Pressure exchanger with dirt and particle handling capabilities

Abstract

The system includes a pressure exchanger and one or more valves. The pressure exchanger includes a rotor configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid. The pressure exchanger further includes a housing disposed about the rotor, one or more flush inlets coupled to the housing, and one or more flush outlets coupled to the housing. One or more first valves are coupled to the one or more flush outlets. The one or more first valves in an open position are associated with a flush operation. The one or more first valves in a closed position are associated with a lubrication operation.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to pressure exchangers, and more particularly to pressure exchangers having dirt and particulate handling capabilities.

[0002] Some systems use fluids at various pressures. Some systems use components to increase the pressure of the fluid.

[0003] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0004] [Figure 1A] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a fluid processing system including a hydraulic energy transfer system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 1B] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a fluid processing system including a hydraulic energy transfer system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 1C] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a fluid processing system including a hydraulic energy transfer system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 1D] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a fluid processing system including a hydraulic energy transfer system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 2E] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3B]1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3C] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3D] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3E] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3F] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3G] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3H] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3I] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3J] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3K] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3L] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3N] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3O] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3P] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3Q] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3R] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3S] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3T] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3U] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3V] 1 illustrates a PX according to certain embodiments. [Figure 4A]FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating a method associated with a pressure exchanger system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating a method associated with a pressure exchanger system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4C] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating a method associated with a pressure exchanger system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4D] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating a method associated with a pressure exchanger system, according to some embodiments. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system in accordance with certain embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0005] The embodiments described herein relate to a pressure exchanger having dirt and particulate handling capabilities.

[0006] A system may use fluids at different pressures. A fluid may be supplied to a system at a lower pressure and one or more portions of the system may operate at a higher pressure. A system may include a closed loop where different fluid pressures are maintained in different portions of the loop. Such systems may include hydraulic fracturing (e.g., fracking or fracing) systems, desalination systems, refrigeration systems, heat pump systems, energy generation systems, mud pump systems, slurry pump systems, industrial fluid systems, wastewater systems, fluid transport systems, etc. Pumps or compressors may be used to increase the pressure of the fluids in such systems.

[0007] Traditionally, systems (e.g., refrigeration systems, heat pump systems, reversible heat pump systems, water systems, etc.) use pumps or compressors to increase the pressure of a fluid (e.g., refrigeration fluids such as carbon dioxide (CO2), R-744, R-134a, hydrocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), ammonia (NH3), refrigerant mixtures, R-407A, R-404A, etc.). Traditionally, separate pumps or compressors mechanically coupled to a motor are used to increase the pressure of the fluid in any part of the system, including increasing the fluid pressure. Pumps and compressors, especially those that operate with large pressure differentials (e.g., causing large pressure increases in the fluid), require large amounts of energy. Thus, traditional systems consume large amounts of energy to increase the pressure of the fluid (through the pump or compressor driven by the motor). Additionally, traditional fluid transfer systems reduce the pressure of the fluid through an expansion valve. Traditional systems inefficiently increase the pressure of the fluid and reduce the pressure of the fluid when operating in a loop. This is wasteful in terms of the energy used to run conventional systems (e.g., the energy used to repeatedly increase the pressure of a refrigerated fluid to raise or lower the temperature of the surrounding environment).

[0008] Traditionally, systems (e.g., refrigeration systems, heat pump systems, reversible heat pump systems, water systems, systems used for reverse osmosis (RO)-based industrial wastewater treatment plants, or the like) have had devices that frequently stall due to fouling (e.g., scaling, organic growth) and particles becoming embedded in the crevices. The devices are then disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled, which causes downtime and reduced production. Disassembly and reassembly can also potentially cause damage to components that can cause reduced performance or even loss of function. Pretreatment of fluids (e.g., industrial wastewater) to try to mitigate fouling and stalling is difficult when the fluid (e.g., water chemistry and composition) can vary (e.g., from plant to plant and from industry to industry). Even when pretreatment processes are used, there can still be potential for stalling, component damage, downtime, reduced production, etc., in response to changes in the composition of the fluid.

[0009] The systems, apparatus, and methods of the present disclosure provide solutions to these and other shortcomings of conventional systems. The present disclosure provides a PX for use in a system (e.g., a fluid processing system, a heat transfer system, a refrigeration system, a heat pump system, a cooling system, a heating system, etc.). In the system, the PX may be configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid (e.g., a high pressure fluid) and a second fluid (e.g., a low pressure fluid). The PX may receive the first fluid via a first inlet (e.g., a high pressure inlet) and the second fluid via a second inlet (e.g., a low pressure inlet). The first fluid may be at a higher pressure than the second fluid when it enters the PX. The PX exchanges pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid. The first fluid exits the PX via a first outlet (e.g., a low pressure outlet) and the second fluid exits the PX via a second outlet (e.g., a high pressure outlet). The second fluid may be at a higher pressure than the first fluid when it exits the PX (eg, pressure has been exchanged between the first and second fluids).

[0010] In some embodiments, the system includes a PX including a rotor configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid. The PX may further include a housing disposed around the rotor, one or more flush inlets coupled to the housing, and one or more flush outlets coupled to the housing. One or more first valves may be coupled (e.g., in fluid communication) with one or more flush outlets. The one or more first valves in an open position are associated with a flush operation (e.g., flush fluid entering the radial bearing gap via the flush inlet and exiting the circumferential groove via the flush outlet). The flush operation may occur when the PX is not exchanging pressure between fluids. The flush operation may clean particles from the radial bearing gap and the circumferential groove. The one or more first valves in a closed position are associated with a lubrication operation (e.g., lubrication fluid entering the radial bearing gap and exiting with the first or second fluid exiting the PX).

[0011] The disclosed systems, apparatus, and methods provide advantages over conventional solutions. The disclosed systems reduce energy consumption compared to conventional systems. For example, the disclosed PX can be used to recover energy stored as pressure and return that energy to the system, reducing the energy costs of operating the system. The disclosed systems can reduce wear on components (e.g., pumps, compressors) compared to conventional systems. The disclosed systems can have less stalling, less fouling, less particles trapped in crevices, less disassembly cleaning processes, less downtime, less component damage, and less product loss compared to conventional systems.

[0012] Although some embodiments of the present disclosure are described in relation to pressure exchangers, energy recovery devices, and hydraulic energy transmission systems, the present disclosure may be applied to other systems and devices (e.g., non-isobaric pressure exchangers, rotating components that are not pressure exchangers, non-rotary pressure exchangers, systems that do not include a pressure exchanger, etc.).

[0013] Although some embodiments of the present disclosure are described in the context of pressure exchange between fluids used in fracking, desalination, heat pump and / or refrigeration systems, the present disclosure may also be applied to other types of systems. Fluids may refer to liquids, gases, transcritical fluids, supercritical fluids, subcritical fluids and / or combinations thereof.

[0014] 1A-1D show schematic diagrams of a fluid treatment system 100 including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110, according to certain embodiments.

[0015] In some embodiments, the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 comprises a pressure exchanger (e.g., a PX). The PX may comprise one or more of the features described in one or more of Figures 3A-V (e.g., inlets, outlets, and valves for performing flushing and lubrication operations) to provide dirt and particulate handling capabilities.

[0016] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) receives a low pressure (LP) in fluid 120 (e.g., a low pressure inlet flow) from an LPin system 122. The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 also receives a high pressure (HP) in fluid 130 (e.g., a high pressure inlet flow) from an HPin system 132. The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) exchanges pressure between the HPin fluid 130 and the LPin fluid 120 to provide an LPout fluid 140 (e.g., a low pressure outlet flow) to an LPout fluid system 142 and an HPout fluid 150 (e.g., a high pressure outlet flow) to an HPout fluid system 152.

[0017] In some embodiments, the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 includes a PX that exchanges pressure between the HPin fluid 130 and the LPin fluid 120. The PX may be a device that transfers fluid pressure between the HPin fluid 130 and the LPin fluid 120 with an efficiency of about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or more (e.g., without using centrifugal techniques). High pressure (e.g., HPin fluid 130, HPout fluid 150) refers to a pressure higher than low pressure (e.g., LPin fluid 120, LPout fluid 140). The LPin fluid 120 in the PX is pressurized and discharged from the PX at high pressure (e.g., HPout fluid 150 at a pressure higher than the pressure of the LPin fluid 120), and the HPin fluid 130 is depressurized and discharged from the PX at low pressure (e.g., LPout fluid 140 at a pressure lower than the pressure of the HPin fluid 130). The PX may operate with the HPin fluid 130 exerting a direct force to pressurize the LPin fluid 120, with or without a fluid separator between the fluids. Examples of fluid separators that may be used in the PX may include, but are not limited to, pistons, bladders, diaphragms, and the like. In some embodiments, the PX may be a rotary device. Rotary PXs, such as those manufactured by Energy Recovery Inc. of San Leandro, California, may not have any separate valves, as the relative motion of the rotor to the end cover achieves effective valving within the device. Rotary PXs may be designed to operate with internal pistons to separate the fluids and transfer pressure with relatively little mixing of the inlet fluid streams. Reciprocating PXs may have pistons that move back and forth within a cylinder to transfer pressure between the fluid streams. The present disclosure may use any PX or multiple PXs, such as, but not limited to, rotary PXs, reciprocating PXs, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the PX may be located on a separate skid from other components of fluid treatment system 100 (eg, if the PX is being added to an existing fluid treatment system).

[0018] In some embodiments, the motor 160 is coupled to the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 (e.g., PX). In some embodiments, the motor 160 controls the speed of a rotor of the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 (e.g., to increase the pressure of the HPout fluid 150 or decrease the pressure of the LPout fluid 140). In some embodiments, the motor 160 generates energy (e.g., functions as a generator) based on pressure exchanges in the hydraulic energy transmission system 110.

[0019] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 may be a hydraulic protection system (e.g., hydraulic buffer system, hydraulic isolation system) that exchanges work and / or pressure with another fluid while blocking or limiting contact between the fluid containing solid particles (e.g., fracking fluid) and various equipment (e.g., hydraulic fracturing equipment, high pressure pumps). By blocking or limiting contact between the fluid containing solid particles and various equipment (e.g., fracturing equipment) the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 increases the life and performance of the various equipment (e.g., fracturing equipment, high pressure fluid pumps) while reducing wear and tear. The use of equipment (e.g., high pressure fluid pumps) that is not designed for abrasive fluids (e.g., fracking fluids and / or corrosive fluids) may reduce the cost of equipment that may be used in the fluid treatment system 100.

[0020] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 may include a hydraulic turbocharger or hydraulic pressure exchange system, such as a rotary PX. The PX may include one or more chambers (e.g., 1-100) that facilitate pressure transfer and pressure equalization between volumes of a first fluid and a second fluid (e.g., gas, liquid, multiphase fluid). In some embodiments, the PX may transfer pressure between a first fluid (e.g., a pressure exchange fluid, such as a proppant-free or substantially proppant-free fluid) and a second fluid that may be highly viscous and / or contain solid particles (e.g., fracking fluids containing sand, proppant, powder, debris, ceramic). The solid particle fluid causes wear and / or erosion of parts of the PX, such as the rotor and end covers of the PX. The fluid (e.g., abrasive particles within the fluid) may cause wear at the interface between the rotor and each end cover as the rotor rotates relative to the end cover. Replacement of worn parts of the PX may be costly.

[0021] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 may be used in various types of systems, such as fracking systems, desalination systems, and refrigeration systems.

[0022] 1A shows a schematic diagram of a fluid treatment system 100A including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110, according to certain embodiments. The fluid treatment system 100A may include a control module 180 including one or more controllers 185.

[0023] 1B shows a schematic diagram of a fluid treatment system 100B including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110, according to certain embodiments. Fluid treatment system 100B may be a fracking system. In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 100B includes more components, fewer components, the same routing, different routing, etc. than those shown in FIG. 1B.

[0024] The LPin fluid 120 and the HPout fluid 150 may be fracking fluids (e.g., fluids containing solid particles, proppant-containing fluids, etc.). The HPin fluid 130 and the LPout fluid 140 may be fluids that are substantially free of solid particles (e.g., proppant-free fluids, water, filtered fluids, etc.).

[0025] The LPin system 122 may include one or more low pressure fluid pumps for supplying the LPin fluid 120 to the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 (e.g., PX). The HPin system 132 may include one or more high pressure fluid pumps 134 for supplying the HPin fluid 130 to the hydraulic energy transmission system 110.

[0026] A hydraulic energy transfer system 110 exchanges pressure between LPin fluid 120 (e.g., low pressure fracking fluid) and HPin fluid 130 (e.g., high pressure water) to provide HPout fluid 150 (e.g., high pressure fracking fluid) to an HPout system 152, which provides LPout fluid 140 (e.g., low pressure water). The HPout system 152 may include a rock formation 154 (e.g., a well) that includes cracks 156. Solid particles (e.g., proppant) from the HPout fluid 150 may be provided into the cracks 156 in the rock formation.

[0027] In some embodiments, the LPout fluid 140, the high pressure fluid pump 134, and the HPin fluid 130 are part of a first loop (e.g., a fluid loop that does not include a proppant). The LPout fluid 140 may be fed to the high pressure fluid pump to produce the HPin fluid 130, which becomes the LPout fluid 140 upon exiting the hydraulic energy transfer system 110.

[0028] In some embodiments, the LPin fluid 120, the HPout fluid 150, and the low pressure fluid pump 124 are part of a second loop (e.g., a proppant-containing fluid loop). The HPout fluid 150 may be fed into the rock formation 154 and then pumped out of the rock formation 154 by the low pressure fluid pump 124 to produce the LPin fluid 120.

[0029] In some embodiments, the fluid treatment system 100B is used in well completion operations in the oil and gas industry to perform hydraulic fracturing (e.g., fracking, fracing) to increase the release of oil and gas in a rock formation 154. The HPout system 152 may include a rock formation 154 (e.g., a well). Hydraulic fracturing may include pumping an HPout fluid 150, including a combination of water, chemicals, and solid particles (e.g., sand, ceramic, proppant), at high pressure into the well (e.g., rock formation 154). The LPin fluid 120 and the HPout fluid 150 may include fluids containing particles that increase the release of oil and gas in the rock formation 154 by propagating and increasing the size of cracks 156 in the rock formation 154. The high pressure of the HPout fluid 150 causes cracks 156 to initiate, expand in size, and propagate through the rock formations 154, releasing more oil and gas, while solid particles (e.g., powder, debris, etc.) enter the cracks 156 and keep them open (e.g., preventing the cracks 156 from closing once the HPout fluid 150 is depressurized).

[0030] To pump the particle-laden fluid into the rock formation 154 (e.g., a well), the fluid treatment system 100B may include one or more high pressure fluid pumps 134 and one or more low pressure fluid pumps 124 coupled to a hydraulic energy transfer system 110. For example, the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 may be a hydraulic turbocharger or PX (e.g., a rotary PX). In operation, the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 transfers pressure without implementing any substantial mixing between a first fluid (e.g., HPin fluid 130, a proppant-free fluid) pumped by the high pressure fluid pump 134 and a second fluid (e.g., LPin fluid 120, a proppant-containing fluid, a fracking fluid) pumped by the low pressure fluid pump 124. In this manner, the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 prevents or limits wear on the high pressure fluid pump 134 while simultaneously enabling the fluid treatment system 100B to pump the high pressure fracking fluid (e.g., HPout fluid 150) into the rock formation 154 to release oil and gas. To operate in corrosive and abrasive environments, the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 may be made from materials that are resistant to the corrosive and abrasive substances contained in either the first fluid or the second fluid. For example, the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 may be made from a ceramic (e.g., a cermet such as alumina, carbide, oxide, nitride, or boride hard phase) in a metal matrix (e.g., Co, Cr, or Ni or any combination thereof), such as tungsten carbide in a matrix of CoCr, Ni, NiCr, or Co.

[0031] In some embodiments, the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 comprises a PX (e.g., a rotary PX) where an HPin fluid 130 (e.g., a first fluid, a fluid that does not contain solid particles at high pressure) flows into a first side of the PX. Here, the HPin fluid 130 contacts an LPin fluid 120 (e.g., a second fluid, a low-pressure fracking fluid) that flows into the PX on a second side. The contact between the fluids allows the HPin fluid 130 to increase the pressure of the second fluid (e.g., the LPin fluid 120), which then pushes a second out fluid (e.g., the HPout fluid 150) of the PX into the well (e.g., the rock formation 154) for fracturing operations. The first fluid (e.g., the LPout fluid 140) also exits the PX, but at a lower pressure after exchanging pressure with the second fluid. As previously mentioned, the second fluid may be a low-pressure fracking fluid that may contain abrasive particles that may wear down the interface between the rotor and each end cover as the rotor rotates against each end cover.

[0032] 1C shows a schematic diagram of a fluid treatment system 100C including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110, according to certain embodiments. Fluid treatment system 100C may be a desalination system (e.g., removing salt and / or other minerals from water). In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 100C includes more components, fewer components, the same routing, different routing, etc. than those shown in FIG. 1C.

[0033] The LPin system 122 may include a feed pump 126 (e.g., low pressure fluid pump 124) that receives in seawater 170 (e.g., a reservoir feed or a direct ocean feed) and supplies the LPin fluid 120 (e.g., low pressure seawater, feed) to the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX). The HPin system 132 may include a membrane 136 that supplies the HPin fluid 130 (e.g., high pressure brine) to the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX). The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 exchanges pressure between the HPin fluid 130 and the LPin fluid 120 to supply the HPout fluid 150 (e.g., high pressure seawater) to the HPout system 152 and the LPout fluid 140 (e.g., low pressure brine) to the LPout system 142 (e.g., a geological mass, ocean, sea, wastewater, etc.).

[0034] The membrane 136 may be a membrane separator configured to separate fluids passing through the membrane, such as a reverse osmosis membrane. The membrane 136 may provide a concentrated feedwater or concentrate (e.g., brine) HPin fluid 130 to the hydraulic energy transfer system 110. The pressure of the HPin fluid 130 may be used to compress a low pressure feedwater (e.g., LPin fluid 120) to a high pressure feedwater (e.g., HPout fluid 150). For simplicity and explanation, the term feedwater is used. However, fluids other than water may be used in the hydraulic energy transfer system 110.

[0035] A circulation pump 158 (e.g., a centrifugal pump) delivers HPout fluid 150 (e.g., high pressure seawater) to the membrane 136. The membrane 136 filters the HPout fluid 150 to deliver LP drinking water 172 and HPin fluid 130 (e.g., high pressure brine). The LPout system 142 delivers out brine 174 (e.g., to a geological body, ocean, sea, wastewater, etc.).

[0036] In some embodiments, a high pressure fluid pump 176 is disposed between the feedwater pump 126 and the membrane 136. The high pressure fluid pump 176 increases the pressure of the low pressure seawater (e.g., LPin fluid 120, providing the high pressure feedwater) that is mixed with the high pressure seawater provided by the circulation pump 158.

[0037] In some embodiments, use of the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 reduces the load on the high pressure fluid pump 176. In some embodiments, the fluid treatment system 100C provides the LP potable water 172 without the use of the high pressure fluid pump 176. In some embodiments, the fluid treatment system 100C provides the LP potable water 172 using the high pressure fluid pump 176 intermittently.

[0038] In some examples, a hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) receives an LPin fluid 120 (e.g., low pressure feedwater) at about 30 pounds per square inch (PSI) (about 207 kPa) and an HPin fluid 130 (e.g., high pressure brine or concentrate) at about 980 PSI (about 6757 kPa). The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) transfers pressure from the high pressure concentrate (e.g., HPin fluid 130) to the low pressure feedwater (e.g., LPin fluid 120). The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) outputs an HPout fluid 150 (e.g., high pressure (compressed) feedwater) at about 965 PSI (about 6653 kPa) and outputs an LPout fluid 140 (e.g., low pressure concentrate) at about 15 PSI (about 103 kPa). Because of this, the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 (e.g., PX) can be approximately 97% efficient because the input volume is approximately equal to the output volume of the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 (e.g., PX) and 965 PSI (approximately 6653 kPa) is approximately 97% of 980 PSI (approximately 6757 kPa).

[0039] 1D shows a schematic diagram of a fluid treatment system 100D including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110, according to certain embodiments. Fluid treatment system 100D may be a refrigeration system. In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 100D includes more components, fewer components, the same routing, different routing, etc. than those shown in FIG. 1D.

[0040] A hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) receives LPin fluid 120 from an LPin system 122 (e.g., low pressure lift device 128, low pressure fluid pump, etc.) and receives HPin fluid 130 from an HPin system 132 (e.g., condenser 138). The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) may exchange pressure between the LPin fluid 120 and the HPin fluid 130 to provide HPout fluid 150 to the HPout system 152 (e.g., high pressure lift device 159) and provide LPout fluid 140 to the LPout system 142 (e.g., evaporator 144). The evaporator 144 may provide fluid to the compressor 178 and the low pressure lift device 128. The condenser 138 may receive fluid from the compressor 178 and the high pressure lift device 159.

[0041] Fluid treatment system 100D may be a closed system. LPin fluid 120, HPin fluid 130, LPout fluid 140 and HPout fluid 150 may all be fluids (eg, refrigerants) that circulate in the closed system of fluid treatment system 100D.

[0042] In some embodiments, the fluid of the fluid treatment system 100D may include solid particles. For example, solid particles (e.g., solid particles from welding) may be entrained in the fluid in the fluid treatment system 100D due to piping, equipment, connections (e.g., welding of pipes, soldering of pipes), etc. Solid particles in the fluid and / or high pressure of the fluid may cause wear and / or erosion of the PX components (e.g., rotors, end covers) of the hydraulic energy transfer system 110.

[0043] 2A-2E are exploded perspective views of a rotary PX 40 (eg, a rotary pressure exchanger, a rotary liquid piston compressor (LPC)) according to certain embodiments. The PX 40 may include a motor 92 and / or a control module 94.

[0044] In some embodiments, the PX40 includes one or more of the features described in one or more of Figures 3A-V (e.g., inlets, outlets, and valves for performing flushing and lubrication operations) to provide dirt and particulate handling capabilities.

[0045] The PX 40 is configured to transfer pressure and / or work between a first fluid (e.g., a proppant-free fluid or supercritical carbon dioxide, HPin fluid 130) and a second fluid (e.g., fracking fluid or superheated carbon dioxide gas, LPin fluid 120) with minimal fluid mixing. The rotary PX 40 may include a generally cylindrical body portion 42 including a sleeve 44 (e.g., rotor sleeve) and a rotor 46. The rotary PX 40 may also include two end caps 48 and 50 including manifolds 52 and 54, respectively. The manifold 52 includes respective inlet and outlet ports 56 and 58, and the manifold 54 includes respective inlet and outlet ports 60 and 62. In operation, the inlet ports 56, 60 allow the first and second fluids to enter and exchange pressure with the rotary PX 40, while the outlet ports 58, 62 allow the first and second fluids to exit the rotary PX 40. In operation, the inlet port 56 may receive a first fluid (e.g., HPin fluid 130) at high pressure and, after exchanging pressure, the outlet port 58 may be used to pump the first fluid (e.g., LPout fluid 140) at low pressure out of the rotary PX 40. Similarly, the inlet port 60 may receive a second fluid (e.g., LPin fluid 120) at low pressure and the outlet port 62 may be used to pump the second fluid (e.g., HPout fluid 150) at high pressure out of the rotary PX 40. The end caps 48 and 50 are disposed within the respective manifolds 52 and 54 and include respective end covers 64 and 66 (e.g., end plates) that enable fluid-sealing contact with the rotor 46.

[0046] As noted above, one or more components of PX 40, such as rotor 46, end cover 64 and / or end cover 66, may be constructed from a wear-resistant material (e.g., carbide, cemented carbide, silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, etc.) having a hardness greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., a Vickers Hardness number of at least 1000, 1250, 1500, 1750, 2000, 2250 or more). For example, tungsten carbide may provide increased durability and improved wear resistance to abrasive fluids compared to other materials, such as alumina ceramic.

[0047] The rotor 46 may be cylindrical and disposed within the sleeve 44, which allows the rotor 46 to rotate about an axis 68. The rotor 46 may have a number of channels 70 (e.g., ducts, rotor ducts) that run generally longitudinally through the rotor 46, with openings 72 and 74 (e.g., rotor ports) at each end symmetrically disposed about the longitudinal axis 68. The openings 72 and 74 of the rotor 46 are disposed to be in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet apertures 76 and 78 (e.g., end cover inlet and end cover outlet ports) and 80 and 82 (e.g., end cover inlet and end cover outlet ports) of the end covers 64 and 66, respectively, in such a way that the channels 70 are exposed to high and low pressure fluids during rotation. As shown, the inlet and outlet apertures 76 and 78, 80 and 82 may be designed in the shape of an arc or a portion of a circle (e.g., C-shaped).

[0048] In some embodiments, a controller using sensor feedback (e.g., revolutions per minute measured via a tachometer or optical encoder, or volumetric flow rate measured via a flow meter) may control the degree of mixing of the first and second fluids in the rotary PX 40. This controller may be used to improve the operability of a fluid treatment system (e.g., fluid treatment systems 100A-100D of FIGS. 1A-1D). For example, by varying the volumetric flow rates of the first and second fluids entering the rotary PX 40, a plant operator (e.g., a system operator) can control the amount of fluid mixing in the PX 40. Additionally, by varying the rotational speed of the rotor 46, an operator can also control the mixing. Three characteristics of the rotary PX 40 that affect mixing include (1) the aspect ratio of the rotor channel 70, (2) the exposure time between the first and second fluids, and (3) the creation of a fluid barrier (e.g., an interface) between the first and second fluids in the rotor channel 70. First, the rotor channel 70 (e.g., a duct) is generally long and narrow, which stabilizes the flow in the rotary PX 40. Furthermore, the first and second fluids may move through the channel 70 in a plug-flow manner with minimal axial mixing. Second, in certain embodiments, the speed of the rotor 46 reduces the contact between the first and second fluids. For example, the speed of the rotor 46 (e.g., a rotor speed of about 1200 RPM) may reduce the contact time between the first and second fluids to less than about 0.15 seconds, 0.10 seconds, or 0.05 seconds. Third, a small portion of the rotor channel 70 is used to exchange pressure between the first and second fluids. Thus, a certain amount of fluid remains in the channel 70 as a barrier between the first and second fluids. Any of these mechanisms may limit mixing in the rotary PX 40. Additionally, in some embodiments, the rotary PX40 may be designed to operate with all or part of an internal piston or other barrier that isolates the first and second fluids while allowing pressure transmission.

[0049] 2B-2E are exploded views of one embodiment of the rotary PX 40, showing the sequence of positions of a single rotor channel 70 within the rotor 46 as the channel 70 rotates through one complete cycle. Note that FIGS. 2B-2E are simplified views of the rotary PX 40, showing one rotor channel 70, and showing the channel 70 as having a circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the rotary PX 40 may include multiple channels 70 having the same or different cross-sectional shapes (e.g., circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, polygonal, etc.). Thus, FIGS. 2B-2E are simplified for illustrative purposes, and other embodiments of the rotary PX 40 may have different configurations than those shown in FIGS. 2A-2E. As will be described in more detail below, the rotary PX 40 facilitates pressure exchange between a first fluid and a second fluid by allowing the first and second fluids to briefly contact each other within the rotor 46. In certain embodiments, this exchange is performed at a rate that limits intermixing of the first and second fluids. The speed of the pressure wave passing through the rotor channel 70 (as soon as the channel is exposed to the aperture 76), the rate of diffusion of the fluids, and the rotational speed of the rotor 46 determine whether and to what extent any intermixing occurs.

[0050] FIG. 2B is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotary PX 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) according to certain embodiments. In FIG. 2B, the channel opening 72 is in a first position. In the first position, the channel opening 72 is in fluid communication with an aperture 78 in the end cover 64 and thus the manifold 52, while the opposite channel opening 74 is in fluid communication with an aperture 82 in the end cover 66 and extends therefrom into the manifold 54. As discussed below, the rotor 46 may rotate in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow 84. In operation, a low pressure second fluid 86 passes through the end cover 66 and into the channel 70 where it contacts the first fluid 88 at a dynamic fluid interface 90. The second fluid 86 then pushes the first fluid 88 out of the channel 70, through the end cover 64, and out of the rotary PX 40. However, due to the short contact time, there is minimal mixing between the second fluid 86 and the first fluid 88.

[0051] 2C is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotating PX 40 (e.g., a rotating LPC) in accordance with certain embodiments. In FIG. 2C, the channel 70 has been rotated clockwise through an arc of approximately 90 degrees. In this position, the opening 74 (e.g., outlet) is not in fluid communication with the apertures 80 and 82 in the end cover 66, and the opening 72 is not in fluid communication with the apertures 76 and 78 in the end cover 64. Thus, a low pressure second fluid 86 is temporarily contained within the channel 70.

[0052] FIG 2D is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotating PX 40 (e.g., a rotating LPC) according to certain embodiments. In FIG 2D, the channel 70 has been rotated through an arc of approximately 60 degrees from the position shown in FIG 2B. The opening 74 is now in fluid communication with the aperture 80 in the end cover 66, and the opening 72 in the channel 70 is now in fluid communication with the aperture 76 in the end cover 64. In this position, a first fluid 88 at high pressure flows in and pressurizes a second fluid 86 at low pressure, forcing the second fluid 86 out of the rotor channel 70 and through the aperture 80.

[0053] FIG 2E is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotary PX 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) in accordance with certain embodiments. In FIG 2E, the channel 70 has rotated through an arc of approximately 270 degrees from the position shown in FIG 2B. In this position, the opening 74 is no longer in fluid communication with the apertures 80 and 82 in the end cover 66, and the opening 72 is no longer in fluid communication with the apertures 76 and 78 in the end cover 64. Thus, the first fluid 88 is no longer pressurized and is temporarily retained within the channel 70 until the rotor 46 rotates another 90 degrees to begin the cycle again.

[0054] Abrasion and / or erosion damage to the PX can occur when suspended matter is induced and mixed with the fluid entering the PX. Abrasion damage can occur when particles enter the gaps of the PX (e.g., become trapped between the stationary end cover and the rotating rotor). Erosion damage can occur due to the presence of suspended matter (e.g., erosion) in high-velocity fluid jets (e.g., slurry jets) that are formed due to high pressure differentials inside the PX. When high-velocity jets impinge on components of the PX, they can damage such components. Damage (e.g., erosion damage) can occur when high-pressure rotor ports (e.g., rotor ducts) open to low-pressure end cover ports (e.g., kidneys) or when low-pressure rotor ports (e.g., rotor ducts) open to high-pressure end cover ports (e.g., kidneys) creating high pressure differentials.

[0055] Figures 3A-V show a PX 300 according to some embodiments. One or more of the hydraulic energy transmission systems 110 of Figures 1A-D and / or one or more of the PXs 40 of Figures 2A-E may have one or more features, materials, functions, etc. that are the same as or similar to those of Figures 3A-V. The PX depicted in Figures 3A-3V may have one or more features, materials, functions, etc. as described in connection with one or more of Figures 1A-E.

[0056] The PX300 (e.g., rotary pressure exchanger) may have the ability to handle fouling and particles. The PX300 may be used for energy recovery in RO-based industrial wastewater treatment plants. Conventional devices frequently stall due to fouling (e.g., scaling, organic growth) and particles embedded in the gaps (e.g., narrow bearing gaps). The device is then disassembled, the bearing gaps are cleaned, and the device is reassembled, which causes downtime. Disassembly and reassembly can cause damage to components (e.g., fragile ceramic materials) that cause reduced performance or loss of function. Pretreatment of industrial wastewater to mitigate fouling and stalling is difficult when water chemistry and composition vary from plant to plant and industry to industry. To address these and other challenges, the PX300 (e.g., and system 301) of the present disclosure has the ability to manage fouling and particles without stalling.

[0057] System 301 may include a clean-in-place (CIP) system within PX300 that may allow for periodic flushing of bearing gaps with fluid (e.g., detergent, water). PX300 may include features that prevent or retard fouling or build-up of particles within the bearing gaps. System 301 (e.g., a clean-in-place system) may provide clean, high-pressure fluid to parts of PX300 (e.g., to bearings) while PX300 is in operation (e.g., while exchanging pressure between fluids) to prevent fouling and stalling. In some embodiments, a self-cleaning in-line bearing filter embedded within PX300 may provide filtered fluid to the bearings (or other features of PX300).

[0058] Figure 3A shows a side cross-sectional view of PX 300 according to certain embodiments. Figure 3B shows a front cross-sectional view of PX 300 according to certain embodiments.

[0059] PX 300 includes rotor 310, end covers 320A-B, sleeve 330, housing 340, end caps 350A-B, tensioning rod 360 (e.g., center post, shaft), and ports 370A-D. PX 300 may include flush inlets 342A-B (see, e.g., FIG. 3A), lubrication outlet 344 (see, e.g., FIG. 3A), and / or flush outlets 346A-B (see, e.g., FIG. 3B).

[0060] Scale formation can occur in the radial bearing gap 380 between the rotor 310 and the sleeve 330. Precipitation or deposition (e.g., any precipitation or deposition) in the radial bearing gap 380 (e.g., due to micro-level clearances) can cause the rotor 310 to slow down (e.g., increase mixing) or stall (e.g., loss of function of the PX 300). The axial bearing gap 384, the circumferential groove 382, ​​the outer diameter (OD) of the sleeve 330, and the center bore 386 are other locations where fouling can occur due to either small clearances or very low flow velocities.

[0061] The flush inlets 342A-B and flush outlets 346A-B may be fluidly connected to one or more features of the PX 300 (e.g., gaps, grooves, radial bearing gap 380, bearing fluid plenum 381, axial bearing gap 384, circumferential groove 382, ​​OD of sleeve 330, center bore 386, etc.).

[0062] In some embodiments, the flush inlets 342A-B are fluidly connected (e.g., via a bearing fluid plenum 381) to a radial bearing gap 380 of the PX 300 (e.g., the radial bearing gap 380 may be an end region of two small gaps between the rotor 310 and the sleeve 330, or the bearing fluid plenum 381 may be a central region between the rotor 310 and the sleeve 330 where the rotor has a smaller diameter), and the flush outlets 346A-B are coupled to a circumferential groove 382 (e.g., the circumferential groove 382 may be formed by the end cover 320, and the rotor 310 and / or the sleeve 330 may each overlap a portion of the circumferential groove 382). The lubrication outlet 344 may be coupled to a port 370 (e.g., port 370B, a high pressure out (HPout) port).

[0063] Different operations can be controlled by actuating valves 390 of system 301. In some embodiments, system 301 may perform one or more operations more frequently (e.g., internal lubrication operations continuously, substantially continuously, while PX 300 is in use) or less frequently (e.g., flushing operations when PX 300 is not operating). System 301 may perform the above operations (e.g., flushing and / or lubrication operations) based on sensor data, on duration of operation of PX 300, on properties of fluids entering and exiting PX 300, and / or the like.

[0064] 3C-E show system 301 in an internal lubrication configuration, according to certain embodiments. System 301 (e.g., a clean-in-place system) may be used to supply clean, high-pressure bearing fluid (e.g., an internal lubrication operation) during operation of PX 300 (e.g., while PX 300 is exchanging pressure between fluids). During operation of PX 300 (e.g., during normal operation), flush cleaning lines entering PX 300 (e.g., via valve 390E) and outlet valves 390A-B may be closed, and HPout fluid may be taken from an HPout plenum within PX 300 (e.g., from the HPout port, from the plenum between end cover 320B and port 370B) (e.g., valve 390C may be in an open position) and supplied to radial bearing gap 380 through external piping (e.g., via bearing fluid plenum 381).

[0065] In some embodiments (e.g., during an internal lubrication operation while PX 300 is in operation), lubrication outlet 344 provides fluid flow (e.g., from HPout) to one or more flush inlets 342 (e.g., flush inlets 342A-B). This fluid flow enters (e.g., lubricates) radial bearing gap 380 (e.g., via bearing fluid plenum 381), then flows to circumferential groove 382, ​​then flows to axial bearing gaps 384A-B, and then exits via port 370 (e.g., low pressure out (LPout) port).

[0066] 3F-H show system 301 in an external lubrication configuration, according to certain embodiments. System 301 (e.g., a clean-in-place system) can be used to supply clean, high-pressure bearing fluid (e.g., in an internal lubrication operation) while PX 300 is operating (e.g., while PX 300 is exchanging pressure between fluids). During operation of PX 300 (e.g., during normal operation), flush wash outlet valves 390A-B can be closed, the HPout bearing fluid supply can be shut off (e.g., valve 390C is in a closed position), and high-pressure external clean bearing fluid can be piped to keep PX 300 running for long periods of time without getting dirty.

[0067] In some embodiments, external bearing fluid is supplied to one or more flush inlets 342 (e.g., flush inlets 342A-B) (e.g., during an external lubrication operation during PX 300 operation). The external bearing fluid enters (e.g., lubricates) radial bearing gap 380 (e.g., via bearing fluid plenum 381), then flows to axial bearing gaps 384A-B, then to circumferential groove 382, ​​and then exits via port 370 (e.g., LPout port).

[0068] 3I-K show system 301 in a flush configuration, according to certain embodiments. Using the valve on port 370, operation of PX 300 is stopped (e.g., once a day). Flush system valves 390A-B are opened (e.g., valve 390C is in a closed position) and high pressure flush fluid (e.g., having the correct concentration of an appropriate chemical, such as a scale solvent such as citric acid) is fed (e.g., entering via flush inlet 342) through the bearings (e.g., radial bearing gap 380 and / or axial bearing gap 384) and exiting (e.g., exiting via flush outlets 346A and 346B) through a flow path connected to circumferential groove 382. Flush pressure, flush flow rate, flush time, flush fluid, and / or flush time interval are selected based on the particular application. In some embodiments, system 301 (e.g., a flushing operation) may be used to submerge the bearings (e.g., radial bearing gap 380, bearing fluid plenum 381, and / or axial bearing gap 384) in a scaling solvent or biocide (e.g., entering via flushing inlet 342) to remove fouling (e.g., continuous flow is not used).

[0069] In some embodiments (e.g., during a flush cleaning operation, a clean-in-place operation, when PX 300 is not operating), an external cleaning-in-place fluid (e.g., cleaning agent) is provided to one or more flush cleaning inlets 342 (e.g., flush cleaning inlets 342A-B). The external cleaning-in-place fluid enters (e.g., flushes) radial bearing gap 380, then flows to circumferential groove 382, ​​and then exits via flush cleaning outlets 346A-B (e.g., in fluid communication with circumferential groove 382).

[0070] 3L-N show system 301 in a flushing configuration, according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments (e.g., during a flushing operation while PX 300 is in operation), lubricated outlet 344 provides fluid flow (e.g., from HPout) to one flushing inlet 342 (e.g., flushing inlet 342A). The fluid flow enters (e.g., flushes) radial bearing gap 380 and then exits (e.g., is discharged via a drainage line) via a different flushing inlet 342 (e.g., flushing inlet 342B). Valve 390D (e.g., disposed between flushing inlet 324A and lubricated outlet 344) may be in a closed position to enable this operation. Valve 390C may be in an open position, and valves 390A-B and 390E may be in a closed position.

[0071] 3O-P show a PX 300 having a collection groove 392 (eg, formed by a sleeve 330) according to certain embodiments.

[0072] The PX 300 may have one or more features (e.g., collection grooves 392) configured to prevent or retard the buildup of dirt and particles in the radial bearing gap 380 and the circumferential grooves 382. In some embodiments, the circumferential grooves 382 are formed by the rotor 310 (e.g., the circumferential grooves 382 are not created by the end cover 320). The circumferential grooves 382 of the rotor 310 may be less prone to fouling due to the rotation of the rotor 310. The collection grooves 392 (e.g., long substantially vertical slots) may be cut on the inner surface of the sleeve 330 (e.g., on the low pressure side of the PX 300). One or more channels 394 (e.g., through holes) may be cut into the outer surface of the rotor 310 from one of the ducts of the rotor 310. The channels 394 may connect to the collection grooves 392 when aligned with the low pressure kidney of the end cover. Particles within the radial bearing gap 380 (e.g., further bearing fluid plenum 381) may be collected in collection grooves 392 and flushed into the LPout fluid stream through channels 394 (e.g., duct holes). This may occur at least once per revolution (e.g., about once per revolution).

[0073] 3Q-R show a PX having a collection groove 392 (e.g., formed by the rotor 310) according to certain embodiments. The collection groove 392 may be cut into the rotor. The sleeve 330 may have a sleeve passage 393 that connects the collection groove 392 to the LPout fluid flow at least once per revolution (e.g., about once per revolution).

[0074] Figures 3S-V are associated with a filter 396 (e.g., a self-cleaning in-line bearing fluid filter) of the PX 300, according to certain embodiments. Figure 3S shows a perspective view of the PX 300 including the filter 396. Figure 3T shows a perspective view of the filter 396. Figure 3U shows a cross-sectional view of the filter 396. Figure 3V shows the filter 396 disposed within the end cap 350 of the PX 300.

[0075] 3S, the fluid flow exiting end cover 320B (e.g., HPout fluid flow) flows through filter 396 and then to filtered fluid supply 399 to one or more features of PX 300 (e.g., one or more of bearing gaps, radial bearing gap 380, axial bearing gap 384, circumferential groove 382, ​​center bore 386, etc.). In some embodiments, a valve controls the filtered fluid flow via filtered fluid supply 399. Controller 303 (see, e.g., FIGS. 3C-3N) can actuate the valve (e.g., periodically, based on sensor data, based on a schedule) to an open position that supplies filtered fluid supply 399 to one or more features of PX 300. In some embodiments, filter 396 filters the HPout fluid flow and supplies it via filtered fluid supply 399. In some embodiments, filter 396 filters the HPin fluid flow and supplies it via filtered fluid supply 399.

[0076] In some embodiments, the filter 396 may prevent suspended solid particles larger than 10 microns from reaching the bearing gaps (e.g., radial bearing gap 380, axial bearing gap 384). The filter 396 may be made of porous metal or a hydrophobic porous plastic attached to the end cap 350 of the HPout plenum. The filter 396 may include a filter element housed in a metal cage that is threaded to the end cap 350. The HPout flow swirling in the plenum may clean the filter 396, and the filtered fluid may be collected (e.g., through a pipe, through a path formed by the PX 300, through a path formed by the sleeve 330 or housing 340) and supplied (e.g., directly) to the bearings (e.g., radial bearing gap 380, axial bearing gap 384). The filter 396 may be used with any of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0077] In some embodiments, system 301 is used in RO-based industrial wastewater treatment. System 301 allows for the use of PX 300 for energy recovery in RO-based industrial wastewater treatment facilities. System 301 may allow for the use of PX when process streams contain scale-forming ions, high COD and / or BOD content, high concentrations of suspended particles, etc.

[0078] The present disclosure (eg, one or more of the embodiments of FIGS. 3A-V) may have improvements over conventional solutions in one or more of pressure range, efficiency, volume, cost reduction, and the like.

[0079] In some embodiments, one or more features of PX 300 include coatings and / or surface treatments for biofouling and / or scale resistance, which may include one or more of circumferential grooves 382 of end cover 320, center bore 386 of rotor 310, ducts of rotor 310, outer surface of sleeve 330 (e.g., outer diameter, lubricant holes), clearance between rotor 310 and sleeve 330 (e.g., radial bearing clearance 380), axial surface of rotor 310, and / or the like. One or more features of PX 300 may have reduced surface roughness, texturing to increase hydrophobicity, modified surface chemistry, surface charge, anti-adhesive coatings, oleophobic coatings, coatings with nano-silver particles (e.g., nano-silver particle coatings), and / or the like.

[0080] 4A-D are flow diagrams illustrating methods 400A-D associated with a pressure exchanger system (e.g., one or more of systems 301 and / or PX 300 of FIGS. 3A-V), according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, methods 400A-D are performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (e.g., circuits, special purpose circuits, programmable logic, microcode, a processing device, etc.), software (e.g., instructions running on a processing device, a general purpose computer system, or a special purpose machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, methods 400A-D are performed, at least in part, by a controller (e.g., one of control module 180 or controller 185 of FIGS. 1A-D, control module 94 of FIGS. 2A-E, controller 303 of FIGS. 3C-3N). In some embodiments, a non-transitory recording medium stores instructions that, when executed by a processing device (e.g., one of control module 180 or controller 185 of FIGS. 1A-D, control module 94 of FIGS. 2A-E, controller 303 of FIGS. 3C-3N), cause the processing device to perform one or more of methods 400A-D.

[0081] For simplicity of explanation, methods 400A-D are depicted and described as a series of operations, although operations in accordance with the present disclosure may occur in various orders and / or simultaneously, together with other operations not shown and described herein. Moreover, in some embodiments, not all of the depicted operations are performed to implement methods 400A-D in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that methods 400A-D may alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states via a state diagram or events.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 4A, at block 402, processing logic (eg, a controller) determines (eg, via user input) that an internal lubrication operation of the pressure exchanger should be performed.

[0083] In block 404, processing logic actuates one or more first valves (e.g., fluidly connected to one or more flush outlets associated with the circumferential grooves of the pressure exchanger) to a closed position.

[0084] In block 406, the processing logic actuates one or more second valves (e.g., fluidly connected to the lubricated outlet and disposed between the lubricated outlet and the one or more flush inlets) to an open position.

[0085] The lubricated outlet may provide a fluid flow (e.g., from a lubricated outlet, from HPout) to one or more flush inlets that enters (e.g., lubricates) the radial bearing gap (e.g., via a bearing fluid plenum), then flows to the circumferential groove, then flows to the axial bearing gap, and then exits via a port (e.g., a low pressure out (LPout) port) of the pressure exchanger.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 4B, at block 422, processing logic (eg, a controller) determines that an external lubrication operation of the pressure exchanger should be performed.

[0087] At block 424, processing logic actuates a first valve (eg, in fluid communication with one or more flush outlets associated with the circumferential groove of the pressure exchanger) to a closed position.

[0088] In block 426, the processing logic actuates a second valve (e.g., in fluid communication with the lubricated outlet and disposed between the lubricated outlet and one or more flush inlets) to a closed position.

[0089] In block 428, the processing logic causes external bearing fluid to be supplied to the pressure exchanger (e.g., via a flush inlet associated with the radial bearing gap). The external bearing fluid may be supplied to one or more flush inlets. The external bearing fluid enters (e.g., lubricates) the radial bearing gap (e.g., via a bearing fluid plenum), then flows to the circumferential groove, then flows to the axial bearing gap, and then exits through a port (e.g., LPout port) of the pressure exchanger. The method 400B of FIG. 4B may be used when the process fluid (e.g., the fluid exchanging pressure with other fluids in the pressure exchanger) is not suitable as a bearing fluid (e.g., the process fluid causes rotor fouling and frequent stalling or deceleration), the HPout bearing fluid supply may be shut off, and high pressure external clean bearing fluid may be piped to keep the PX running for a long time without fouling.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 4C, in block 442, processing logic (eg, a controller) determines that a pressure exchanger flush operation should be performed (eg, while the pressure exchanger is not in operation).

[0091] At block 444, processing logic actuates a first valve (eg, in fluid communication with a flush outlet associated with the circumferential groove of the pressure exchanger) to an open position.

[0092] At block 446, processing logic actuates a second valve (eg, in fluid communication with the lubricated outlet) to a closed position.

[0093] In block 448, processing logic causes a cleaning-in-place fluid to be provided to the pressure exchanger (e.g., via a flush inlet associated with the radial bearing gap). In method 400C of FIG. 4C, a cleaning-in-place fluid (e.g., a cleaning agent) may be provided to one or more flush inlets. The cleaning-in-place fluid enters (e.g., flushes) the radial bearing gap (e.g., via a bearing fluid plenum), then flows to the circumferential groove, and then exits via a flush outlet.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 4D, in block 462, processing logic (eg, a controller) determines that a pressure exchanger flush operation should be performed (eg, while the pressure exchanger is operating).

[0095] At block 464, processing logic actuates a first valve (eg, in fluid communication with a flush outlet associated with the circumferential groove of the pressure exchanger) to a closed position.

[0096] In block 466, the processing logic actuates a second valve (e.g., in fluid communication with the lubricated outlet) to an open position. In method 400D of FIG. 4D, the lubricated outlet may provide a fluid flow to the first flush inlet (e.g., from HPout). The fluid flow enters the radial bearing gap and exits via the second flush inlet (e.g., a valve disposed between the second flush inlet and the lubricated outlet is in a closed position).

[0097] 5 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 500 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, computer system 500 may be a controller, a controller device, a client device, a server, control module 180 or controller 185 of FIGS. 1A-D, control module 94 of FIGS. 2A-E, controller 303 of FIGS. 3C-N, etc.

[0098] In some embodiments, computer system 500 is connected to other computer systems (e.g., via a network such as a local area network (LAN), an intranet, an extranet, or the Internet). Computer system 500 operates in the capacity of a server or client computer in a client-server environment, or as a peer computer in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. In some embodiments, computer system 500 is provided by a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone, a web appliance, a server, a network router, switch or bridge, or any device capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that device. Furthermore, the word "computer" is intended to include any collection of computers that individually or cooperatively execute a set (or sets) of instructions to implement any one or more of the methods described herein.

[0099] In some embodiments, computer system 500 includes a processing unit 502, volatile memory 504 (e.g., Random Access Memory (RAM)), non-volatile memory 506 (e.g., Read-Only Memory (ROM) or Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM)), and / or data storage device 516, which communicate with each other via a bus 508.

[0100] In some embodiments, processing unit 502 comprises one or more processors, such as a general purpose processor (e.g., a Complex Instruction Set Computing (CISC) microprocessor, a Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) microprocessor, a Very Long Instruction Word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor that executes other types of instruction sets, or a combination of multiple types of instruction sets, etc.) or a specialized processor (e.g., an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), a PID controller, or a network processor, etc.). In some embodiments, processing unit 502 comprises one or more of a single processor, multiple processors, a single processor with multiple processing cores, and / or the like.

[0101] In some embodiments, computer system 500 further comprises a network interface device 522 (e.g., coupled to network 574). In some embodiments, computer system 500 comprises one or more input / output (I / O) devices. In some embodiments, computer system 500 also includes a video display unit 510 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)), an alphanumeric input device 512 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 514 (e.g., a mouse), and / or a signal generating device 520. Computer system 500 may comprise a signal input device 515, e.g., for receiving signals from other devices. For example, signal input device 515 facilitates receipt by computer system 500 of measurement data from sensors associated with the fluid processing system. Signal generating device 520 may be utilized to generate and / or transmit control signals for transmitting commands to one or more components of the fluid processing system.

[0102] In some implementations, data storage 518 (e.g., disk drive storage, fixed and / or removable storage devices, fixed disk drives, removable memory cards, optical storage, network attached storage (NAS), and / or storage area networks (SAN)) comprises a non-transitory computer readable storage medium 524 that stores instructions 526 that encode any one or more of the methods or functions described herein and are for performing the methods described herein. A control module 527 (e.g., including any of the controllers and / or control modules of the present disclosure) may include instructions 526.

[0103] In some embodiments, the instructions 526 also reside, completely or partially, within the volatile memory 504 and / or the processing unit 502 during execution thereof by the computer system 500. Thus, the volatile memory 504 and the processing unit 502 also constitute machine-readable storage media in some embodiments.

[0104] Although computer-readable storage medium 524 is shown as a single medium in the illustrative example, the term "computer-readable storage medium" is intended to include single or multiple media (e.g., centralized or distributed databases and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of executable instructions. The term "computer-readable storage medium" is also intended to include any tangible medium that can store or encode a set of instructions for execution by a computer that causes the computer to perform one or more of the methods described herein. The term "computer-readable recording medium" is also intended to include, but is not limited to, solid-state memories, optical media, and magnetic media.

[0105] The methods, components, and features described herein may be performed by individual hardware components or may be integrated into the functionality of other hardware components, such as an ASIC, FPGA, DSP, or similar device. Additionally, the methods, components, and features may be performed by firmware modules or functional circuits within a hardware device. Furthermore, the methods, components, and features may be implemented in any combination of hardware and computer program components, or in a computer program.

[0106] Unless otherwise specified and unless otherwise clear from the context, words such as "receive," "transmit," "determine," "generate," "cause," "operate," "regulate," "control," "identify," "provide," and similar words refer to acts or processes performed or carried out by a computer system that manipulate and transform data represented as physical quantities (electrical quantities) in a register or memory of the computer system into other data also represented as physical quantities in the memory or register of the computer system, or other such information storage, transmission, or display device. Also, as used herein, words such as "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and the like are meant as labels to distinguish different elements and do not necessarily have a hierarchical meaning according to their numerical designations.

[0107] The embodiments described herein also relate to an apparatus for performing the methods described herein. The apparatus may be specially configured to perform the methods described herein, or may comprise a general-purpose computer system selectively programmed by a computer program stored in the computer system. Such a computer program may be stored on a computer-readable tangible storage medium.

[0108] The methods and illustrative examples described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may be used in accordance with the teachings described herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the methods described herein and / or each of their individual functions, routines, subroutines or operations. Examples of structures for various such systems are set forth in the description above.

[0109] Although the operations of the methods herein are shown and described in a particular order, the order of the operations of each method may be changed such that certain operations may be performed in reverse order, or such that certain operations may be performed at least in part concurrently with other operations. In other embodiments, instructions of separate operations or sub-operations may be intermittent and / or interleaved.

[0110] In the above description, numerous specific details are described, such as examples of specific systems, components, methods, etc., to fully understand some embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that at least some embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known components or methods are not described in detail or are presented in simple block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Thus, the specific details described are merely exemplary. A particular implementation may vary from such example details and still be considered within the scope of the present disclosure. The description of the system herein may include a description of one or more optional components. Components may be included in combinations not specifically discussed in the present disclosure, and such components may still be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0111] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". When the terms "about", "substantially" or "approximately" are used herein, this is intended to mean that the stated nominal value is accurate to within 10%. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc., used herein are intended as labels to distinguish different elements and do not necessarily have an ordinal meaning according to their numerical designations.

[0112] As used herein, the terms "throughout," "under," "between," "disposed on," "before," "after," and "on" refer to the location of a layer of material or component relative to another layer or component. For example, a layer that is disposed over, through, or under another layer may be in direct contact with the other layer or there may be one or more intervening layers. Further, a layer that is disposed between two layers may be in direct contact with the two layers or there may be one or more intervening layers. Similarly, unless expressly stated otherwise, a feature that is disposed between two features may be in direct contact with the adjacent feature or there may be one or more intervening layers or components.

[0113] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not limiting. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which each claim is entitled.

Claims

1. 1. A system comprising: A pressure exchanger, comprising: a rotor configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid; a housing disposed around the rotor; one or more flush inlets coupled to the housing; a pressure exchanger coupled to the housing and including one or more flush outlets; one or more first valves coupled to the one or more flush outlets, the one or more first valves in an open position being associated with a flush operation and the one or more first valves in a closed position being associated with a lubrication operation.

2. The system further comprises a lubrication outlet and a second valve coupled to the lubrication outlet; the one or more first valves and the second valve in the closed position are associated with an external lubrication operation; the one or more first valves in the closed position and the second valve in the open position are associated with an internal lubrication operation; and The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more first valves in the open position and the second valve in the closed position are associated with the flush operation.

3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the lubrication outlet is in fluid communication with an HPout port of the pressure exchanger.

4. the system further comprising a third valve associated with at least one of the one or more flush inlets; 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the one or more first valves in the closed position, the second valve in the open position, and the third valve in the closed position are associated with a lubricating fluid, the lubricating fluid entering through a first flush inlet of the one or more flush inlets and exiting through a second flush inlet of the one or more flush inlets to a drainage line.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more flush inlets are in fluid communication with a radial bearing gap between the rotor and a sleeve disposed about the rotor.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more flush wash outlets are fluidly connected to a circumferential groove between the rotor and an end cover disposed at a distal end of the rotor.

7. At least one of the one or more flush inlets or the one or more flush outlets is a radial bearing clearance between the rotor and the pressure exchanger sleeve; a circumferential groove between the rotor and an end cover disposed at a distal end of the rotor; an axial bearing gap disposed between the rotor and the end cover; a sleeve outer diameter portion disposed between the sleeve and the housing; or a tension rod disposed within the rotor; The system of claim 1 , wherein the system is associated with one or more of the following flushing steps:

8. the inner surface of the pressure exchanger sleeve forms a collection channel; the sleeve is disposed about the rotor; the rotor defines a channel between a duct and an outer surface of the rotor; and 2. The system of claim 1, wherein particles are collected in the collection groove and flushed out through the duct in response to the channel being aligned with the collection groove.

9. a sleeve disposed about the rotor; the outer surface of the rotor defines a collection channel; and The system of claim 1 , wherein the sleeve forms a passageway that connects the collection groove with an outlet of the pressure exchanger in response to the collection groove being aligned with the passageway.

10. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising an end cap disposed at a distal end of the pressure exchanger and a bearing fluid filter disposed within the end cap, the pressure exchanger directing a portion of fluid exiting the pressure exchanger through the bearing fluid filter toward a bearing of the pressure exchanger.

11. The system comprises: Circumferential groove in end cover; Rotor center bore, Rotor duct, Sleeve outer surface, The outer surface of the rotor, or 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a coating on one or more of: a rotor axial surface;

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the coating is one or more of a hydrophobic coating, an anti-adhesive coating, an oleophobic coating, or a nano-silver particle coating.

13. A pressure exchanger, comprising: a rotor configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid; a housing disposed around the rotor; one or more flush inlets coupled to the housing and associated with a radial bearing gap of the pressure exchanger; a flush outlet coupled to the housing and associated with a circumferential groove of the pressure exchanger, wherein one or more first valves are coupled to the flush outlet, the one or more first valves in an open position being associated with a flush operation and the one or more first valves in a closed position being associated with a lubrication operation.

14. the pressure exchanger further comprising a lubricated outlet and a second valve coupled to the lubricated outlet; the one or more first valves and the second valve in the closed position are associated with an external lubrication operation; the one or more first valves in the closed position and the second valve in the open position are associated with an internal lubrication operation; and The pressure exchanger of claim 13 , wherein the one or more first valves in the open position and the second valve in the closed position are associated with the flush operation.

15. the pressure exchanger sleeve is disposed around the rotor; the inner surface of the sleeve defines a collection groove; the rotor defines a channel between the duct and an outer surface of the rotor; and 14. The pressure exchanger of claim 13, wherein particles are collected in the collection groove and flushed out through the duct in response to the channel being aligned with the collection groove.

16. the pressure exchanger sleeve is disposed around the rotor; the outer surface of the rotor defines a collection channel; and 14. The pressure exchanger of claim 13, wherein the sleeve forms a passageway that connects the collection groove with an outlet of the pressure exchanger in response to the collection groove being aligned with the passageway.

17. 14. The pressure exchanger of claim 13, further comprising an end cap disposed at a distal end of the pressure exchanger and a bearing fluid filter disposed within the end cap, the pressure exchanger directing a portion of fluid exiting the pressure exchanger through the bearing fluid filter toward a bearing of the pressure exchanger.

18. 1. A method, comprising: actuating one or more first valves to an open position, the one or more first valves being coupled to a flush outlet of a pressure exchanger, the flush outlet being coupled to a housing of the pressure exchanger and associated with a circumferential groove of the pressure exchanger; and actuating a second valve to a closed position, the second valve being associated with a lubrication outlet, the first valve in the open position and the second valve in the closed position being associated with a flushing operation of the pressure exchanger.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising inducing a flushing fluid flow through one or more flush inlets coupled to the housing and associated with a radial bearing gap of the pressure exchanger, inducing a fluid flow through the radial bearing gap toward a circumferential groove and out through the flush outlet.

20. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising actuating the one or more first valves to the closed position and actuating the second valve to the open position to perform an internal lubrication operation of the pressure exchanger.

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