Hybrid device for sampling filtration media and fluids - Patents.com

Abstract

A hybrid device for sampling filtration media and fluid in a fluid processing vessel includes a sampling conduit and fluid discharge tubing, a first end of the fluid discharge tubing coupled to a portion of the sampling conduit. The first end of the sampling conduit is configured for slidable insertion into a fluid collection port of the fluid processing vessel. The sampling conduit may include a media collection port at a front end and a media sampling / discharge valve at a rear end. The media sampling valve may be configured to facilitate extraction of a desired amount of filtration media for sampling purposes at any time during normal operation.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for sampling filtration media and fluids in water treatment. [Background technology]

[0002] The treatment of wastewater and sewage has been continuously evolving since the Middle Ages. Since the advent of urban sewerage systems, sewage treatment plants have been built locally for the treatment of such waste. Traditional water filtration involves flowing raw fluid through a device, such as a pressurized water vessel with an inlet, a filter or bed of filtration media, and an outlet drainage arrangement for discharging the filtered water. The filtration media can be granular, such as sand, a biofilter, or a multimedia bed. The filtration media captures most of the solids contained in the water being filtered while allowing water to pass through. Oxidation of organic and nitrogen-containing materials in the fluid can also occur through bacteria and other microorganisms present on the media surface of the bed.

[0003] The accumulation and buildup of trapped solids or biofilm layers on the filtration media inhibits direct contact of wastewater with the media, thus reducing the efficiency of the filtration media. Solids not only form a layer on top of the filter, but also on the surface of the filtration media. This causes head loss and requires the unit to be cleaned to restore optimal filter performance. Air and water backwashing is required to effectively remove these solids. Therefore, the filtration media is periodically cleaned using forced backwashing through a drainage arrangement, and the backwashed liquid can be discharged as waste above the level of the filtration media bed.

[0004] Typically, filtration media and fluid samples are taken periodically to check the performance of the media and the quality of the purified fluid. Testing the media also allows for recommendations on what to do upstream, for example, if a flow rate change needs to be made or if the media is not functioning properly. While fluid samples can be taken during normal operation of the water treatment system, traditional filtration sampling media methods require depressurizing the treatment vessel, opening it, and taking the sample through the vessel's top opening. This involves downtime when fluid treatment is stopped. Traditionally, media samples cannot be taken during normal operation of the water treatment system or without the need to open the vessel.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a device that can sample both the media and the fluid during normal operation of the water treatment system. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In accordance with one or more embodiments, the present invention relates to a hybrid device for sampling both filtration media and fluid in a fluid processing vessel.

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention is a hybrid device for sampling filtration media and fluid. The hybrid device includes a sampling conduit and fluid discharge tubing, with a first end of the fluid discharge tubing coupled to a portion of the sampling conduit. The hybrid device may have a generally L-shaped configuration. The hybrid device has a first end of the sampling conduit configured for slidable insertion into a fluid collection port of a fluid processing vessel, which may contain filtration media and fluid. The sampling conduit may include a media collection port at a front end and a media sampling / discharge valve at a rear end. The media sampling valve may be located outside the fluid processing vessel. Furthermore, the media sampling valve may be configured to facilitate extraction of a desired amount of filtration media for sampling purposes.

[0008] The hybrid device may include a second end of the fluid discharge tubing terminating in a fluid outlet configured to facilitate extraction of a desired volume of fluid for sampling purposes, and a first end of the fluid discharge tubing coupled to the sampling conduit at a 90-degree angle.

[0009] The sampling conduit may include a fluid collection screen for separating the filtration media from the fluid, and the fluid collection screen may be located near the media collection port. The sampling conduit includes a media sampling tube and a fluid collection pipe, the inner diameter of the fluid collection pipe being larger than the outer diameter of the media sampling tube. The separated fluid is configured to pass through an annulus formed between the media sampling tube and the fluid collection pipe.

[0010] Another embodiment of the present invention includes a coupling element configured to couple a media sampling tube to a fluid collection screen. The distal end of the coupling element is press-fit into a groove located at the front end of the fluid collection screen. The coupling element includes a through central channel, and the media sampling tube is received within the central channel. The hybrid device may include a ferrule for tightening onto the media sampling tube.

[0011] The hybrid device may also include a fluid sampling valve located near the fluid outlet.

[0012] Another embodiment of the invention is a method of sampling a filtration medium and a fluid, the method comprising providing a hybrid device as described herein and inserting a first end of the hybrid device into a fluid collection port of a fluid processing vessel, the fluid processing vessel containing the filtration medium and the fluid.

[0013] The method may include activating a media sampling valve and / or a fluid sampling valve and collecting filtration media and / or fluid from the pressurized vessel at any time during normal operation.

[0014] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent like elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] The present invention is described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which describe or relate to the apparatus, systems and methods of the present invention. The drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale, and like elements shown in the various drawings are represented by like numerals. [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a hybrid device for sampling a filtration medium and a fluid, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] 10 illustrates a media collection port of a hybrid device for sampling filtration media and fluid, according to another embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 illustrates a coupling element of a hybrid device for sampling filtration media and fluids according to another embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 illustrates a media sampling valve and media sampling line of a hybrid device for sampling filtration media and fluid, according to another embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a water treatment system with a filtration media and a hybrid device for sampling a fluid, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a water treatment system with a filtration media and a hybrid device for sampling a fluid, according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer only to certain specific embodiments. Various terms are used herein. Unless a term used in the claims is defined below, that term should be given the broadest definition given to that term by one of ordinary skill in the relevant art as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0017] Disclosed herein is a hybrid device for sampling a filtration medium and a fluid. As used herein, the term "hybrid device" is intended to encompass multi-function devices, such as devices that allow for sampling of both fluid and filtration medium in a water treatment system. The hybrid device for sampling a filtration medium and a fluid (hereinafter referred to interchangeably as a "hybrid device") can be configured to facilitate sampling of the fluid and the filtration medium simultaneously or separately.

[0018] Referring now to FIG. 1 , the hybrid device 100 has a generally L-shaped configuration. However, it should be understood that the hybrid device 100 can have any other suitable configuration or shape. The hybrid device 100 includes a filtration medium and fluid sampling conduit 101a (hereinafter interchangeably referred to as “sampling conduit 101a”) and fluid discharge piping 101b. A first end of the fluid discharge piping 101b can be coupled to a portion of the sampling conduit 101a at a 90-degree angle, while a second end of the piping 101b terminates in an opening 121 for discharging a desired amount of fluid for sampling or testing purposes. The sampling conduit 101a can be attached to a fluid processing vessel 120 by a flange seal 107 using a set of bolts (not shown). The fluid processing vessel can be a pressure vessel 120 containing one or more filtration media and one or more fluids requiring filtration. A bracket 115 can be used to couple the fluid discharge piping 101b to the pressure vessel 120.

[0019] A first end of the sampling conduit 101a may be configured for slidable insertion into an existing fluid / liquid collection port 119 in the pressure vessel 120. The sampling conduit 101a has a media collection port 102 at a front end 108 and a media sampling / drain valve 109 at a rear end. The media sampling valve 109 is located outside the pressure vessel 120 for ease of extraction of the filtration media. Because the sampling conduit 101a can be inserted into the existing port, the hybrid device 100 may allow a sample of the filtration media to be extracted without the need to shut down the water treatment system.

[0020] 1 and 2, the diameter of the media collection port 102 may be appropriately sized to allow the inflow of a desired amount of filtration media (not shown) contained within the vessel. The filtration media may flow through the port 102 and through the sampling conduit 101a.

[0021] 1 and 4 , media sampling valve 109 is configured to allow a desired amount of filtration media to be extracted / removed from vessel 120 through outlet 111 for sampling or testing purposes. Media sampling valve 109 includes handle 110. Advantageously, media sampling valve 109 can be positioned horizontally or vertically. Because vessel 120 is pressurized, flow can occur in either of these valve orientations. A user can manually actuate media sampling valve 109 by rotating handle 110. In one or more embodiments, valve actuation can be automated in response to a predetermined pressure differential across the valve. When media sampling valve 109 is in an open configuration, the pressure differential across the valve causes filtration media and fluid to be expelled through outlet 111. When media sampling valve 109 is in a closed configuration, the outflow of filtration media and fluid is suspended. In one or more embodiments, media sampling valve 109 includes a tap (not shown) that can be opened or closed.

[0022] The sampling conduit 101a further includes a fluid collection screen 105 that separates the fluid from the media. Fluid collection screens are known in the art. The fluid collection screen 105 is configured to separate the fluid from the filtration media. These screens typically have a standardized screen hole size of 60 U.S. mesh (approximately 0.01 inches or 250 microns). Meanwhile, the size of resin beads (used in filter beds) typically ranges from 300 to 1200 microns (16-50 U.S. mesh). Because the screen mesh size is smaller than the media size, only fluid can pass through the fluid collection screen 105. When the fluid sampling valve 112 is opened, the pressure differential within the system causes fluid to flow through the screen 105 and into the annulus of the sampling conduit 101a formed by the fluid collection pipe 106, or outer conduit 106, and the media sampling tube, or inner conduit 104. The fluid collection pipe 106 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the media sampling tube 104, thereby facilitating the passage of fluid through the annulus. The fluid collection screen 105 is located near the media collection port 102 and is configured to encase at least a portion of both the media sampling tube 104 and the fluid collection pipe 106.

[0023] The isolated or separated fluid can flow through the fluid collection screen 105 and into a T-piece connector 117. The connector 117 can be any conventional coupling device known in the art. The fluid then flows into the fluid discharge piping 101b and the fluid sampling valve 112. The fluid sampling valve 112 is located near the fluid outlet 121. As shown in FIG. 1 , the fluid sampling valve 112 includes a valve handle 113. Like the media sampling valve 109, the fluid sampling valve 112 can be manually actuated by a user by rotating the valve handle 113. When the fluid sampling valve 112 is in an open configuration, a pressure differential across the valve causes fluid to be expelled from the outlet 121. When the fluid sampling valve 112 is in a closed configuration, the flow of fluid is suspended. In one or more embodiments, the fluid sampling valve 112 includes a tap (not shown) that can be opened or closed.

[0024] The hybrid device 100 further includes a coupling element 103. As shown in FIG. 3 , the coupling element 103 is configured to couple the media sampling tube 104 and the fluid collection screen 105. The distal end of the coupling element 103 can be compression-fit into a groove located at the front end of the fluid collection screen 105. The coupling element 103 is configured to allow the media sampling tube 104 to remain usable without deformation. The coupling element 103 includes a through central channel 116 for receiving the media sampling tube 104. As shown, in one embodiment, the coupling element 103 does not have a tube stop that allows the tube 104 to pass through the coupling element 103 itself. Additionally, a ferrule 114 can be used to fasten to the media sampling tube 104, the ferrule 114 being configured to fit with an upper flange 114 a and a lower flange 114 b. The ferrule 114 may ensure that the media sampling tube 104 is not damaged within the pressurized vessel 120, thereby allowing for continuous flow of fluid and media within the hybrid device 100 and maintainability of the device. In one embodiment, the ferrule 114 may be made of a plastic or composite material so as not to damage the sampling tube 104 when installed. Because the connection flows into the fluid collection pipe 106, small leaks at the junction of the coupling element 103 and the fluid collection screen 105 are inconsequential. The coupling element 103 may have a seal configured to prevent filtration media from entering the fluid collection pipe 106.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 5-6, a water treatment system 200 may include multiple pressure vessels or columns 120. One or more hybrid devices 100 may be attached to each vessel. For example, in one embodiment, at least three hybrid devices 100 may be inserted into multiple ports within each vessel. Typically, a pressurized water column vessel has multiple segments with existing ports at heights of 25-50-75 percent of the fluid volume. A portion of the hybrid device 100 may be slidably inserted into each of these ports so that desired fluid and filtration media samples can be extracted.

[0026] In another embodiment, a method for sampling filtration media and fluids in a pressure / pressurized vessel includes providing a hybrid device 100 as described herein. Portions of the hybrid device 100 can be slidably inserted into one or more existing ports in the pressure vessel. By actuating the media sampling valve and / or fluid collection valve, a user can collect filtration media and / or fluids from the vessel at any time during normal operation without having to stop operation and without opening the vessel to extract the filtration media. When the valves are in the open configuration, a desired amount of filtration media and / or fluid can be collected for testing purposes. Additionally, if a user needs to test filtration media located deeper within the vessel, the user can insert a probe (not shown) into the media sample port and extract a sample across a cross-section of the vessel. The probe comprises a tube with a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the media sampling tube 104. Any fluid collected from the probe is extracted from the end of the probe, allowing sampling across the media bed.

[0027] Thus, the present invention is well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The foregoing description is not intended to limit the invention, as the invention may be utilized in accordance with different aspects or embodiments without departing from the scope thereof. The discussion of acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included herein solely for the purpose of providing a context for the invention. No suggestion or representation is made that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art or were common general knowledge in the art relevant to the invention.

[0028] Furthermore, the specific exemplary embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are deemed to be within the scope and spirit of the present invention. While systems and methods are described in terms such as "comprising," "containing," or "including" various devices / components or steps, it should be understood that the systems and methods may also "consist essentially of" or "consist of" the various components and steps. Whenever a numerical range with a lower and upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range within that range is specifically disclosed. In particular, all ranges of values ​​disclosed herein (in the form "from about a to about b" or, equivalently, "from approximately a to b") should be understood to specify all numbers and ranges encompassed within the broader range of values. If there is any discrepancy between the usage of a word or term in this specification and its usage in one or more patent(s) or other documents incorporated herein by reference, the consistent definition in this specification should be adopted.

Claims

1. 1. A hybrid device for sampling a filtration medium and a fluid, comprising: a sampling conduit; a fluid discharge line, a first end of the fluid discharge line coupled to a portion of the sampling conduit; A hybrid device comprising:

2. 10. The hybrid device of claim 1, wherein a first end of the sampling conduit is configured for slidable insertion into a fluid collection port of a fluid processing vessel, the fluid processing vessel containing a filtration media and a fluid.

3. The hybrid device of claim 2 , wherein the sampling conduit includes a media collection port at a front end and a media sampling / exhaust valve at a rear end.

4. The hybrid apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the media sampling valve is located outside the fluid treatment vessel.

5. The hybrid device of claim 4 , wherein the media sampling valve is configured to facilitate extraction of a desired amount of the filtration media for sampling purposes.

6. The hybrid device of claim 2 , wherein the sampling conduit includes a fluid collection screen for separating the filtration media from the fluid, the fluid collection screen being located near the media collection port.

7. The sampling conduit a media sampling tube; a fluid collection pipe, the inner diameter of the fluid collection pipe being greater than the outer diameter of the media sampling tube; The hybrid device of claim 6 , comprising:

8. The hybrid device of claim 7 , wherein the separated fluid is configured to pass through an annulus formed between the media sampling tube and the fluid collection pipe.

9. The hybrid device of claim 6 , further comprising a coupling element configured to couple the media sampling tube to the fluid collection screen.

10. The hybrid device of claim 9 , wherein a distal end of the coupling element is compression-fit into a groove located at a front end of the fluid collection screen.

11. The hybrid device of claim 10 , wherein the coupling element includes a central channel therethrough.

12. The hybrid device of claim 11 , wherein the media sampling tube is received within the central channel.

13. The hybrid device of claim 11 , further comprising a ferrule for fastening to the media sampling tube.

14. The hybrid device of claim 2 , wherein a second end of the fluid discharge tubing terminates in a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet configured to facilitate extraction of a desired amount of the fluid for sampling purposes.

15. The hybrid device of claim 14 further comprising a fluid sampling valve located near the fluid outlet.

16. The hybrid device of claim 1 , wherein the hybrid device has a generally L-shaped configuration.

17. The hybrid device of claim 1 , wherein the first end of the fluid discharge tubing is coupled to the sampling conduit at a 90 degree angle.

18. 1. A method for sampling a filtration medium and a fluid, comprising: Providing a hybrid device according to claim 1; inserting a first end of the hybrid device into a fluid collection port of a fluid treatment vessel, the fluid treatment vessel containing a filtration medium and a fluid; A method comprising:

19. activating a media sampling valve and / or a fluid sampling valve; collecting the filtration media and / or the fluid from the fluid treatment vessel at any time during normal operation; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

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