Filter cartridge replacement unit

Abstract

To provide a filter cartridge replacement unit that allows for easy filter replacement. [Solution] The filter cartridge replacement unit includes a first valve for opening and closing a flow path, a second valve for opening and closing a flow path, and a filter cartridge fixing part. The filter cartridge fixing part is used to detachably fix a filter cartridge, including the filter, such that the filter is positioned between the first valve and the second valve in the flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a filter cartridge replacement unit.

Background Art

[0002] For example, in a plant or the like, a system (piping route) for flowing a fluid such as pure water is provided. A filter for removing foreign matter in the fluid is arranged in the system. Replacement of such a filter can sometimes impose a large workload. For example, a piping flushing operation is performed in which fluid is flowed through the system and foreign matter in the system is removed by a filter. At this time, for example, in a system in which fluid is flowed through equipment by a pump, filters installed at a plurality of locations such as the inlet of the equipment, the outlet of the equipment, and the pump side are replaced. In such a filter replacement operation, the fluid is discharged from the system, the flange constituting the system is disassembled to replace the filter. Then, the disassembled flange is reassembled and the system is refilled with fluid. Therefore, filter replacement sometimes requires a great deal of effort and a lot of time.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a filter cartridge replacement unit that enables easy filter replacement.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The filter cartridge replacement unit according to this embodiment includes a first valve for opening and closing a flow path, a second valve for opening and closing the flow path, and a filter cartridge fixing part. The filter cartridge fixing part is detachably fixed to the filter cartridge, including the filter, such that the filter is positioned between the first valve and the second valve on the flow path. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to one embodiment, a filter cartridge replacement unit is provided that allows for easy filter replacement. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a filter cartridge replacement unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figures 2(a) and 2(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the flushing and filter cartridge replacement procedures. [Figure 3] Figures 3(a) and 3(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the flushing and filter cartridge replacement procedures. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a filter cartridge replacement unit according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this specification and in each figure, elements similar to those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a filter cartridge replacement unit according to an embodiment. The filter cartridge replacement unit 100 according to the embodiment includes a first valve 11, a second valve 12, and a filter cartridge fixing part 20. The first valve 11 and the second valve 12 are valves that open and close the flow path 30p.

[0010] Figure 1 shows the state in which the filter cartridge 40, including the filter 41, is attached to the filter cartridge fixing part 20. The filter cartridge 40 is detachably fixed to the filter cartridge fixing part 20 such that the filter 41 is positioned between the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 on the flow path 30p.

[0011] Specifically, the filter cartridge replacement unit 100 has, for example, a flow path member 30 that forms a flow path 30p. The flow path member 30 is tubular in shape through which a fluid (for example, pure water) flows. The flow path member 30 has a first pipe section 31, a second pipe section 32, and a filter cartridge fixing section 20.

[0012] The first valve 11 is provided in the first pipe section 31. For example, the first valve 11 has an operating part 11h and a valve body 11a. The valve body 11a is positioned on the flow path 30p within the first pipe section 31 and is rotated by the operating part 11h. By operating the operating part 11h, the valve body 11a can be rotated, and the flow path 30p can be opened and closed.

[0013] Similarly, the second valve 12 is provided in the second pipe section 32. For example, the second valve 12 has an operating part 12h and a valve body 12a. The valve body 12a is positioned on the flow path 30p within the second pipe section 32 and is rotated by the operating part 12h. By operating the operating part 12h, the valve body 12a can be rotated, and the flow path 30p can be opened and closed.

[0014] For example, butterfly valves or ball valves can be used for the first valve 11 and the second valve 12.

[0015] The filter cartridge fixing section 20 is provided between the first pipe section 31 and the second pipe section 32. For example, the filter cartridge fixing section 20 connects the first pipe section 31 and the second pipe section 32.

[0016] In this example, the first pipe section 31, the second pipe section 32, and the filter cartridge fixing section 20 are formed as an integral member. However, they may be formed as separate members and combined. The flow path member 30 may be composed of one member or may be composed of a combination of a plurality of members. For example, metal can be used as the material of the flow path member 30.

[0017] The filter cartridge 40 is disposed between the first pipe section 31 and the second pipe section 32 and is fixed to the filter cartridge fixing section 20. The filter cartridge 40 has, for example, a cylindrical (tubular) case 42. The filter 41 is fixed within the case 42 by a fixture such as a screw. For the case 42, a material such as metal or resin may be appropriately used. The filter 41 is, for example, a net-like member or a porous member. For the filter 41, a material such as metal, ceramics, or resin may be appropriately used. The filter cartridge 40 (case 42) is fixed to the filter cartridge fixing section 20 by a fixing member 60 such as a fastener. In this example, the fixing member 60 is an eyebolt.

[0018] The filter cartridge replacement unit 100 may further have a first connection pipe 51 and a second connection pipe 52. The first connection pipe 51 is connected to the first pipe section 31. The second connection pipe 52 is connected to the second pipe section 32.

[0019] For example, when the filter cartridge 40 is attached to the filter cartridge fixing section 20 and the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 are open, the fluid flows from one of the first connection pipe 51 and the second connection pipe 52 to the other through the flow path member 30 and the filter cartridge 40. That is, the fluid flowing through the flow path 30p flows from one of the first pipe section 31 and the second pipe section 32 to the other through the filter cartridge 40. At this time, the fluid flowing out from one of the first pipe section 31 and the second pipe section 32 flows into the case 42, passes through the filter 41, and flows into the other of the first pipe section 31 and the second pipe section 32. Thereby, foreign matter contained in the fluid is removed by the filter 41.

[0020] The filter cartridge replacement unit 100 (flow path member 30, filter cartridge 40, first connection pipe 51, and second connection pipe 52) constitutes a part of a system (piping path) through which fluid flows. That is, for example, the first connection pipe 51 and the second connection pipe 52 are connected to pipes that constitute another part of the system. Specifically, a flange 51f is provided at an end of the first connection pipe 51. The flange 51f is connected to another pipe that constitutes a part of the system. Similarly, a flange 52f is provided at an end of the second connection pipe 52. The flange 52f is connected to a pipe that constitutes another part of the system. The inside of the system is cleaned by the fluid flowing in the system, and flushing is performed to remove foreign matter in the system by means of a filter. The foreign matter to be removed is, for example, rust or dust, etc., but is not particularly limited.

[0021] For example, a device and a pump for flowing fluid in the system are connected to the system. When the pump operates, fluid flows through the device and the filter cartridge replacement unit 100. The filter cartridge replacement unit 100 is inserted into a location where the filter 41 is to be inserted in the flushing operation of the system. The system may be a path for circulating fluid between the pump and the device.

[0022] Figures 2(a) to 3(b) are schematic diagrams for explaining the flushing and filter cartridge replacement methods. Although not shown, the flange 51f and the flange 52f are connected to the pipe flange at the location where the filter 41 of the system is to be inserted.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2(a), the filter cartridge 40 is attached to the filter cartridge fixing part 20. In the flushing operation, the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 are opened, and for example, by operating a pump, the system is filled with fluid and the fluid is made to flow in the system. The fluid passes through the filter 41 and is, for example, filtered. If there is foreign matter in the fluid, the foreign matter is collected by the filter 41.

[0024] The pump is stopped when the first flushing is complete, and the flow of fluid in the system is halted. With no fluid flowing, the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 are closed. Fluid may remain in the system (for example, in the first connecting pipe 51, the second connecting pipe 52, the flow path member 30, and the filter cartridge 40).

[0025] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 2(b), the eyebolt (fixing member 60) is loosened, and the filter cartridge 40 is removed from the filter cartridge fixing part 20 as shown in Figure 3(a). At this time, since the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 are closed, the water in the system does not flow through the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 to the filter cartridge fixing part 20.

[0026] Then, as shown in Figure 3(a), the filter cartridge 40 is replaced. That is, filter cartridge 40a is removed from the filter cartridge fixing part 20, and a new filter cartridge 40b is placed in the filter cartridge fixing part 20.

[0027] Then, as shown in Figure 3(b), the eyebolt is inserted into the filter cartridge 40 and the filter cartridge fixing part 20 and tightened. This fixes the filter cartridge 40 to the filter cartridge fixing part 20.

[0028] If necessary, the above flushing procedure may be repeated multiple times. That is, the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 are opened again, and the pump is activated to allow fluid to flow through the system, thereby performing a second flush.

[0029] The flushing procedure and filter replacement in the above embodiments have been described. In conventional flushing procedures, filter replacement requires a significant amount of time, as it involves tasks such as draining the fluid from the entire system, dismantling and reassembling the flange at the filter insertion point, and refilling the system with fluid. Furthermore, there are risks of water leakage, safety hazards in confined, high, or dark working environments, and quality incompatibility.

[0030] In contrast, in this embodiment, by closing the first valve 11 and the second valve 12, the filter can be replaced while fluid remains present in the system except between the first valve 11 and the second valve 12. For example, the conventional procedures of fluid discharge, flange dismantling and reassembly, and fluid refilling can be omitted when replacing the filter. According to this embodiment, the filter can be easily replaced. The time required for filter replacement during flushing can be shortened, and the workload of filter replacement can be reduced.

[0031] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a filter cartridge replacement unit according to an embodiment. Figure 4 shows the state after the filter cartridge 40 has been removed from the filter cartridge fixing part 20. The filter cartridge fixing part 20 has a base 21. The filter cartridge 40 is placed on the base 21, that is, in the portion 30e which is a cutout of the tubular flow path member 30.

[0032] The base 21 has an opposing surface 21a that faces the filter cartridge 40. For example, the opposing surface 21a is the surface on which the filter cartridge 40 is placed. A hole 22 for fixing the fixing member 60 is provided in the opposing surface 21a of the base 21. The hole 22 is, for example, a screw hole. The tip 61 of the fixing member 60 is provided with a screw corresponding to the hole 22. A fastener that can be tightened by hand by an operator can be used for the fixing member 60. For example, as already mentioned, the fixing member 60 is an eye bolt.

[0033] The case 42 of the filter cartridge 40 is provided with a through hole for, for example, an eye bolt. When the filter cartridge 40 is placed on the base 21, the fixing member 60 is inserted perpendicular to the direction of extension (direction D1) of the flow path 30p so as to pass through the filter cartridge 40.

[0034] The tip 61 of the eyebolt inserted into the filter cartridge 40 is inserted into the hole 22 of the base 21. For example, the eyebolt is rotated to fasten the tip 61 and the hole 22 together. As a result, the filter cartridge 40 (case 42) is sandwiched and held in place between the base 21 and the eyebolt.

[0035] In this manner, for example, the filter cartridge 40 is fixed to the filter cartridge fixing part 20 by being held in place by bolts against the base 21. The filter cartridge 40 can be easily attached and detached using bolts. For example, an operator can manually attach and detach the filter cartridge 40.

[0036] In this example, the base 21 has a concave shape when viewed from the filter cartridge 40 side. For example, the opposing surface 21a is a concave surface (concave curved surface). As shown in Figure 4, the opposing surface 21a is curved in a cross section parallel to directions D1 and D2. Direction D2 is the direction from the base 21 towards the filter cartridge 40. The opposing surface 21a may also be curved in a cross section perpendicular to direction D1. The surface 40f of the filter cartridge 40 on the base 21 side may be curved to follow the opposing surface 21a of the base 21.

[0037] In the example shown in Figure 4, a portion of the base 21 is convex on the outer surface 30a of the flow channel member 30. That is, a portion of the base 21 protrudes outward (away from the central axis of the flow channel 30p) from the surfaces of the first pipe section 31 and the second pipe section 32. The surface 21b of the convex portion is curved, for example, similar to the opposing surface 21a.

[0038] The shape of the base 21 makes it easy to replace the filter cartridge 40. For example, it makes it easy to align the filter cartridge 40 with the base. Also, for example, a path for fluid flow is ensured in the filter cartridge 40.

[0039] Sealing members (a first sealing member 45 and a second sealing member 46) may be attached to both ends of the filter cartridge 40. When the filter cartridge 40 is fixed to the filter cartridge fixing part 20, the first sealing member 45 is positioned between the first pipe section 31 and the filter cartridge 40 (case 42), and the second sealing member 46 is positioned between the second pipe section 32 and the filter cartridge 40 (case 42).

[0040] For example, the first sealing member 45 and the second sealing member 46 are arranged along the edge of the side surface of the case 42 and are annular in shape, surrounding the fluid flow path. That is, the first sealing member 45 is an annular in shape that can contact the portion of the first pipe section 31 surrounding the flow path 30p, and the second sealing member 46 is an annular in shape that can contact the portion of the second pipe section 32 surrounding the flow path 30p.

[0041] The first sealing member 45 prevents fluid from the system from leaking out of the system between the first pipe section 31 and the filter cartridge 40. The second sealing member 46 prevents fluid from the system from leaking out of the system between the second pipe section 32 and the filter cartridge 40.

[0042] The first sealing member 45 and the second sealing member 46 are, for example, high seals and include an elastic material such as butyl rubber. High seals can expand and fill gaps when they contain a fluid such as water.

[0043] A flange 51f is provided at one end of the first connecting pipe 51, and the other end of the first connecting pipe 51 is connected to the first pipe section 31 by a connecting part 51g. Similarly, a flange 52f is provided at one end of the second connecting pipe 52, and the other end of the second connecting pipe 52 is connected to the second pipe section 32 by a connecting part 52g. The connecting parts 51g and 52g are tubular, and for example, their ends are inserted into and screwed into the flow path member 30.

[0044] The first connecting pipe 51 and the second connecting pipe 52 are flexible. The flexibility of the first connecting pipe 51 and the second connecting pipe 52 is higher than the flexibility of the flow channel member 30.

[0045] The first connecting pipe 51 and the second connecting pipe 52 are, for example, flexible pipes. The material for the first connecting pipe 51 and the second connecting pipe 52 can be a metal such as stainless steel. For example, the first connecting pipe 51 and the second connecting pipe 52 include a bendable tube with spiral or bellows-shaped irregularities formed on its surface.

[0046] The first connecting pipe 51 and the second connecting pipe 52 improve the workability when assembling the filter cartridge replacement unit 100 into the system.

[0047] For example, the length of the connecting pipe (the sum of the length L51 of the first connecting pipe 51 and the length L52 of the second connecting pipe 52) is longer than the length L10 between the first valve 11 and the second valve 12. For example, the length of the connecting pipe is longer than the length L30 of the flow path member 30. Also, for example, length L51 may be longer than length L10 and longer than length L30.

[0048] For example, length L10 or length L30 is between 200 millimeters and 800 millimeters. The length of the connecting pipe (sum of length L51 and length L52) is, for example, 1 meter or less. Note that the length is along the direction of fluid flow.

[0049] The length of the first connecting pipe 51 and the second connecting pipe 52 improves the workability when assembling the filter cartridge replacement unit 100 into the system. The short length L10 between the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 reduces the amount of fluid discharged and filled when replacing the filter cartridge 40, making it easier to replace the filter cartridge.

[0050] Furthermore, the first valve 11 and the second valve 12 are not check valves, but rather valves that open to allow fluid to flow in either direction, from the first valve 11 to the second valve 12 and vice versa. Similarly, the filter cartridge 40 may be capable of allowing fluid to flow in both directions. The filter cartridge replacement unit 100 may be inserted into the system so that fluid flows from the first valve 11 side to the second valve 12 side, or so that fluid flows from the second valve 12 side to the first valve 11 side. For example, the filter cartridge replacement unit 100 or the flow path member 30 may be configured symmetrically with respect to the filter cartridge fixing part 20.

[0051] According to one embodiment, a filter cartridge replacement unit is provided that allows for easy filter replacement.

[0052] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0053] 11: First valve 11a: Valve body 11h: Operation section 12: Second valve 12a: Valve body 12h: Operation section 20: Filter cartridge fixing part 21: Pedestal 21a: Opposite surface 21b: Surface 22: Hole 30: Flow channel member 30a: External surface 30p: Flow path 31: First Section 32: Second Section 40, 40a, 40b: Filter cartridges 40f:Face 41: Filter 42: Case 45: First sealing member 46: Second sealing member 51: First connecting pipe 51f: Flange 51g: Connection part 52: Second connecting pipe 52f: Flange 52g: Connection part 60: Fixing member 61:Tip 100: Filter cartridge replacement unit

Claims

1. A first valve that opens and closes the flow path, A second valve that opens and closes the aforementioned flow path, A filter cartridge fixing section is provided, on which a filter cartridge including the filter is detachably fixed such that the filter is positioned between the first valve and the second valve in the flow path, A filter cartridge replacement unit equipped with a filter cartridge.

2. The filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 1, wherein the filter cartridge includes a cylindrical case in which the filter is fixed.

3. The filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter cartridge fixing portion is located between the first pipe portion on which the first valve is provided and the second pipe portion on which the second valve is provided.

4. The filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter cartridge is held in place by a bolt against the filter cartridge fixing portion.

5. The first sealing member and the second sealing member are attached to the filter cartridge. The first sealing member is positioned between the first pipe section on which the first valve is provided and the filter cartridge, and suppresses fluid leakage between the first pipe section and the filter cartridge. The filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second sealing member is disposed between the second pipe section on which the second valve is provided and the filter cartridge, thereby suppressing fluid leakage between the second pipe section and the filter cartridge.

6. The filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter cartridge fixing portion includes a base on which the filter cartridge is placed.

7. The filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 6, wherein the base has a concave shape.

8. A flexible first connecting pipe connected to the first pipe section in which the first valve is provided, A flexible second connecting pipe connected to the second pipe section in which the second valve is provided, A filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the above.

9. The filter cartridge replacement unit according to claim 8, wherein the combined connection length of the length of the first connecting pipe and the length of the second connecting pipe is longer than the distance between the first valve and the second valve.

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