Media hold-down screen with enhanced assembly and disassembly features for pressure vessels
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- JOHNSON SCREENS INC
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-20
AI Technical Summary
Conventional hold-down screens in reactive gas vessels pose safety risks to workers due to the need for physical entry into confined spaces for assembly, maintenance, and removal, exposing them to harmful environments and gases.
A detachable hold-down screen assembly featuring a central hub with screen panels that can be securely locked and easily assembled or disassembled from outside the vessel, utilizing a lock extract mechanism and tool assembly to facilitate safe and efficient installation and removal without requiring workers to enter the pressure vessel.
Enhances worker safety by allowing for the assembly and disassembly of hold-down screens outside the vessel, reducing exposure to hazardous conditions and improving operational efficiency while preventing media loss during regeneration cycles.
Smart Images
Figure US2024037939_16012025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] FEATURES FOR PRESSURE VESSELS
[0002] RELATED APPLICATION
[0003] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 513,224 filed July 12, 2023 and entitled “MEDIA HOLD-DOWN SCREEN WITH ENHANCED ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY FEATURES FOR PRESSURE VESSELS”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD
[0005] The present disclosure is directed to a hold-down grid assembly for use in retaining media in a gas processing vessel. More specifically, the present disclosure is directed to a holddown grid assembly formed of a plurality of screen panels that are operably connected to a central hub, whereby the screen panels are detachably coupled to the central hub so as to accommodate efficient and safe assembly and disassembly / removal from outside the gas processing vessel.
[0006] BACKGROUND
[0007] In many petrochemical and general industry applications, use of reactive gas vessels to process, contain, and release gas is the norm. These reactive gas vessels can include internal hold-down screens that reside on top of a processing media. These hold-down screens are utilized to retain and prevent exfiltration of the processing during upward-flowing backwash and regeneration cycles. As the processing media can be quite expensive, loss of the processing media during these regeneration cycles must be prevented.
[0008] While these hold-down screens are critical for retaining the processing media, the installation, maintenance and removal of conventional hold-down screens can inherently place workers in a harmful environment. Conventional hold-down screens require workers to physically enter the pressure vessel to assemble, maintain and disassemble the hold-down screen on an upper surface of a media bed. Inherently, removal of the screen requires individuals to work in confined spaces within a pressure vessel that can include reduced levels of oxygen and exposure to harmful gases and vapors. As such, time consuming safety’ equipment and procedures must be utilized whenever workers are entering the pressure vessel.
[0009] While conventional hold-down screens are necessary to retain the expensive processing media, it would be desirable to improve upon their design such that worker safety is improved.
[0010] SUMMARY
[0011] In accordance with one embodiment disclosed herein, an internal filter screen assembly for use in a gas vessel includes one or more screen panel assemblies that are flexibly, coupled to a central hub.
[0012] Generally, a detachable hold-down screen assembly^ includes a central hub; a plurality of types of screen panels, each with at least one interface pin or tongue and at least one connector on a first panel edge and at least one connection hole or groove on an adjacent panel edge; and a disk with at least a first flange rotatably centered upon the central hub, wherein each panel within the plurality of panels is detachably coupled to the disk via the interface pins or tabs and wherein each disk is detachably coupled to each other using the connectors and connection holes or slots.
[0013] Generally, in conjunction with the detachable hold-down screen assembly, there is included an extractor unit which comprises a fitted sleeve; a first wing and a second wing protruding from the fitted sleeve; at least a first hook located on the first wing; and at least a second hook located on the second wing wherein the fitted sleeve is centered atop the center hub of an external apparatus with at least a first layer and a second layer such that the first hook connects to a flange located on the first layer of external apparatus, and, as rotated about the rotatable center hub, loosens and extracts the first layer.
[0014] The above summary is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the subject matter hereof. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify various embodiments.
[0015] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Subject matter hereof may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying figures, in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective, top view of an embodiment of a detachable hold-down screen assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIGS. 2A - 2C are, respectively, top, bottom perspective and side views of a starter panel of the detachable hold-down screen assembly of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 3A - 3C are, respectively, top, bottom perspective and side views of a primary panel of the detachable hold-down screen assembly of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIGS. 4A - 4B are, respectively, top, bottom perspective and side views of a key screen panel of the detachable hold-down screen assembly of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIGS. 5 A - 5C are, respectively, botom, top perspective and side views of a central screen hub disk according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 6A - 6C are, respectively, side section, side and top perspective views of an unlocking and extraction tool assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a partially hidden, side perspective view of a pressure vessel including the detachable hold-down screen assembly of FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a perspective, top view of an embodiment of a detachable hold-down screen assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIGS. 9a, 9b and 9c are respectively, top, perspective top and side views of a starter screen panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10c are respectively, top, perspective top and side views of a starter screen panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIGS. I la, 11b and 11c are respectively, top, perspective top and side views of a final screen panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIGS. 12a, 12b and 12c are respectively, top, perspective top and side views of a key locking plate according to another embodiment of the present disclosure FIGS. 13a, 13 b and 13c are respectively, top, perspective top and side views of a central hub according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c are respectively, top, perspective top and side views of a tool assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 15 is a side view illustrating the interconnection of the central hub and the screen panels.
[0030] FIGS. 16a, 16b and 16c are respectively top, perspective top and side view of a starter screen panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIGS. 17a, 17b and 17c are respectively top, perspective top and side view of a final screen panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] While various embodiments are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the claimed inventions to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims.
[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] The following detailed description of embodiments refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments. Other embodiments having different structures and operation do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments disclosed herein include a detachable hold-down screen assembly that can be used within tanks or vessels in conjunction with media beds through which gases and liquids are directed. Such media beds can be used in a variety of processes, including but not limited to catalytic, molecular sieves, alumina drying, resin ion exchange, carbon filtering, etc. Various fluids, including but not limited to liquid, gas, oil, water, etc., can be processed through the vessel. The vessel can generally comprise a body and head portions coupled at opposite ends of the body to form a sealed interior vessel volume. The detachable hold-down screen assembly can be assembled by individually introducing components through a vessel manway on an upper vessel head, whereby assembly of the individual components results in the detachable hold-down screen assembly residing on top of a media bed. Generally, the assembled detachable hold-down screen assembly has a size exceeding an opening of the vessel manway such that only the individual components can be inserted or removed through the opening.
[0035] The detachable hold-down screen assembly can include a plurality of panels, with each panel having a filtering or retention surface formed by one or more screens on the top, side, bottom, or other exposed surface of the panels, and a central hub coupled to the panels. The panels can be, in some embodiments, radially disposed about the hub. The screens generally reside on a media bed, and in certain modes, such as a down-flow, fluid can flow through the screens and into the media bed. Alternatively, the direction of flow can be reversed, such as in certain modes of up-flow, whereby the fluid flow is directed upward through the media bed and then through the screens. Flow through the assembly in either an up flow' or down flow' condition can be compressible (gas) or incompressible (liquid). Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the embodiments described. For example, words such as “top”, “bottom”, “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “upward,” and “downward” merely describe the configuration shown in the figures. Indeed, the referenced components can be oriented in any direction and the terminology, therefore, should be understood as encompassing such variations unless specified otherwise. Throughout this disclosure, where a process or method is shown or described, the method can be performed in any order or simultaneously, unless it is clear from the context that the method depends on certain actions being performed first. It will be understood that for the gas vessels and tanks described herein, in other modes of operation, for example, during a backwash operation, the direction of fluid flow can be reversed with an outlet acting as an inlet and the inlet functioning as an outlet.
[0036] With reference to FIG. 1, a representative detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 of the present disclosure, can comprise a central hub 102 about which a plurality of screen panels 104 can be spaced, individually mounted, and securely locked in place to prevent movement of the screen panels. Generally, a screen panel assembly 100 can comprise one or more screen panels 104 that allow a fluid to pass through the screen panels while preventing the passage of filter media. In a preferred embodiment, screen panel 104 can include a plurality of spaced filter wires supported on support rods. In one embodiment, screen panel 104 can include shaped -wire with a substantially triangular cross-section, for example, Vee-Wire® type screens (VEE-WIRE is a registered trademark of Aqseptence, Inc. of New Brighton, Minnesota) or wedge wire type screens. In other representative embodiments, screen panel 104 can include plates having perforations, slots, and / or other filter-type openings formed therein. In various embodiments, the wires and / or plate openings can be oriented symmetrically, asymmetrically, horizontally, vertically, tangentially, and combinations thereof relative to a longitudinal axis defined by each screen panel assembly 104. In certain embodiments, the spacing and sizes of wires and / or plate openings defined on each screen panel 104 can vary along the surface of each screen panel 104. In some representative embodiments, each screen panel 104 can include one or more combinations of filter wires, plates, features with perforations and features that otherwise provide a plurality of filter-type openings allowing fluid to pass through said filter-type openings while preventing the passage of filter media. In addition to the presence of screen panel 104 on upper surfaces of the screen assembly 100, one or more screen panels 104 can also be found on one or more of the side surfaces, and lower surfaces for purposes of fluid filtration or to achieve desired flow properties, for example, fluid velocities or pressure drops through the screen panel 104.
[0037] Screen panel assemblies 104 can comprise a variety of types of screen panels, including at least a starter screen panel 104a, a primary screen panel 104b, and a key screen panel 104c. In certain embodiments, the detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 can be assembled beginning with the starter panel 104a, with subsequent primary panels 104b interlocking with the previous adjacent panel with a male / female interlocking design which shall be further discussed below. In certain embodiments, the key screen panel 104c utilizes the male / female interlock on an edge of the panel 104c to connect with the previous panel and pins to connect to the starter panel 104a to complete the substantially disk-shaped detachable hold-down screen assembly within a cylindrical gas vessel. Further, detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 can comprise a lock extract mechanism 120, wherein the lock extract mechanism 120 is used to detachably couple each screen panel assembly 104 to the central hub 102 so as to prevent each screen panel assembly 104 from moving and to further enhance the stability of the detachable hold-down screen assembly. The extraction features of lock extract mechanism 120 alternatively allow for extraction of each screen panel assembly 104 which can be detachably coupled to central hub 102.
[0038] With reference to FIGS. 2A - 2C, top, bottom perspective and side views of a starter screen panel 104a of the detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 are illustrated. In certain embodiments, the starter screen panel 104a can be configured in a triangular pie shape, with a first inner side 202 which can be configured radially to the central hub 102, a second inner side 204 which can be configured radially to the central hub 102, and a third outer side 206 which can be configured distal to the central hub 102 and in proximity to a vessel wall of a pressure vessel. Each starter screen panel 104a can further include at least one pin groove slot 208 along first inner side 202. Depending on the pin groove slot 208 locations, corresponding male edges 210 on adjacent edges of the starter screen panel 104a can be configured to be located such that, when the male edges 210 meet the pin groove slots 208, the male edges 210 insert themselves into the pin groove slots 208 or other comparable female openings for corresponding screen panels. In certain embodiments, the starter screen panel 104a has a bar 212 at the narrow central location, adjacent to where the first inner side 202 and second inner side 204 meet. The bar 212 can be configured as an interface to further connect with central hub 102.
[0039] With reference to FIGS. 3A - 3C, top, bottom perspective and side views of a primary screen panel 104b of the detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 are illustrated. In certain embodiments, the primary screen panel 104b can be configured in a triangular pie shape, with a first inner side 302 which can be configured radially to the central hub 102, a second inner side 304 which can be configured radially to the central hub 102, and a third outer side 306 which can be configured distal to the central hub 102 and in proximity to the vessel wall of the pressure vessel. Each primary screen panel 104b can further include at least one female groove slot 308 coupled to a first edge of inner side 302 and inner side 304. Depending on the female groove slot 308 locations, corresponding male protrusion connector edges 310 on an adjacent primary screen panel 104b can be configured to be located such that, when the male edges 310 meet the female groove slot 308, the male edges 310 are inserted into the female pin groove slots 308. Generally, the male connector edges 310 are located on an adjacent edge opposite the female grooves, on each of inner side 302 and inner side 304. Therefore, each primary screen panel 104b can be connected to a subsequent, adjacent screen panel 104, such as another, adjacent primary screen panel 104b, either by connecting a first panel’s male edges 310 to a second panel’s female grooves 308 or by connecting a first panel’s female grooves 308 to a second panel’s male edges 310. In certain embodiments, primary' screen panels 104b can comprise a frame 314 and a profile wire screen 316. In certain embodiments, the primary' screen panel 104b has a bar 312 at the narrow central location, adjacent to where the first inner side 302 and second inner side 304 meet. The bar 312 can be configured as an interface to further connect with central hub 102.
[0040] With reference to FIGS. 4A - 4C, top, bottom perspective and side views of a key' screen panel 104c of the detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 are illustrated. In certain embodiments, the key screen panel 104c can be configured in a triangular pie shape, with a first inner side 402 which can be configured radially to the central hub 102, a second inner side 404 which can be configured radially to the central hub 102, and a third outer side 406 which can be configured distal to the central hub 102 and in proximity to the vessel wall of the pressure vessel. In certain embodiments, key screen panel 104c can comprise a frame 403 and a profile wire screen 405. Each key screen panel 104c can further include at least one pin 408 on an edge of inner side 402 or inner side 404, where the pin 408 is configured for interfacing with the slanted slot 208 on the starter screen 104a such that the pin 408 can connect and insert into slot 208. At least one groove connection, 410, can be configured on an edge adjacent to where pin 408 is configured. Groove 410 can be configured to receive any corresponding male protrusion connector that is located on a previous, adjacent screen panel 104. Generally, the grooves 410 are located on a second edge opposite the pins 408, on each of inner side 402 and inner side 404. Therefore, a key screen panel 104c can be connected to a previous, adjacent screen panel 104, such as an adjacent primary screen panel 104b, either by connecting the previous panel’s male protrusion connector edge 310 to the key screen panel’s grooves 410 or by connecting the previous panel’s female grove slot 308 to the key screen panel’s pins 408. In certain embodiments, the primary screen panel 104c has a bar 412 at the narrow central location, adjacent to where the first inner side 402 and second inner side 404 meet. The bar 412 can be configured as an interface to further connect with central hub 102 and to enable a central point for connection for all screen panels 104 as well as provide a point of rotation. Proximal to bar 412 can be a rotary hub centering pin 414.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 5A - 5C, an illustration of an exploded, perspective view of an representative central screen hub disk 500 of the present disclosure is depicted. The central screen hub disk 500 can be configured to be a in the shape of a disk, so as to fit in substantially a center location of cylindrical gas vessels. Central screen hub disk 500 can, in certain embodiments, be configured such that is centered to be affixed over the rotary hub centering pin 414 on key screen panel 400. Central screen hub disk 500 can, in certain embodiments, have panel hooks 502 which can be generally located on the underside or belly of the screen hub disk 500 such that, when the screen hub disk 500 is affixed to a gas vessel via the rotary hub centering pin 414, the panel hooks 502 face the interior floor of the gas vessel. Panel hooks 502 can be configured to capture and connect with the interface bars 212, 312, 412 on the screen panel assemblies 104 ( 104a, 104b, 104c) which are generally located at the narrow end of each utilized screen panel 104. By connecting panel hooks 502 with each interface bar 212, 312, 412 of each screen panel assembly 104, the screen panel assemblies 104 can be assembled to be centrally affixed to and rotate about central hub 102 via screen hub disk 500. To further enhance smooth installation and removal, screen hub disk 500 can comprise lifting flanges 504, generally configured to be located on the top or upper side of screen hub disk 500, and understood to be on the opposite side of panel hooks 502. These lifting flanges 504 can be configured to facilitate unlocking or rotation of screen hub disk 500 around central hub 102. Each lifting flange 504 can further define a flange aperture 506. Screen hub disk 500 can further comprise an upward projecting alignment cone 508.
[0042] FIG. 6A -6C depict an installation and removal tool assembly 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Tool assembly 600, which is intended to rotate central hub 102 for locking and releasing the central hub 102 from the lifting and hub interface bars 212, 312, 412 on narrow ends of the screen panel assemblies 104. Tool assembly 600 can comprise a tool shaft 602 having a shaft opening 603 that is configured to fit over the upward projecting alignment cone 508. Tool assembly 600, which can further comprise a diametrical wing 603 protruding from its center, can be configured to have lifting pins 605 projecting from the wing 603. These lifting pins 605 can be configured to be fit through rotating flanges 504 that are located atop screen hub disk 500. The tool assembly 600 can be used to rotate or angle the central hub 102 such that the lifting pins 605 are positioned to be lifted or secured using the lifting flanges 504.
[0043] Detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 can be assembled by interlocking the plurality of screen panels 104 to form a “pie-shaped” triangular screen. The starter screen panel 104a has angled female groove slot 208 on one side to accept pins or male edges from a subsequent, adjacent panel 104 to be installed, such that the subsequent panel 104’s male protrusion on its opposing edge will connect with the female groove slot 208. Further, the protruding male edge 210, located opposite the female groove slot 208, can be configured to interface with a subsequent, adjacent screen panel 104. Primary screen panels 104b can be sequentially installed, with each individual primary screen panel 104b interlocking with the previous primary screen panel 104b by connecting male edges 310 to female grooves 308. In various embodiments, the screen panels 104 can be installed in a manner to create a round disk shaped grid, optimal for residing on a media bed within cylindrical or spherical vessels. In certain embodiments, the final panel 104 can be configured to have a groove for connecting with the previous installed panel 104. A key screen panel 104c is generally the final fitted panel of choice to complete a round disk shaped grid and is optimal for enabling affixing of central screen hub disk 500 to the plurality of panels 104. Tool assembly 600 can also be used to manipulate key screen panel 400, which has pins 408 that are configured to fit into the angled slots 208 of starter screen panel 104a. The angled slots 208 can be configured to connect to the pins 408 and further to prevent any adjacent screen panel assemblies 104 from moving toward the central hub 102 and becoming free from the overall assembly 100. When panels 104 are affixed to the central hub 102 via central screen hub disk 500, central hub 102 can be configured to be located proximally over rotary hub centering pin 414, which is further located approximately centrally, in the middle of screen assembly 100. Central hub can be further configured to rotate, turning to catch hub interface bars (212, 312, 412) at the end of each screen panel 104. Post rotation, once central hub 102 is in place and secure, detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 is ready for use as shown in FIG. 7.
[0044] Screen assembly 100 can be removed or extracted by lowering tool assembly 600 down to surface of grid of screen hub disk 500 through a manway or opening of the gas vessel. Tool assembly can be centered on upward projecting alignment cone 508 and configured to turn counterclockwise so as to lift using lifting pins 605 on the tool assembly 600 and to capture rotating flanges 504 on the central screen hub disk 500. Additionally, further counterclockwise movement can be configured to dislocate panel hooks 502 from the hub interface bars 212, 312, 412, located on each screen panel 104. A freed central screen hub disk 500 can be captured by lifting pins 603 using the tool assembly 600 and thereafter be lifted and extracted from the vessel. With central screen hub disk 500 removed, workers can connect lifting hooks 601 to interface bars 412, which are typically centrally located in a key screen panel 104c. Thereafter, key screen panel 104c can be extracted from the detachable hold-down screen assembly 100, and thereby allow for pins 208, 308, 408 to slide out of angled slots 208, 308, 408 of adjacent screen panel assemblies 104. As pins fall away, the interlocking connection between adjacent screen panel assemblies 104 can be freed and each individual screen panel assembly 104 is free for removal and extraction via tool assembly 600 through the manway or opening of the vessel. Once key screen panel 104c is extracted, each adjacent screen panel assembly 104 is loosened sufficiently to be ready for extraction using lifting hooks 601.
[0045] With reference to FIGS. 8-15, another alternative embodiment of a detachable hold-down screen assembly 1000 is illustrated. Generally detachable hold-down screen assembly can be constracted of similar material and have similar functionality to detachable hold-down screen assembly 100 but with a different installation, coupling and removal process. Detachable holddown screen assembly 1000 generally comprises a central hub 1002 and a plurality of screen panels 1004 arranged circumferentially around the central hub 1002 as shown in FIG. 8. As discussed previously with respect to screen panels 104, each screen panel 1004 can comprise a shaped-wire or wedge-wire type screen surface 1006 or alternatively, can include a plate having perforations, slots or other “opening” formed therein. Generally, the function of the screen surface 1006 is to retain and prevent the passage and loss of the high value filter / ion- exchange / catalyst media contained within the vessel. In some instances, screen panels 1004 can include the screen surface 106 on one or both of an upper and lower side of the screen panels 1004. Furthermore, slot and / or perforation sizes can be specifically selected to impart desired flow characteristics through the screen panels 1004 such as, for example, desirable flow velocities, backpressure or pressure drops across the screen panels 1004.
[0046] Each screen panel 1004 can comprise one of three different screen panel types. Generally, detachable hold-down screen assembly 1000 comprises a starter screen panel 1004a, one or more primary screen panels 1004b, a final screen panel 1004c and a key locking plate 1008. Generally, the starter screen panel 1004a, the one or more primary screen panels 1004b, the final screen panel 1004c and the locking plate 1008 are sequentially insertable and couplable during installation within the vessel and sequentially detachable and removable during removal from the vessel, with said installation and removal being accomplished through the vessel manway and without an installer being physically present within the vessel interior.
[0047] With reference to FIGS. 9a, 9b and 9c, the starter screen panel 1004a generally comprises a triangular, wedge or pie shape having a first wall 1010a, a second wall 1012a and a third arcuate wall 1014a. The first wall 1010a extends between the third arcuate wall 1014a and beyond a panel brace 1016a that connects the first wall 1010a and the second wall 1012a. First wall 1010a includes a plurality of upwardly projecting hook members 1018a. Second wall 1012a extends between the third arcuate wall 1014a and the panel brace 1016a. Second wall 1012a includes at least one projecting member 1020a. Extending upward from the panel brace 1016a is a panel loop 1022a that defines a hub slot 1024a having a slot opening 1026a between the panel brace 1016a and the panel loop 1022a.
[0048] With reference to FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10c, each primary screen panel 1004b generally comprises a triangular, wedge or pie shape having a first wall 1010b, a second wall 1012b and a third arcuate wall 1014b. The first wall 1010b extends between the third arcuate wall 1014b and to a panel brace 1016b that connects the first wall 1010b and the second wall 1012b. First wall 1010b includes a slot 1030b that is similarly shaped and slightly oversized to the projecting member 1020a. Second wall 1012b extends between the third arcuate wall 1014b and the panel brace 1016b. Second wall 1012b includes at least one projecting member 1020b that is similarly sized and shaped as the projecting member 1020a. Extending upward from the panel brace 1016b is a panel loop 1022b that defines a hub slot 1024b having a slot opening 1026b between the panel brace 1016b and the panel loop 1022b.
[0049] With reference to FIGS. Ila, l ib and 11c, the final screen panel 1004c generally comprises a triangular, wedge or pie shape having a first wall 1010c, a second wall 1012c and a third arcuate wall 1014c. The first wall 1010c extends between the third arcuate wall 1014c and to a panel brace 1016c that connects the first wall 1010c and the second wall 1012c. First wall 1010c includes a slot 1030c that is similarly shaped and slightly oversized to the projecting member 1020b. Second wall 1012c extends between the third arcuate wall 1014c and beyond the panel brace 1016c. Second wall 1012c includes a plurality of upwardly projecting hook members 1018c that are substantially similar to upwardly projecting hook members 1018a. Extending upward from the first wall 1010c is a panel loop 1022c.
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 12a, 12b and 12c, a key locking plate 1008 for coupling the starter screen panel 1004a and the final screen panel 1004c is illustrated. Generally, the key locking plate 1008 comprises a flat, elongated body 1034 extending between a distal body end 1036 and a proximal body end 1038. Generally, the distal body end 1036 includes a downwardly projecting flange 1040 while the proximal body end 1038 includes an upwardly projecting pin 1042. The key locking plate 1008 further comprises a plate loop 1044 that extends upward from the flat, elongated boy 1034. A plurality of elongated slots 1046a, 1046c are arranged on opposed sides of the flat elongated body 1034 with the size and spacing of the elongated slots 1046a, 1046c corresponding to the size, number and spacing of the upwardly projecting hook 1018a and the upwardly projecting hook members 1018c. Central hub 1002 is more clearly illustrated in FIGS. 13a, 13b and 13c. Generally, the central hub 1002 comprises a flat, disk-shaped body 1050 having an upper hub side 1052 and an lower hub side 1054. Spaced evenly about an arcuate perimeter 1056 of the disk-shaped body 1050 are a plurality of evenly spaced projecting members 1058. In the center of the disk-shaped body 1050, is an interface aperture 1060 that is sized to receive the upwardly projecting pin 1042. Extending upwards from the upper hub side 1052 are a pair of interface lugs 1062 that define an interface receiving portion 1064 having an enlarged portion 1066, a transition portion 1068 and a reduced portion 1070, wherein the transient portion 1068 provides a tapered transition between the larger diameter enlarged portion 1066 and the smaller diameter reduced portion 1070.
[0051] Referring now to FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c, a tool assembly 1080 can be utilized to install and remove the detachable hold-down screen assembly 1000. Generally, the tool assembly 1080 comprises an interface portion 1082 and a handle portion 1084. The interface portion 1082 includes an elongated flat body 1086 having a pair of oppositely projecting interface members 1088a, 1088b on opposed ends 1090a, 1090b. Each of the projecting interface members 1088a, 1088b includes a reduced diameter stem 1092 and an angled interface tip 1094 that is tapered between a increased diameter tip body 1096 and a reduced diameter tip end 1098. The diameter of the increased diameter tip body 1096 is selected such that the angled interface tip 1094 is fully insertable through the enlarged portion 1066 of the interface lugs 1062 but it too larger to fit into the reduced portion 1070. The diameter of the stem 1092 is selected to fit within the reduced portion 1070. Handle portion 1080 can comprise a hollow tube or pipe 1100 that is welded to a central portion 1102 of the flat body 1086. The hollow tube 1100 defines an upper opening 1104 capable of receiving a suitable length of tube or piping (not show) that can be any of a variety of lengths depending on the geometry and sizing of the vessel and the distance between the manway and an upper surface of the resting media bed. Hollow tube 1100 can include one or more side apertures 1106 for positively coupling the tool assembly 1080 to the suitably sized length of piping, for example, a spring-biased pin or other suitable fastener.
[0052] Generally, the detachable hold-down screen assembly 1000 can be assembled piece-by- piece within the vessel in a similar manner as to that previously described with respect to detachable hold-down screen assembly 100. An installer at the top of the vessel and proximate the manway, can use tool assembly 1080 or another suitable tool to grasp the starter screen panel 1040a, for example, by directing one of the projecting interface members 1088a or 1088b though the panel loop 1022a, and placing the starter screen panel on the top of the media bed such that the hook members 1018a are upwardly facing with the third arcuate wall 1014a positioned proximate / against an inner wall of the vessel. Next, the installer can grasp the first primary screen panel 1004b, for example, by inserting one of the projecting interface members 1088a or 1088b though the panel loop 1022b such that panel loop 1022b is upwardly facing with the third arcuate wall 1014b positioned proximate / against the inner wall of the vessel and the first wall 1010b positioned proximate the second wall 1012a when the first primary screen panel 1004b is placed on the surface of the media bed. In this manner, the at least one projecting member 1020a will be proximate, and preferably inserted into the slot 1030b. The user then sequentially positions the remaining primary screen panels 1004b in a similar manner such that the first wall 1010b is proximate the adjacent second wall 1012b with the adjacent projecting member 1020b being located proximate, and preferably within the adjacent slot 1030b. Once all of the primary screen panels 1004b have been positioned, the user grasps the final screen panel 1004c, for example, by inserting one of the projecting interface members 1088a or 1088b through the panel loop 1022c and positions the final screen panel 1004c on the top surface of the media bed such that the hook members 1018c are upwardly facing In this manner, the third arcuate wall 1014c is positioned approximate and preferably against the vessel inner wall, the first wall 1010c is positioned proximate the second wall 1012b of the adjacent primary screen panel 1004b with the projecting member 1020b being located proximate, and preferably within the adjacent slot 1030c and the 1012c located proximate the first wall 1010a of the starter screen panel 1004a.
[0053] With all of the screen panels 1004 positioned on the upper surface of the media bed, the user can then grasp the key locking plate 1008, for example, by inserting the one of the projecting interface members 1088a or 1088b through the downwardly projecting flange 1040 faces downward and proximate the inner wall of the vessel with the upwardly projecting pin 1042 facing upward and being located proximate the center of the vessel. The key locking plate 1008 is lowered such that the enlarged lots 1046a, 1046c are dropped over the corresponding projecting hook members 1018a, 1018c.
[0054] Following placement of the key locking plate 1008 so as to engage the starter screen panel 1004a and the final screen panel 1004c, the installer can utilize tool assembly 180 to position the then attach the central hub 1002 to further interlock the screen panels 1004 as shown in FIG. 14b. Generally, the projecting interface members 1088a, 1088b are inserted into and through the interface receiving portions 1046 of the interface lugs 1062 such that the stems 1092 can be directed into the reduced portion 1070 to “lock” the tool assembly 180 to the central hub 1002. The central hub 1002 can then be lowered into the center of the vessel such that the interface aperture 1060 that is placed over and receives the upwardly projecting pin 1042 so as to confirm the alignment of the central hub 1002 with the screen panels 1004 and key locking plate 1008. The user can then spin / rotate the tool assembly 180 in a clockwise direction which results in the central hub 1002 spinning relative to the screen panels 1004 and key locking plate 1008. Rotating the central hub 1002 causes the projecting members 158 on the central hub 1002 to rotate into the corresponding hub slots 1024a, 1024b, 1024c as shown in FIG. 15, thereby physically coupling the central hub 1002 to the screen panels 1004 and preventing separation of the central hub 1002 and the screen panels 1004 under the influence of a flow stream through the media bed. In the event that the detachable hold-down screen assembly 1000, the installation process can essentially be reversed so as to use the tool assembly 1080 to sequentially uncouple and remove the central hub 1002, the key locking plate 1008 and the screen panels 1004.
[0055] Referring to FIGS. 16a, 16b and 16c, an alternative embodiment of a starter screen panel assembly 1100 is illustrated. Generally, starter screen panel assembly 1100 can be substantially similar to starter screen panel assembly 1004a but with the further inclusion of a seal clamp 1102 mounted the third arcuate wall 1014a. Generally, the seal clamp 1102 can comprise a top clamp member 1104, a bottom clamp member 1106 and one or more clamp fasteners 1108. Generally, the seal clamp 11012 provides for a first end of a elongated perimeter seal 1110 to be captured and retained between the top clamp member 1104 and the bottom clamp member 1106. The elongated perimeter seal can be wrapped and positioned the arcuate wall of each screen panel assembly to provide a seal between the coupled screen panel assemblies and an inner wall of a pressure vessel. Furthermore, if the coupled screen panel assemblies are disassembled and removed, the seal clamp 1102 causes the elongated perimeter seal 1110 to be removed when the starter screen panel assembly 1100 is removed. While the seal clamp 1102 is illustrated as being part of a starter screen panel assembly, it will be understood that the seal clamp 1102 could alternatively be positioned on one of the primary screen panel assemblies or on the final screen panel assembly.
[0056] Referring to FIGS. 17a. 17b and 17c, an alternative embodiment of a final screen panel assembly 1200 is illustrated. Generally, final screen panel assembly 2100 can be substantially similar to final screen panel assembly 1004c but with the further inclusion of a seal flange 1202 projecting from a bottom edge of the first wall 1010c. The seal flange 1202 allows for an adjacent second wall of an adjacent screen panel assembly to sit upon the seal flange 1202 and to prevent the passage filter media between adjacent screen panel assemblies. While illustrated on the first wall 1010c, it will be understood that the seal flange 1202 could be similarly positioned at the bottom of the second wall 1012c. Furthermore, seal flange 1202 could also be added to the starter screen panel assembly and the primary’ screen panel assemblies.
[0057] Various embodiments of systems, devices, and methods have been described herein. These embodiments are given only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed inventions. It should be appreciated, moreover, that the various features of the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, dimensions, shapes, configurations and locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the claimed inventions.
[0058] Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that the subject matter hereof may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the subject matter hereof may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features: rather, the various embodiments can comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, elements described with respect to one embodiment can be implemented in other embodiments even when not described in such embodiments unless otherwise noted.
[0059] Although a dependent claim may refer in the claims to a specific combination with one or more other claims, other embodiments can also include a combination of the dependent claim with the subject matter of each other dependent claim or a combination of one or more features with other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are proposed herein unless it is stated that a specific combination is not intended.
[0060] Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein.
[0061] For purposes of interpreting the claims, it is expressly intended that the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in a claim.
Claims
CLAIMS1. A media hold down screen assembly, comprising: a plurality of screen panel assemblies, wherein each screen panel assembly is detachably coupled to the adjacent screen panel assemblies; and a central hub, where each screen panel assembly is detachably coupled to the central hub.
2. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of screen panels comprises an upward facing panel loop defining a hub slot.
3. The medial hold down screen assembly of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of screen panels comprises a triangular shape defined by opposed first and second walls and an arcuate third wall, wherein the arcuate third wall is configured for positioning against an inner wall of a pressure vessel.
4. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 3, wherein the plurality of screen panel assemblies comprise: a starter screen panel; one or more primary screen panels; and a final screen panel, wherein the starter screen panel, one or more primary screen panels and the final screen panel are sequentially couplable.
5. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 3, further comprising: a key locking plate for coupling the starter screen panel and the final screen panel to complete coupling of the starter screen panel, one or more primary screen panels and the final screen panel.
6. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 4, wherein the key locking plate comprises a flat elongated body defined between a distal body end and a proximal body end, wherein the distal body end comprises a downwardly projecting flange and the proximal body end comprises an upwardly projecting pin, the flat elongated body including an upwardly projecting plate loop, and wherein the flat elongated body includes a plurality of elongated slots arranged on each side of the flat elongated body.
7. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 5, wherein the first wall of the starter screen panel includes a plurality of upwardly projecting starter hooks and wherein the second wall of the final screen panel includes a plurality of upwardly projecting final hooks such that when the starter screen panel and the final screen panel are positioned with the first wall of the starter screen panel and the second wall of the final screen panel in adjacent relation, the key locking plate can be dropped onto the first wall of the starter screen panel and the second wall of the final screen panel such that the plurality of elongated slots on each side of the flat elongated body drop over the starter hooks and the final hooks to couple the starter screen panel to the final screen panel.
8. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 7, wherein the central hub comprises a flat body having and upper side, a lower side and an arcuate perimeter, the arcuate perimeter comprising a plurality of evenly spaced, radial projecting members, wherein the number of radial projecting members corresponds to the number of screen panels, the flat body defining a central interface aperture between the upper side and the lower side and wherein the upper side includes a pair of interface lugs.
9. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 8, wherein the central hub can be lowered onto the coupled starter screen panel, one or more primary screen panels, final screen panel and key locking plate such that the central interface aperture drops over the upwardly projecting pin of the key locking plate.
10. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 9, further comprising: a tool assembly having a handle portion and an interface portion, wherein the interface portion comprises an interface body having a pair of oppositely projecting interface members on opposed ends of the interface body, wherein each projecting interface member is engageable with the corresponding interface lug on the central hub such that rotation of the handle portion directs the radial projecting members on the central hub into the corresponding hub slot of each screen panel assembly to couple the central hub to each screen panel assembly.
11. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 3, further comprisingan elongated perimeter seal for positioning between each arcuate third wall and the inner wall of the pressure vessel.
12. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 11, wherein one of the screen panel assemblies includes a seal clamp for clamping a first end of the elongated perimeter seal.
13. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 12, wherein removal of the screen panel with the seal clamp results in removal of the elongated perimeter seal.
14. The media hold down screen assembly of claim 13, wherein the elongated perimeter seal comprises a rope seal.
15. A method of installing a media hold down screen assembly in a pressure vessel comprising: sequentially positioning a plurality of screen panel assemblies on top of a media bed, each screen panel assembly detachably coupling to the adjacent screen panel assemblies; and coupling a central hu b to the plurality of screen panel assemblies.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of screen panels comprises a triangular shape defined by opposed first and second walls and an arcuate third wall, the method further comprising:positioning each arcuate third wall to be positioned proximate an inner wall of a pressure vessel.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the plurality screen panel assemblies comprise : a starter screen panel; one or more primary screen panels; and a final screen panel, such that the step of sequentially positioning the plurality of screen panel assemblies comprises: positioning the starter screen panel on the media bed; positioning the one or more primary screen panel on the media bed; and positioning the final screen panel on the media bed such that the first wall of the starter screen panel is adjacent the second wall of the final screen panel.
18. The method of 17, further comprising: coupling the first wall of the starter screen panel and the second wall of the final screen panel with a key locking plate.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first wall of the starter screen panel includes a plurality of upwardly projecting starter hooks and wherein the second wall of the final screen panel includes a plurality of upwardly projecting final hooks and wherein the key locking plate comprises a flat elongated body defined between a distal body end and a proximal body end, wherein the distal body end comprises a downwardly projecting flange and the proximal bodyend comprises an upwardly projecting pin, the flat elongated body including an upwardly projecting plate loop, and wherein the flat elongated body includes a plurality of elongated slots arranged on each side of the flat elongated body, and wherein the step of coupling the first wall of the starter screen panel and the second wall of the final screen panel with the key locking plate further comprises: positioning the key locking plate such that the plurality of elongated slots on each side of the flat elongated body drop over the starter hooks and the final hooks to couple the starter screen panel to the final screen panel.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the central hub comprises a flat body having and upper side, a lower side and an arcuate perimeter, the arcuate perimeter comprising a plurality’ of evenly spaced, radial projecting members, wherein the number of radial projecting members corresponds to the number of screen panels, the flat body defining a central interface aperture between the upper side and the lower side and wherein the upper side includes a pair of interface lug, and wherein the step of coupling the central hub to the plurality of screen panel assemblies comprises: lowering the central hub onto the coupled starter screen panel, one or more primary screen panels, final screen panel and key locking plate such that the central interface aperture drops over the upwardly projecting pin of the key locking plate.
21. The method of claim 20, further comprising:rotating the central hub relative to the coupled starter screen panel, one or more primary screen panels, final screen panel and key locking plate to couple the central hub to the coupled starter screen panel, one or more primary screen panels, final screen panel and key locking plate.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein the step of rotating the central hub comprises: engaging the central hub with a tool assembly through a manway on the pressure vessel.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein the tool assembly includes a handle portion and an interface portion, wherein the interface portion comprises an interface body having a pair of oppositely projecting interface members on opposed ends of the interface body, and wherein the step of engaging the central hub with the tool assembly further comprises: rotating the tool assembly such that each projecting interface member engages the corresponding interface lug on the central hub; and directing the radial projecting members on the central hub into the corresponding hub slot of each screen panel assembly.
24. The method of claim 16, wherein at least one of the screen panel assemblies includes a seal clamp for clamping a first end of an elongated perimeter seal, and wherein the method further comprises: positioning the elongated perimeter seal between the arcuate third wall of each screen panel assembly and the inner wall of the pressure vessel.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the elongated perimeter seal comprises a rope seal.