Sealing device for a gas adsorption rotor in an air treatment system and gas adsorption rotor arrangement for an air treatment system

Abstract

A sealing device for a gas adsorption rotor of an air treatment system is configured to be disposed between a rotor media of the rotor and a rotor cassette that at least partially surrounds the rotor. The sealing device includes a sealing frame configured to be attached to the rotor cassette, a contact portion having a contact surface disposed to contact the rotor media, and a resilient portion disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion such that the contact surface is biased against the surface of the rotor media. The contact surface is formed of a metallic material.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sealing device for a gas adsorption rotor of an air treatment system and to a gas adsorption rotor arrangement for an air treatment system comprising a sealing device as defined in the preamble of the independent claim. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] Various types of air treatment systems are commonly used to provide treated air to enclosed spaces. Such air treatment systems typically include some type of gas adsorption device containing a gas adsorbing component. One such air treatment system uses a gas adsorption rotor, commonly referred to as a desiccant rotor or desiccant wheel, to dehumidify the air. The rotor rotates, exposing the desiccant within the rotor to the treated air stream and the regeneration air stream of the air treatment system. Regeneration is sometimes referred to as reactivation.

[0003]

[0003] Desiccant rotors typically have a rotor media containing a finely divided desiccant in a semi-ceramic structure, resembling corrugated cardboard rolled into a wheel. The rotor slowly rotates between the process air stream and the regeneration air stream. The process air passes through the grooves formed by the corrugations, and the desiccant rotor adsorbs or absorbs moisture. As the wheel rotates and enters the regeneration air stream, the desiccant is heated by the hot regeneration air, causing the desiccant to release moisture into the regeneration air.

[0004] After regeneration, the desiccant is rotated back into the process air stream and the process is repeated.

[0005]

[0005] The rotor is typically rotatably disposed within a rotor cassette. To prevent airflow mixing and unwanted air leakage, a seal is used between the rotor cassette and the rotor. Such seals are often silicone-based. However, silicone-based seals may not be able to withstand the extremely high temperatures of the regeneration airflow in certain applications, resulting in seal degradation and a shortened technical lifespan. Even high-grade silicones are insufficient for the temperatures in the regeneration zone of some applications, where temperatures can exceed 200 degrees Celsius. Even if silicone can withstand high temperatures for a short period of time, frequent seal replacement is required, which is costly and time-consuming. Therefore, the temperature limitations of silicone are a significant drawback of known sealing devices. Some synthetic rubber products, including a fluoropolymer elastomer known by the trademark Viton, can withstand high temperatures but are expensive to use.

[0006] Additionally, manufacturing variations in rotor and cassette components mean that the spacing between the rotor face and the seal surface is not always perfectly consistent, resulting in the use of fixed-dimension seal materials that can lead to drive motor system failures in the field, resulting in expensive and costly repairs. Summary of the Invention

[0007]

[0007] It is an object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified shortcomings and disadvantages in the prior art, or at least to solve the above-identified problems.

[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sealing device and a rotor arrangement including such a sealing device that can withstand high temperatures exceeding 200 degrees Celsius. Such a sealing device would extend the technical life of the seal between the rotor media and the rotor cassette and reduce warranty and repair costs. Furthermore, it is an object of the present disclosure to reduce rework in typical seal installations and reduce the amount of silicone required.

[0009]

[0009] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a sealing device that is tolerant to manufacturing variations, thereby reducing problems due to parts that deviate from desired specifications.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a sealing device for a gas adsorption rotor of an air handling system. The sealing device is configured to be disposed between a rotor media of the rotor and a rotor cassette that at least partially surrounds the rotor. The sealing device includes a sealing frame configured to be attached to the rotor cassette, a contact portion having a contact surface disposed to contact the rotor media, and an elastic portion disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion such that the contact surface biases against a surface of the rotor media, the contact surface comprising a metallic material.

[0011]

[0011] It is advantageous to use contact surfaces comprising a metallic material in the sealing device, since metallic materials can withstand the high temperatures that may occur in the rotor, for example in the regeneration zone or purge zone. Depending on the intended use of the sealing device, in particular with regard to the temperatures expected in the intended application, different metallic materials may be considered. In some embodiments, the metallic material of the contact portion comprises an iron-based metallic material, preferably steel. Iron-based metallic materials such as steel exhibit suitable properties for sealing devices, in particular with regard to heat resistance.

[0012]

[0012] According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises a metallic material. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises an iron-based metallic material. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises a steel material. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises a metal. According to some embodiments, the contact surface comprises steel.

[0013]

[0013] The gas adsorption rotor may preferably be a desiccant rotor, such as an adsorption rotor and / or an absorption rotor. The air treatment system may preferably be a dehumidification system. In addition to dehumidification, the air treatment system may be a system for removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. The desiccant used in the rotor may be a zeolitic hydrophobic material, such as zeolite.

[0014]

[0014] Because the contact surfaces comprise a metallic material, the sealing device is particularly suitable for high-temperature regeneration applications. Such a sealing device can be provided in the regeneration sector of the gas adsorption rotor, while the processing sector can be provided with a conventional silicone seal. Thus, the sealing device and sealing arrangement described in the present disclosure provide a cost-effective and flexible solution for high-temperature applications.

[0015]

[0015] The sealing devices described in the present disclosure, having a resilient portion that biases the contact surface against the rotor media, are suitable and beneficial for all rotor applications, even those that do not require high temperature resistance, because such sealing devices allow for relaxed manufacturing tolerances and reduced amounts of silicone sealing material.

[0016]

[0016] The elastic portion may be configured to function as a barrier between the sealing frame and the contact portion of the sealing device, thereby forming part of the airtight seal between the rotor cassette and the rotor media. In other words, the elastic portion may cover the space between the sealing frame and the contact portion so that gas does not pass through the sealing device. However, it is also possible to achieve an airtight seal between the sealing frame and the contact portion by other means, such as by placing an appropriately shaped airtight part between the sealing frame and the contact portion that is not part of the elastic portion. It is also possible to eliminate the space between the sealing frame and the contact portion by extending the contact portion and / or the sealing frame so that they contact each other.

[0017] The resilient portion may include at least one biasing element attached to the contact portion on one side and to the sealing frame on the other side. Furthermore, the resilient portion may include multiple biasing elements. In such examples, the biasing elements may be arranged along the sealing device to ensure a uniform seal against the rotor surface. In one example, the biasing elements are evenly spaced along the sealing device, with the same spacing between two biasing elements along the sealing device. In another example, the biasing elements are unevenly spaced along the sealing device. For example, the use of uneven spacing may be advantageous depending on the geometry of the sealing device and / or rotor. In all embodiments of the sealing device, regardless of the arrangement or number of biasing elements used, the biasing elements ensure a force that presses the contact portion against the rotor media to form a hermetic seal with the rotor. The biasing element may be a spring, such as a helical spring. Other suitable biasing elements, such as sponge-like silicone and / or air-expandable silicone tubing, may also be used to generate a force on the contact portion, pressing the contact portion against the rotor media to ensure an airtight seal with the sealing device of the present disclosure.

[0018] In one example of the present disclosure, the resilient portion further comprises at least one retaining element and at least one retention fastener that secure the at least one biasing element to the contact portion. Multiple retaining elements can be used depending on the configuration of the sealing device. Furthermore, multiple retention fasteners can be used depending on the configuration of the sealing device and / or the retention elements. Thus, the resilient portion may further comprise multiple retaining elements and at least one retention fastener that secure the at least one biasing element to the contact portion. In another example, the resilient portion further comprises at least one retaining element and multiple retention fasteners that secure the at least one biasing element to the contact portion.

[0019]

[0019] In some further examples, the resilient portion further comprises a plurality of retaining elements and a plurality of retaining fasteners that secure the at least one biasing element to the contact portion.

[0020] The retaining element may be an elongated strip and / or the retaining fastener may be a rivet. In some examples, multiple retaining elements are used in the sealing device, for example, by hermetically connecting multiple elongated strips. In another example, the retaining element is a suitable type of washer, such as a flat metal washer or disk.

[0021] In another example, the fastener is another type of mechanical fastener, such as a screw, nut, bolt, or anchor. Additionally, the fastener may comprise interlocking pieces of sheet metal that mechanically come together to form the fastener.

[0022]

[0022] In some examples, the contact portion includes a recess for receiving the distal end of at least one retention fastener when the distal end extends through the contact portion. When a rivet is used as the retention fastener, the distal end of the fastener is the head of the rivet. When another retention fastener is used, the distal end corresponds to any portion that protrudes through the contact portion. Locating a recess in the contact portion is beneficial because it avoids contact between the protruding distal end of the retention fastener and the rotor media. Contact between a protruding portion, such as the distal end of the retention fastener, and the rotor media may damage the rotor media and therefore adversely affect the performance of the sealing device.

[0023]

[0023] In some examples, the elastic portion includes at least one flexible sheet disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion. The at least one flexible sheet thus functions as an airtight barrier between the sealing frame and the contact portion of the sealing device. The flexible sheet may be an elongated sheet made of a flexible material. In the deployed state, the flexible sheet may be substantially rectangular having two longitudinal sides and two transverse sides, the longitudinal sides being longer than the transverse sides. One flexible sheet may be disposed to at least partially surround at least one biasing element. This protects the biasing element from harmful external influences, such as heat and moisture from the airflow passing through the rotor, and exposure to the external environment outside the rotor. Furthermore, one flexible sheet may be disposed on each side of the biasing element to protect the biasing element from both exposure to the airflow passing through the rotor and the external environment. Furthermore, one flexible sheet may be disposed to cover both sides of the at least one biasing element. This may be done, for example, by attaching a central portion to the sealing frame and each side to the contact portion on each side of the biasing element.

[0024]

[0024] By disposing a flexible sheet between the sealing frame and the contact portion, the durability and airtightness of the sealing device are improved. At least one flexible sheet may comprise fibers or yarns forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 150°C. According to some embodiments, at least one flexible sheet may comprise fibers or yarns forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 200°C. Advantageously, the flexible sheet may comprise fibers or yarns forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 220°C. In some embodiments, at least one flexible sheet comprises fibers or yarns forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 250°C. Such heat resistance is beneficial because temperatures in the regeneration or purge zones of some gas adsorption rotors can be extremely high, exceeding 200°C in some applications. Currently, in some applications, temperatures in the regeneration or purge zones can reach approximately 220°C. It is therefore beneficial for the sealing device of the present disclosure to include components that can withstand temperatures in excess of 220 degrees.

[0025]

[0025] The flexible sheet may be a woven stainless steel sheet. In another example, the flexible sheet may be an aramid sheet, preferably a polyparaphenylene terephthalamide sheet, also known as Kevlar. In yet another example, the flexible sheet is a heat-resistant rubber sheet. The material selected for the flexible sheet should advantageously be both heat-resistant and flexible. Furthermore, to enhance the durability of the sealing device, it is advantageous to use a material that is resistant to corrosion in the air handling system environment. All of the above-mentioned materials, i.e., woven stainless steel sheet and aramid sheet (e.g., polyparaphenylene terephthalamide sheet), have such beneficial properties and are therefore suitable for use in the sealing devices described in the present disclosure.

[0026]

[0026] Additionally, the at least one flexible sheet may be configured to be disposed between the retaining element and the contact portion along at least one peripheral edge of the flexible sheet, thereby effectively holding the flexible sheet in place and minimizing the risk of gaps between the contact portion and the sealing frame, thereby enhancing the durability and tightness of the seal. In some examples, the retaining element may be a high-density composite manufactured as a feature of the flexible sheet.

[0027]

[0027] The shape of the sealing device may substantially conform to the periphery of the sector. In some examples, the shape of the sealing device conforms to the cross-sectional shape of the regeneration section of the gas adsorption rotor.

[0028]

[0028] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is also provided a gas adsorption rotor arrangement for an air treatment system including a gas adsorption rotor. The gas adsorption rotor includes a rotor medium, a rotor cassette at least partially surrounding the rotor medium, and a sealing device according to any of the examples described herein, disposed between the rotor medium and the rotor cassette. In such a gas adsorption rotor arrangement, one sealing device may be disposed on each side of the rotor medium. In other words, one sealing device may be disposed on each outwardly facing surface of the rotor medium, i.e., one sealing device on the processing side and one sealing device on the regeneration side.

[0029]

[0029] Advantageously, the sealing device is positioned to seal the regeneration zone of the gas adsorption rotor. The regeneration zone, also called the reactivation zone, refers to the zone of the gas adsorption rotor through which the regeneration gas stream passes. The treatment zone through which the treatment gas stream passes may be equipped with the sealing device of the present disclosure. However, due to the flexibility of the sealing device configuration, it is also possible for the gas adsorption rotor to be equipped with the sealing device described in the present disclosure on part of the rotor surface while using conventional seals on other parts of the surface. Because the temperature requirements in the treatment zone may not be as high as in the regeneration zone, it may be preferable to use the sealing device described in the present disclosure in the regeneration zone and conventional seals in the treatment zone. In another example, the sealing device described in the present disclosure may be used in the regeneration zone and purge zone of the gas adsorption rotor, and a conventional sealing device may be used to seal the treatment zone. However, because this sealing device has the advantage of an airtight seal that is tolerant to manufacturing variations, it is advantageous to use this sealing device even if heat resistance is not required if parts of the gas adsorption rotor or rotor cassette deviate from the desired specifications.

[0030] It is understood that all of the features and advantages described with respect to the sealing device are also applicable to the gas adsorption rotor arrangement.

[0031]

[0031] The present disclosure will become clear from the following detailed description. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of the present disclosure for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will understand from the description in the detailed description that changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0032]

[0032] Accordingly, it is to be understood that the disclosure herein is not limited to the particular components of the described devices or steps of the described methods, as such devices and methods may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used only to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" mean that there are one or more elements, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, the use of words such as "comprising," "including," and "containing" does not exclude other elements or steps. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033]

[0033] The above objects, as well as other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure, will be more fully understood by reference to the illustrative, non-limiting, detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0034] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic representation of a gas adsorption rotor having a regeneration section and a treatment section. [Figure 2]

[0035] 1 shows a schematic representation of a rotor cassette that at least partially surrounds the gas adsorption rotor. [Figure 3A-3C]

[0036] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a sealing device according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figures 4A-4C]

[0037] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a sealing device according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A-5B]

[0038] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a gas adsorption rotor arrangement according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figures 6A-6B]

[0039] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a gas adsorption rotor arrangement according to an example of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035]

[0040] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. The disclosed embodiments are provided so that those skilled in the art can fully appreciate the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036]

[0041] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a gas adsorption rotor 10 of an air treatment system 100 having rotor media 11. Such gas adsorption rotors are known in the art and typically include at least one regeneration zone 13 and one treatment zone 14. Additionally, the rotor may include a purge zone (not shown). A divider, such as divider 15 shown in FIG. 1, separates the regeneration zone 13 from the treatment zone 14. While only one regeneration zone is shown in FIG. 1, the present disclosure also applies to rotors having multiple and / or separate regeneration zones. Furthermore, the present disclosure also applies to rotors having separate purge zones and / or separate rotor sections. Because both sides of the rotor 10 in FIG. 1 are identical, surfaces 11' and 11'' of the rotor media 11 have the same configuration. Arrows P and R in FIG. 1 indicate the treatment air flow passing through the treatment zone 14 and the regeneration air flow passing through the regeneration zone 13, respectively.

[0037]

[0042] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of rotor cassette 12, which at least partially surrounds rotor 10. The cassette shown in Figure 2 has a body 121 and a central opening 122 divided by a number of bars 123. Such bars are also called spokes, ribs, spindles, or other terms that refer to elongated elements that extend across the opening of rotor cassette 12. A hub 124 is shown at the center of central opening 122.

[0038]

[0043] Rotor cassettes such as rotor cassette 12 shown in Figure 2 are known in the art, and the present disclosure is applicable to rotor cassettes of any known type and configuration. Cassette 12 in Figure 2 is shown from one side, and the opposite side may have the same or a different appearance, depending on the application of rotor cassette 12.

[0039]

[0044] 3A to 3C schematically illustrate a sealing device 1 according to an example of the present disclosure. Lines VA-VA, VB-VB, VIA-VIA, and VIB-VIB in Fig. 3A indicate the locations of the cross sections shown in Figs. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, respectively.

[0040]

[0045] In Figure 3A, the location of the sealing device 1 is shown schematically within a rotor cassette 12 that at least partially surrounds the rotor 10. In Figure 3A, the rotor cassette 12 is shown in front view. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 3A, the rotor 10 has a substantially sector-shaped regeneration zone 13, and the sealing device 1 is positioned along the periphery of the regeneration zone 13.

[0041]

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3B, the regeneration area 13 is defined by the bars 123′ and 123″, the rotor cassette body 121 along the periphery of the central opening 122, and the peripheral bar 124′ around the hub 124. The sealing device 1 is disposed between the rotor cassette 12 components, i.e., the body 121 and the bars 123′, 123″, 124′, and the rotor media 11. The sealing device 1 thus seals the space between the rotor cassette 12 and the rotor media 11.

[0042]

[0047] Figure 3C shows a schematic front view of the sealing device 1 in the position and shape shown in Figures 3A and 3B. In Figure 3C, the position of the retention clamp 43 is shown along the sealing device 1.

[0043]

[0048] 3A to 3C, the shape of the sealing device 1 substantially conforms to the periphery of a sector. Thus, in the illustrated example, the shape of the sealing device 1 conforms to the cross-sectional shape of the regeneration section 13 of the gas adsorption rotor 10, which is substantially sector-shaped. However, within the inventive concept of the present disclosure, sealing devices having other shapes corresponding to other sectors of the rotor are also provided. As an example, the sealing device can be used to seal the purge sector of the rotor. In such an example, the shape of the sealing device preferably conforms to the cross-sectional shape of that purge section.

[0044]

[0049] 4A, 4B, and 4C schematically illustrate a sealing device 1 according to an example of the present disclosure. 4A and 4B are cross-sectional side views of the sealing device 1, and 4B shows details of the sealing device 1 shown in 4A, highlighting the contact portion 3 and the resilient portion 4. 4C is a top view of the sealing device 1, as viewed from the rotor media surfaces 11′, 11″.

[0045]

[0050] In FIG. 4A, the sealing device 1 includes a sealing frame 2 configured to be attached to the rotor cassette 12, a contact portion 3 having a contact surface 31 (see FIG. 4B) configured to be placed in contact with the rotor media 11, and an elastic portion 4 arranged between the sealing frame 2 and the contact portion 3, which urges the contact surface 31 against the surfaces 11', 11" of the rotor media 11. In other words, the elastic portion 4 presses the contact portion 3 against the surfaces 11', 11" of the rotor media 11, ensuring the formation of an airtight seal between the sealing device 1 and the rotor media 11. The sealing device 1 is airtightly arranged relative to the rotor cassette 12 via the base of the elastic portion 4 attached to the sealing frame 2. In this way, an airtight seal is formed between the rotor cassette 12 and the rotor media 11.

[0046]

[0051] The contact surface 31 comprises a metallic material. The use of a metallic material, i.e. a material comprising a metal, for the contact surface 13 ensures the formation of a durable seal that can withstand the high temperatures, particularly within the regeneration zone 13. Advantageously, the metallic material of the contact surface 31 is an iron-based metallic material, preferably steel. Alternative materials for the contact surface 31 include plastic or composite materials.

[0047]

[0052] The seal frame 2 is positioned to be attached to the rotor cassette 12. The seal frame 2 can be attached to the rotor cassette 12 in any suitable manner using suitable attachment means such as screws, structural adhesive, or tape. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the seal frame 2 must be attached to the rotor cassette 12 in a manner that maintains the airtightness of the seal device. The seal frame 2 may have spring tracks (not shown). Such spring tracks can be used for retrofit or to allow the seal device to be manufactured as an assembly.

[0048]

[0053] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 4B, the elastic portion 4 comprises at least one biasing element 41 attached on one side to the contact portion 3 and on the other side to the sealing frame 2. Any suitable element capable of applying a biasing force to press the contact portion 3 against the rotor media can be used as the biasing element 41. In the example of Figure 4B, the biasing element is a spring in the form of a helical spring. Other suitable biasing members include sponge-like silicone and / or air-expandable silicone tubing.

[0049]

[0054] In this exemplary embodiment, the resilient portion 4 further comprises at least one retaining element 42 and at least one retention fastener 43 that secure the at least one biasing element 41 to the contact portion 3. Any suitable means for retaining and securing the biasing elements can be used. In Figures 4A and 4B, the retaining element 42 is an elongated strip and the retention fastener 43 is a rivet. Other suitable fasteners suitable for use as the retention fastener 43 include various types of mechanical fasteners, such as screws or interlocking sheet metal products.

[0050]

[0055] 4B , when the distal end of at least one retention fastener 43 extends through the contact portion 3, the contact portion 3 includes a recess 32 for receiving the distal end of the retention fastener, i.e., the head of a rivet in this example. Contact between the retention fastener 43 and the rotor media 11 could damage the rotor media and / or adversely affect the performance of the sealing device. Therefore, the recess 32 is advantageous because it avoids contact between the retention fastener 43 and the rotor media 11 while at the same time providing a secure connection between the contact portion 3, the elastic portion 4, and the sealing frame 2.

[0051]

[0056] 4A to 4C, the elastic portion 4 comprises at least one flexible sheet 44 disposed between the sealing frame 2 and the contact portion 3. This at least one flexible sheet 44 functions as an airtight barrier between the sealing frame 2 and the contact portion 3 of the sealing device 1. In the illustrated example, the flexible sheet 44 is an elongated sheet that is substantially rectangular in its unfolded state, having two longitudinal sides and two transverse sides, the longitudinal sides being longer than the transverse sides. Such a flexible sheet 44 ideally comprises fibers or yarns forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures of at least 150°C. According to some embodiments, the flexible sheet 44 comprises fibers or yarns forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures of at least 200°C. Advantageously, the flexible sheet comprises fibers or yarns forming a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures of at least 220°C or even above 220°C. For example, it is beneficial for the flexible sheet to be chemically stable at temperatures of up to 250°C. Preferred materials for the flexible sheet 44 that are known to meet the requirements necessary for the sealing device according to at least some of the embodiments of the present disclosure include: Stainless steel woven sheet, aramid sheets, preferably polyparaphenylene terephthalamide sheets, also known as Kevlar (trade name), or Heat-resistant rubber sheet is.

[0052]

[0057] The flexible sheet 44 may be a formed thin stainless steel sheet or extruded tubing, but any material that meets the requirements of the sealing device 1, particularly with regard to temperature and flexibility, may be conveniently used.

[0053]

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4C , at least one flexible sheet 44 may be positioned to at least partially surround at least one biasing element 41 to protect the biasing element 43 from harmful external influences. For example, heat and / or humidity may adversely affect the durability of the biasing element 41. The environment of the biasing element 41 may be different on the side of the biasing element 41 facing the hub 124 of the rotor 10 than on the side of the biasing element 41 away from the hub 124. Therefore, in some applications, the use of flexible sheets 44 may be particularly beneficial in certain areas of the rotor 10, while different sealing materials or methods may be used in other areas. However, in some applications, it may be desirable to position one flexible sheet 44 as described herein on each side of the biasing element 41, as shown in the example of FIGS. 4A-4C , to protect the biasing element 41 from exposure to both airflow through the rotor and the external environment.

[0054]

[0059] 4A shows an example in which a single, elongated flexible sheet 44 is attached to the center of the sealing frame 2. Each longitudinal side edge of the flexible sheet 44 is folded toward the rotor and attached to the contact portion 3, thereby covering both sides of at least one biasing element 43. Thus, the area between the contact portion 3 and the sealing frame 2 is covered by the single flexible sheet 44 on both sides of the biasing element 41. Although not shown, two other flexible sheets 44 can be disposed between the sealing frame 2 and the contact portion 3. In such an example, one longitudinal side of the flexible sheet 44 is attached to the sealing frame 2, and the other longitudinal side is attached to the contact portion 3.

[0055]

[0060] In the example shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the flexible sheet 44 is positioned on the underside of the contact surface 31, along both edges of the flexible sheet 44, between the retaining element 42 and the contact portion 3, as described above.

[0056]

[0061] In the example shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the contact surface 31 is designed as one piece, and therefore the flexible sheet 44 is sandwiched between the underside of the contact surface 31 (i.e., the side facing away from the rotor media 11) and the upper side of the retaining element 42 (i.e., the side facing towards the rotor media 11).

[0057]

[0062] Although not shown, a high density composite manufactured as a feature of the flexible sheet may be used as a retaining fastener.

[0058]

[0063] 4C is a top view of a section of sealing device 1, showing the edge of elongated flexible sheet 44 located between the edge of elongated, strip-shaped retention element 42 and the edge of contact surface 31, which also has an elongated, surface-like shape. A plurality of retention clamps 43 are shown evenly distributed longitudinally along that section of sealing device 1, holding evenly distributed biasing elements in place on the sealing device.

[0059]

[0064] 5A and 5B each schematically illustrate a gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 for an air treatment system 100 according to an example of the present disclosure. The figures are schematic cross-sectional views of the gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 taken along lines VA-VA and VB-VB in FIG. 3A, respectively. The gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B includes a gas adsorption rotor 10 with rotor media 11, a rotor cassette 12 at least partially surrounding the rotor media 11, and a sealing device 1 described herein disposed between the rotor media 11 and the rotor cassette 12.

[0060]

[0065] 5A and 5B, the rotor cassette 12 at least partially surrounds both sides of the rotor 10, and a sealing device 1 is disposed on each side of the rotor media 11. In other words, the sealing devices 1 are disposed on the outwardly facing surfaces 11', 11'' of the rotor media 11, respectively, i.e., one sealing device 1 on the surface 11'' of the rotor 11 facing the process air flow P, and one sealing device 1 on the surface 11' of the rotor 11 facing the regeneration air flow R. Thus, one sealing device 1 is disposed on the process side of the rotor 11, and one sealing device 1 is disposed on the regeneration side of the rotor 11.

[0061]

[0066] 5A and 5B, the rotor cassettes 12 are identical on both sides of the rotor media 11, and a sealing device 1 is positioned between the rotor media 11 and the rotor cassette 12 on each side, so that each sealing device 1 presses against two opposing surfaces 11' and 11'' of the rotor media 11, respectively. In FIGS. 5A and 5B, the sealing device 1 is positioned to seal the regeneration zone 13 of the gas adsorption rotor 10, through which the regeneration airflow indicated by arrow R passes. As mentioned above, the sealing device 1 is also particularly suitable for sealing the purge zone of the rotor 10. The treatment zone 14, through which the treatment airflow indicated by arrow P passes, can also be equipped with a sealing device 1 of the present disclosure. However, because the temperature requirements in the treatment zone 14 may not be as high as in the regeneration zone 13, a conventional seal 5 can also be used in the treatment zone 14, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. Nevertheless, this sealing device has the advantage of providing a gas-tight seal that is tolerant to manufacturing variations, making it advantageous to use this sealing device even when heat resistance is not required if the gas adsorption rotor or rotor cassette components deviate from the desired specifications.

[0062]

[0067] As noted above, Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view taken along line VA-VA shown in Figure 3A. Figure 5A therefore shows gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 with sealing device 1 positioned along bar 123' of rotor cassette 12. Figure 5A also shows hub 124 to which sealing device 1 seals.

[0063]

[0068] As noted above, Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along line VB-VB shown in Figure 3A. Figure 5B therefore shows gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 with sealing devices 1 disposed along bars 123'' and body 121 of rotor cassette 12.

[0064]

[0069] Lines VIA-VIA and VIB-VIB in FIGS. 5A and 5B represent the cross sections shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, respectively.

[0065]

[0070] 6A and 6B each show a schematic cross-section of a gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 according to an example of the present disclosure. FIG. 6A shows a schematic cross-section along line VIA-VIA in FIGS. 3, 5A, and 5B. FIG. 6B shows a schematic cross-section along line VIB-VIB in FIGS. 3, 5A, and 5B.

[0066]

[0071] FIG. 6A shows a gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 with sealing devices 1 located along bars 123'' on each side of rotor cassette 12 and sealing the regeneration section 13 of rotor 10 through which regeneration airflow R, indicated by arrow R, passes. FIG. 6A also shows hubs 124 that contact sealing devices 1 sealing the upper regeneration section 13 of rotor 10, as shown. The treatment section 14 through which treatment airflow, indicated by arrow P, passes can be sealed using sealing devices 1 or conventional seals 5.

[0067]

[0072] 6B shows a gas adsorption rotor arrangement 101 with sealing devices 1 positioned on each side of the rotor cassette 12 along the bars 123' and body 121 of the rotor cassette 12. In the example of FIG. 6B, in the processing zone 14 of the rotor 10 through which the processing airflow indicated by arrow P passes, sealing devices 1 or conventional seals 5 can be used to seal the space between each surface 11', 11'' of the rotor media 11 and the body 121 of the rotor cassette 12.

[0068]

[0073] Those skilled in the art will understand that the present disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Those skilled in the art will further understand that variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, in practicing the claimed disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A sealing device for a gas adsorption rotor in an air treatment system, comprising: the sealing device is configured to be disposed between a rotor media of the rotor and a rotor cassette that at least partially surrounds the rotor; The sealing device comprises: a sealed frame configured to be attached to the rotor cassette; a contact portion having a contact surface arranged to contact the rotor media; an elastic portion disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion such that the contact surface is biased against the surface of the rotor media; A sealing device wherein the contact surface comprises a metallic material.

2. The sealing device according to claim 1 , wherein the metallic material comprises an iron-based metallic material, preferably steel.

3. The sealing device of claim 1 , wherein the resilient portion comprises at least one biasing element attached on one side to the contact portion and on the other side to the sealing frame.

4. The sealing device of claim 3 , wherein the resilient portion further comprises at least one retaining element and at least one retaining fastener that secures the at least one biasing element to the contact portion.

5. the retaining element comprises an elongated strip; and / or The sealing device of claim 4 , wherein the retention fastener is a rivet.

6. The sealing device of claim 4 , wherein the contact portion comprises a recess for receiving a distal end of the at least one retention clamp when the distal end extends through the contact portion.

7. The sealing device of claim 1 , wherein the elastic portion comprises at least one flexible sheet disposed between the sealing frame and the contact portion.

8. 8. The sealing device of claim 7, wherein the at least one flexible sheet comprises fibers or yarns that form a flexible fabric that is chemically stable at temperatures up to at least 150 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 200 degrees Celsius.

9. 8. The sealing device of claim 7, wherein the flexible sheet comprises one of a woven stainless steel sheet, an aramid sheet, preferably a polyparaphenylene terephthalamide sheet, or a heat-resistant rubber sheet.

10. The sealing device of claim 7 , wherein the at least one flexible sheet is configured to be disposed between the retaining element and the contact portion along at least one peripheral edge of the flexible sheet.

11. The sealing device of claim 1 , wherein the shape of the sealing device substantially conforms to the perimeter of a sector.

12. The sealing device of claim 1 , wherein the shape of the sealing device conforms to the cross-sectional shape of the regeneration section of the gas adsorption rotor.

13. a gas adsorption rotor comprising rotor media; a rotor cassette at least partially enclosing the rotor media; a sealing device according to claim 1 disposed between the rotor media and the rotor cassette; 1. A gas adsorption rotor arrangement for an air treatment system, comprising:

14. 14. The gas adsorption rotor arrangement of claim 13, wherein one sealing device is disposed on each side of the rotor media.

15. 14. The gas adsorption rotor arrangement of claim 13, wherein the sealing device is positioned to seal off a regeneration zone of the gas adsorption rotor.

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