Hydrodynamic cavitation

Abstract

An example of an apparatus and methods are provided. The apparatus includes a body to connect to a fluid flow line. In addition, the apparatus also includes an inlet to receive the fluid and an outlet to release the fluid. The apparatus also includes a primary nozzle disposed within the body downstream of the inlet. Furthermore, the apparatus includes a cavitation zone downstream of the primary nozzle to provide a pressure drop. The apparatus further includes side channels within the body extending from the inlet to the cavitation zone to provide a bypass paths around the primary nozzle. Also, the apparatus includes side nozzles disposed at an end of the each side channel. A portion of the fluid passes through the side nozzles into the cavitation zone.

Description

HYDRODYNAMIC CAVITATIONBACKGROUND

[0001] Cavitation is generally the formation, growth, and subsequent collapse of bubbles in a fluid. The manner by which cavitation is generated may involve various processes that agitate the fluid. For example, acoustic cavitation occurs in liquids subjected to high intensity sound waves, which when moved agitates the fluid. As the sound wave passes, the cavitation ‘bubbles’ oscillate under the influence of varying pressure, eventually growing to an unstable size. Finally, the violent collapse of the cavitation ‘bubbles’ result in implosions. It is these implosions which produce the physico-chemical transformations observed in sonochemistry. Each of these imploding bubbles can therefore be seen as a micro-reactor, with temperatures reaching an estimated 5000 °C, and pressures of several hundred atmospheres.

[0002] Another manner by which cavitation may be generated is through hydrodynamic cavitation. Hydrodynamic cavitation is generated by passage of a fluid through a constriction such as throttling valve, orifice plate, venturi, etc. The design of the system provides a generating cavity to generate bubbles and collapse the under conditions similar to acoustic cavitation of varying intensities. Several designs of hydrodynamic cavitation equipment are available commercially, based on the Bernoulli’s principle.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] Reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0004] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the components of an example of an apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough;

[0005] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the components ofanother example of an apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough;

[0006] Figure 3 is a sectional view of the components of another example of an apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough;

[0007] Figure 4 is an exploded view of an example of a system to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing through a fluid flow line;

[0008] Figure 5A is an inlet end view of an apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0009] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough shown in figure 5A along the plane 5B-5B;

[0010] Figure 6A is an outlet end view of an apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0011] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough shown in figure 6A along the plane 6B-6B;

[0012] Figure 7A is an end view of an inlet insert from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0013] Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the inlet insert shown in figure 7A along the plane 7B-7B;

[0014] Figure 8A is an end view of a discharge insert from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0015] Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the discharge insert shown in figure 8A along the plane 8B-8B;

[0016] Figure 9A is an end view of an arm insert from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0017] Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view of the arm insert shown in figure 9A along the plane 9B-9B;

[0018] Figure 10A is an end view of an inlet flange from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0019] Figure 10B is a side view of the inlet flange shown in figure 10A;

[0020] Figure 11 A is an end view of an inlet flange gasket from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0021] Figure 11 B is a side view of the inlet flange gasket shown in figure 11 A;

[0022] Figure 12A is an end view of an inlet spacer from the system illustrated in figure 4;

[0023] Figure 12B is a side view of the inlet spacer shown in figure 12A;

[0024] Figure 13 is an exploded view of an example of another system to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing through a fluid flow line;

[0025] Figure 14A is an end view of an inlet insert from the system illustrated in figure 13;

[0026] Figure 14B is a cross-sectional view of the inlet insert shown in figure 14A along the plane 14B-14B;

[0027] Figure 15A is an end view of an arm insert from the system illustrated in figure 13;

[0028] Figure 15B is a cross-sectional view of the arm insert shown in figure 15A along the plane 15B-15B;

[0029] Figure 16 is a graph showing simulation data to illustrate the amount of cavitation generated by an example of another system to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing through a fluid flow line;

[0030] Figure 17 is a flowchart of an example process of generating hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough; and

[0031] Figure 18 is a flowchart of an example process of manufacturing an apparatus to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid flowing therethrough.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Hydrodynamic cavitation is the process where a fluid experiences a pressure drop as it flows through a cavitation system. By reducing the pressure, thehydrodynamic cavitation system creates microbubbles in fluid caused by a rapid decrease of localized pressure in a fluid flow system. The rapid decrease of pressure to below the fluid vapor pressure of the fluid causes the fluid to vaporize in the flow. As the fluid returns to a pressure above the fluid vapor pressure, the microbubbles collapse and create a very high localized energy release in the form of elevated pressures and temperatures within a very short period. Hydrodynamic cavitation in a controlled environment may be used to enhance chemical and physical reactions due to multiple factors which include the energy released during the collapse of the microbubbles, the subsequent micro shock waves being generated, as well as the generation of free radicals.

[0033] To generate the conditions for the sudden drop in pressure and subsequent rise in pressure above the vapor pressure, a constriction such as an orifice plate, venturi, or throttling valve in a fluid flow may be used. When the pressure drop across the constriction falls below the fluid vapor pressure, a tiny void space or nuclei is formed within the fluid. The nuclei expand into a microbubble as the negative pressure is expended. The microbubble increases in size as the negative pressure is expended. At a point, the microbubble becomes unstable and implodes on itself to release energy at the point of implosion in the form of high temperatures (up to about 12,000 K), high pressures (up to about 72,000psi), and ultrasonic shock waves. The microbubble formation and implosion happen at about two to three times the speed of sound.

[0034] Due to the high temperatures and pressures, hydrodynamic cavitation may be destructive to internal fluid flow systems; however, when generated in a controlled manner, hydrodynamic cavitation may be used to impose chemical and physical changes to the fluid flow. For example, hydrodynamic cavitation may create hydroxyl radicals (OH with unpaired electrons) which are highly reactive in creating oxidative reactions. The changes that hydrodynamic cavitation imposes on the fluid intensifies with increased differential pressure across the restriction and with increased backpressure, upstream of the system.

[0035] A simple method to generate hydrodynamic cavitation is by restricting fluid flow from a large diameter pipe to a smaller diameter pipe. At the starting point of the restriction, two channels are inserted, directing a portion of the fluid flow, further downstream to re-enter the restricted portion of fluid flow at right angles. A pressure drop is created in the area immediately downstream of the point of re-entry causinghydrodynamic cavitation to occur. As the fluid flow continues downstream of the point of re-entry, the pipe diameter increases, creating additional pressure drop and extending the range of cavitation further downstream. In this example, the cavitation intensity can be adjusted by varying flow rate.

[0036] In another example, a hydrodynamic cavitation system with the installation of a flow restrictive nozzle with two flow restrictive nozzles at the end of the channels, and an optional fourth flow restrictive nozzle downstream is provided. The nozzle diameters are hydrodynamically balanced to create the target conditions. The target conditions may involve calibrating the nozzles to achieve a target pressure drop in a zone immediately downstream of main restrictive nozzle. The nozzles may also be modified to induce a target backpressure via optional fourth nozzle to intensify the cavitation immediately downstream of the main cavitation zone. In other examples, the nozzles may be calibrated to induce a smaller and shorter zone of cavitation downstream of the optional fourth nozzle. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill that the high intensity cavitation zone within the device is to be contained to a zone substantially in the center of the pipe in an open area close to the main nozzle to reduce the chance of cavitation damage to fittings and components located immediately downstream of the device. By calibrating the size of each nozzle, a target cavitation intensity may be obtained for any flow rate received at the inlet of the cavitation system.

[0037] Referring to figure 1 , a schematic representation of an apparatus 50 to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid from a fluid flow line 100 is generally shown. The apparatus 50 may include additional components, such as various valves, plates, filters, or additional processing devices. For example, the apparatus 50 may include flow controllers, or other mechanical features to assist with the flow of the fluid through the apparatus 50. In the present example, the apparatus 50 includes a body 55, an inlet 60, an outlet 65, a primary nozzle 70, a cavitation zone 75, first and second side channels 80-1 and 80-2, respectively, (generically, these side channels are referred to herein as “side channel 80” and collectively referred to as “side channels 80”), and first and second side nozzles 85-1 and 85-2, respectively, (generically, these side nozzles are referred to herein as “side nozzle 85” and collectively referred to as “side nozzles 85”).

[0038] In the present example, the body 55 is to connect to the fluid flow line 100. The manner by which the body 55 connects to the fluid flow line 100 is notparticularly limited. For example, various connectors may be used, such as conventional fittings for the intended fluid flow line 100. In the present example, the apparatus 50 may be inserted into the fluid flow line 100 such that fluid is received at the inlet and released at the outlet 65 to continue along the fluid flow line 100. The fluid in the fluid flow line 100 is not particularly limited and may be any typed of fluid in which hydrodynamic cavitation is to be generated. For example, the fluid may be produced water from an oil well, a lithium brine solution, or other liquid or emulsion. In the present example, the fluid from the fluid flow line 100 is to pass through the body 55 in a substantially linear manner along a longitudinal axis 110 of the primary nozzle 70. In particular, the body 55 may have an inlet 60 disposed thereon to connect to the fluid flow line 100 via a fitting on one end of the body 55. The body 55 may further have an outlet 65 disposed thereon to connect to the fluid flow line 100 via a fitting on the opposite end of the body 55. In operation, the inlet 60 receives fluid from the fluid flow line 100, the fluid passes through the components in the body 55, the fluid is released from the body 55 back into the fluid flow line 100 via the outlet 65. In other examples, the fluid may pass through along a different path through the body 55.

[0039] The construction of the body 55 is not particularly limited and various materials may be used. In the present example, the body 55 is unitary body made from a single material, such as an alloy, capable of withstanding the operating conditions of the apparatus 50, such as temperatures and pressures. In particular, the body 55 may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape from a material such as stainless steel. In some examples, the surfaces of the body 55 may be lined externally and / or internally with an anti-corrosion layer to increase its service life.

[0040] In other examples, the body 55 may be constructed from other materials that have the appropriate mechanical properties to withstand the operating conditions of the apparatus 50, such as high temperatures and high pressures. Other materials may include plastic or other metals and metal alloys. In addition, the body 55 may be assembled from multiple components that are fastened together via an assembly process to bolt or weld the pieces together.

[0041] The primary nozzle 70 is to restrict the flow of fluid through the body 55. In the present example, the primary nozzle 70 is disposed with the body downstream from the inlet 60. As the fluid passes through the primary nozzle 70, a cavitation zone 75 is formed as the fluid path widens downstream of the primary nozzle 70.The wider portion after the fluid passes through the primary nozzle 70 provides a pressure drop in the fluid. By calibrating the size of the primary nozzle 70, the pressure drop may be configured to drop below the vapor pressure of the fluid to form microbubbles in the cavitation zone 75.

[0042] In the present example, the primary nozzle 70 is formed with the body. The manner by which the primary nozzle 70 is formed is not limited. For example, the primary nozzle 70 may be a tapered bore hole that is machined or drilled from an end face of the body 55.

[0043] The side channels 80 of the apparatus 50 provide alternative paths for portions of the fluid. In particular, the side channels 80 extend from near the inlet 60 or upstream of the primary nozzle 70 to the cavitation zone 75. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the side channels 80 provide a path to bypass around the primary nozzle 70 for a portion of the fluid. Accordingly, the portions of fluid received by the inlet 60 that pass through the side channels 80 does not pass through the primary nozzle 70 and rejoins the fluid flow downstream of the primary nozzle 70 in the cavitation zone 75.

[0044] In the present example, the side channels 80 are substantially similar in dimension and extend from the inlet 60 on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis 110 in a substantially parallel manner. In other examples, the side channels 80 may be different to accommodate alternative designs with a modified cavitation zone 75.

[0045] The side nozzles 85 are disposed at the end of the side channels 80 to restrict the flow of the fluid passing through the side channels 80 prior to entry into the cavitation zone 75. In the present example, the fluid enters the cavitation zone 75 via the side nozzle 85 at substantially a right angle to the flow of fluid passing through the primary nozzle 70. In other examples, the angle of entry via the side nozzles 85 may be at an angle to accommodate alternative designs. By restricting the size of the path for the fluid leaving the side channels 80, the side nozzles 85 provide a pressure drop which may decrease the pressure of the fluid passing through the side nozzles 85 to increase the cavitation that occurs in the cavitation zone 75.

[0046] It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that although the present example includes two side channels 80, that other examples may include more than two side channels 80. For example, other examples may include three side channels 80. Further examples may include moreside channels 80 or a single annular channel centered about the longitudinal axis 110 of the primary nozzle 70.

[0047] Referring to figure 2, another example an apparatus 50a to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid from a fluid flow line 100 is generally shown. Like components of the apparatus 50a bear like reference to their counterparts in the apparatus 50, except followed by the suffix “a”. The apparatus 50a includes a body 55a, an inlet 60a, an outlet 65a, a primary nozzle 70a, a cavitation zone 75a, first and second side channels 80a-1 and 80a-2, respectively, (generically, these side channels are referred to herein as “side channel 80a” and collectively referred to as “side channels 80a”), and first and second side nozzles 85a-1 and 85a-2, respectively, (generically, these side nozzles are referred to herein as “side nozzle 85a” and collectively referred to as “side nozzles 85a”).

[0048] The side channels 80a in the present example are formed within the body 55a using a plurality of bores drilled or machined through the body 55a.

[0049] Referring to figure 3, a cross section of another example an apparatus 50b to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid from a fluid flow line 100 is generally shown to show the manufacture of the apparatus 50b. In the present example, first and second side channels 80b-1 and 80b-2, respectively, (generically, these side channels are referred to herein as “side channel 80b” and collectively referred to as “side channels 80b”) may be formed using three straight boreholes that are substantially cylindrical. Accordingly, the boreholes may be formed using a drill to form the side channels 80b. In particular, a first cylindrical bore 81 b-1 may be drilled from the primary nozzle 70b at an angle into the body 55b, but not extending to an exterior surface. A second cylindrical bore 82b-1 is drilled from the end face 61b of the body 55b in a substantially parallel direction to the longitudinal axis 110. The second cylindrical bore 82b-1 connects with the first cylindrical bore 81 b-1 and extends past the primary nozzle 70b to a secondary nozzle 87b. A third cylindrical bore 83b-1 is drilled from an external surface of the body 55b in a substantially radial direction from the longitudinal axis 110. The third cylindrical bore 83b-1 connects with the second cylindrical bore 82b-1 and extends into the cavitation zone 75b via the side nozzle 85b-1.

[0050] Upon sealing the drilled opening of the second cylindrical bore 82b-1 at the end face 61b and the third cylindrical bore 83b-1 at the external surface. The side channel 80b-1 is formed. The manner by which the cylindrical bores 82b-1 and83b-1 are sealed is not particularly limited. In the present example, the cylindrical bore 82b-1 may be sealed using a plug (not shown). The cylindrical bore 83b-1 may be sealed using another plug (not shown). The manner by which the plugs provide the seal is not limited and may include using a threaded connection or mechanism to provide an appropriate seal. In other examples, the cylindrical bores 82b-1 and 83b- 1 may be sealed with other methods, such as a weld or bolted end plate.

[0051] It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the side channel 80b-2 may be formed in a similar manner with the cylindrical bores 81 b-2, 82b-2, and 83b-2.

[0052] In the present example, the secondary nozzle 87b is disposed downstream of the cavitation zone 75b and to provide another restriction in the path of fluid flow. The exact position of the secondary nozzle 87b is not particularly limited and may be disposed at any position downstream of the cavitation zone 75b. In the present example, the secondary nozzle 87b is disposed at the outlet 65b. Accordingly, the secondary nozzle 87b provides a pressure drop downstream to provide a secondary cavitation region as the fluid exits the body and re-enters the fluid flow line 100. In addition, the secondary nozzle 87b generates backpressure in the cavitation zone 75b to intensify the cavitation from the primary nozzle 70b and the side nozzles 85b.

[0053] Referring to figure 4, an exploded view of an example of a system 200 to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid from a fluid flow line is generally shown. The system 200 includes an apparatus 50c. In addition, the system 200 include an inlet flange 202 and a discharge flange 204, an inlet flange 206, a discharge flange 208, an inlet flange gasket 210, a discharge flange gasket 212, an inlet insert 214, a discharge insert 216, an inlet spacer 218, and outlet spacer 220, a first arm insert 230-1 , and a second arm insert 230-2 (generically, these arm inserts are referred to herein as “arm insert 230” and collectively referred to as “arm inserts 230”).

[0054] In the present example, the apparatus 50c is substantially similar to the apparatus 50, the apparatus 50a, and / or the apparatus 50b. In some examples, one of the apparatus 50, the apparatus 50a, or the apparatus 50b may be used as the apparatus 50c.

[0055] The inlet flange 202 and the discharge flange 204 are not particularly limited. In the present example, the inlet flange 202 and the discharge flange 204 are stainless steel neck flanges. In other examples, the inlet flange 202 and thedischarge flange 204 may be made of other materials. The inlet flange 202 is configured to connect with a fluid flow line supplying the fluid and to direct the fluid to the apparatus 50c. The discharge flange 204 is configured to connect to another fluid flow line to which the fluid treated by the apparatus 50c is to be discharged. The manner by which the inlet flange 202 and the discharge flange 204 connect to the fluid flow line is not limited and may include using various clamps or fasteners. For example, the inlet flange 202 and the discharge flange 204 each include holes through which a bolt or other fastener may pass through to connect to a corresponding part on the fluid line.

[0056] Referring to figures 5A and 5B, schematic drawings of the apparatus 50c is shown from and end view and cross section, respectively. Referring to figure 5A, first and second side channels 80c-1 and 80c-2 can be seen. In the present example, the apparatus 50c is manufactured in the same matter as the apparatus 50b. The apparatus 50c also includes tapped holes 95c on the end face 61c to receive a bolt or screw. The apparatus 50c also includes tapped holes 95c on the opposite side. Accordingly, the side channels 80c are made using three cylindrical boreholes. Referring to figure 5B, the first cylindrical bore hole 81c-1 and the third cylindrical bore hole 81c-1 are visible in this cross section.

[0057] Referring to figures 6A and 6B, schematic drawings of the apparatus 50c shown in figures 5A and 5B show the opposite end face and another cross section, respectively, are shown. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the apparatus 50c may use the multiple cylindrical bores 81 c-1 , 81c-2, 82c-1, 82c-2, 83c- 1 and 83c-2.

[0058] Referring to figures 7A and 7B, views of the inlet insert 214 is shown. The inlet insert 214 is to fit into the apparatus 50c to provide a shape and size of the passage through which the fluid flows from the inlet 60c. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the shape and size of the passage is not particularly limited and may be customizable to accommodate different applications or adjust the velocity of the fluid as it flows through the primary nozzle 70c. Furthermore, since the inlet insert 214 is separate from the apparatus 50c, the fluid flow through the apparatus 50c may be adjusted by replacing the inlet insert 214 with a modified substitute.

[0059] Referring to figures 8A and 8B, views of the discharge insert 216 is shown. Similar to the inlet insert 214, the discharge insert 216 may be inserted into the outlet65c of the apparatus 50c. Accordingly, the discharge insert 216 provides for control over the shape and size of the outlet 65c which may be used to control the flow of the fluid throughout the apparatus 50c. In particular, by restricting the flow through the apparatus 65c, the backpressure in the cavitation zone 75c may be controlled. By controlling the backpressure in the cavitation zone 75c, the amount of cavitation may be controlled. For example, different fluids may exhibit enhanced cavitation with different levels of backpressure.

[0060] Referring to figures 9A and 9B, views of the arm inserts 230 is shown. Similar to the inlet insert 214 and the outlet insert 216, the arm inserts 230 may be inserted into the cylindrical bores 83c-1 and 83c-2 of the apparatus 50c to control the flow of fluid through the side nozzles 85c-1 and 85c-2 to produce a target level of cavitation in the cavitation zone 75c.

[0061] In the present example, the inlet insert 214, the discharge insert 216, and the arm inserts 230 may be designed together to balance the flow rates and differential pressures about the cavitation zone 75c. Accordingly, the specific design and sizes of each of the inlet insert 214, the discharge insert 216, and the arm inserts 230 are not particularly limited and configured for a specific fluid flow line 100 providing a fluid at a specific flow rate. In the present example, the inlet insert 214 is designed to direct about 66% of the fluid arriving at the inlet 60c and each of the arm inserts 230 is designed to direct about 17% of the fluid arriving at the inlet 60c. The discharge insert 216 is designed to provide backpressure in the cavitation zone 75c.

[0062] It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the hydraulic energy of the system 200 is to be depleted by the inlet insert 214 and the arm inserts 230. As the fluid flow reaches the discharge insert 216, the pressure is low and therefore the flow is higher. In the present example, the nozzles are balance to allow for the discharge insert 216 to provide sufficient backpressure to enhance the cavitation in the cavitation zone 75c. If backpressure at discharge insert 216 is too high, the cavitation in the cavitation zone 75c will be reduced or completely negated. On the other hand, if the backpressure at discharge insert 216 is too low, the cavitation in the cavitation zone will not be enhanced.Accordingly, the discharge insert 216 is calibrated to an amount of backpressure to intensify cavitation at the cavitation zone 75c while still have enough differential pressure drop to provide a secondary cavitation region.

[0063] Referring to figure 10A and 10B, views of the inlet flange 206 is shown.Referring to figure 11A and 11 B, views of the inlet flange gasket 210 is shown. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill that the inlet flange gasket 210 and the inlet flange 206 align to allow a fastener, such as a bolt to pass through an into the tapped holes 95c of the apparatus 50c. In addition, the inlet flange 206 is a solid ring to block or plug the end of the cylindrical bores 82c-1 and 82c-2.

[0064] Referring to figure 12A and 12B, views of the spacer 218 is shown. The spacer is to provide space for the mechanical components of the system 200 to attached to the fluid flow line 100.

[0065] Referring to figure 13, an exploded view of another example of a system 200d to generate hydrodynamic cavitation in a fluid from a fluid flow line is generally shown. The system 200d includes an apparatus 50d. In addition, the system 200d includes an inlet insert 214d, a discharge insert 216d, a first arm insert 230d-1 , and a second arm insert 230d-2 (generically, these arm inserts are referred to herein as “arm insert 230d” and collectively referred to as “arm inserts 230d”).

[0066] In the present example, the apparatus 50d is substantially similar to the apparatus 50c. In some examples, one of the apparatus 50, the apparatus 50a, or the apparatus 50b may be used as the apparatus 50c. Like components of the apparatus 50d bear like reference to their counterparts in the apparatus 50c, except followed by the suffix “d”. The apparatus 50d includes an inlet 60d and additional tapped holes. In particular, the present example includes a tapped hole 71 d to receive a set screw 72d to engage the inlet insert 214d. Furthermore, the apparatus 50d includes a tapped hole 86d-1 to receive a set screw 88d-1 to engage the first arm insert 230d-1. Similarly, a tapped hole 86d-2 is formed in the apparatus 50d to receive a set screw 88d-2 to engage the first arm insert 230d-2.

[0067] Referring to figures 14A and 14B, views of the inlet insert 214d is shown. The inlet insert 214d is to fit into the apparatus 50d to provide a shape and size of the passage through which the fluid flows from the inlet 60d. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the shape and size of the passage is not particularly limited and may be customizable to accommodate different applications or adjust the velocity of the fluid as it flows through the primary nozzle. In the present example, the inlet insert 214d includes a groove 215d formed on the outside surface. It is to be appreciated by a person skilled in the art with the benefit of this description that the groove 215d is to engage with the set screw 72d from the tapped hole 71d to secure the inlet insert 214d in place during operation.By securing the inlet insert 214d with a set screw, any backpressure that is formed in the apparatus 50d would not dislodge the inlet insert 214d from its seat during operation.

[0068] Referring to figures 15A and 15B, views of an arm insert 230d is shown. Similar to the inlet insert 214d, the arm insert 230d may be inserted into the apparatus 50c. The arm insert 230d also includes a groove 231 d to engage with the set screw 86d from the tapped hole 86d to secure the arm insert 230d in place during operation.

[0069] Referring to figure 16, results showing the amount of cavitation based on a simulation of fluid flow through an apparatus 50e is shown. The calculation of cavitation used in this representation is speed of the fluid in units of meters per second. As shown, the fluid is flowing faster after the primary nozzle 70e that the side nozzles 85e-1 and 85e-2 into the cavitation zone 75e.

[0070] Referring to figure 17, a flowchart of an example method of generating hydrodynamic cavitation is generally shown at 500. In order to assist in the explanation of method 500, it will be assumed that method 500 may be carried out by the apparatus 50. Indeed, the method 500 may be one way in which the apparatus 50 may operate.

[0071] Beginning at block 510, a fluid to be subjected to hydrodynamic cavitation is to be received at an inlet 60 from a fluid flow line. The manner by which the fluid is received is not particularly limited and may involve being pumped a source to provide a positive pressure at the inlet 60. The fluid is then separated into a main portion and one or more side portions. The main portion of the fluid arriving at the inlet is to be passed through the primary nozzle 70 and into the cavitation zone 75 at block 520. Each side portion is passed through a side nozzle 85 into the cavitation zone 75 at block 530 to increase the cavitation of the fluid. The fluid is then released from the cavitation zone 75 back into the fluid flow line via the outlet 65 at block 540.

[0072] Referring to figure 18, a flowchart of an example method of manufacturing the apparatus 50a is generally shown at 600. In order to assist in the explanation of method 600, it will be assumed that method 600 may be used to manufacture the apparatus 50a. Indeed, the method 600 may be one way in which the apparatus 50a is manufactured. In addition, the method 600 may be used to manufacture variations of the apparatus 50a.

[0073] Beginning at block 610, a main channel is drilled along the longitudinalaxis 110 from the end of the body 55a with the outlet 65a. The channel is to be drilled partially into the to body and may be substantially cylindrical in shape with a diameter being about the same as the narrow end of the primary nozzle 70a. A taper is then bored into the main channel to widen the channel at the outlet 65a. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the taper of the main channel is to form the primary nozzle 70a. Next, the cavitation zone 75a is to be formed by drilling along the longitudinal axis 110 from the opposite end of the body 55a at block 620. In particular, the cavitation zone 75a is formed by drilling a borehole with a diameter larger than the opening of the primary nozzle 70a.

[0074] Block 630 comprises drilling the side channels 80a into the body 55a from the outside of the body 55a such at conventional drills and boring machines may be used. The manner by which the side channels 80a are formed is not particularly limited. In the present example, the first side channels 81a are to be frilled from the end of the body 55a with the inlet 60a parallel to the main channel, but offset from the main channel that was formed in block 610. The side channels 81a are then connected to the primary nozzle 70a by drilling at an angle into the body 55a through the primary nozzle 70a to each of the side channels 81a. The side nozzles 85a are then formed by, first, radially drilling a channel from the side of the body 55a in a radial direction. The diameter of the initial borehole is to be substantially the size of the narrow end of the side nozzle 85a. The borehole originally drilled from the side of the body 55a may then be tapered to form the side nozzle 85a in a similar manner as the primary nozzle 70a was formed.

[0075] It is to be appreciated by a person of skill with the benefit of this description that the formation of the side channels 80a may leave holes in the body 55a where the side channels 81a and the side nozzles 85a were formed. The holes may be plugged using plugs 90a and plugs 92a, respectively, at block 640. In other examples, a flange or other component capable of creating a seal over the holes may be used to form the side channels 80a in the body to allow a portion of the fluid to bypass the primary nozzle 70a.

[0076] Various advantages will now be apparent to a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description. For example, the present examples the apparatus 50 and 50a described provide an increase in the amount of cavitation achieved. Furthermore, the present design reduces cavitation near the walls of the chamber.

[0077] It is to be appreciated that variations are contemplated. For example,methods of using any of the apparatuses described here as well as methods of manufacturing the apparatuses is included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0078] It should be recognized that features and aspects of the various examples provided above may be combined into further examples that also fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus comprising: a body to connect to a fluid flow line, wherein fluid in the fluid flow line is to pass through the body; an inlet to receive the fluid from the fluid flow line; an outlet to release the fluid back into the fluid flow line; a primary nozzle disposed within the body, wherein the primary nozzle is downstream of the inlet; a cavitation zone downstream of the primary nozzle to provide a pressure drop of the fluid passing the primary nozzle; a first side channel within the body extending from the inlet to the cavitation zone to provide a first bypass path around the primary nozzle for a first portion of the fluid received by the inlet; a first side nozzle disposed at an end of the first side channel, wherein the first portion of the fluid passes through the first side nozzle into the cavitation zone; a second side channel within the body extending from the inlet to the cavitation zone to provide a second bypass path around the primary nozzle for a second portion of the fluid received by the inlet, wherein the second side channel is opposite the first side channel in the body and substantially parallel to the first side channel; and a second side nozzle disposed at an end of the second side channel, wherein the second portion of the fluid passes through the second side nozzle into the cavitation zone.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a secondary nozzle disposed downstream of the cavitation zone.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the secondary nozzle is disposed at the outlet to provide a secondary cavitation region as the fluid exits the body.

4. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the body is a unitary body.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the unitary body is substantially cylindrical.

6. The apparatus of claim 4 or 5, wherein the unitary body is a solid piece of stainless steel.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the primary nozzle is tapered bore hole drilled from an end face of the body.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first side channel and the second side channel each comprise: a first cylindrical bore extending at an angle from the primary nozzle; a second cylindrical bore drilled from the end face of the body, wherein the second cylindrical bore is connected to the first cylindrical bore and is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the primary nozzle; and a third cylindrical bore drilled from an external surface of the body, wherein the third cylindrical bore extends radially from the longitudinal axis of the primary nozzle, and wherein the third cylindrical bore connects the second cylindrical bore to the cavitation zone.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a plurality of first plugs to seal each of the second cylindrical bore at the end face and a plurality of second plugs to seal each of the third cylindrical bore at the external surface.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first side channel and the second side channel are portions of an annular channel centered around a longitudinal axis of the primary nozzle.

11. A method comprising: receiving a fluid from a fluid flow line at an inlet of a body; passing a main portion of the fluid through a primary nozzle disposed within the body into a cavitation zone, wherein the primary nozzle is downstream of the inlet, and wherein passing the main portion through the primary nozzle decreases a pressure in the cavitation zone; passing a first side portion of the fluid through a first side nozzle into the cavitation zone via a first side channel; passing a second side portion of the fluid through a second side nozzle into the cavitation zone via a second side channel, wherein the first side nozzle and the second side nozzle increase cavitation in the cavitation zone; and releasing the fluid back into the fluid flow line via an outlet.

12. The method of claim 11 , further generating a second cavitation region with a secondary nozzle disposed downstream of the cavitation zone.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the secondary cavitation region is generated outside the body.

14. A method of manufacturing an apparatus, wherein the method comprises: drilling a main channel along a longitudinal axis of a body from a first end;boring a taper in the main channel to form a primary nozzle with an opening at a base of the taper; drilling a cavitation zone along the longitudinal axis of the body from a second end opposite the first end, wherein a diameter of the cavitation zone is larger than the opening of the primary nozzle; drilling, from the first end, a first side channel partially through the body parallel to the main channel, wherein the first channel is offset from the main channel; drilling, from the first end, a second side channel partially through the body parallel to the main channel, wherein the first channel is offset from the main channel opposite of the first side channel; drilling, from a side of the body, a first side nozzle through the first side channel to the cavitation zone; drilling, from the side of the body, a first second nozzle through the second side channel to the cavitation zone; and plugging the first side channel, the second side channel, the first side nozzle, and the second side nozzle to form bypasses around the primary nozzle.

Images