and a discharge pressure differential drive assembly. The sediment discharge assembly includes a rotary conveying section that rotates with the rotary bowl, a sediment discharge pipe that is stationary relative to the rotary bowl, and a sediment rotary sealing assembly disposed between the rotary conveying section and the sediment discharge pipe. The inlet of the rotary conveying section is connected to the sediment collection area, and the outlet is connected to the sediment discharge pipe through the sediment rotary sealing assembly. The discharge pressure differential drive assembly is connected to the sediment discharge pipe and is used to make the pressure on the sediment discharge pipe side lower than the pressure in the sediment collection area, so as to drive the solid-phase concentrate from the sediment collection area through the rotary conveying section into the sediment discharge pipe.

[0025] By adopting the above technical solution, the discharge pressure difference drive component establishes a discharge pressure difference between the sediment collection area and the sediment discharge pipe, so that the solid-phase concentrate can be transported from the radially outer rotating area of ​​the rotating bowl to the center side through the rotating conveying section, and enter the stationary sediment discharge pipe through the rotating sealing interface, thereby realizing continuous discharge.

[0026] Preferably, the rotating bowl includes an outer core and an inner core. The rotating conveying section includes a sediment conveying passage extending from the sediment collection area to the inner core along the outer core, multiple transmission channels extending from the outer periphery to the center of the inner core and spaced apart around the central axis, and a rotating discharge collection cavity located at the center of the inner core and connected to the multiple transmission channels. The rotating discharge collection cavity is connected to the sediment discharge pipe through the sediment rotating sealing assembly. The discharge pressure differential driving assembly includes a suction pump whose inlet is connected to the sediment discharge pipe. The sediment discharge pipe is sleeved on the radially outer side of the supernatant drainage pipe, forming an annular discharge channel between them. A static isolation seal is provided between the supernatant drainage pipe and the sediment discharge pipe. The bottom of the sediment collection area is also provided with an arc-shaped guide structure that rotates with the rotating bowl. The arc-shaped guide structure includes multiple curved blades spaced apart around the central axis, and a fluid channel is formed between adjacent curved blades to guide the solid-phase concentrate to the inlet of the sediment conveying passage.

[0027] By adopting the above technical solution, the solid-phase concentrate is sequentially transported from the outer periphery to the center through the sediment transport passage, the transmission channel, and the rotating discharge collection chamber. The supernatant and the solid-phase concentrate are respectively drawn out through isolated static channels in the central region. The structure is concentrated and helps to reduce backmixing. The arc-shaped guide structure rotates synchronously with the rotating bowl, which can form a circumferential carrying effect on the solid-phase concentrate at the bottom of the sediment collection area and guide it towards the discharge inlet, reducing local stagnation.

[0028] Secondly, this application provides a material separation method using the aforementioned rotary bowl centrifugal separator, comprising the following steps: Drive the rotating bowl and the disc assembly to rotate synchronously around the central axis; The material to be separated is supplied to the disc assembly through the feed channel, and a flow pressure difference is formed between the feed side and the separation product discharge side, which causes the mainstream material to be continuously advanced along the series separation flow path. The material to be separated flows radially outward in one of the separation channels and enters the adjacent separation channel through the outer flow port. Then it flows radially inward in the adjacent separation channel and enters the next separation channel through the inner flow port, so as to flow through multiple separation channels in sequence along the central axis direction. During the process of the material to be separated flowing through multiple separation channels, the liquid phase in the material migrates radially inward to the disc group and is diverted from the series separation flow path into the supernatant collection area, while the solid-phase concentrate migrates radially outward to the disc group and is diverted from the series separation flow path into the precipitate collection area. The liquid phase in the supernatant collection area is discharged through the supernatant drainage pipe; and A discharge pressure difference is formed between the sediment collection area and the sediment discharge pipe, causing the solid-phase concentrate to enter the sediment discharge pipe through the rotary conveyor section and be discharged.

[0029] By adopting the above technical solution, the series separation flow path increases the participation of multiple separation channels; the total flow pressure difference formed between the feed end and the discharge end provides the driving force for the mainstream material to continuously advance along the series flow path, so that even if there are radially inward flow sections in the local flow channels, the material can still flow backward in the restricted mainstream cross-layer path; after the liquid phase and the solid-containing concentrate migrate to the corresponding radial side, they are continuously discharged through the phase separation branch, thereby realizing continuous solid-liquid separation.

[0030] In summary, this application has at least the following beneficial technical effects: 1. By alternatingly setting the outer and inner flow ports and corresponding flow obstruction to limit the cross-layer position of the mainstream material, multiple separation channels are connected in series to form a radial reciprocating and axially progressive flow path, which improves the utilization of multiple separation channels in the disc group and extends the effective separation path. 2. Setting the outlets of the liquid phase separation branch and the solid phase separation branch on different radial sides of the separation channel allows the different separation products that have completed radial migration in the centrifugal force field to be diverted from the main path into the corresponding collection area, which helps to reduce the remixing of the separated two phases. 3. Through the cooperation of the rotary conveying section, rotary sealing assembly and discharge differential pressure drive assembly, the solid-phase concentrate can be continuously conveyed from the rotating area to the stationary discharge pipe and isolated from the supernatant discharge path, thereby improving the stability of continuous discharge. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments are briefly described below. The drawings are used to illustrate the structure and positional relationships of this application and are not intended to limit the actual proportions of each component.

[0032] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram of the overall three-dimensional structure of the rotating bowl centrifugal separator provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 : A schematic cross-sectional view of the rotating bowl centrifugal separation device provided in this application embodiment; Figure 3 : A partial cross-sectional structural diagram of the rotating bowl centrifugal separation device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This application provides an exploded view of the disc assembly and its upper discharge connection structure in an embodiment. Figure 5 : A schematic diagram of a partial cross-sectional structure of a disc provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 : A schematic cross-sectional view of the overall structure of the centrifugal separator when the outer outlet moves toward the center of the conical plate in the embodiment of this application; Figure 7 : A schematic diagram of the disc structure when the outer flow port moves toward the middle of the conical disc in the embodiment of this application; Figure 8 : A cross-sectional view of the arc-shaped flow guide structure located inside the rotating bowl in the embodiment of this application; Figure 9 : A schematic diagram of the arc-shaped flow guide structure in the embodiments of this application.

[0033] Reference numerals: 1. Rotating bowl; 11. Bowl body; 12. Closed bottom; 13. Receiving cavity; 14. Supernatant collection area; 15. Sediment collection area; 16. Feed distribution cavity; 17. Outer core of rotating bowl; 18. Inner core of rotating bowl; 2. Disc assembly; 21. First disc; 211. Conical disc body; 212. Inner circumference; 213. Outer circumference; 214. Outer flow port; 215. Outer through hole; 216. Arc transition section; 22. Second disc; 221. Inner flow port; 222. Inner through hole; 23. Separation channel; 24. Liquid phase separation branch outlet; 25. Solid phase separation branch outlet; 26. Spacer positioning element; 3. Feed assembly; 31. Feed channel; 4. Supernatant discharge assembly; 41. Supernatant drainage pipe; 42. Supernatant rotary sealing assembly; 421. First rotary seal; 422. First stationary seal; 5. Sediment discharge assembly; 51. Rotary conveyor section; 511. Sediment conveying passage; 512. Transmission channel; 513. Rotary discharge collection chamber; 52. Sediment discharge pipe; 521. Annular discharge channel; 53. Sediment rotary sealing assembly; 54. Static isolation seal; 100. Central axis; 200. Arc-shaped flow guide structure. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The following combination Figures 1 to 9 The structure, working process, and different setup methods of this application will be further explained.

[0035] In the description of this application, the term "central axis" refers to the axis around which the rotating bowl rotates; "radial" refers to the direction perpendicular to the central axis and pointing towards or away from the central axis, with the side closer to the central axis being the radial inner side and the side farther from the central axis being the radial outer side; "upper" and "lower" are based on the relative orientation of the rotating bowl in the installation state shown in the attached drawings, and are used only for ease of description and do not constitute a limitation on the actual orientation for use.

[0036] See Figures 1 to 3This embodiment provides a rotating bowl centrifugal separation device, including a rotating bowl 1, a feeding assembly 3, a disc assembly 2, a supernatant discharge assembly 4, a precipitate discharge assembly 5, and a discharge pressure differential drive assembly.

[0037] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 The rotating bowl 1 is rotatable about a central axis 100 and has a receiving cavity 13. The rotating bowl 1 has a bowl body 11 and a closed bottom 12 connected to the lower end of the bowl body 11, which together form the receiving cavity 13. In this embodiment, the rotating bowl 1 also includes an outer core 17 and an inner core 18. The outer core 17 forms the outer periphery and lower part of the receiving cavity 13, and the inner core 18 is located at the upper center of the receiving cavity 13. The two are assembled and connected and rotate synchronously about the central axis 100. The rotating bowl 1 can be driven to rotate at high speed by a motor and a main shaft or other drive mechanism. The drive mechanism itself can adopt a conventional structure in the field of centrifugal equipment and is not shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0038] The receiving cavity 13 is provided with a supernatant collection area 14 located radially inward of the disc group 2 and a precipitate collection area 15 located radially outward of the disc group 2. The supernatant collection area 14 is used to collect the liquid phase migrating radially inward, and the precipitate collection area 15 is used to collect the solid-phase concentrate migrating radially outward.

[0039] Disc assembly 2 is disposed within receiving cavity 13 and rotates with rotating bowl 1 around central axis 100. Disc assembly 2 includes multiple discs arranged at intervals along central axis 100, with separation channels 23 formed between adjacent discs. The multiple discs include first disc 21 and second disc 22 alternately arranged along central axis 100.

[0040] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 Each disc includes a conical body 211 and an inner peripheral portion 212 and an outer peripheral portion 213 formed radially inside and radially outside the conical body 211, respectively. The first disc 21 has an outer flow port 214, and the second disc 22 has an inner flow port 221, wherein the outer flow port 214 is located radially outside the inner flow port 221. Here, "outer flow port" indicates that it has a larger radial position relative to the inner flow port, and does not limit it to being adjacent to the outer peripheral portion 213.

[0041] A first flow-blocking region is formed between the radially inner side of the first disc 21 and the adjacent disc, and a second flow-blocking region is formed between the radially outer side of the second disc 22 and the adjacent disc. The first and second flow-blocking regions are used to restrict the mainstream material from directly entering the adjacent separation channel 23 across layers at the corresponding radial positions, so that the main connection positions for the mainstream material to flow across layers are alternately formed by the outer flow port 214 and the inner flow port 221.

[0042] In one specific configuration of this embodiment, the inner periphery 212 of the first disc 21 can be sealed and fitted with the corresponding portion of the adjacent second disc 22, thereby forming a first flow-blocking region; the outer periphery 213 of the second disc 22 and the corresponding portion of the adjacent first disc 21 can retain the necessary assembly gap, but this gap, as part of the flow-blocking fit, does not serve as a predetermined cross-layer passage for the mainstream material. In other words, when the mainstream material changes layers between adjacent separation channels 23, it mainly passes through sequentially along the path defined by the outer flow port 214 and the inner flow port 221, thereby avoiding the formation of a large-flow cross-layer short circuit that bypasses multiple separation channels 23.

[0043] Furthermore, the "flow-blocking fit" on the radially outer side of the second disc 22 in this embodiment does not require an absolute seal between the outer periphery 213 of the second disc 22 and the adjacent discs at all positions. Rather, it requires that the radially outer region does not form a main flow channel for a large amount of mainstream material to flow directly across layers. When there is an assembly gap between the outer periphery 213 of the second disc 22 and the adjacent first disc 21, the assembly gap is mainly used to meet the dimensional fit requirements of the discs during assembly, positioning, and rotation. The main cross-layer path of the mainstream material between adjacent separation channels 23 is still defined by the inner flow port 221. Thus, the sealing flow-blocking fit on the radially inner side of the first disc 21 and the flow-blocking fit on the radially outer side of the second disc 22 together restrict the mainstream material from bypassing the predetermined flow position and flowing directly across layers, so that the outer flow port 214 and the inner flow port 221 respectively constitute the main cross-layer connection positions between adjacent separation channels 23. The flow resistance at this location is made higher than the flow resistance of the predetermined cross-layer passage formed by the outer flow port 214 or the inner flow port 221, so that the mainstream material mainly flows across layers along the predetermined flow position.

[0044] Thus, along the central axis 100, the main flow layer positions between adjacent separation channels 23 alternate between radially outer and radially inner positions. After the material to be separated flows radially outward in one separation channel 23, it enters the adjacent separation channel 23 through the outer overflow port 214, then flows radially inward in the adjacent separation channel 23 and enters the next separation channel 23 through the inner overflow port 221, thereby forming a series separation flow path that reciprocates radially and advances layer by layer along the central axis 100.

[0045] In this embodiment, "series" in the series separation flow path refers to the mainstream material sequentially passing through multiple adjacent separation channels 23 along the central axis 100. Adjacent separation channels 23 are exchanged layer by layer through outer or inner flow ports 214 or 221 located at corresponding radial positions. The mainstream material in one separation channel 23 enters the next adjacent separation channel 23 through the corresponding flow port, then flows in the opposite radial direction and continues through the next corresponding flow position into the subsequent separation channel 23. This allows multiple consecutive separation channels 23 to participate in the separation process sequentially in the mainstream propulsion direction.

[0046] The aforementioned series connection differs from the method of using multiple separation channels as independent parallel separation channels. In this application, the mainstream material that is not separated from the liquid phase separation branch outlet 24 or the solid phase separation branch outlet 25 needs to continue to enter the subsequent adjacent separation channel 23, so that the same mainstream material can be continuously separated using multiple separation channels 23.

[0047] To ensure the stable establishment of the aforementioned series flow under high-speed rotation, the feed assembly 3 continuously supplies material to the series separation flow path, while the separated product discharge side continuously discharges liquid phase and solid-phase concentrate, creating a total flow pressure difference between the feed side and the separated product discharge side along the direction of the series flow path. This total flow pressure difference, combined with the constrained mainstream cross-layer position, causes the mainstream material to continuously advance along the series flow path; therefore, in the locally radially inward flow section, the movement of the mainstream material is driven by the total pressure difference at both ends of the series flow path, rather than being determined solely by the local centrifugal pressure gradient.

[0048] For the radially inward flow section of the series separation flow path, the mainstream material needs to overcome the centrifugal pressure difference generated by the radial position difference under rotation, as well as the flow resistance generated when the material flows through the separation channel 23, the inner outlet 221, and the outer outlet 214. Therefore, in actual operation, the total driving pressure difference between the feed side and the separation product discharge side can be adjusted by adjusting the feed side pressure, feed flow rate, and separation product discharge side pressure to maintain the continuous flow of material along the series separation flow path.

[0049] When the rotary bowl speed increases, the material density increases, or the radial distance traversed by a single radial inward flow increases, the requirement for total driving pressure difference increases accordingly. Conversely, by shortening the radial distance between the outer overflow port 214 and the inner overflow port 221, reducing the local resistance at the corresponding overflow position, or reducing the flow rate in the series separation flow path, the resistance that the radial inward flow section needs to overcome can be reduced. Therefore, the rotational speed, feed pressure, and discharge side pressure can be matched according to the specific material and operating conditions to maintain stable propulsion of the series flow path.

[0050] See Figure 2Each separation channel 23 has a liquid phase separation branch outlet 24 on its radially inner side, which communicates with the supernatant collection area 14, and a solid phase separation branch outlet 25 on its radially outer side, which communicates with the precipitate collection area 15. The liquid phase separation branch outlet 24 and the solid phase separation branch outlet 25 are phase-separated branches relative to the main series path, rather than the main cross-layer path between adjacent separation channels 23.

[0051] The liquid phase separation branch outlet 24 and solid phase separation branch outlet 25 serve different functions from the outer overflow port 214 and inner overflow port 221. The outer overflow port 214 and inner overflow port 221 are used to establish the main series connection between adjacent separation channels 23, while the liquid phase separation branch outlet 24 and solid phase separation branch outlet 25 are used to separate the separation products that have undergone radial migration under the action of centrifugal force and accumulated in the corresponding radial regions from the main series. After the material to be separated enters the separation channel 23, its different components tend to migrate radially under the action of centrifugal force. The liquid phase located in the radially inner region is more likely to enter the liquid phase separation branch outlet 24, while the solid phase concentrate located in the radially outer region is more likely to enter the solid phase separation branch outlet 25. The continuous phase that has not yet been separated from the corresponding branch is still driven by the total flow pressure difference at both ends of the series flow path and continues to enter the next separation channel 23 through the outer overflow port 214 or inner overflow port 221.

[0052] Therefore, the liquid phase separation branch outlet 24 and the solid phase separation branch outlet 25 are not used to directly discharge all the materials entering the corresponding separation channel 23 out of the separation channel, but rather work together with the main series passage to gradually separate the separation products that have migrated to the corresponding radial side as the materials flow sequentially along multiple separation channels 23, so that the series propulsion and phase separation discharge can be carried out simultaneously.

[0053] The location and flow capacity of the liquid phase separation branch outlet 24, the solid phase separation branch outlet 25, the outer flow port 214, and the inner flow port 221 can be matched according to the material properties, target throughput, and separation requirements, so that the discharge capacity of the phase separation branch is adapted to the propulsion capacity of the main flow in series, thereby avoiding excessive discharge from the phase separation branch and causing the main flow to leave the series separation flow path in large quantities before it has fully passed through multiple separation channels 23.

[0054] As the mainstream material flows along the separation channel 23, the less dense liquid phase tends to migrate radially inward. The liquid phase that migrates to the radially inward region can be diverted through the liquid phase separation branch outlet 24 into the supernatant collection zone 14. The more dense solid phase tends to migrate radially outward, and the resulting solid-containing concentrate can be diverted through the solid phase separation branch outlet 25 into the precipitate collection zone 15. The mainstream material that is not separated by the above-mentioned phase separation branches continues to advance along the series separation flow path to the next separation channel 23. Therefore, the phase separation branches and the series mainstream path operate in parallel.

[0055] See Figure 2 and Figure 5 To maintain the height stability of the separation channel 23, multiple spacer positioning members 26 are provided between two adjacent conical plates 211, spaced apart around the central axis 100. The two ends of each spacer positioning member 26 abut against the two adjacent conical plates 211 respectively, thereby limiting the height of the corresponding separation channel 23 along the central axis 100. The spacer positioning member 26 can be a rib formed on the surface of the conical plate 211 or an independently provided pad.

[0056] See Figure 4 The outer flow port 214 may include a plurality of outer through holes 215 spaced around the central axis 100 and penetrating the first disc 21. In order to reduce the local flow resistance generated by the mainstream material during the reversal and cross-layer process, an arc transition portion 216 may be provided between the hole wall of the outer through hole 215 and the surface of the first disc 21; as another configuration, the outer through hole 215 may also form a guide hole section with a gradually changing cross section along the material flow direction.

[0057] The inner flow port 221 may include a plurality of inner through holes 222 that are spaced apart around the central axis 100 and penetrate the second disc 22. The second disc 22 may be provided with a guide connected to the edge of the inner through hole 222 and inclined toward the adjacent separation channel 23 on the material inflow side, for guiding the mainstream material to enter the next separation channel 23 after changing direction through the inner through hole 222.

[0058] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one configuration, the outer flow port 214 is located radially outward of the conical plate 211, near the outer periphery 213, so that the mainstream material has a longer radial flow path within the corresponding separation channel 23.

[0059] As another setting method, see Figure 6 and Figure 7 The outer overflow port 214 can be moved radially inward relative to the aforementioned position to the radial center region of the conical plate 211. Since the inner overflow port 221 is still located closer to the central axis 100, it is still considered part of the outer overflow port 214 under the relative position definition of this application. By changing the radial position of the outer overflow port 214, the radial flow path and reversal position within a single separation channel 23 can be adjusted to adapt to different materials or processing requirements. Apart from the different radial positions of the outer overflow port 214, Figure 6 and Figure 7 The remaining connections and operating methods of the structure shown can be the same as those described above.

[0060] The feeding assembly 3 has a feeding channel 31 that communicates with the inlet of the series separation flow path. The lower end of the disc assembly 2 and the closed bottom 12 are spaced apart along the central axis 100 to form a feeding distribution cavity 16. The outlet of the feeding channel 31 is located in the feeding distribution cavity 16, and the radial outer side of the feeding distribution cavity 16 communicates with the inlet of the series separation flow path. After the material to be separated enters the feeding distribution cavity 16 through the feeding channel 31, it is distributed radially and circumferentially under the action of the rotating bowl 1, and then enters the series separation flow path of the disc assembly 2.

[0061] The supernatant discharge assembly 4 includes a supernatant drain pipe 41 that is stationary relative to the rotating bowl 1, and a supernatant rotary sealing assembly 42 disposed between the supernatant drain pipe 41 and the rotating bowl 1. The supernatant drain pipe 41 can be kept stationary by a support structure connected to the equipment frame, and its inlet is connected to the supernatant collection area 14.

[0062] The supernatant rotary sealing assembly 42 includes a first rotary seal 421 that rotates with the rotating bowl 1 and a first stationary seal 422 that remains stationary with the supernatant drain pipe 41. The first rotary seal 421 and the first stationary seal 422 rotate and seal together, so that the liquid phase in the supernatant collection area 14 enters the stationary supernatant drain pipe 41 from the rotating side through the sealing interface and is continuously discharged.

[0063] The sediment discharge assembly 5 includes a rotary conveying section 51 that rotates with the rotating bowl 1, a sediment discharge pipe 52 that is stationary relative to the rotating bowl 1, and a sediment rotary sealing assembly 53 disposed between the rotary conveying section 51 and the sediment discharge pipe 52. The inlet of the rotary conveying section 51 is connected to the sediment collection area 15, and the outlet is connected to the sediment discharge pipe 52 through the sediment rotary sealing assembly 53.

[0064] Specifically, the rotary conveying section 51 includes a sediment conveying passage 511 extending from the sediment collection area 15 to the inner core 18 of the rotary bowl along the outer core 17; a plurality of transmission channels 512 extending from the outer periphery of the inner core 18 to the center and spaced apart around the central axis 100; and a rotary discharge collection chamber 513 located on the center side of the inner core 18 and connected to the plurality of transmission channels 512. Solid-phase concentrates can travel from the sediment collection area 15 to the outer periphery of the inner core 18 via the sediment conveying passage 511, and then be collected towards the center via the plurality of transmission channels 512 into the rotary discharge collection chamber 513.

[0065] The discharge pressure differential drive assembly may include a suction pump whose inlet is connected to the sediment discharge pipe 52. When the suction pump operates, it lowers the pressure on the sediment discharge pipe 52 side than the pressure in the sediment collection area 15, thereby creating a discharge pressure differential from the sediment collection area 15 through the rotary conveyor section 51 towards the sediment discharge pipe 52. This discharge pressure differential drives the solid-phase concentrate to overcome the resistance encountered during transport from the outer periphery to the center, and through the sediment rotary sealing assembly 53 into the stationary sediment discharge pipe 52.

[0066] The discharge pressure difference established by the discharge pressure differential drive component is used to overcome the flow resistance generated when the solid-phase concentrate flows from the sediment collection area 15 through the sediment conveying passage 511, the transmission channel 512, and the rotating discharge collection chamber 513 to the sediment discharge pipe 52. In actual operation, the working state of the suction pump can be adjusted according to the solid content, viscosity, rotary speed, and length and flow capacity of the rotating conveying section 51 of the solid-phase concentrate to keep the solid-phase concentrate continuously conveyed.

[0067] For materials with high solid content or low flowability, the discharge pressure difference can be appropriately increased or the amount of concentrate discharged per unit time can be reduced to match the conveying capacity of the rotary conveyor section 51. The arc-shaped guide structure 200 is used to reduce the local retention of solid concentrate at the bottom of the sediment collection area 15 and facilitates its continuous guidance to the inlet of the sediment conveying passage 511.

[0068] In this embodiment, the precipitate discharge pipe 52 is sleeved on the radially outer side of the supernatant drainage pipe 41, forming an annular discharge channel 521 between them. A static isolation seal 54 is provided between the supernatant drainage pipe 41 and the precipitate discharge pipe 52. The liquid phase is drawn out from the inner supernatant drainage pipe 41, and the solid-phase concentrate is drawn out from the annular discharge channel 521. The two static discharge paths are centrally located in the central area and isolated from each other.

[0069] See Figure 8 and Figure 9 In a preferred embodiment, the bottom of the sediment collection area 15 is provided with an arc-shaped flow guide structure 200 that rotates with the rotating bowl 1. The arc-shaped flow guide structure 200 includes a plurality of curved blades spaced apart around the central axis 100, and fluid channels are formed between adjacent curved blades to guide the solid-phase concentrate at the bottom of the sediment collection area 15 toward the inlet direction of the sediment transport passage 511, thereby reducing local stagnation at the bottom.

[0070] Multiple curved blades of the arc-shaped flow guide structure 200 rotate synchronously with the rotating bowl 1. The fluid channel formed between adjacent curved blades can circumferentially carry and guide the solid-phase concentrate located at the bottom of the sediment collection area 15, so that the concentrate gradually collects towards the inlet area of ​​the sediment conveying passage 511 as the rotating bowl rotates. This arc-shaped flow guide structure 200 is mainly used to improve the material flow state at the bottom of the sediment collection area 15, and does not change the series separation flow path formed by the outer flow port 214 and the inner flow port 221 inside the disc group 2.

[0071] Each curved blade has a root portion near the center and a tip portion extending away from the central axis 100. In a projection plane perpendicular to the central axis 100, the mid-arc line of the curved blade is curved circumferentially, and the bending direction of multiple curved blades is consistent, so that the curved blades form a continuously varying installation angle from the root to the tip. The number of curved blades can be 8 to 16, and the circumferential angular pitch between adjacent curved blades can be 22.5° to 45°.

[0072] In a set of optional parameters, with the outer diameter of the annular structure 200 corresponding to the arc-shaped guide structure 200 as D, the radial extension length of the curved blade from the blade root to the blade tip as Lr, and Lr / D can satisfy 0.1 to 0.4; the blade root installation angle can be 15° to 45°, the blade tip installation angle can be 30° to 70°, and the blade tip installation angle is greater than the blade root installation angle, with the angle variation between the two being 5° to 35°. The above parameters are used to provide one feasible dimensional relationship for the arc-shaped guide structure 200, and are not the only limitation thereof.

[0073] Based on the above-described apparatus, the material separation method of this embodiment may include the following steps.

[0074] Step 1: Drive the rotating bowl 1 and the disc assembly 2 to rotate synchronously around the central axis 100.

[0075] Step two: The material to be separated is conveyed to the series separation flow path through the feed channel 31. Through continuous feeding and continuous discharge of the separated products, a total flow pressure difference is maintained between the feed side and the product discharge side to ensure the continuous advancement of the mainstream material along the series separation flow path. The mainstream material flows radially outward within a separation channel 23 and enters the adjacent separation channel 23 through the outer overflow port 214. It then flows radially inward within the adjacent separation channel 23 and enters the next separation channel 23 through the inner overflow port 221, thus sequentially flowing through multiple separation channels 23.

[0076] Step 3: As the material to be separated flows along multiple separation channels 23, the liquid phase migrates radially inward toward the disc group 2 and enters the supernatant collection zone 14 through the liquid phase separation branch outlet 24, while the solid phase concentrate migrates radially outward toward the disc group 2 and enters the precipitate collection zone 15 through the solid phase separation branch outlet 25; the mainstream material not separated by the phase separation branch continues to enter the subsequent separation channel 23.

[0077] Step 4: The liquid phase in the supernatant collection area 14 is discharged through the supernatant drainage pipe 41, which is stationary relative to the rotating bowl 1.

[0078] Step five: A discharge pressure difference is created between the precipitate collection zone 15 and the precipitate discharge pipe 52, which is stationary relative to the rotating bowl 1, by the discharge pressure differential drive component. This causes the solid-phase concentrate to enter the precipitate discharge pipe 52 and be discharged through the rotating conveyor section 51 that rotates with the rotating bowl 1 and the precipitate rotating sealing component 53. Steps four and five can be performed continuously with the feeding process, thereby achieving continuous solid-liquid separation.

[0079] The drive mechanism, suction pump, rotary seal and static seal involved in this application can be selected from the corresponding conventional components according to the rotation speed, pressure, material characteristics and hygiene level requirements; without changing the above-mentioned series separation flow path, phase collection relationship and the principle of discharge from the rotating side to the stationary side, the specific connection dimensions and materials of each component can be determined according to the actual working conditions.

[0080] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this application shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. The terms "first," "second," "third," and similar terms used in this application specification and claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. The terms "an" or "a" and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "comprising" or "including" and similar terms mean that the elements or objects preceding "comprising" or "including" encompass the elements or objects listed following "comprising" or "including" and their equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. "Above," "below," "left," "right," etc., are used only to indicate relative positional relationships; when the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0081] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A rotating bowl centrifugal separator, characterized in that, It includes a rotating bowl (1), a feeding assembly (3), and a disc assembly (2); The rotating bowl (1) is rotatable about the central axis (100) and has a receiving cavity (13); The disc group (2) is disposed in the receiving cavity (13) and rotates around the central axis (100) with the rotating bowl (1). The disc group (2) includes a plurality of discs arranged at intervals along the central axis (100), and a separation channel (23) is formed between two adjacent discs. The plurality of discs include a first disc (21) and a second disc (22) alternately arranged along the central axis (100). The first disc (21) is provided with an outer flow port (214), and the second disc (22) is provided with an inner flow port (221). The outer flow port (214) is located radially outside the inner flow port (221). The radial inner side of the first disc (21) and the adjacent disc, as well as the radial outer side of the second disc (22) and the adjacent disc, respectively form flow-blocking mechanisms to restrict the mainstream material from directly crossing layers between adjacent separation channels (23). Along the central axis (100), the connection positions between adjacent separation channels (23) for the mainstream material to flow across layers are sequentially formed by the outer flow port (214) and the inner flow port (221) to form a series separation flow path that allows the material to be separated to flow alternately radially outward and radially inward. The feeding assembly (3) has a feeding channel (31) connected to the inlet of the series separation flow path; the receiving cavity (13) is provided with a supernatant collection area (14) located radially inside the disc group (2) and connected to the separation flow path (23), and a sediment collection area (15) located radially outside the disc group (2) and connected to the separation flow path (23).

2. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotating bowl (1) has a bowl body (11) and a closed bottom (12) connected to the lower end of the bowl body (11). The lower end of the disc group (2) and the closed bottom (12) are spaced apart along the central axis (100) to form a feeding distribution cavity (16). The outlet of the feeding channel (31) is located in the feeding distribution cavity (16). The radial outer side of the feeding distribution cavity (16) is connected to the inlet of the series separation flow path.

3. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each disc includes a conical disc body (211) and an inner peripheral portion (212) and an outer peripheral portion (213) formed on the radially inner and radially outer sides of the conical disc body (211), respectively. The inner peripheral portion (212) of the first disc (21) forms a sealing flow-blocking fit with the adjacent disc, and the outer peripheral portion (213) of the second disc (22) forms a flow-blocking fit with the adjacent disc to restrict the direct passage of mainstream material across layers. Each separation channel (23) has a liquid phase separation branch outlet (24) communicating with the supernatant collection area (14) on its radially inner side, and a solid phase separation branch outlet (25) communicating with the precipitate collection area (15) on its radially outer side. The liquid phase separation branch outlet (24) and the solid phase separation branch outlet (25) are respectively used to divert the liquid phase and solid phase concentrate that migrate to the corresponding radial side in the separation channel (23) from the series separation channels to the corresponding collection area.

4. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 3, characterized in that: A plurality of spacer positioning members (26) are provided between two adjacent conical plates (211) and spaced apart around the central axis (100). The two ends of each spacer positioning member (26) abut against the two adjacent conical plates (211) respectively to limit the height of the corresponding separation channel (23) along the central axis (100).

5. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer flow port (214) includes a plurality of outer through holes (215) spaced around the central axis (100) and penetrating the first disc (21). The outer through holes (215) are provided with a smooth flow guiding structure for reducing the flow resistance of the reversing direction. The smooth flow guiding structure includes an arc transition portion (216) between the hole wall of the outer through hole (215) and the surface of the first disc (21), or is composed of a flow guiding hole section with a gradually changing cross section along the material flow direction.

6. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 1 or 5, characterized in that: The inner flow port (221) includes a plurality of inner through holes (222) spaced around the central axis (100) and penetrating the second disc (22). The second disc (22) is provided with a guide connected to the edge of the inner through hole (222) and inclined toward the adjacent separation channel (23) on the material inflow side.

7. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a supernatant discharge assembly (4), which includes a supernatant drain pipe (41) that is stationary relative to the rotating bowl (1) and a supernatant rotary sealing assembly (42) disposed between the supernatant drain pipe (41) and the rotating bowl (1). The supernatant drain pipe (41) is connected to the supernatant collection area (14). The supernatant rotary sealing assembly (42) includes a first rotary seal (421) that rotates with the rotating bowl (1) and a first stationary seal (422) that remains stationary with the supernatant drain pipe (41). The first rotary seal (421) and the first stationary seal (422) are rotaryly sealed together.

8. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 7, characterized in that: It also includes a sediment discharge assembly (5) and a discharge pressure differential drive assembly. The sediment discharge assembly (5) includes a rotary conveying section (51) that rotates with the rotary bowl (1), a sediment discharge pipe (52) that is stationary relative to the rotary bowl (1), and a sediment rotary sealing assembly (53) disposed between the rotary conveying section (51) and the sediment discharge pipe (52). The inlet of the rotary conveying section (51) is connected to the sediment collection area (15), and the outlet is connected to the sediment discharge pipe (52) through the sediment rotary sealing assembly (53). The discharge pressure differential drive assembly is connected to the sediment discharge pipe (52) and is used to make the pressure on the sediment discharge pipe (52) side lower than the pressure on the sediment collection area (15) so as to drive the solid-phase concentrate from the sediment collection area (15) through the rotary conveying section (51) into the sediment discharge pipe (52).

9. The rotating bowl centrifugal separator according to claim 8, characterized in that: The rotating bowl (1) includes an outer core (17) and an inner core (18). The rotating conveying section (51) includes a sediment conveying passage (511) extending from the sediment collection area (15) to the inner core (18) along the outer core (17), a plurality of transmission channels (512) extending from the outer periphery of the inner core (18) to the center and spaced apart around the central axis (100), and a rotating discharge collection cavity (513) located on the center side of the inner core (18) and connected to the plurality of transmission channels (512). The rotating discharge collection cavity (513) is connected to the sediment discharge pipe (52) through the sediment rotating sealing assembly (53). The discharge pressure differential drive The moving component includes a suction pump whose inlet is connected to the precipitate discharge pipe (52); the precipitate discharge pipe (52) is sleeved on the radial outside of the supernatant drainage pipe (41) and forms an annular discharge channel (521) between the two; a static isolation seal (54) is provided between the supernatant drainage pipe (41) and the precipitate discharge pipe (52); the bottom of the precipitate collection area (15) is also provided with an arc-shaped flow guide structure (200) that rotates with the rotating bowl (1); the arc-shaped flow guide structure (200) includes multiple curved blades spaced around the central axis (100), and a fluid channel is formed between adjacent curved blades to guide the solid-phase concentrate to the inlet of the precipitate delivery passage (511).

10. A method for separating materials, characterized in that, The rotary bowl centrifuge as described in claim 8 or 9 includes the following steps: Drive the rotating bowl (1) and the disc assembly (2) to rotate synchronously around the central axis (100); The material to be separated is supplied to the disc group (2) through the feed channel (31), and a flow pressure difference is formed between the feed side and the separation product discharge side, which makes the mainstream material continuously advance along the series separation flow path. The material to be separated flows radially outward in one of the separation channels (23) and enters the adjacent separation channel (23) through the outer overflow port (214). Then it flows radially inward in the adjacent separation channel (23) and enters the next separation channel (23) through the inner overflow port (221), so as to flow through multiple separation channels (23) in sequence along the central axis (100). During the process of the material to be separated flowing through multiple separation channels (23), the liquid phase in it migrates to the radial inner side of the disc group (2) and is diverted from the series separation flow path into the supernatant collection area (14), and the solid phase concentrate migrates to the radial outer side of the disc group (2) and is diverted from the series separation flow path into the precipitate collection area (15). The liquid phase in the supernatant collection area (14) is discharged through the supernatant drainage pipe (41); and A discharge pressure difference is formed between the sediment collection area (15) and the sediment discharge pipe (52), so that the solid-phase concentrate enters the sediment discharge pipe (52) through the rotary conveying section (51) and is discharged.

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