Device for ionizing a fluid

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for ionizing a fluid, the device (102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602, 702) comprising an elongated container (4, 104) adapted to transport a fluid in a gaseous state, a fluid ionizer (18, 28) for ionizing the fluid, and at least one fluid flow directing unit (106, 206) arranged in the container, the at least one fluid flow directing unit comprising at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel (108, 118, 120) having an outlet (110) circumferentially displaced with respect to an inlet (108) for redirecting a first portion of an incoming fluid flow, and a central fluid flow guiding channel (114) extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the elongated container for guiding a second portion of the incoming fluid flow substantially in the longitudinal direction of the elongated container.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for ionizing a fluid in a gaseous state. [Background technology]

[0002] Ionization is the process, often in conjunction with other chemical changes, by which an atom or molecule acquires a negative or positive charge by gaining or losing electrons. The resulting electrically charged atoms or molecules are called ions.

[0003] The technical field of the invention relates to the ionization of a fluid by exposing it to an electrical discharge.

[0004] The gaseous fluid used as input to the ionization method may be air. When the discharge is strong enough, conditions are created for the gas to split into positive ions and electrons, and the air becomes ionized.

[0005] One of the application areas of ionized gas is the purification of fluids, such as gases, which can be air, industrial process liquids, any kind of water, wastewater, and other liquids. Ionized gas can be used to remove organic and mineral impurities or contaminants. Such organic matter can be bacteria, viruses, other harmful microorganisms, and some organic chemicals, and also for the separation by precipitation of inorganic or mineral matter, such as metals.

[0006] The disclosure in this section should not be construed as any admission of prior art.

[0007] WO2018 / 211309 discloses an electric arc ionization reactor and a method for producing ozone using air. The reactor is elongated and has a circular inner cross section. An inlet for admitting air is provided at a first end of the elongated reactor, and an outlet is provided at a second end of the elongated reactor. A pair of needle-shaped electrodes are positioned opposite each other and spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction of the elongated reactor. A high voltage alternating current is supplied to the electrodes to generate an arc between them.

[0008] Buntat, Zokafle; Ozone generation using electrical discharges; A comparative study between Pulsed Streamer Discharge and Atmospheric Pressure Glow Discharge (2005). This paper deals with an investigation of ozone generation using atmospheric pressure glow discharge and pulsed streamer discharge techniques and seeks to compare their performance in generating high concentration and high yield ozone. The techniques include a comparison of different applications of corona discharge under atmospheric pressure using dielectric plates at a distance of up to 1mm from each other.

[0009] US20020170817 discloses the generation of a corona or other discharge and provides for passing a gas through the corona to ionize, generate ozone, etc. According to various methods of the invention, a corona discharge (or other discharge) is created, a gas is passed through the corona discharge, and mixing of the gas can be provided by non-kinetic mixing techniques for one or more purposes, such as to ensure maximum exposure of the gas to the corona discharge, to provide a uniform temperature of the gas, to cool the corona generator, etc.

[0010] JP0761801 discloses an ozonization unit that provides a high ozone concentration by connecting a high-frequency power source between predetermined electrodes, performing corona discharge, and flowing the generated ozone gas in a spiral shape while adjusting the current, thereby preventing the destruction of ozone.

[0011] US4960569A discloses a corona discharge ozonator including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric material disposed between the electrodes. An ozonation chamber is formed between one of the electrodes and the dielectric material to define a fluid flow path. Within the fluid flow path are a plurality of thermally conductive solids.

[0012] US6451208 discloses a device for applying electrostatic and magnetic fields to a fluid, comprising an outer conduit and an inner conduit forming a fluid passage therebetween. The inner conduit is connected to a DC power source and the outer conduit is grounded with an electrode needle in electrical communication with it. A baffle is disposed within the passage to impart a spiral motion to the fluid flowing therethrough. Summary of the Invention

[0013] A first object of the present invention is to achieve a device for ionizing a fluid stream which creates conditions for high ionization efficiency.

[0014] This object is achieved by a device according to claim 1. This is thus achieved by a device for ionization of a fluid, the device comprising an elongated container adapted to transport a fluid in a gaseous state, a fluid ionizer for ionizing the fluid, and at least one fluid flow guiding unit arranged in the container, the first fluid flow guiding unit comprising at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel having an outlet circumferentially displaced with respect to the inlet for redirecting a first portion of the incoming fluid flow, and a central fluid flow guiding channel extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated container for guiding a second portion of the incoming fluid flow substantially in the longitudinal direction of the elongated container.

[0015] At least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel and a central fluid flow guiding channel create conditions for guiding a first portion of the fluid flow and a second portion of the fluid flow in different directions. According to one example, this can be used to guide different portions of the fluid flow to different outlets (for different purposes). According to a further example, one fluid flow portion can be guided to a first outlet communicating with a specific application (e.g. a tank for washing liquids) and another portion of the fluid flow portion can be guided to an inlet of a container for recirculation of that portion of the fluid flow.

[0016] At least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel creates conditions for guiding a first portion of the fluid flow in a helical path. Such a fluid flow pattern allows the fluid to spend more time in the vessel, thereby creating conditions for increasing the coupling rate, the probability of collisions and therefore the ionization rate, leading to a higher ionization efficiency. Furthermore, if the fluid ionizer includes electrical means for forming an arc structure, such a flow pattern may cause the fluid flow to reach the arc structure in an angled direction with respect to the longitudinal direction of the vessel, resulting in more molecules being ionized by the arc structure. Furthermore, such a flow pattern may cause turbulence in the fluid flow, resulting in more molecules being ionized by the fluid ionizer.

[0017] The central fluid flow guiding channel creates conditions for guiding the second part of the fluid flow along a substantially linear path in the vessel. If the fluid ionization device includes electrical means for forming an arc structure and the first fluid flow guiding unit is arranged upstream of the electrodes, such a flow pattern can be induced to a desired position relative to the electrodes, such as towards a position between the electrodes. The second part of the fluid thus contributes significantly to pushing the arc structure downstream, thereby creating conditions of high coverage of the vessel cross section, which leads to high ionization efficiency.

[0018] According to one example, the fluid flow directing unit is rotatably and rigidly connected to the container, which may be achieved via a welded seam, creating the conditions for maintaining the first fluid flow directing unit in a desired operating position within the container during operation of the device.

[0019] According to an example embodiment, the fluid flow directing unit includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced peripheral fluid flow guiding channels, which provides conditions for a more even distribution of the fluid flow downstream of the first fluid flow directing unit.

[0020] According to further example embodiments, at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel has a substantially larger dimension than the central fluid flow guiding channel to carry a substantially larger portion of the incoming fluid flow, which may be beneficial in applications such as those described above where a central direct current is used to deflect a downstream arc structure, and only a small amount of total fluid flow may be required to affect the deflection of the arc structure.

[0021] According to a further example embodiment, the container has a rounded inner surface, the fluid flow directing unit has a rounded peripheral surface that substantially corresponds to the curvature of the rounded inner surface of the container, and the fluid flow directing unit is arranged within the container such that the rounded surfaces are in contact with each other, thereby creating conditions for forming a fluid-tight connection between the opposing surface of the container and the fluid flow directing unit, which in turn creates conditions for minimizing leakage of fluid through the fluid flow directing unit.

[0022] According to a further embodiment example, the fluid flow directing unit comprises a body defining at least one peripheral fluid flow directing channel and a central fluid flow directing channel. This provides the conditions for cost-effective production. According to one example, the fluid flow directing unit comprises a single body defining at least one peripheral fluid flow directing channel and a central fluid flow directing channel.

[0023] According to a further example embodiment, the inner surface of the elongated fluid vessel has a circular shape in cross section perpendicular to its longitudinal direction, and the radially outer surface of the fluid flow directing unit defines a circular shape of substantially the same dimensions as the inner surface of the elongated fluid vessel, thereby providing the conditions for forming a fluid-tight connection between the opposing surface of the vessel and the fluid flow directing unit.

[0024] According to further example embodiments, the inner surface of the elongated fluid container has a diameter in the range of 10 to 50 mm, in particular in the range of 10 to 30 mm, and preferably in the range of 15 to 25 mm. It has been determined that a container of such dimensions creates conditions for high ionization efficiency with relatively cost-efficient operation and / or long life of the ionization device.

[0025] According to a further example embodiment, the device includes a first fluid flow directing unit and a second fluid flow directing unit adapted to direct at least a portion of the fluid flow into a helical path within the vessel, the first fluid flow directing unit being spaced apart from the second fluid flow directing unit downstream in the longitudinal direction of the vessel, and at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel being arranged to deflect the fluid flow from the helical path.

[0026] The downstream fluid flow directing unit may be adapted to compensate for pressure drops over the length of the vessel by providing obstacles to the fluid flow. More specifically, the pressure in the vessel may be maintained or at least not significantly reduced by the fluid flow directing unit. Furthermore, the distance between molecules is reduced, resulting in a longer retention time in the vessel, which results in an improved ionization efficiency. Furthermore, maintaining the pressure at a relatively high level may be important for the supply of fluid to downstream applications, such as a tank containing liquid for purification, since it provides a counter pressure that the liquid in the tank needs to overcome.

[0027] Furthermore, the ionization device may include two pairs of electrodes spaced apart along the length of the vessel, and by disposing the fluid flow directing unit on the opposite side of the length of the vessel to the two pairs of electrodes, the second arc structure formed by the downstream two pairs of electrodes may be as strong and disciplined as the first arc structure formed by the first pair of electrodes.

[0028] According to a further example embodiment, the fluid ionization apparatus comprises a first pair of electrodes arranged opposite each other and spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction of the elongated container, the container being adapted to transport the fluid in a fluid flow past the first pair of electrodes, the device further comprising a power source adapted to charge the first pair of electrodes so that a discharge occurs from the electrodes. Ionization of the fluid by an electrically generated arc provides the conditions for obtaining a high ionization efficiency.

[0029] According to a further example embodiment, a second fluid flow directing unit is disposed within the vessel upstream of the first pair of electrodes in the fluid flow direction, and the central fluid flow guiding channel is adapted to guide a second portion of the incoming fluid flow towards a position between the electrodes of the first pair to deflect the first arc structure downstream.

[0030] According to a further example embodiment, the first fluid flow directing unit is arranged in the container downstream of the first pair of electrodes in the direction of fluid flow. According to a further example embodiment, the power source is adapted to charge the first pair of electrodes such that the electrodes are simultaneously charged negatively or positively, creating a potential difference between each of the electrodes and the environment of the respective electrode, resulting in a discharge from each of the electrodes, and the container is adapted to convey a fluid in gaseous state in a flow past the first pair of electrodes in the environment of the respective electrode during said charging for ionization of the fluid.

[0031] More specifically, both electrodes exchange electrons / positrons with their respective environments, ultimately resulting in an electrical discharge that, upon interaction with the conveyed fluid, creates an independent half-arc structure in the vicinity of each electrode, where the term "half" means that the arcs extend a distance from each electrode into the vessel, but that no continuous arc extends between the electrodes of the first pair.

[0032] According to a further example embodiment, the device includes a second pair of electrodes positioned opposite each other and at a distance from each other within the container, the second pair of electrodes being positioned downstream of the first pair and at a distance from the first pair of electrodes in the direction of fluid flow within the container, and the power source is adapted to charge each of the electrodes in the second pair of electrodes such that they are simultaneously charged negatively or positively, and to synchronize the charging of the first pair of electrodes relative to the second pair of electrodes such that when the electrodes of the first pair are charged positively the electrodes of the second pair are charged negatively and vice versa.

[0033] According to a further example embodiment, a first electrode of the first pair of electrodes and a first electrode of the second pair of electrodes are connected to opposing terminals of a first power supply, and a second electrode of the first pair of electrodes and a second electrode of the second pair of electrodes are connected to opposing terminals of a second power supply.

[0034] The method creates conditions for creating a configuration of a first independent half-arc structure that is particularly effective for ionizing the fluid. This can be achieved by supplying a voltage of a certain magnitude to the first pair of electrodes, such that both electrodes are at the same charge at each instant of time, and supplying the fluid with a fluid flow rate that matches the magnitude of the voltage. More specifically, the method creates conditions for creating a configuration of a first arc structure downstream of the electrodes that can cover a large cross-section of the container, more specifically a hemispherical shaped space, and thus creates conditions for large ionization of the fluid passing through the first arc structure. The first arc structure that is generated may include a specific type of arc that can be called an "ario arc" or "ario discharge" (arc rotating ionization orbit), with certain characteristics such as multiple arcs, arc persistence, and arc stability.

[0035] In other words, the first arc structure may be configured to cover a large portion of the vessel in cross section, making it difficult for atoms to pass through without being ionized as the flow of atoms / molecules in the fluid stream is transported past the electrodes.

[0036] According to one example, the discharge from the electrodes forms a "half arc" that affects material passing through the space between the two electrodes.

[0037] By way of further example, in the first arc configuration, at least one arc at a time is permanent and continuous.

[0038] According to one example, a first arc configuration includes an arc having a zigzag shape like a sawtooth because electrons of the same charge push each other aside. At the tips of the sawtooth arc portions, the electrons are more excited and therefore the availability of ionization energy is higher (ionization occurs relatively easily).

[0039] The expression "emitting" electrons from an electrode may alternatively be referred to as "discharging" the electrons.

[0040] This method can be used to generate ROS (reactive oxygen species) and several other substances. The fluid used here can be air. After ionization, the fluid contains a mixture of ROS (reactive oxygen species), such as oxygen (O2), superoxide anion (O2-), peroxide (O2-2), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydroxyl radical (OH), and hydroxyl ion (OH-). This is a homogeneous mixture of ROS, the mixture is substantially stable, and contains radicals with relatively long half-lives. This can be kept stable for use in downstream applications, such as tanks for washing industrial process fluids. According to one example, the process fluid is a cutting fluid resulting from an industrial cutting operation.

[0041] According to one example, the method includes the step of supplying a voltage to a first pair of electrodes such that selective ionization is achieved. For example, oxygen ionizes with a lower energy than nitrogen. More specifically, an ionization energy of about 1400 kJ / mol ionizes oxygen and not nitrogen. The ionization energy is carefully controlled for a particular application, preferably ionizing all elements up to oxygen and not ionizing nitrogen and elements with higher atomic numbers, thereby avoiding the production of NOx (NO3-HNO3) and the associated odors. The voltage range supplied to the electrodes is selected in such a way that the energy available for ionization of the gas elements is high enough to ionize oxygen but not high enough to ionize nitrogen.

[0042] Even when the device is used over time and the power source (e.g., transformer) deteriorates, the power falls below the energy level that would ionize nitrogen, so no undesirable by-products are produced. This is one advantage of this technology and how it differs from many conventional technologies, ranging from UV and ozone generators, which ionize nitrogen (first ionization) and oxygen (second ionization), thus producing the undesirable by-products mentioned above. For example, as UV lamps deteriorate, the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves emitted changes, and this change affects the availability of ionization energy.

[0043] According to one example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are straight, rod-like with pointed ends (like needles) and aligned with each other.

[0044] According to a further example embodiment, the device includes a magnetic field generating apparatus adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the first pair of electrodes to influence an arc structure to support ionization of the fluid.

[0045] According to one example, the magnetic field generating device is arranged outside the vessel, which allows it to be placed in a less aggressive environment than the environment inside the vessel, thus providing the conditions for a longer lifespan.

[0046] According to one example, the magnetic field generating device includes a first section positioned upstream of a first pair of electrodes in the longitudinal direction of the container, and the first arc structure includes a first set of arcs deflected downstream from the electrodes by the fluid flow and a second set of arcs extending upstream from the electrodes due to the influence of the magnetic field of the first magnetic field generating section.

[0047] According to one example that may be used as a complement or alternative to the last-mentioned example, the magnetic field generating device includes a second section arranged downstream of the first pair of electrodes in the longitudinal direction of the container, the second magnetic field generating section being adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the first pair of electrodes to stabilize the first arc structure.

[0048] Proper configuration of the magnetic field can produce multiple spreading half-arcs, increasing coverage of the cross-section of the vessel and creating conditions that increase the probability of effective ionization of the transported fluid, depending on the fluid flow rate and cross-sectional area of ​​the vessel.

[0049] The term "semi-arc" structure can be considered as an arc structure between the glow corona and streamer corona of the prior art arc structures. However, the semi-arc structure introduced by this technology does not fall into the category of corona discharge since it does not have a ground electrode and / or a dielectric, and therefore has a specific shape due to the specific arrangement of the magnetic field (although due to visual error it may appear as a complete arc extending between the electrodes).

[0050] According to further example embodiments, the device comprises fluid flow pump means for supplying the fluid flow to the inlet of the vessel with a fluid flow rate in the range of 5-80 liters / min, in particular 5-40 liters / min, preferably 8-20 liters / min. One aspect of the example embodiment is deflecting the arc structure by the fluid flow. To achieve such deflection of the arc structure, the fluid flow rate is preferably in the ranges mentioned above for this application, in particular consistent with the other parameter ranges. This creates conditions for an arc structure characterized by a high number of half-arcs and a high geographical / spatial coverage of the half-arcs near each electrode environment per cross section of the vessel, resulting in an increased ionization probability (exposure of fluid to the half-arcs) and ionization efficiency.

[0051] According to a further example embodiment, the device comprises a fluid flow pump means adapted to supply a pulsed fluid flow to the inlet of the container.

[0052] One effect of pulsing is the pressure fluctuations within the chamber that create a "hammer drill effect," reducing the distance between molecules (and thereby increasing the likelihood of ionization). In addition, pulsing increases the thickness of the arc compared to what would occur without the pulse. Thus, pulsing creates conditions that increase the efficiency of ionization.

[0053] An added benefit of pulsing is that less air is required as a feed to the vessel to produce the same amount of oxidant, which translates into cost efficiencies.

[0054] According to a further embodiment example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are arranged at a distance from each other in the range of 2 to 15 mm, in particular in the range of 2 to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 2 to 4 mm.

[0055] According to one example, for vessels with diameters ranging from 15 to 25 mm, the distance between the electrodes ranges from 2 to 4 mm. This method may minimize corrosion, thereby extending the life of the device and / or making it more cost-effective for low-maintenance use by requiring less frequent replacement of the electrodes with new ones. Alternatively or supplementally, the electrodes are chemically coated with nano-titanium dioxide, nano-platinum, or other materials that increase the corrosion resistance of the electrodes.

[0056] According to further example embodiments, each of the electrodes in the first pair has an elongated shape with pointed ends, and the electrodes are arranged such that the pointed ends face each other. According to one example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are arranged such that their longitudinal directions are parallel to each other, preferably aligned with each other.

[0057] According to a further example embodiment, each of the electrodes in the first pair has an elongated shape with a pointed end defining an angle in the range of 20-35°. Such sharp ends of the electrodes create conditions for creating multiple paths for electrons emitted from the angled surface of the electrodes at longitudinally spaced locations. According to one example, the electrodes in the first pair of electrodes are identical.

[0058] According to a further example embodiment, the method includes the step of supplying a voltage to the first pair of electrodes such that both electrodes simultaneously have either a positive or negative charge.

[0059] As a result, at a certain point in time, both electrodes in the first pair of electrodes become positively charged and therefore emit electrons, and the fluid flow in the environment of each electrode can be considered to form a negatively charged region due to interaction with the electrons emitted from the electrodes, resulting in the formation of a first arc structure protruding from each of the electrodes due to ionization of the fluid.

[0060] According to a further embodiment, the method comprises the step of supplying a voltage to each electrode in the first pair of electrodes in the range of 2-15 kV, in particular in the range of 5-10 kV, preferably in the range of about 7.5 kV. It has been found that a maximum energy level of about 1500 kJ / mol can be achieved at 7.5 kV per electrode to allow selective ionization as defined above.

[0061] According to one example, a transformer is connected to both electrodes of the first pair to supply a voltage. According to one example, AC power from a power source, such as a power grid, is fed to the transformer. The transformer then converts the voltage from 240V to 2*7.5kV per pole (associated with one of the electrodes) by varying the charge (AC current) of the electrodes.

[0062] According to one example, to supply a voltage, a transformer is connected with one of its output terminals to a first electrode of a first pair (and possibly with another one of its terminals to a first electrode of a second pair). According to one example, AC power from a source such as a power grid is supplied to the transformer. The transformer then converts the input voltage of 12-220 volts with a frequency of 50-60 Hz to 2*7.5 kV per pole (associated with one of the electrodes) with a frequency of about 20 kHz by varying the charge (AC current) of the electrodes.

[0063] According to one example, powering the electrodes with high frequency and voltage creates the conditions to produce a permanent and continuous arc that is strong enough not to be adversely affected by the passing fluid flow (up to 80 liters per minute). The higher the (transformer) frequency is above 10, the more arcs are formed and visible.

[0064] According to a further example embodiment, the device is adapted to operate with pressures within the vessel exceeding 1.1 bar.

[0065] According to a preferred embodiment, the device is adapted to operate at a pressure in the vessel of more than 1.5 bar. According to one embodiment, the device is operated at a pressure in the vessel of between 1.5 and 2.0 bar. Pressure levels above 1.1 bar result in more material collisions and higher ionization efficiency. The required pressure in the vessel depends on the further downstream application, pressure levels up to 10 bar are possible.

[0066] Thus, the pressure within the vessel becomes greater than atmospheric pressure during charging of the electrodes, and the increased pressure in a given volume near each electrode increases the probability of collisions and ionization around each electrode.

[0067] According to a further example embodiment, the device includes a light source arranged to illuminate the fluid in the container. The interaction of light with matter results in a pair production phenomenon. In the area where the arc is formed, the interaction of photons from the light source with matter passing through the area results in the emission of waves of different wavelength ranges by the light source. The generated waves increase the ionization efficiency. In addition, electrons and positrons are emitted and contribute to the ionization reaction. Thus, the yield per power consumption is increased.

[0068] The light source is preferably located outside the container, which provides the conditions for a long life of the light source since it is not exposed to the internal environment of the container (friction and heat). The radiation from the light source can be radiated into the fluid flow if the container wall is transparent, for example made of glass.

[0069] The light source may be a light emitting diode (LED) adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) light. Alternatively, a xenon lamp may be used. According to one example, the light source may be adapted to provide a light intensity in the range of 100 to 5600 lumens. The light intensity may be adapted to the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the electrodes, such that for certain ionization effects, a lower voltage may be compensated with a higher light intensity.

[0070] The light source can contribute to a significant increase in ionization efficiency: tests have shown an increase in ionization efficiency of up to 40%.

[0071] According to a further example, the ionizing device includes a second pair of electrodes disposed within the vessel at a distance from the first pair of electrodes, According to one example, the distance between adjacent pairs of electrodes is at least 30 mm.

[0072] Further advantages and advantageous features of the invention are disclosed in the following description and in the dependent claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0073] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a device for ionizing a fluid according to a first embodiment, with the container shown in cross-section; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is an enlarged view of a first pair of electrodes in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic top view of a first arc structure formed in the vessel according to FIG. 1 by a first pair of electrodes; [Diagram 5] 2 is a schematic front view of an arc structure formed in the vessel according to FIG. 1 by a first pair of electrodes; [Figure 6] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a fluid flow directing unit provided in the vessel of FIG. 6. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view of the fluid flow directing unit of FIG. 6. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a device for ionizing a fluid according to a second embodiment, with the container shown in cross-section; [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the vessel of FIG. 8 showing fluid flow. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a device for ionizing a fluid according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a part of a magnetic field generating device provided around the container of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a schematic cutaway front view of the magnetic field generating device of FIG. 10; [Figure 13] 11 is a schematic top view of an arc structure formed in the vessel according to FIG. 10 by a first pair of electrodes. [Figure 14] 11 is a schematic front view of an arc structure formed in the vessel according to FIG. 10 by a first pair of electrodes. [Figure 15] 11 is a schematic diagram of a cross-section of the vessel of FIG. 10 showing a portion of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generating device. [Figure 16] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a container according to an alternative design to that of FIG. 2. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a cross section of the vessel of FIG. 16 applied to an ionization device according to a fifth embodiment, showing fluid flow during operation. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a device for ionizing a fluid according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a device for ionizing a fluid according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 20] 1 is a graph showing an example of a pulsed current supplied to an ionization device. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is an exploded, cut-away perspective view of an arrangement for ionization of a fluid; [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a device for ionizing a fluid according to an alternative of the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0074] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a device 102 for ionizing a fluid in a gaseous state according to a first embodiment. In the following, the fluid in the gaseous state is referred to as a gas. According to one example, the gas is air. The ionization device 102 comprises a container 4. The container 4 is shown in cross section in a horizontal plane passing through its central axis. The container 4 has an elongated shape. The container 4 has a rounded cross-sectional shape, more specifically a circular cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the cross-section of the container 4 is constant along most of the length of the container. Furthermore, the ends 6, 8 of the container 4 in the longitudinal direction have a rounded, more specifically hemispherical, shape. The wall 10 of the container 4 defines an internal chamber 12. The inner surface of the wall 10 of the elongated container 4 has a diameter of about 20 mm. FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of the container 4 of FIG. 1.

[0075] The container wall 10 is made of glass. The container may be made of two identical container parts separated by a plane passing through the central axis of the container 4. According to an alternative, the container 4 is made in one piece with a cap at one end.

[0076] Further, an inlet 14 is provided at a first longitudinal end 6 of the vessel 4, and an outlet 16 is provided at a second longitudinal end 8 of the vessel 4, for conveying a gas flow from the inlet 14 to the outlet 16. Each of the inlet 14 and the outlet 16 has a generally tubular shape. The axis of the inlet 14 has a main direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4 and is aligned with a central longitudinal axis 17 of the vessel. Similarly, the axis of the outlet 16 has a main direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4 and is aligned with a central longitudinal axis 17 of the vessel. The length of the vessel 4, excluding the inlet 14 and the outlet 16, is in the range of 100-120 mm.

[0077] The ionization device 102 further comprises a first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22 arranged opposite each other and at a distance from each other in the container 4. The electrodes 20, 22 are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the container 4. Furthermore, the container 4 is arranged such that its longitudinal direction is a horizontal plane. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 are arranged to extend in a horizontal plane. The electrodes 20, 22 are shown in an enlarged view in FIG. 3. The electrodes 20, 22 are arranged at a distance γ from each other ranging from 2 to 4 mm. Furthermore, each of the electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 has an elongated shape with a circular cross section and pointed ends 24, 26. The electrodes are arranged such that the pointed ends 24, 26 face each other. More specifically, each of the electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 has an elongated shape with pointed ends 24, 26 that define an angle α ranging from 20 to 35°. In other words, each of the electrodes 20, 22 has a sharp tip. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 18 are straight and aligned with each other. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 are rod-shaped. The electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 may be referred to as needle-like electrodes. The electrodes 20, 22 in the first pair 18 are made of a metal material, more precisely, of a material such as tungsten (also called Wolfram) as an example.

[0078] According to the laws of physics, when an element is charged, the charged moieties will accumulate at any sharp edge of the element. Thus, the charged moieties will be highly accumulated at the sharp edges of the electrodes 20, 22. In other words, the charged moieties will have a very high density at the sharp edges, and the electric field will be stronger in the region of the sharp edges. Furthermore, a highly charged electrode (positive or negative) will have a very high potential with respect to the environment (adjacent to the electrode). The potential difference between the electrodes and their adjacent environment / surroundings will result in ionization of the substances in the environment in the vicinity of the respective electrodes, causing an exchange of electrons / positrons in a cycle from the high potential area to the low potential area and vice versa, which may result in various types of discharges from the electrodes. This phenomenon may be similar to a Tesla coil.

[0079] Thus, the design of the electrodes 20, 22 with sharp tips 24, 26 creates favorable conditions for creating discharges in the form of electric arcs from the surfaces of the tips that are inclined relative to the longitudinal direction of the elongated electrodes. More specifically, a first set of arcs can be created that extend in a downstream direction from the electrode tips. Additionally, a second set of arcs can be created that extend in an upstream direction from the electrode tips. This will be explained in more detail below in conjunction with Figures 14 and 15.

[0080] The ionization device 102 further includes a power supply 28 adapted to charge each of the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 18 of electrodes so that they simultaneously have the same charge. In this way, a potential difference can be created between each electrode 20, 22 and the environment of the respective electrode, causing a simultaneous discharge from each electrode. Furthermore, the fluid in the gaseous state within the container is conveyed past the electrodes of the first pair 18 during said charging in the environment of the respective electrodes 20, 22 for ionization of the fluid.

[0081] More specifically, the power supply 28, 50 includes two transformers 28, 50 adapted to supply an alternating current of a certain frequency to the electrodes. The power supply 28, 50 is therefore adapted to supply a voltage to the first pair of electrodes 18 such that both electrodes 20, 22 are simultaneously positively charged and thus emit electrons. A top view is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 4, where the arrows 30, 31 indicate the path of the electrons emitted from the tips of the electrodes 20, 22. Furthermore, the vessel 4 is adapted to transport a gas in a flow past the electrodes of the first pair 18, the gas flow being considered as a negatively charged region 32 between the electrodes 20, 22 and interacting with the electrons emitted from the electrodes to form a first arc structure 34. More specifically, due to the ionization of the gas, a number of electric arcs protrude from each of the electrodes 20, 22. FIG. 5 is a schematic front view of the first arc structure 34 formed in the vessel according to FIG. 4. Furthermore, each arc has a zigzag shape in the form of a sawtooth.

[0082] More specifically, each transformer 28, 50 includes a primary winding and a secondary winding. Each transformer converts the voltage of the input of 12 to 220 volts at a frequency of 50 to 60 Hz to 2*7.5 kV per pole (associated with one of the electrodes) at a frequency of about 20 kHz by varying the charge (AC current) of the electrodes. Thus, each transformer 28, 50 includes a frequency converter 29, 51, one of the functions of the ground wire is to reduce noise.

[0083] It should be noted that the zigzag arc shapes shown in Figures 4 and 5 are only schematic. In particular, the half arcs are enlarged relative to the size of the electrodes 20, 22 and are much larger than their actual size. In reality, the zigzags are on a microscopic scale and their number is much greater than the number of arcs shown in the figures.

[0084] Each of the transformers 28, 50 is adapted to provide an output voltage through each of its output terminals with a magnitude of approximately 7.5 kV. Furthermore, each of the transformers 28, 50 is adapted to provide an output voltage at a frequency of approximately 20 kHz, with the polarity of the electrodes connected to the two output terminals / pole of one transformer being changed very rapidly (every 0.00005 seconds).

[0085] More specifically, each of the electrodes 20, 22 is disposed in an opening 36, 38 penetrating the vessel wall 10. More specifically, the vessel includes pipe-like sections 40, 42 extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4. More specifically, the pipe-like sections 40, 42 extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4. The pipe-like sections 40, 42 define the openings 36, 38. More specifically, the pipe-like sections 40, 42 are integrally formed with the vessel 4. More specifically, the electrodes 20, 22 are hermetically disposed within the pipe-like sections 40, 42 to avoid leakage.

[0086] The ionization device 102 further includes a second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 arranged within the vessel 4 in a similar manner as described above with respect to the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22. The second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 are arranged at a distance from the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22 in the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4. Each of the first pair 18 of electrodes 20, 22 and the second pair 44 of electrodes 46, 48 are arranged in a portion of the vessel 4 having a constant cross-section with a distance between adjacent electrode pairs of about 30 mm.

[0087] The power supplies 28, 50 are adapted to charge each of the electrodes 46, 48 in the second pair 44 of electrodes so that they simultaneously have the same charge. In this way, a potential difference can be created between each electrode 46, 48 and the environment of the respective electrode, causing a discharge from each electrode separately. The power supplies 28, 50 are therefore also adapted to supply a voltage to the electrodes of the second pair 44 such that both electrodes 46, 48 are simultaneously positively charged and thus emit / exchange electrons / positrons.

[0088] This arrangement is adapted to synchronize the charging of the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 20 with respect to the electrodes 46, 48 of the second pair 44 such that when the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 20 are positively charged, the electrodes 46, 48 of the second pair 44 are negatively charged, and vice versa.

[0089] The two transformers 28, 50 are identical, having the same natural frequency. By placing the transformers 28, 50 in relative close proximity, their frequency cycles will eventually become synchronized in the steady state, as they will influence each other during operation, according to the law of Hertz and frequency. They can therefore work at a permanently synchronized frequency. This synchronization therefore occurs spontaneously as soon as the transformers are switched on. According to an alternative, means can be provided to actively control the synchronization, such as placing a unidirectional diode (a diode that synchronizes the direction of the current in the same direction, i.e. a sine or cosine wave) in the path of each outlet terminal.

[0090] Thus, each transformer has two output terminals / poles, which are connected to the electrodes 20, 22 and 46, 48 to charge the electrodes. When the potential reaches a sufficient amount for discharging, the aforementioned discharge phenomenon occurs. More specifically, the first electrode 22 of the first pair 18 of electrodes and the first electrode 46 of the second pair 44 of electrodes are connected to opposite terminals of the first transformer 28. Furthermore, the second electrode 20 of the first pair 18 of electrodes and the second electrode 48 of the second pair 44 of electrodes are connected to opposite terminals of the second transformer 50.

[0091] The ionization device 102 further comprises a gas flow pumping means 52 for supplying a gas flow from a tank 54 of compressed air to the inlet 14 of the vessel 4. More specifically, the gas flow pumping means 52 is adapted to supply the gas flow to the vessel 4 at a rate such that the gas is conveyed past the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 18 and at least a portion of the first arc structure is deflected downstream in the direction of the gas flow from the electrodes 20, 22. More specifically, the gas flow pumping means 52 is adapted to supply the gas flow to the vessel at a gas flow rate in the range of 10-12 liters / min.

[0092] It should be noted that the device is not limited to use in gas supply tanks, it could be a compressor or industrial blower using ambient air.

[0093] Further, the gas flow pumping means 52 is adapted to supply a pulsed flow of gas to the inlet 14 of the vessel 4. The method includes the steps of supplying a pulsed flow of gas to the inlet 14 of the vessel 4 with a pulse duration of about 0.5 seconds with a pause of about 1.5 seconds between successive pulses, see graph in FIG.

[0094] The outlet 16 of the vessel 4 is in fluid communication with a tank 56 containing a treatment liquid, such as industrial water or wastewater, having strong aerobic or anaerobic bacteria. The line connecting the outlet 16 to the tank 56 terminates in a lower region of the tank 56, allowing an ionized gas to be delivered below the surface of the treatment liquid in order to separate inorganic substances or minerals, such as metals, by precipitation or to kill bacteria.

[0095] According to an alternative, the tank 56 is replaced by another device related to air purification: the ionized gas discharged from the outlet can be sprayed directly into the room to remove viruses, bacteria, odors, etc.

[0096] An additional effect of pulsing is that less non-ionized air (O2) is delivered per output volume to the tank 56. Non-ionized air runs the risk of supporting aerobic bacterial growth and competes with the ionized air portion. Pulsing delivers more ionized air into the mix compared to untreated air (O2) per volume of output fluid.

[0097] The ionization device 102 further includes a nozzle 104 disposed at the inlet 14 of the vessel 4. The nozzle 4 is adapted to rotate about an axis parallel to the axis of the inlet 14 so as to convey the gas along a helical path within the vessel 4. The nozzle 104 includes an end facing the vessel's interior chamber 12, having a radially outer surface defining a generally circular cross-sectional shape matching the dimensions of the inner surface of the inlet 14. Additionally, the nozzle 104 includes a peripheral through channel adapted to create a helical flow within the vessel 4.

[0098] The ionization device 102 further includes a first fluid flow directing unit 106 disposed within the vessel 4. The first fluid flow directing unit 106 is disposed downstream of the electrodes of the first pair 18. More specifically, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 is disposed downstream of the electrodes of the second pair 44.

[0099] The first fluid flow directing unit 106 is adapted to compensate for the pressure drop over the length of the vessel 4 by providing an obstacle to the gas flow. In this way, the second arc structure created by the electrodes of the second pair 44 can be as strong and orderly as the first arc structure created by the electrodes of the first pair 18. More specifically, the pressure in the vessel 4 is maintained or at least does not drop significantly thanks to the first fluid flow directing unit 106. The distance between the molecules is reduced, which increases their retention time in the vessel and, as a result, improves the ionization efficiency. Furthermore, maintaining the pressure at a relatively high level can be important for the supply of fluid to the tank 56, since it provides a counter pressure that the liquid in the tank needs to overcome.

[0100] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a first fluid flow directing unit 106 provided in the vessel 4 of Fig. 1. Fig. 7 is a front view of the first fluid flow directing unit 106 of Fig. 6. The first fluid flow directing unit 106 includes at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108 having an outlet 110 circumferentially displaced with respect to an inlet 112 for redirecting a first portion of the incoming fluid flow. The first fluid flow directing unit 106 further includes a central fluid flow directing channel 114 extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated vessel 4 for guiding a second portion of the incoming fluid flow substantially in the longitudinal direction of the elongated vessel 4.

[0101] More specifically, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced peripheral fluid flow directing channels 108, 118, 120. Furthermore, at least one of the peripheral fluid flow directing channels 108, 118, 120 has a substantially larger dimension than the central fluid flow directing channel 114 to convey a substantially larger portion of the incoming fluid flow.

[0102] Further, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 has a rounded peripheral surface 122 that substantially corresponds to the curvature of the rounded inner surface of the container 4, and the first fluid flow directing unit 106 is positioned within the container 4 such that the rounded surfaces are in fluid-tight contact with each other.

[0103] More specifically, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 is rigidly connected to the vessel 4 in the operating position, such as via a welded seam. The first fluid flow directing unit 106 can be made of a material having the same or similar coefficient of expansion as the vessel wall 10. According to one example, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 is made of glass. This provides the conditions for rigidly connecting the first fluid flow directing unit 106 to the vessel 4 in the operating position via welding.

[0104] More specifically, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 includes a body 124 that defines at least one peripheral fluid flow directing channel 108, 118, 120 and a central fluid flow directing channel 114. More specifically, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 is formed by the unitary body 124.

[0105] At least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108, 118, 120 is open in a radial direction of the first fluid flow directing unit 106. More specifically, the at least one peripheral fluid flow guiding channel 108, 118, 120 is radially closed by the wall 10 of the vessel 4 of FIG.

[0106] The first fluid flow directing unit 106 includes sections 126, 128, 130 circumferentially between adjacent peripheral fluid flow directing channels 108, 118, 120. The radially outer surfaces of these sections 126, 128, 130 of the first fluid flow directing unit 106 define a circular shape with substantially the same dimensions as the inner surface of the elongated vessel 4. The walls of each of the sections 126, 128, 130 face the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4 to block a portion of the fluid flow. The total area of ​​the walls of the sections 126, 128, 130 is substantially the same as the cross-sectional area defined by the peripheral fluid flow directing channels 108, 118, 120.

[0107] The first fluid flow directing unit 106 is adapted to convey at least a first portion of the fluid along a helical path within the vessel 4 via at least one peripheral fluid flow directing channel 108, 118, 120. Further, the first fluid flow directing unit 106 is adapted to convey at least a second portion of the fluid along a substantially linear path within the vessel via a central fluid flow directing channel 114.

[0108] 8 is a perspective view of a device 202 for ionizing a gas according to a second embodiment. The ionization device 202 according to the second embodiment has many parts in common with the ionization device 102 according to the first embodiment. For simplicity, only the main differences will be described below.

[0109] The ionization device 202 includes a second fluid flow directing unit 206. The two fluid flow directing units 106, 206 are arranged at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. More specifically, the two fluid flow directing units 106, 206 are arranged on the opposite sides of the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 18. More specifically, the two fluid flow directing units 106, 206 are arranged on the opposite sides of the electrodes 20, 22 of the first pair 18 and the electrodes 46, 48 of the second pair 44. More specifically, the second fluid flow directing unit 206 has a design similar to that of the first fluid flow directing unit 106, except that at least one peripheral fluid flow directing channel is circumferentially rotated in the opposite direction. Thus, the two fluid flow directing units 106, 206 have the same dimensions but have a mirror-like design for fluid flow redirection. In other words, a first of the two fluid flow directing units 106, 206 is adapted to rotate the fluid flow in a clockwise direction, and the other one is adapted to rotate the fluid flow in a counterclockwise direction.

[0110] Fig. 9 is a schematic top view of the ionization device 202, similar to Fig. 8, showing the fluid flow paths. The peripheral fluid flow guiding channels 108, 118, 120 of the upstream first fluid flow directing unit 206 are adapted to convey a first portion of the fluid flow in a helical path 208 within the vessel 4. Furthermore, the central fluid flow guiding channel 114 is adapted to convey a second portion of the fluid flow in a substantially straight path 210 within the vessel 4, parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vessel.

[0111] 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a device 302 for ionizing a gas according to a third embodiment. The ionization device 302 according to the third embodiment has many parts in common with the ionization device 202 according to the second embodiment. For simplicity, only the main differences will be described below.

[0112] The ionization device 302 includes a magnetic field generating device 304 adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the electrodes of the first pair 18 to influence an arc structure for supporting the ionization of the gas. The magnetic field generating device 304 is arranged outside the vessel 4. This provides the conditions for a long service life of the magnetic field generating device 304, since it is not exposed to the internal environment (friction and heat) of the vessel 4.

[0113] The magnetic field generating device 304 includes a first section 305 arranged upstream of the first pair 18 of electrodes in the longitudinal direction of the vessel, and the first arc structure 34 includes a first set of arcs 334 that are deflected downstream from the electrodes by the gas flow and a second set of arcs 336 that extend upstream from the electrodes 20, 22 under the influence of the magnetic field of the first magnetic field generating section 305. The first set of arcs 334 and the second set of arcs 336 are shown in Figures 14 and 15. It should be noted that the second set of arcs 336 has fewer arcs than the first set of arcs 334 and that the arcs of the second set of arcs 336 extend less in the longitudinal direction of the vessel relative to the first set of arcs 334.

[0114] More specifically, the magnetic field generated by the first magnetic field generating section 305 creates a bridge / path for the arcs also upstream of the electrode pair 18, see arrows 330, 331 indicating electrons emitted from the electrodes 20, 22. The second set of arcs 336 includes multiple arcs between the electrodes 20, 22. Furthermore, the magnetic field generated by the first magnetic field generating section 305 is adapted to deflect the second set of arcs 336 upstream from the electrodes 20, 22 in the direction of gas flow. Furthermore, the arcs have a zigzag / sawtooth shape.

[0115] The magnetic field generating device 304 comprises at least one magnetic field generating unit 310. The magnetic field generating unit 310 is formed by an electromagnet 308. The electromagnet 308 comprises a coil adapted for the passage of an electric current. The electromagnet 308 is arranged such that the axis of the coil extends radially with respect to the container 4. According to an alternative, the magnetic field generating unit 310 is formed by a permanent magnet. The magnetic field generating unit is adapted to provide a magnetic strength in the range of 20-180, in particular in the range of 20-40 N.

[0116] More specifically, the first magnetic field generating section 305 includes a number of magnetic field generating units 310 spaced circumferentially around the vessel. According to the illustrated example, the first magnetic field generating section 305 includes six magnetic field generating units 310 spaced circumferentially around the vessel. Such an arrangement provides a more organized and symmetrical arc structure, spreading the entire circumference of the electrode pairs evenly in all directions and covering the entire cross section of the reaction chamber. Naturally, the number of magnetic field generating units 310 can be varied depending on the application. Moreover, each of the circumferentially spaced magnetic field generating units 310 is formed by an electromagnet. The magnets can be connected to a low voltage circuit, for example, 12 volts to 24 volts. According to an alternative, one or several or even all of the circumferentially spaced magnetic field generating units 310 may be formed by permanent magnets.

[0117] Reference is now also made to Figure 11, which is a perspective view of the first magnetic field generating section 305. The first magnetic field generating section 305 includes a ring-shaped support 312 extending around the vessel, the ring-shaped support adapted to hold in an operative position circumferentially spaced magnetic field generating units 310. Each of the circumferentially spaced magnetic field generating units 310 is arranged such that its axis extends radially outward from the ring-shaped support 312.

[0118] Figure 12 is a front view of the ionization device 302 of Figure 10 with a portion cut away. The ring support 312 is disposed adjacent to the outer wall surface of the vessel 4. More specifically, the ring support 312 has an inner diameter that is substantially the same as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the vessel 4. Note that the magnets are disposed such that the core of each magnet contacts the outer surface of the glass vessel. The ring support 312 is made of graphite or a heat-resistant non-conductive material.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 10, the magnetic field generating device 304 includes a second section 307 arranged outside the vessel downstream of the first pair of electrodes 18 in the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4, the second magnetic field generating section 307 adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the first pair of electrodes to stabilize the first arc structure. More specifically, the magnetic field generated by the second magnetic field generating section 307 is adapted to order the first set of arcs and give them a more consistent arrangement. In other words, ordering the arcs means that the arcs form a more symmetrical pattern with regular spacing etc. Also, the magnetic field generated by the second magnetic field generating section 307 acts on the first set of arcs to increase the number of arcs as well as increase the thickness of the arcs. The second magnetic field generating section 307 is similar in structure and function to the first magnetic field generating section 305.

[0120] Furthermore, the magnetic field generating device 304 comprises a third section 309 arranged outside the vessel 4 and upstream of the electrodes of the second pair 44 in the longitudinal direction of the vessel 4. The third magnetic field generating section 309 is adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the electrodes of the second pair 44, similar to the way in which the first magnetic field generating section 305 is adapted to generate a magnetic field in the vicinity of the electrodes of the first pair 18, and therefore will not be described in further detail here.

[0121] Figure 15 is a schematic top view of the magnetic field generating device 304, which shows a schematic portion of the generated magnetic field 311. More specifically, Figure 15 shows the magnetic field generated by two opposing magnetic field generating units 310. Similar magnetic fields are created by each of the other two opposing pairs of magnetic field generating units 310.

[0122] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a vessel 404 according to an alternative design to the vessel 4 of FIG. 2. The vessel 404 differs from the vessel 4 of FIG. 2 in that it has an additional outlet 416. The additional outlet 416 is arranged at an angle to the longitudinal direction of the vessel 404. More specifically, the additional outlet 416 is arranged such that the angle of its axis with respect to the axis of the outlet 16 is in the range of 30 to 60°, preferably in the range of about 45°. Furthermore, the additional outlet 416 is arranged extending from the hemispherical end 8 of the vessel 404. The arrangement of the two outlets 4, 404 creates the conditions for splitting the ionized gas stream into two separate gas streams to different destinations. According to an example, one of the outlets 16, 416 may be in fluid communication with the inlet 14 in order to recirculate a part of the ionized fluid stream.

[0123] Fig. 17 shows an ionization device 402 according to a fourth embodiment, including a container 404 according to Fig. 16. It shows the fluid flow path within the container 404. More specifically, the design and position of the first fluid flow directing unit 106 is designed to convey a first portion of the fluid towards the axial outlet 16 and a second portion of the fluid towards a further second outlet 416.

[0124] The ionization device 402 may further comprise means for selectively guiding a part of the fluid flow to the outlet 16, 416, as an alternative or complement to the first fluid flow directing unit 106. According to one example, the fluid flow selective directing means are adapted to attract the negatively charged part of the flow to the further outlet 416. This may be formed by a further electrode acting as a cathode. Since electrons have a negative charge and some of the ionized molecules / atoms are positively charged, the cathode can attract the negatively charged part of the flow to the further outlet 416, where it can be used for another purpose (for example, back to the inlet 14 or for other purposes). In this way, the axial main output (target ionization) of the axial outlet 16 is more purified. According to an alternative or complement, depending on the purpose, an anode can be used to absorb the positively charged part of the flow.

[0125] 18 is a schematic side view of a portion of an ionization device 502 according to a fifth embodiment. The ionization device 502 according to the fifth embodiment has many parts in common with the ionization device 102 according to the first embodiment. For ease of explanation, only the main differences will be described below.

[0126] The ionization device 502 includes at least one light source 504, 506 adapted to irradiate the gas flow in the vessel with radiation, thereby supporting ionization of the gas. The interaction of light with matter results in the phenomenon of pair production.

[0127] The light sources 504, 506 are in the form of a strip extending in the longitudinal direction of the container 4. The strip of light sources 504, 506 has a main extension along a straight line. More specifically, the two light sources 504, 506 are arranged opposite each other at an interval of 180°. More specifically, the two light sources 504, 506 are arranged such that their longitudinal directions are parallel to each other. More specifically, the strip-shaped light sources extend along a substantial part of the container 4, in the example shown, substantially along its entire length. The light sources 504, 506 are arranged outside the container 4. This provides the conditions for a long service life of the light sources, since they are not exposed to the internal environment of the container 4 (friction and heat). The radiation by the light source 504 can radiate the fluid flow, since the container wall is transparent.

[0128] At least one light source 504, 506 includes a plurality of light source units spaced apart along the length of the respective strip. The light sources 504, 506 may be light emitting diodes (LEDs) adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) light. Alternatively, xenon lamps may be used. According to one example, the light sources 504, 506 may be adapted to provide a light intensity in the range of 100 to 5600 lumens. The light intensity may be adapted to the magnitude of the voltage supplied to the electrodes, and for certain ionization effects, a lower voltage may be compensated with a higher light intensity.

[0129] Alternatively, the light sources may be bulbs instead of strips, and other shapes and arrangements of light sources are also applicable.

[0130] 19 is a schematic cutaway side view of an ionizing device 602 according to a sixth embodiment. The ionizing device 602 according to the sixth embodiment has many common parts with the ionizing device 502 according to the fifth embodiment. For ease of explanation, only the main differences will be described below.

[0131] The ionization device 602 includes a magnetic field generator 304 as in FIG. 10. The ionization device 602 further includes a support structure 604 for supporting the container 4, the light sources 504, 506 and the magnetic field generator 304 in position. More specifically, the support structure 604 includes two blocks 606, 608. The blocks 606, 608 are adapted to be placed on top of each other. Each block 606, 608 includes a receptacle 610, 612 on a surface adapted to face each other. The receptacles 610, 612 have elongated extensions that define a semicircular cross section for receiving the container 4. Furthermore, each block 606, 608 is designed with an internal chamber / receptacle for receiving the light sources 504, 506 and the magnetic field generator 304. Additionally, each block 606, 608 is provided with matching through holes 614 of a specific configuration for receiving bolts to secure the blocks 606, 608 together. Additionally, each block 606, 608 may be adapted to receive a transformer 28, 50 as well.

[0132] Fig. 21 is an exploded perspective view with a part cut away of an arrangement 702 for ionizing a fluid. The arrangement 702 includes the ionizing device 302 of Fig. 11 and is arranged in a casing 714 having a generally cylindrical outer shape. The arrangement 702 includes a generally flat rectangular wall 718 and a wall 720 of generally semicircular cross section, which is connected to the flat rectangular wall 718 in a manner that defines an interior space between the walls 718, 720. The ionizing device 302 is arranged in the interior space between the walls 718, 720. The transformers 28, 50 are arranged on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the container 4 and are connected to the electrodes 20, 22, 46, 48 as described above. Furthermore, the transformers are located in the interior space between the walls 718, 720.

[0133] 22 is a schematic diagram of a device 802 for ionizing a fluid according to an alternative of the first embodiment. The ionization device 802 differs from the first embodiment in the structure of the transformers 828, 850. More specifically, the secondary midpoint of the secondary winding is connected to earth.

[0134] It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings, but rather those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

[0135] The invention has been described above for application in the cleaning of industrial process liquids. According to an alternative, the invention can be used for cleaning wastewater such as municipal sewage. According to an alternative, the invention can also be used for cleaning air in buildings, etc. The ionized gas can be used to remove organic and mineral impurities or pollutants. Such organic matter can be bacteria, viruses, other harmful microorganisms, and some organic chemicals, etc.

[0136] Furthermore, the present invention has been described for guiding fluid flow with respect to an embodiment in which each of the electrodes in a first pair of electrodes is charged to be negatively or positively charged at the same time. In this way, a potential difference is created between each electrode and its respective environment, and discharge occurs from each electrode at the same time. Thus, multiple independent half-arc structures are formed simultaneously from each of the first pair of electrodes. Similarly, the second pair of electrodes is charged to be discharged from each electrode. According to an alternative embodiment, the guiding of fluid flow may be used in a device in which a first electrode of a pair of electrodes is charged positively and a second electrode of the same pair of electrodes is charged negatively, and a continuous arc structure extending between each pair of electrodes may be realized.

Claims

1. A device for ionizing a fluid, wherein the device (102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602, 702) comprises: an elongated container (4, 404) adapted for transporting the fluid in a gaseous state; a fluid ionizer (18, 28; 44, 50) for ionizing the fluid; at least one fluid flow guide unit (106, 206) disposed within the container, wherein the at least one fluid flow guide unit includes at least one peripheral fluid flow guide channel (108, 118, 120) having an outlet (110) displaced circumferentially with respect to an inlet (112) for redirecting a first portion of an incoming fluid flow; and a central fluid flow guide channel (114) extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated container for substantially guiding a second portion of the incoming fluid flow in the longitudinal direction of the elongated container.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the fluid flow guidance unit (106, 206) includes a plurality of peripheral fluid flow guide channels (108, 118, 120) arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one peripheral fluid flow guide channel (108, 118, 120) has substantially larger dimensions than the central fluid flow guide channel (114) in order to transport a substantially large portion of the incoming fluid flow.

4. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container (4, 404) has a rounded inner surface, the fluid flow guide unit (106, 206) has a rounded peripheral surface (122) substantially corresponding to the curvature of the rounded inner surface of the container, and the fluid flow guide unit (106, 206) is arranged in the container such that the rounded surfaces are in contact with each other.

5. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container (4, 404) and the fluid flow guidance unit (106, 206) are rigidly connected.

6. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fluid flow guidance unit (106, 206) includes a body (124) defining the at least one peripheral fluid flow guide channel (108, 118, 120) and the central fluid flow guide channel (114).

7. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner surface of the elongated fluid container (4, 404) has a circular shape in a cross section perpendicular to its longitudinal direction, and the radial outer surface of the fluid flow guide unit (106, 206) defines a circular shape having substantially the same dimensions as the inner surface of the elongated fluid container.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the inner surface of the elongated fluid container (4, 404) has a diameter in the range of 10 to 50 mm, particularly in the range of 10 to 30 mm, preferably in the range of 15 to 25 mm.

9. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device includes a first fluid flow guide unit (106) and a second fluid flow guide unit (206) adapted to guide at least a portion of the fluid flow into a helical path within the container, the first fluid flow guide unit (106) being positioned longitudinally downstream of the container and spaced apart from the second fluid flow guide unit (206), and the at least one peripheral fluid flow guide channel (108, 118, 120) being arranged to deflect the fluid flow away from the helical path.

10. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fluid ionizer (18, 28; 44, 50) includes a first pair of electrodes (18) facing each other and spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the elongated container, the container (4, 404) is adapted to transport the gaseous fluid in a fluid flow through the electrodes of the first pair (18), and the device further includes a power supply (28, 50) adapted to charge the first pair of electrodes so that a discharge occurs from the electrodes for ionization of the fluid.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the fluid flow guidance unit (206) is located in the container (4, 404) upstream of the first pair (18) electrodes in the direction of the fluid flow, and the central fluid flow guide channel is adapted to guide the second portion of the incoming fluid flow toward the position between the electrodes in the first pair in order to deflect the first arc structure downstream.

12. The device according to claim 10, wherein the fluid flow induction unit (106) is located in the container downstream of the first pair (18) electrodes in the direction of the fluid flow.

13. The device according to claim 10, wherein the power supply (28, 50) is adapted to charge the first pair of electrodes (18) such that the electrodes are simultaneously negatively or positively charged, a potential difference is generated between each of the electrodes (20, 22) and the environment of each electrode, and a discharge occurs from each of the electrodes, and the container (4, 404) is adapted to transport the fluid in a gaseous state in a flow passing through the first pair of electrodes (18) in the environment of each of the electrodes (20, 22) during the charging for the ionization of the fluid.

14. The device includes a second pair (44) of electrodes (46, 48) arranged facing each other and at a distance from each other within the container (4, 404), wherein the second pair (44) of electrodes (46, 48) is arranged downstream of the first pair (18) and at a distance from the first pair (18) of electrodes (20, 22) in the direction of fluid flow within the container, and the power supply (28, 50) is connected to the electrodes (46) of the second pair (44). The device according to claim 13, wherein each of the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (20) is charged such that they are simultaneously negatively or positively charged, and the charging of the electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) is negatively charged when the electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (20) are positively charged, and vice versa.

15. The device according to claim 13, wherein the first electrode of the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) and the first electrode of the second pair of electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are connected to opposing terminals of the first power supply (28), and the second electrode of the first pair of electrodes (20, 22) of the first pair (18) and the second electrode of the second pair of electrodes (46, 48) of the second pair (44) are connected to opposing terminals of the second power supply (50).

16. The device according to claim 10, wherein the device includes a magnetic field generator (304), the magnetic field generator being adapted to generate a magnetic field near a first pair of electrodes (18) to influence the structure of the discharge for supporting the ionization of the fluid.

17. The device according to claim 10, wherein the electrode is provided with a chemical coating adapted to enhance the corrosion resistance of the electrode.

18. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device includes a fluid flow pump means (52) for supplying the fluid flow to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404) at a fluid flow rate in the range of 5 to 80 liters / min, particularly 5 to 40 liters / min, preferably 8 to 20 liters / min.

19. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device includes a fluid flow pump means (52) adapted to supply the fluid flow in a pulsed manner to the inlet (14) of the container (4, 404).

20. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device is adapted to operate when the pressure inside the container exceeds 1.1 bar.

21. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device includes light sources (504, 506) arranged to radiate the fluid in the container.

Images