Liquid separator device and method of use

Abstract

For applications involving fuel cells, a liquid (e.g., water) is separated from a gas (e.g., hydrogen). However, after passing through the fuel cell, some gas associated with the separated water may still be present, and / or it may be desirable to separate some water from the gas before the gas associated with the remaining water passes through the fuel cell. For some applications, it may be desirable to process a fluid containing water and gas and separate the water from the gas before and / or after passing the water and gas through the fuel cell. The present invention provides a liquid separator device suitable for use upstream and / or downstream of a fuel cell. A liquid separator device, a method of using the liquid separator device, and a system comprising at least one liquid separator device are disclosed.

Description

Background Art

[0001] For applications involving fuel cells, a liquid (e.g., water) is separated from a gas (e.g., hydrogen). However, after passing through the fuel cell, some gas associated with the separated water may still be present and / or gas associated with the remaining water may be passed through the fuel cell. It may be desirable to separate some water from the gas before the gas passes through the fuel cell. For some applications, it may be desirable to process a fluid containing water and gas and separate water from the gas before and / or after passing the water and gas through a fuel cell.

[0002] The present invention provides a liquid separator device suitable for use upstream and / or downstream of a fuel cell.

[0003] The present invention provides improvements to at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art. These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description as set forth below.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] One aspect of the present invention is a liquid separator device, the liquid separator device comprising (a) a hollow inlet duct having a first open inlet duct end and a second open inlet duct end, the second open inlet duct end further comprising a first housing end cap, and (b) a hollow separator duct, the hollow separator duct comprising an inner separator duct wall, an outer separator duct wall, a plurality of venturi flow radial slits passing through the outer and inner separator duct walls, the first open separator duct end, the second open separator duct end, and the inner separator duct wall. (c) a hollow separation duct having a separation cavity from a first open separation duct end to a second open separation duct end, the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end being arranged coaxially within the first open separation duct end, and a first annular space being between the first housing end cap and the first open separation duct end, and (c) a vortex generator comprising a plurality of helical vanes arranged concentrically within the hollow inlet duct and held axially between the first open separation duct end and the second open inlet duct end including the first housing end cap, (d) A hollow outlet duct having a first open outlet duct end and a second open outlet duct end; (e) A hollow housing having an inner housing wall, an outer housing wall, a first open housing end, a second open housing end arranged oppositely, the second open housing end arranged oppositely, the horizontal axis of which lies between the first open housing end and the second open housing end arranged oppositely, and a third open housing end arranged perpendicular to the horizontal axis or parallel to the horizontal axis, and the separation ducts are arranged concentrically along the horizontal axis within the hollow housing, and (f (g) a first housing end cap of a second open inlet duct end that is concentrically connected to a first open housing end; (h) a second housing end cap that is concentrically connected to both the second open housing end and the hollow outlet duct; (i) a hollow collection sump having a first open sump end and a second open sump end, wherein the first open sump end is connected to a third open housing end, and the hollow collection sump includes an orifice that restricts flow through it; and (i) a collection cavity within a hollow housing, the collection cavity surrounding the outer wall of a hollow separation duct.A liquid separator device is provided comprising a second open inlet duct, a second housing end cap, and a first open sump end, the second open separation duct end being bounded by the first housing end cap and the first open outlet duct end, the second open separation duct end being coaxially aligned with the first open outlet duct end, and a second annular space being located between the second open separation duct end and the first open outlet duct end, the second annular space providing a fluid flow path from the separation cavity to the collection cavity, and a collection cavity.

[0005] In another aspect of the present invention, a liquid separator device, the liquid separator system comprising: (a) a hollow inlet duct having a first open inlet duct end and a second open inlet duct end, the second open inlet duct end further comprising a first housing end cap; and (b) a hollow separator duct, the hollow separator duct comprising an inner separator duct wall and an outer separator duct wall further comprising a collar having an outwardly extending tapered collar wall and collar edge, a plurality of venturi flow radial openings passing through the collar edge and the inner separator duct wall, and a first (c) a hollow separation duct having an open separation duct end and a second open separation duct end, the collar having a second open separation duct end arranged between the first open separation duct end and the second open separation duct end and a separation cavity from the first open separation duct end to the second open separation duct end that is bounded by an inner separation duct wall, the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end is arranged coaxially within the first open separation duct end, and the first annular space is between the first housing end cap and the first open separation duct end, and (c) a vortex generator. (d) a hollow outlet duct having a first open outlet duct end and a second open outlet duct end, the second open outlet duct end further comprising a second housing end cap, and (e) a hollow housing, the hollow housing comprising an inner housing wall, an outer housing wall, a first open housing end, and a second open housing end arranged oppositely. The horizontal axis is between the first open housing end and the second open housing end which is arranged oppositely, and the separation duct has a hollow housing arranged concentrically along the horizontal axis within the hollow housing, (f) a first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end which is connected concentrically to the first open housing end, (g) a second housing end cap of the first open outlet duct end which is connected concentrically to both the second open housing end and the hollow outlet duct, and (h) a hollow collection sump port, the hollow collection sump port isA liquid separator device is provided, comprising: (i) a collection cavity within a hollow housing, the collection cavity surrounding an outer separation duct wall including a collar of a hollow separation duct, and bounded by the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end, the second housing end cap of the first open inlet duct end, and the collection cavity between the second open inlet duct end and the first open outlet duct end, the second housing end cap of the first open inlet duct end, and the collection cavity, the collection cavity surrounding an outer separation duct wall including a collar of a hollow separation duct, and bounded by the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end, the second housing end cap of the first open inlet duct end, and the hollow collection sump port, the second open separation duct end being arranged coaxially with respect to the first open outlet duct end, and a second annular space between the second open separation duct end and the first open outlet duct end, the second annular space providing a fluid flow path from the separation cavity to the collection cavity.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present invention, the liquid separator system comprises a fuel cell having an anode side and a cathode side, and a side of a liquid separator device that is in fluid communication with the cathode side, the liquid separator device being arranged upstream of the cathode side.

[0007] Alternatively, or in addition, according to an aspect of the present invention, the liquid separator system comprises a fuel cell having an anode side and a cathode side, and an aspect of a liquid separator device in fluid communication with the anode side, the liquid separator device being arranged downstream of the anode side.

[0008] A method for processing a fluid according to the side of the present invention includes passing a fluid containing a liquid (e.g., water or oil) and a gas (e.g., air or hydrogen) through the side of a liquid separator device, and separating the liquid from the gas, wherein the separation includes passing the separated gas through a hollow outlet duct and passing the separated liquid through a hollow collection sump or hollow collection sump port. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1]Figures 1A-1F are drawings showing a water separation device from one side of the present invention, where Figure 1A is an isometric view, Figure 1B is a cross-sectional view, Figure 1C is a front view, Figure 1D is a right side view, Figure 1E is an inside view along line GG in Figure 1D and shows the first open end of the separation duct concentric with the second open end of the inlet duct with radial slits, and Figure 1F is an inside view along line EE in Figure 1D and shows the second end of the separation duct concentric with the first open end of the outlet duct.

[0010] [Figure 2] Figures 2A-2B are exploded views of the water separation device shown in Figure 1A, viewed from the rear and front, respectively. The water separation device includes a combined inlet duct / first housing end cap, a vortex generator, a separation duct with radial slits, a housing, an outlet duct, a collection sump, an orifice (illustrated as an orifice mount), and a second housing end cap. Figures 2C and 2D are front and isometric views of the separation duct shown in Figures 2A-2B, respectively.

[0011] [Figure 3] Figures 3A-3D show the front view, left view, top view, and isometric view, respectively, of the orifice fitting shown in Figures 2A-2B.

[0012] [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the Venturi-induced air circulation between fluid flows through the side of the water separation device shown in Figure 1A.

[0013] [Figure 5A]Figures 5A-5F are drawings illustrating a water separation device according to another aspect of the present invention, where Figure 5A is an isometric view, Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view, Figure 5C is a rear view, Figure 5D is a left side view, Figure 5E is an inside view along line CC in Figure 5D and also shows an angularly aligned radial opening, and Figure 5F is an inside view along line BB in Figure 5D and also shows the first open end of the separation duct concentric with the second open end of the inlet duct. [Figure 5B] Figures 5A-5F are drawings illustrating a water separation device according to another aspect of the present invention, where Figure 5A is an isometric view, Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view, Figure 5C is a rear view, Figure 5D is a left side view, Figure 5E is an inside view along line CC in Figure 5D and also shows an angularly aligned radial opening, and Figure 5F is an inside view along line BB in Figure 5D and also shows the first open end of the separation duct concentric with the second open end of the inlet duct. [Figure 5C] Figures 5A-5F are drawings illustrating a water separation device according to another aspect of the present invention, where Figure 5A is an isometric view, Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view, Figure 5C is a rear view, Figure 5D is a left side view, Figure 5E is an inside view along line CC in Figure 5D and also shows an angularly aligned radial opening, and Figure 5F is an inside view along line BB in Figure 5D and also shows the first open end of the separation duct concentric with the second open end of the inlet duct. [Figure 5E] Figures 5A-5F are drawings illustrating a water separation device according to another aspect of the present invention, where Figure 5A is an isometric view, Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view, Figure 5C is a rear view, Figure 5D is a left side view, Figure 5E is an inside view along line CC in Figure 5D and also shows an angularly aligned radial opening, and Figure 5F is an inside view along line BB in Figure 5D and also shows the first open end of the separation duct concentric with the second open end of the inlet duct. [Figure 5F]Figures 5A-5F are drawings illustrating a water separation device according to another aspect of the present invention, where Figure 5A is an isometric view, Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view, Figure 5C is a rear view, Figure 5D is a left side view, Figure 5E is an inside view along line CC in Figure 5D and also shows an angularly aligned radial opening, and Figure 5F is an inside view along line BB in Figure 5D and also shows the first open end of the separation duct concentric with the second open end of the inlet duct.

[0014] [Figure 6A] Figures 6A-6B are exploded views of the water separation device shown in Figure 5A, viewed from the rear and front, respectively. The water separation device includes a combined inlet duct / first housing end cap, a vortex generator, a separation duct with radial holes, a housing, a combined outlet duct / second housing end cap, and a collection sump. The figures also show orifice fittings at different locations depending on the operation of the device. [Figure 6B] Figures 6A-6B are exploded views of the water separation device shown in Figure 5A, viewed from the rear and front, respectively. The water separation device includes a combined inlet duct / first housing end cap, a vortex generator, a separation duct with radial holes, a housing, a combined outlet duct / second housing end cap, and a collection sump. The figures also show orifice fittings at different locations depending on the operation of the device. [Figure 6C] Figure 6C is a front view of the separation duct shown in Figures 6A-6B. [Figure 6D] Figures 6D and 6E are diagrams showing the separation ducts shown in Figures 6A and 6B, as viewed from the rear and front, respectively. [Figure 6E] Figures 6D and 6E are diagrams showing the separation ducts shown in Figures 6A and 6B, as viewed from the rear and front, respectively.

[0015] [Figure 7A]FIG. 7A is a drawing illustrating Venturi-induced air circulation during fluid flow through the side of the water separation device shown in FIG. 5A when operated in a vertical configuration, and FIG. 7B is a drawing illustrating Venturi-induced air circulation during fluid flow through the side of the water separation device shown in FIG. 5A when operated in a horizontal configuration. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7A is a drawing illustrating Venturi-induced air circulation during fluid flow through the side of the water separation device shown in FIG. 5A when operated in a vertical configuration, and FIG. 7B is a drawing illustrating Venturi-induced air circulation during fluid flow through the side of the water separation device shown in FIG. 5A when operated in a horizontal configuration.

[0016] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic drawing showing that the water separation device according to an aspect of the present invention can be arranged upstream and / or downstream of the fuel cell according to an aspect of the present invention. **DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION**

[0017] Brief Summary of the Invention Aspects of the present invention are a liquid separator device, the liquid separator device comprising (a) a hollow inlet duct having a first open inlet duct end and a second open inlet duct end, the second open inlet duct end further comprising a first housing end cap, and (b) a hollow separation duct, the hollow separation duct comprising an inner separation duct wall, an outer separation duct wall, a plurality of venturi flow radial slits passing through the outer and inner separation duct walls, the first open separation duct end, the second open separation duct end, and the inner separation duct wall. (c) a vortex generator comprising a plurality of helical vanes arranged concentrically within the hollow inlet duct and held axially between the first open separation duct end and the second open inlet duct end, and (d) a vortex generator comprising a plurality of helical vanes arranged concentrically within the hollow inlet duct and held axially between the first open separation duct end and the second open inlet duct end including the first housing end cap, and (d (e) A hollow outlet duct having a first open outlet duct end and a second open outlet duct end, (f) A hollow housing having an inner housing wall, an outer housing wall, a first open housing end, a second open housing end arranged opposite to it, the second open housing end arranged opposite to it with a horizontal axis between the first open housing end and the second open housing end arranged opposite to it, and a third open housing end arranged perpendicular to the horizontal axis or parallel to the horizontal axis, and the separation ducts arranged concentrically along the horizontal axis within the hollow housing, (g) a first housing end cap of a second open inlet duct end concentrically connected to a first open housing end; (h) a second housing end cap concentrically connected to both the second open housing end and the hollow outlet duct; (i) a hollow collection sump having a first open sump end and a second open sump end, wherein the first open sump end is connected to a third open housing end, and the hollow collection sump includes an orifice that restricts flow through it; and (i) a collection cavity within a hollow housing, the collection cavity surrounding the outer wall of a hollow separation duct.A liquid separator device is provided that is bounded by a first housing end cap, a second housing end cap, and a first open sump end of a second open inlet duct end, the second open separation duct end being arranged coaxially with respect to a first open outlet duct end, a second annular space being between the second open separation duct end and the first open outlet duct end, the second annular space providing a fluid flow path from a separation cavity to a collection cavity, and comprising a collection cavity.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, a liquid separator device, the liquid separator device comprising (a) a hollow inlet duct having a first open inlet duct end and a second open inlet duct end, the second open inlet duct end further comprising a first housing end cap, and (b) a hollow separator duct, the hollow separator duct comprising an inner separator duct wall and an outer separator duct wall further comprising a collar having an outwardly extending tapered collar wall and collar edge, a plurality of venturi flow radial openings passing through the collar edge and the inner separator duct wall, and a first (c) a hollow separation duct having an open separation duct end and a second open separation duct end, the collar having a second open separation duct end arranged between the first open separation duct end and the second open separation duct end and a separation cavity from the first open separation duct end to the second open separation duct end that is bounded by an inner separation duct wall, the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end is arranged coaxially within the first open separation duct end, and the first annular space is between the first housing end cap and the first open separation duct end, and (c) a vortex generator. (d) a hollow outlet duct having a first open outlet duct end and a second open outlet duct end, the second open outlet duct end further comprising a second housing end cap, and (e) a hollow housing, the hollow housing comprising an inner housing wall, an outer housing wall, a first open housing end, and a second open housing end arranged oppositely. The separation duct has a hollow housing arranged concentrically along the horizontal axis within the hollow housing, and (f) a first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end that is concentrically connected to the first open housing end, (g) a second housing end cap of the first open outlet duct end that is concentrically connected to both the second open housing end and the hollow outlet duct, and (h) a hollow collection sump port, the hollow collection sump port isA liquid separator device is provided, comprising: (i) a collection cavity within a hollow housing, the collection cavity surrounding an outer separation duct wall including a collar of a hollow separation duct, and bounded by the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end, the second housing end cap of the first open inlet duct end, and the collection cavity between the second open inlet duct end and the first open outlet duct end, the collection cavity providing a fluid flow path from the separation cavity to the collection cavity.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, the liquid separator system comprises a fuel cell having an anode side and a cathode side, and a side of a liquid separator device that is in fluid communication with the cathode side, the liquid separator device being arranged upstream of the cathode side.

[0020] Alternatively, or in addition, according to an aspect of the present invention, the liquid separator system comprises a fuel cell having an anode side and a cathode side, and a liquid separator device in fluid communication with the anode side, the liquid separator device being arranged downstream of the anode side.

[0021] A method for processing a fluid according to one aspect of the present invention includes passing a fluid containing a liquid (e.g., water or oil) and a gas (e.g., air or hydrogen) through a side of a liquid separator device, and separating the liquid from the gas, wherein the separation includes passing the separated gas through a hollow outlet duct and passing the separated liquid through a hollow collection sump or hollow collection sump port. In one aspect of the method, the liquid includes water and the gas includes hydrogen.

[0022] As an example, in some aspects, the inlet duct transmits the mixed liquid / gas medium (which may be in atomized form) to a vortex generator, which imparts a swirling motion to the mixed liquid / gas medium. The engagement with the vortex generator fuses the airborne liquid droplets, and the inertial effect of the swirling motion then pushes the fused liquid out of the inlet duct and into the separation duct. The coaxial and overlapping relationship between the second end of the inlet duct and the first end of the separation duct is such that it forms an annular space / channel between these ends. A radial slit or radial opening in the separation duct connects the collection cavity to the separation cavity so that the flowing air at a velocity across the coaxial overlapping features produces a Venturi effect that draws air out of the collection cavity. Thus, the annular gap formed between the second end of the separator duct and the first end of the outlet duct provides a flow path for the fused liquid (e.g., water) to be drained into the collection cavity.

[0023] The movement of air from the collection cavity into the main mixing flow at the first end of the separation duct results in the opposite movement of air from the separation cavity into the collection cavity through the annular gap at the second end of the separation duct. This helps to draw in the fused liquid as it passes through to the collection cavity, minimizing liquid remixing. The two annular features thus unfolded generate a circulating air flow, as depicted in Figures 4A, 7A, and 7B.

[0024] When the mixed gas and liquid flow reaches the outlet duct, any fused liquid (e.g., water) that has been flowing spirally around the inner surface of the separation duct up to this point is drained into the collection cavity, and the purified process gas is passed into the outlet duct and into downstream customer ducts. A hollow collection sump or hollow collection sump port fitted into the housing is where the liquid removed from the process gas flow is collected.

[0025] An orifice (e.g., an orifice plate or orifice fitting) incorporated into the scavenging interface at the hollow collection sump port or the second end of the hollow collection sump allows for the removal of liquid into the scavenging piping and restricts the flow of liquid and some gas to a sufficient extent to limit the loss of process gas to below a specified level.

[0026] In some respects, the removal efficiency can be in the range of removing 80% to <99% of the free liquid medium.

[0027] With regard to scavenging, the scavenging (or removal) flow rate is determined as a percentage of the total gas flow rate entering the device. In some aspects, the scavenging flow rate can be limited to 3% or less of the total gas flow.

[0028] Aspects of the present invention are particularly suitable for liquid / gas separation applications, including aerospace fuel cell applications on both anode gas (H2) and cathode gas (O2 / air) flow lines.

[0029] Advantageously, the Venturi feature helps generate circulating airflow transfer from the collection cavity into the separation cavity at the first end of the separation duct, and from the separation cavity into the collection cavity at the second end of the separation duct. This minimizes turbulent airflow at the second end of the separation duct, prevents any condensation / storage of liquid at its transition, and minimizes re-mixing of fused liquid back into the main airflow by drawing it into the collection cavity through the annular opening.

[0030] Each component of the present invention is described in detail below, and similar components have the same reference numeral.

[0031] Using the illustrated aspects of the liquid separator device shown in Figures 1A-1F and 2A-2B for reference, the liquid separator device 1 comprises (a) a hollow inlet duct 100 having a first open inlet duct end 101 and a second open inlet duct end 102, the second open inlet duct end further comprising a first housing end cap 201, and (b) a hollow separation duct 300, the hollow separation duct 300 comprising an inner separation duct wall 300A and an outer separation duct wall 300B, and outer and inner separation duct walls 300A, 30 The duct has multiple venturi radial flow slits 311 passing through 0B, a first open separation duct end 301, a second open separation duct end 302, and a separation cavity 400 from the first open separation duct end 301 to the second open separation duct end 302, which is bounded by an inner separation duct wall 300A, and the first housing end cap 201 of the second open inlet duct end 102 is arranged coaxially within the first open separation duct end 301, and the first annular space 1A is the hollow space between the first housing end cap 201 and the first open separation duct end 301. (c) a vortex generator 500 comprising a plurality of helical blades 501 arranged concentrically within the hollow inlet duct 100 and held axially between a first open separation duct end 301 and a second open inlet duct end 102 including a first housing end cap 201 (for example, held via interference / press-fit with a step for axial holding), (d) a hollow outlet duct 600 having a first open outlet duct end 601 and a second open outlet duct end 602, and (e) a hollow housing 2 00, the hollow housing 200 has an inner housing wall 200A, an outer housing wall 200B, a first open housing end 211, and a second open housing end 212 arranged oppositely, the second open housing end 212 arranged oppositely, the horizontal axis HA being between the first open housing end 211 and the second open housing end 212, and a third open housing end 213 arranged perpendicular to the horizontal axis HA or parallel to the horizontal axis, and the separation duct 300 is arranged concentrically along the horizontal axis HA within the hollow housing 200,(f) A first housing end cap 201 of a second open inlet duct end 102 that is concentrically connected to a first open housing end 211; (g) A second housing end cap 222 that is concentrically connected to both a second open housing end 212 and a hollow outlet duct 600; (h) A hollow collection sump 700 having a first open sump end 701 and a second open sump end 702, wherein the first open sump end 701 is connected to a third open housing end 213, and the hollow collection sump 700 includes an orifice 900 (see also Figures 3A-3D) that restricts flow through it; and (i) a hollow housing 2 A collection cavity 800 within 00, the collection cavity 800 encloses the outer wall of the hollow separation duct 300B and is bounded by the first housing end cap 201, the second housing end cap 222, and the first open sump end 701 of the second open inlet duct end 102, the second open separation duct end 302 is coaxially aligned with the first open outlet duct end 601, and a second annular space 2A lies between the second open separation duct end 302 and the first open outlet duct end 601, the second annular space 2A provides a fluid flow path from the separation cavity 400 to the collection cavity 800 and through the hollow collection sump, comprising the collection cavity 800. Optionally, the presence of an orifice (or orifice plate or orifice fitting) 900 at the second open sump end 702 (or, as an alternative to the orifice, a separate drain valve) allows for the removal of liquid into the scavenging piping and restricts the flow of sufficient liquid (water) and some gas to limit the loss of process gases to below a specified level.

[0032] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the Venturi-induced air circulation during fluid flow through the illustrated side of the water separation device 1000, where a portion of the Venturi-induced air flow passes through the radial slit.

[0033] Using the illustrated aspects of the liquid separator device shown in Figures 5A-5F and 6A-6B for reference, the liquid separator device 2 comprises (a) a hollow inlet duct 1100 having a first open inlet duct end 1101 and a second open inlet duct end 1102, the second open inlet duct end further comprising a first housing end cap 1201, and (b) a hollow separation duct 1300, the hollow separation duct 1300 comprising an inner separation duct wall 1300A and outwardly extending tapered collar wall 1351 and collar edge 1352 (see below). An outer separation duct wall 1300B further comprising a collar 1350 having a perimeter (shown as being approximately perpendicular to the horizontal axis HA between the housing ends discussed), a plurality of venturi flow radial openings 1311 passing through the collar perimeter 1352 and the inner separation duct wall 1300A, a first open separation duct end 1301, a second open separation duct end 1302, wherein the collar 1350 is arranged between the first open separation duct end 1301 and the second open separation duct end 1302, and the inner separation duct wall 1300A (c) a hollow separation duct 1300 having a separation cavity 1400 from a first open separation duct end 1301 to a second open separation duct end 1302, the first housing end cap 1201 of the second open inlet duct end 1102 is arranged coaxially within the first open separation duct end 1301, and the first annular space 11A is between the first housing end cap 1201 and the first open separation duct end 1301, and (c) a vortex generator 1500, the vortex generator 1500 comprising a plurality of helical blades 1501 arranged concentrically within the hollow inlet duct 1100, and the first (d) a vortex generator 1500 held axially between the open separation duct end 1301 and the second open inlet duct end 1102 including the first housing end cap 1201; (d) a hollow outlet duct 1600 having a first open outlet duct end 1601 and a second open outlet duct end 1602, wherein the second open outlet duct end 1602 further comprises a second housing end cap 1222; (e) a hollow housing 1200, the hollow housing 1200 comprising an inner housing wall 1200A, an outer housing wall 1200B, and a first open housing end 1211,(f) a second open housing end 1212 arranged in the opposite direction, the horizontal axis HA of which is between the first open housing end 1211 and the second open housing end 1212 arranged in the opposite direction, and the separation duct 1300 has a hollow housing 1200 arranged concentrically along the horizontal axis HA within the hollow housing 1200, and (f) a first housing end cap 1201 of a second open inlet duct end 1102 that is concentrically connected to the first open housing end 1211 (g) a second housing end cap 1222 of the first open outlet duct end 1601 that is concentrically connected to both the second open housing end 1212 and the hollow outlet duct 1600, and (h) a hollow collection sump port 1700 that is in fluid communication with the first housing end cap 1201 of the second open inlet duct end 1102, or with the inner and outer housing walls 1200 adjacent to the second housing end cap 1222 of the first open outlet duct end 1601. A, through 1200B, the hollow housing 1200 is in fluid communication with the hollow collection sump port 1700, which includes an orifice 900 (see Figure 3A-3D) that restricts the flow through it, and (i) a collection cavity 1800 within the hollow housing 1200, the collection cavity 1800 encloses the outer separation duct wall 1300B including the collar 1350 of the hollow separation duct 1300, the first housing end cap 1201 of the second open inlet duct end 1102, the first open inlet duct end 16 Bounded by a second housing end cap 1222 of 01 and a hollow collection sump port 1700, the second open separation duct end 1302 is coaxially aligned with the first open outlet duct end 1601, and the second annular space 12A is located between the second open separation duct end 1302 and the first open outlet duct end 1601, and the second annular space comprises a collection cavity 1800 that provides a fluid passage from the separation cavity 1400 to the collection cavity 1800 and through the hollow collection sump port. Optionally, the presence of an orifice (or orifice plate or orifice fitting) 900 (or, as an alternative to the orifice, a separate drain valve) in the hollow collection sump port allows for the removal of liquid into the scavenging piping.To limit process gas losses to below a specified level, a sufficient amount of liquid (water) and a certain degree of gas flow are restricted.

[0034] Optionally, a hollow separation duct (such as the one illustrated as hollow separation duct 1300) can have a general "hourglass" shape. Without being constrained by any particular mechanism, if a device containing such a separation duct is operated, for example, vertically, the water may be drawn away from the center, thereby improving the separation. Such a configuration may also allow the use of a larger first open-end outlet duct diameter to reduce pressure loss.

[0035] Figures 7A-7B schematically illustrate the Venturi-induced air circulation during fluid flow through the illustrated side of a water separation device 2000 operating vertically (Figure 7A) or horizontally (Figure 7B), with a portion of the Venturi-induced air flow passing through a radial opening.

[0036] In some aspects, as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the water separation device may have drain vent ports and / or system discharge ports. Optionally, orifices may be arranged within / by the drain vent ports. Optionally, a side of the device may include a drain section with additional vent ports, which, if an independent mechanical drain valve with its own reservoir is used, prevent bubbles and allow the drain port to function properly. If a solenoid valve is used, “drain vents” are not required, and only a single drain point may be used, if desired. Discharge ports may be desirable in the anode gas version, where there may be a sporadic need to purge nitrogen gas accumulations from the system.

[0037] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating that a water separation device according to the aspects of the present invention can be arranged upstream and / or downstream of a fuel cell according to the aspects of the present invention to provide aspects of a water separation system.

[0038] Typically, during use, the first open inlet duct end connects to customer ductwork, and the second open end of the hollow collection sump port or hollow collection sump interfacially contacts customer scavenging ductwork and is associated with an orifice to restrict scavenging flow.

[0039] Various materials and processes can be used to provide a water separation device according to aspects of the present invention. Preferred materials include, but are not limited to, aluminum and aluminum alloys (various grades including AlSi10Mg, Scalmalloy® (an alloy made from scandium, aluminum, and magnesium alloy), A20X® (an aluminum-copper alloy)) and stainless steel (including stainless steel 316 / 316L, Inconel® 718 and 625 (nickel-based alloys)). In other aspects, additive manufacturing (sometimes referred to as "additive layer manufacturing" or "3D printing") can be used, and components are typically formed by repeated deposition of metal powders bonded together with an activatable binder (e.g., a binder spray sometimes referred to as "drop on powder"), and typically by subsequent aggregation of the powders, for example, by sintering. If desired, various components can be manufactured together via additive manufacturing in substantially simultaneous and continuous operation.

[0040] Any suitable additive manufacturing equipment can be used, and various production 3D printers are suitable and commercially available.

[0041] All references cited herein, including publications, patent applications, and patents, are individually and specifically indicated so as to be incorporated by reference, and are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as they are incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] In the context describing the present invention (in particular in the context of the following claims), the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “at least one,” as well as similar designations, should be interpreted as encompassing both singular and plural forms, unless otherwise indicated herein or explicitly contradicted by the context. The use of the term “at least one” (e.g., “at least one of A and B”) followed by a list of one or more items should be interpreted as meaning one item (A or B) selected from the listed items, or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or explicitly contradicted by the context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” should be interpreted as non-restrictive terms (i.e., “including, but not limited to”), unless otherwise indicated. The enumeration of value ranges herein is intended only as a simplified way of referring individually to each distinct value within that range unless otherwise indicated herein, and each distinct value is incorporated herein to the same extent as if it were individually enumerated herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any preferred order unless otherwise indicated herein or unless clearly contradicted otherwise by the context. The use of any examples or illustrative language provided herein (e.g., "such as") is intended only to better illustrate the invention and does not impose limitations on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. Nothing herein should be construed as indicating that any unclaimed element is essential to the practice of the invention.

[0043] Preferred aspects of the Invention, including best modes known to the inventors for carrying out the Invention, are described herein. Variations of these preferred aspects may become apparent to those skilled in the art by careful reading of the foregoing description. The inventors anticipate that those skilled in the art will adopt such variations appropriately, and they intend that the Invention may be practiced in ways other than those specifically described herein. Thus, the Invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter enumerated in the claims appended herein, as made possible by applicable law. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by the context, any combination of the elements described above in all possible variations is also included by the Invention.

Claims

1. A liquid separator device, wherein the liquid separator device is (a) A hollow inlet duct having a first open inlet duct end and a second open inlet duct end, wherein the second open inlet duct end is further provided with a first housing end cap, (b) A hollow separation duct, the hollow separation duct having an inner separation duct wall, an outer separation duct wall, a plurality of venturi flow radial slits passing through the outer and inner separation duct walls, a first open separation duct end, a second open separation duct end, and a separation cavity from the first open separation duct end to the second open separation duct end, which is bounded by the inner separation duct wall, wherein the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end is arranged coaxially within the first open separation duct end, and a first annular space is located between the first housing end cap and the first open separation duct end, (c) A vortex generator comprising a plurality of helical vanes, arranged concentrically within the hollow inlet duct, and held axially between the first open separation duct end and the second open inlet duct end, including the first housing end cap, (d) A hollow outlet duct having a first open outlet duct end and a second open outlet duct end, (e) A hollow housing comprising an inner housing wall, an outer housing wall, a first open housing end, a second open housing end arranged oppositely, the second open housing end having a horizontal axis between the first open housing end and the second open housing end arranged oppositely, and a third open housing end arranged perpendicular to the horizontal axis or parallel to the horizontal axis, wherein the separation duct is arranged concentrically along the horizontal axis within the hollow housing, (f) The first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end, which is connected concentrically to the first open housing end, (g) A second housing end cap that is concentrically connected to both the second open housing end and the hollow outlet duct, (h) A hollow collection sump having a first open sump end and a second open sump end, wherein the first open sump end is connected to the third open housing end, and the hollow collection sump includes an orifice that restricts flow through it, (i) A collection cavity within the hollow housing, the collection cavity encloses the outer wall of the hollow separation duct and is bounded by the first housing end cap of the second open inlet duct end, the second housing end cap, and the first open sump end, The second open separation duct end is arranged coaxially with respect to the first open outlet duct end, and a second annular space is located between the second open separation duct end and the first open outlet duct end, and the second annular space provides a fluid flow path from the separation cavity to the collection cavity, and A liquid separator device equipped with the following features.

2. A liquid separator system comprising a fuel cell having an anode side and a cathode side, and a water separation device according to claim 1 that is in fluid communication with the cathode side, wherein the water separation device is arranged upstream of the cathode side.

3. A liquid separator system comprising a fuel cell having an anode side and a cathode side, and a liquid separator device according to claim 1 that is in fluid communication with the anode side, wherein the liquid separator device is arranged downstream of the anode side.

4. The liquid separator system according to claim 2, further comprising an additional liquid separator device according to claim 1, arranged downstream of the anode.

5. A method for processing a fluid, the method comprising passing a fluid containing a liquid and a gas through a liquid separator device according to claim 1, and separating the liquid from the gas, wherein the separation comprises passing the separated gas through a hollow outlet duct and passing the separated liquid through a hollow collection sump or hollow collection sump port.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the liquid contains water and the gas contains hydrogen.

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